Bloomingdale/FishHawk 41-48
21
March 2022
Volume 21, Issue 3
Ph: 657-2418
CELEBRATING 20 YEARS OF PUBLISHING P OSITIVE COMMUNIT Y NEWS
FISHHAWK EARLY LEARNING OWNERS SELL LOCATIONS AFTER 21 YEARS By Michelle Caceres For more than 20 The property next to years, Susan Rind FishHawk Early Learning and her staff have Center 2 was originally cared for thouzoned for a church. Rind sands of children purchased the land and at FishHawk Early again, the new center Learning Center. was at capacity before it In January 2000, opened. she and her sisRind credits her success ter-in-law, Beverly to the centers’ staff. Rind Gonzalez, opened said many of her teachers the first center, loare longtime employees cated next to Bevis and friends. She also said Elementary. Gonzaher success couldn’t have lez was already an been possible without the Longtime FishHawk Early Learning expert at managing Center Owners Susan Rind and Beverly support and involvement Gonzalez have sold the businesses to early learning cenof parents. ters, having opened people who will continue their legacy of Everything has its time educating local children. Walden Lake Early and season though, and Learning Center for Rind and Gonzalez, the with Rind almost season of owning Fish10 years earlier. Hawk Early Learning Cen“We had to purters has come to end. They chase three resisold the centers on Decemdential lots next ber 17, with Rind selling to to the elementary Walden Lake Early Learnschool and have ing Center Owner and rethem rezoned to tired Principal Mary Lou commercial use,” recalled Rind. Hewett and Gonzalez selling to FishHawk Gonzalez, a former elementary school Early Learning Center’s longtime director, teacher, became the center’s director, even- Karri Hasty. tually purchasing the center from Rind in “Children have always been my life’s work 2005. “It was the most fantastic experi- and my goal at FishHawk Creek Early Learnence teaching young children,” said Gon- ing Center is to continue to provide quality zalez. “We had a phenomenal staff and the childcare and early learning programs so support of wonderful parents and the com- that children are prepared to start kindermunity.” garten,” said Hewett. When construction of FishHawk Creek ElHasty plans to continue to live up to Gonementary was slated to begin, Rind bought zalez’s high standards. “I have the same the lot adjacent to it and built FishHawk vested interest as Beverly of inspiring a love Early Learning Center 2. “Our center was at of learning in children,” she said. capacity before we even opened the doors,” Rind plans to keep herself busy playing said Rind. tennis and volunteer as a guardian ad litem. Florida’s Voluntary Prekindergarten Pro- Gonzalez is enjoying walking, bike riding, gram (VPK), free preschool for 4-year-old reading and spending time with family. children, had yet to come into existence. Visit www.fhelc.com or call 662-5978 for Rind knew she would need another building location next to Bevis Elementary or 684accommodate growing demand. 5506 for the FishHawk Creek location.
Osprey Observer 2109 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. Valrico, FL 33596
Postal Customer
ECRWSS EDDM
PRSTD STD U.S. POSTAGE PAID TAMPA, FL PERMIT #2397
Fishhawk Ranch Saturday March 26
10 am
1 pm
Park Square
16134 Churchview Dr. LITHIA
Spr ing into health with your ellness assport Experience all interactive business booths and be eligible to win a raffle prize! Healthy FREE fun for everyone!!
➢ ➢ ➢ ➢ ➢ ➢ ➢
BLOOMINGDALE & NEWSOME HOST 6TH INCREDIBULLS GAMES
By Michelle Caceres
Hart. In addition, each athlete will visit the ‘Olympic Village’ to play games and win prizes at more than 30 booths designed and staffed by student clubs. There will also be a DJ and dancing. Bloomingdale Principal Marcos Rodriguez is pleased the event will happen this Bloomingdale and Newsome High Schools will host the sixth annual IncrediBULLS Games on March 11.
Sports don’t just give participants the chance to experience the thrill of victory, they also allow the community to come together to support each other, to be a part of something bigger and more important than just their personal needs. A perfect example is the sixth annual IncrediBULLS Games that will be held on Friday, March 11 at Bloomingdale High School. This special event allows more than 400 student athletes of all abilities from 11 schools throughout Eastern Hillsborough County the opportunity to compete in Special Olympic-type competitions in front of their friends and family. Hosted in prior years by Bloomingdale High School, staff and students at Newsome High School will also be participating in the event this year. “The partnership between the two schools increases community involvement, but more importantly it gives opportunities to students at Newsome to become buddies with our special athletes,” said Newsome teacher (also former Bloomingdale teacher) and event coordinator Donna Hart. At the event, each athlete is assigned a student from Newsome or Bloomingdale to serve as their buddy throughout the day as they compete in the events. “The friendships that come out of this event can last for years and truly show the positive impact of inclusion,” said
year since there was a two-year hiatus due to COVID-19 restrictions. “It’s such a wonderful opportunity for our students to participate in this event that helps students with disabilities discover new strengths and abilities and find joy and confidence,” said Rodriguez. Rodriguez and Hart know the event couldn’t happen without the support of members of the community. “We could not host this event without the help of our community sponsors and volunteers,” said Hart. “The hours of planning, coordinating and hard work pay off in the smiles of our athletes and their buddies.” For more information about the event, contact Bloomingdale High School at 744-8018.
IN THIS ISSUE: IMPACT SPRING TEA ..........................PG 3 DREW’S RV TECHS ..............................PG 11 EYE ON BUSINESS ...................PGS 25-26 SUMMER CAMPS......................PGS 41-48
FAIR
Raffles & Giveaways Interactive Business Booths Food Samples Fitness & Healthy Food Demos Health Education & Resources Free Health Screenings Mobile Mammography & Dermatology *appointments strongly recommended * most major insurances accepted www.onspotdermatology.com/fishhawk.com www.AdventHealthMobileMammography.com
➢ Blood Drive www.oneblood.org/donate-now Use sponsor code 25477
➢ Fire Prevention Resources ➢ Music
For more information call (813) 957-1841 or email sparvin@fishhawkranchcdd.org
Don’t miss the annual FishHawk Ranch Health & Wellness Fair Saturday, March 26, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. at Park Square. Full listing of participants Pg 14.
Not to be combined with any other offer. Only valid at Riverview, FL - Boyette location.
3/31/2022
$40 OFF BRAKES Includes Free Brake Inspection Not to be combined with any other offer. Only valid at Riverview, FL - Boyette location.
3/31/2022
Page 2
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
Volume 21, Issue 3
March 2022
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
Page 3
FORMER NEWSOME HIGH SCHOOL STUDENT CONTRIBUTES TO FIRST LIQUID-PROPELLED ROCKET MADE BY COLLEGE TEAM
IMPACT PROGRAM HOSTS SPRING FUNDRAISING TEA
Samantha Dolski, knew she wanted to be Newsome High School a part of the field. DolClass of 2021 graduski took physics and ate and current stuother STEM classes dent at the University at Newsome to learn of Texas, joined the more about aerospace Texas Rocket Engiengineering and preneering Lab (TREL) pare for the program last semester as the in college. co-lead of the FluDolski said her physids Component Test ics teacher, Bibiane Team. Dolski and the Darbouze, encouraged other 200 young enher to take up her own gineers are building a independent study and 30-foot rocket named pushed her to hone her Halcyon which they skills in both math and plan to launch into science to prepare. space in September Scott Coonfare, Dol2023 and will make Samantha Dolski graduated from New- ski’s chemistry and them the first college some High School and has joined the Texas STEM club teachRocket Engineering Lab. team to launch a liqer, was able to prouid-propelled rocket into space. vide her with resources and mentorship Dolski joined as TREL began its tran- through his connection with NASA. sition from the design phase to the test “Even though I had no clue what I was phase for the rocket, which they hope to doing,” Dolski said, “I was at this high launch above the 100-kilometer line that school level trying to work on Ph.D. work.” defines the beginning of space. They have Through the guidance of her teachers in been in contact with industry leaders like her early steps into the field and the dediBlue Origin and Firefly, which have offered cation she had to her work, Dolski was able advice on their project. to join the University of Texas’ engineering “What is more integral to our lab is the team as a leader while a freshman. goal of building people who build rockets Dolski mentioned that, although she is [by] learning and experiencing what it a female entering into a field traditionally means to be an engineer,” explained Dols- dominated by men, the University of Texas ki. “It’s tackling a problem that is so large, has made an effort to include both males and I think everyone is there for the ex- and females of all races and promoted diperience of learning something new and versity in its program. Dolski has found a being a part of a project.” community of other female engineers that Since she was little, the freshman engi- has made her feel at home and hopes to neer has enjoyed watching space shows one day provide that same sense of comsuch as How the Universe Works and munity to rising female engineers.
Are you looking “We serve the for a delicious way community in multito make a difference ple venues, such as in your community? public and private Then mark your calmiddle and high endars for Saturday, schools, churches March 5 at 10 a.m. and community orbecause Impact is ganizations,” said hosting its Spring Tea Kagey. “As a 501(c) fundraising event at (3) nonprofit orthe New Hope United ganization serving Methodist Church. Hillsborough County, “This is our fourth Impact is supported annual Spring Tea by individuals, busifundraising event, nesses, churches and which will support our community partefforts in promoting ners.” healthy lifestyles and Sponsorship oprelationships to teens Impact’s fourth annual Spring Tea fundportunities for the through Teen Impact, raising event will take place on Saturday, tea are still available March 5 at the New Hope United to parents through and more informaMethodist Church in Brandon. our parent program tion can be found by and to teachers and contacting Kagey at other youth leaders 264-9368, ext. 102. through classroom edThe tea will take ucation,” said Angie place at the New Kagey, Impact executive Hope United Methoddirector. ist Church, located at Tickets to the event, 213 N. Knights Ave. in which will take place Brandon, on March 5 from 10 a.m.-12 Noon, cost $25 per per- from 10 a.m.-12 Noon. To purchase tickets son and, according to Kagey, include a and for more information on the event, traditional tea service presented with a visit https://impactspringtea.eventbrite. tiered platter of sweets and savories. com. The event will also include a raffle, siTo learn more about Impact and other lent auction and prize for the best hat. upcoming events, which include Impact’s Funds raised at the event will go to Got Talent on Friday, April 22 at Fishfurther Impact Program Inc.’s vision to Hawk Fellowship Church in Lithia and a educate, equip and empower and support Shred Day on Saturday, April 30 from 10 students, parents and teachers in the a.m.-12 Noon at Hough Financial Services area of sexual risk avoidance and healthy in Brandon, visit www.whatisimpact.com relationships. or call 264-9368.
By Lily Belcher
By Kate Quesada
Page 4
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
Volume 21, Issue 3
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
March 2022
W W W
.
O S P R E Y O B S E R V E R
.
Page 5
C O M
ASSOCIATED WITH OSPREY OBSERVER
By Nitish S. Rele
nitishrele@gmail.com
GIVE ALL-NEW KIA CARNIVAL SERIOUS CONSIDERATION! 7 2109 Lithia Pinecrest Rd., Valrico, FL 33592 • (office) 657-2418 • (fax) 657-4469 MANAGING EDITOR
Marie Gilmore
657-2418
ASSIGNMENT EDITOR
Kate Quesada 657-2418
editor@ospreyobserver.com
kquesada@ospreyobserver.com
LAYOUT EDITOR
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT EDITOR
Kathi Hayes
Kathy Collins
657-2418
657-2418
khayes@ospreyobserver.com
kcollins@ospreyobserver.com
BILLING MANAGER
GRAPHICS MANAGER
Terry Vassalotti
Denise Graf
657-2418
657-2418
MARKETING MANAGER
Jenny Bennett
terry@ospreyobserver.com
Jennifer Hurst
denise@ospreyobserver.com
CUSTOMER SERVICE
657-2418
657-2418
jbennett@ospreyobserver.com
NEWS REPORTER
FOLLOW US:
jhurst@ospreyobserver.com
Taylor Wells 657-2418
twells@ospreyobserver.com
FISHHAWK/BLOOMINGDALE & VALRICO ADVERTISING
Kerrie Hoening
RIVERVIEW, APOLLO BEACH, & SOUTHSHORE ADVERTISING
Melissa Hartmann
625-1527
833-7470
kerrie@ospreyobserver.com
mhartmann@ospreyobserver.com
BRANDON & WINTHROP ADVERTISING
CHRISTIAN VOICE ADVERTISING
Melody Gershkoff
Let’s rattle off some roof, heated/cooled front minivan names: Toyota and second-row seats, Sienna, Honda Odyssey mammoth 12.3-inch disand Chrysler Pacifica. play screens for digital And now let’s add anothinstrument cluster and er, all-new ride to the list: infotainment controls, Kia Carnival, a fine and Bose 12-speaker audio fitting replacement for system and power tailCARNIVAL (SX PRESTIGE) the Sedona. No kidding! Angate. There also is a dual-screen Tires: 235/55R19 Wheelbase: 121.7 inches nual sales of the Korean autoentertainment to keep the tiny Length: 203 inches maker’s former minivan had tots in the second row occupied. Width: 89.2 inches Height: 69.9 inches been dismal, but we expect The power sliding doors open up Weight: 4,727 pounds the seven or eight-passenger to lounge seats with footrests Suspension: MacPherson Carnival to shake up the othfor second-row passengers with strut front; multilink erwise monotonous segment. Steering: motor-driver power slide, recline and leg extenders. Fuel capacity: 19 gallons A 3.3-liter gasoline-direct So, you are basically riding as City: 19 mpg Highway: 26 mpg injection powertrain pumps though a member of the royal Base price: $46,300 out 290 horsepower at Website: family. The third-row 60/40 www.kiausa.com 6,400 rpm and 262 poundssplit seats fold into the floor. feet of torque at 5,000 rpm With both rear seats folded, you while mated to an eight-speed auto gearbox. get an impressive 145.1 cubic feet of space. The drive mode selector allows the driver to Standard safety amenities include dual pick normal, smart, sport and eco. Looking front and side airbags, side curtain airbag to haul a small boat? With a tow capacity of for all three rows, driver knee airbag, elec3,500 pounds for the front-wheel drive ride, tronic stability, traction and hill-start assist it’s game on. controls, four-wheel anti-lock brakes with You would rarely hear anyone call a min- electronic brake distribution, lane-keep/ ivan good looking, but the boxy and SUV- follow assists, blind spot/parking and rear like Carnival is just that; perhaps it is now cross-traffic collision avoidance, remote keythe most attractive minivan on the road. less entry, daytime running lights and tire Dual LED headlights flank a massive matte- pressure monitoring system. chromed, tiger nose grille to portray a handFor far too long in the past, its predecessome presence. You just cannot miss the sor, the Sedona, was the black sheep of the fresh KIA emblem on the sculpted hood. The minivan family, but with a solid powertrain, cabin is spacious and functional with a tri- spacious passenger and cargo-hauling capazone auto AC, eight-way power front leather bilities and decent fuel economy, the Carniseats, dual glove box, power tilt/slide moon- val has arrived. Let the festivities begin!
Cammie Yick
300-5152
810-8106
mgershkoff@ospreyobserver.com
cyick@ospreyobserver.com
Notice Under Fictitious Name Law Pursuant to Section 865.09, Florida Statutes
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned, desiring to engage in business under the fictitious name of The Stuffed Cookie, located at 955 E Brandon Blvd., in Hillsborough County, in the City of Brandon, Florida, 33511, intends to register the said name with the Division of Corporations of the Florida Department of State, Tallahassee, Florida. Dated at Valrico, FL this 1st Day of March, 2022
FREE Unwanted Mobile Home Removal/Disposal – Any Condition! If interested in advertising i please contac If usable, we pay you $$$!
Citrushomecenter.com | citrushomesales@gmail.com Call Mike 407-680-3014
Medicare Questions? Need Help? Time to review your plan!
MB Insurance Solutions Medicare: Supplement/Medigap Prescription Part D Medicare Advantage Term Life Insurance
Michele L. Bartock Independent 2-15 Agent AHIP Certified mlbartock@gmail.com
No Cost! Paid By Insurance!
www.medicareofflorida.com 813.767.2878
Not Affiliated with any Federal Agency
Page 6
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
Volume 21, Issue 3
GOOD COUNTY PLANNING LEADS TO GOOD LIVING FOR RESIDENTS
By Brad Stager
When it comes mission’s meetto local governings, as are ments fulfilling issues related their obligations to the county’s in providing safe, infrastructure habitable comand natural remunities for the sources, such residents they as undevelserve, proper oped land. planning has a Besides Hillsborough County’s official Facebook photo. role. serving as The Hillsborough County City-County Planning Commission plays a role in local government decisions that In Hillsboran appointed ough County, affect how future growth is managed and what happens to commissioner, undeveloped parts of the county. that responsibilithe public can ty is borne in large part by the Hillsborough get involved in the county’s planning process County City-County Planning Commission. by participating in online surveys available The Planning Commission is an indepen- on the Plan Hillsborough website or condent entity staffed by appointed representa- necting with one of the advisory committives from the four local governments within tees addressing a variety of concerns, such Hillsborough County and is a resource used as traffic congestion. by the participating governments. The Planning Commission is one of three Members of the Planning Commission commissions that the agency known as Plan serve four-year terms and are apportioned Hillsborough provides staffing and logistical as follows: four members each appointed support to. The other two commissions are from Hillsborough County and the City of the Hillsborough Transportation Planning Tampa, with one member each appointed Organization and the Hillsborough River from the municipalities of Temple Terrace Board & Technical Advisory Council. and Plant City; a representative from HillAccording to Melissa Dickens, senior plansborough County School District; and one ner with Plan Hillsborough, internal changes from MacDill Air Force Base serve in ex-of- in the overall planning organization should ficio roles. facilitate the work of the Planning CommisMeetings of the Planning Commission are sion and benefit county residents. held monthly in a hybrid format with com“We’ve had a number of new staff join us missioners and support staff able to meet over the past couple of years,” she said as in-person and the general public viewing part of her presentation during the February and commenting virtually. Meetings can be 14 commission meeting. viewed live or afterward via the YouTube “They have provided lots of opportunities channel Hillsborough County Meetings, Hill- to hear different perspectives from people sborough TV (HTV) on the county’s website, who may have worked on similar projects at as well as on select cable channels. other places.” Housing needs of a growing population You can learn more about the Hillsborand the locations of commercial projects ough County City-County Planning Commisare among the topics discussed at the com- sion by visiting planhillsborough.org.
WE INVITE YOU...
TO HAVE A UNIQUE LEGAL EXPERIENCE! • Trust & Wills • Probate/Guardianship • Elder Law • Business Formation • Contracts & Real Estate • Asset Protection
Personal Attention 40 Years of Experience Conveniently Located
2240 LITHIA CENTER LANE VALRICO 33596 THOMAS@TOMGALLOLAW.COM
813-815-4529
CALL TODAY FOR A FREE CONSULTATION
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
March 2022
CONGRESSMAN BUCHANAN ANNOUNCES
SERVICE ACADEMY NOMINATIONS
By Michelle Caceres Newsome High seed States Nanior Alexander Fraga val Academy; faced a dilemma. While Marion Military sitting in AP MacroInstitute cadet economics class he Francis Connor glanced at his cellphone Dias of Lithia and noticed an email to the United had come across from States Military Congressman Vern Academy and Buchanan’s office. The Congressman Vern Buchanan made 22 nomina- United States moment had arrived Naval Acadetions to four U.S. service academies. when he would find out if he had received my; Newsome High School students Colby a nomination to the United State Merchant Prince to the United States Naval AcadMarine Academy, his dream school. emy, Matthew Iocco to the United States He had to decide whether to open it or Naval Academy and Cody Basquill to the wait until he was home with his family. United States Air Force Academy; and “I saw a smiley face emoji in the title of U.S. Air Force Academy Prep School cathe email and just couldn’t wait,” he said. dets Ryan Matthews of Riverview, Yaideliz Fraga opened the email, and then he Lorenzo-Mendoza of Ruskin and Axeladiel smiled. He had earned the nomination. “I Zengotita of Lithia to the United States was just so excited and trying not to disrupt Air Force Academy. Former United States class,” Fraga said. Air Force Academy cadet Spencer Caceres, In all, Buchanan made 22 nominations to who left to serve a two-year church misthe four U.S. service academies: the U.S. Air sion in Mexico, also received a nomination Force, Merchant Marine, Military and Naval for re-entry to the United States Air Force Academies. Unlike other service academies, Academy. the Coast Guard Academy does not require The nominees’ names are forwarded to a congressional nomination for admission. the service academies where they were Applicants who meet strict qualifications nominated. are interviewed and recommended by a “Here in Florida’s 16th district, we are nonpartisan service academy board ap- fortunate to have so many driven and coupointed by the congressman. rageous students willing to serve in our In addition to Fraga, other local nomi- armed forces,” said Buchanan. “Each of the nees include: Bell Creek Academy students nominees is deserving of the privilege of atSebastian Correa to the United State Mil- tending one of our nation’s prestigious seritary Academy and Matthew Martinez to vice academies. I wish each of my nominees the United States Air Force Academy and the best of luck throughout the remainder United States Naval Academy; Durant High of the selection process and look forward to School student Austin Holcomb to the Unit- their future success.” ed States Air Force Academy; Sumner High For more info about Congressman BuSchool student David Tirado-Alonzo to the chanan or the Service Academy nomination United States Military Academy and Unit- process, visit www.buchanan.house.gov.
Page 7
Drops for Sleep Did you know that CBD and Hemp Oils were popular sleep aids? Here’s why! Studies show that • They are natural, non-intoxicating can substances that have been shown to INDIRECTLY be safe Kratom is a plant that is related to the so there is a lot of confusing, and conflictbylike addressing • plant. NoCoffee serious side effects, like other coffee releases a chemical ing information online. If you would called caffeine, however Kratom contains more info on Kratom or try a freecauses sample, of the underlying sleep-aids
Have Pain, Anxiety, Depression?CBD
& Hemp Oils Try KRATOM improve your sleep
a chemical called mitragynine, an alkaloid come to either Chill Caw-Fee location poor sleep...anxiety, They the ROOT CAUSE and of we will that •acts on the treat brain opiate receptors be happy to explain in detail. stress, and altersyour mood.sleep In Asia, people use it than in just issues, rather pain and depression! small doses as an energy and mood boosttreating the SYMPTOM of insomnia er and larger amounts for pain. A recent study by Hopkinsmedicine.org estimates up to 16 million people use Kratom. A recent survey of 2,798 people…of these participants, 91% reported taking kratom to alleviate pain for back, shoulder and knee pain, 67% for anxiety and 65% for depression. About 41% of survey responders said they took kratom to treat opioid withdrawal, and of those people who took it for opioid withdrawal, 35% reported going more than a year without taking prescription opioids or heroin. There are different strains and different methods to consume, as well as quality of product. Kratom is not FDA approved
Photo credit : John’s Hopkins Medicine
“The staff here is amazing and have given some great advice to help my brother with his cancer. We have tried most of the products offered and he is getting some relief he needed. He is sleeping better at night and almost smiled. I am so happy to have found this place and actually got him to leave the house to visit the store in person. Thank you.” - T.W.
Wellness Day Q&A with Dr. Kelly King, ReLeafMD
Bored on Sundays? - Relax with our house board games. April 17th • 11 am - 1 pm CBD and You pizza - every third Saturday, $5 to reserve your spot Includes from Rosati’s Limited space available 1-2pm Visit our Facebook page or website for a list of our in-store events.
Mention this ad for
(813) 324-9472
3407 Lithia Pinecrest Rd • Valrico
Mon-Thur 7:30 am-5 pm • Fri & Sat 7:30 am-7 pm • Sun 7:30 am-3 pm
10528 Lake Saint Charles • Riverview Mon-Fri 6 am-5 pm • Sat 7:30 am- 5 pm • Sun 7:30 am-3 pm
www.chillcawfee.com
ONE FREE
SAMPLE SIZE Limit 1 per customer.
VISIT ANY OF OUR 15 LOCATIONS OR
Expiration 04/01/2022
Expiration 04/01/2022
Expiration 04/01/2022
Page 8
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
Volume 21, Issue 3
A NATURAL 250-ACRE PRESERVE LIES IN THE BACKYARD FOR RIVER HILLS RESIDENTS
By Kathy L. Collins
One of the nicest asWorsfold, whose pects of living in Florida family has resided is the ability to be outside in River Hills for and enjoy all that nature 20 years. We hiked has to offer most of the the Orange Trail, year. For residents of the which, according River Hills community loto Worsfold, is the cated in Valrico, there is a most popular and is 250-acre preserve known also known as the as the Trails of River Hills. educational trail. The trails are a natural It is complete with gem and a sight to behold. wooden signs that There are six color-coded contain fun facts trails measuring over four about the area, folimiles in length. age and even water The preserve and a levels. During the small trail date back to rainy season, parts when River Hills was esof the trail are imtablished over 30 years passable due to the ago. Two years ago, a water level of the group of ambitious resAlafia River. The Trails of River Hills are special idents rediscovered the thanks to the countless hours of hard Volunteers gather work put in by volunteers like Trail trails and set out to clear almost every weekLead Paul Worsfold and his dog, them and make them acend to clean up the Caddo. cessible for the adventurtrails and work on ous. improvements such as boardwalks. In adFast-forward to today and now the dition, they offer monthly events such as trails are a pure delight complete with hunting for fossils, plant identification in numerous boardwalks, 15 handmade March, animal identification in April and benches, viewing platforms and 10 fitness a crafts class featuring wood burning in stations. May. The trails are a true escape. As you If you venture onto the trails, you need venture through, you see the Alafia River, not worry about getting lost as there are both large and small; a 300 to 400-year- over 1,000 color-coded trail markers. old cypress known as MOAC (Mother of To keep up on all that is planned for All Cypresses); native palms and pine the trails, you can join a Facebook group trees; and the occasional inhabitant, in- called Trails of River Hills. There you can cluding the zebra longwing (the official find posts about upcoming events as well butterfly of the state of Florida). as volunteer opportunities for which stuOn a recent Tuesday, I was treated to dents can earn hours for Bright Futures a personal tour guided by Trail Lead Paul Scholarships.
FINANCIAL FOCUS USE YOUR FINANCIAL STRATEGY LIKE GPS
When you’re driving these days, it’s pretty hard to get lost because your smartphone’s Global Positioning System (GPS) can get you just about anywhere. And as an investor, you can have a similar experience by employing another directional tool – a personalized financial strategy. Let’s look at the parallels between your GPS and this type of strategy. To begin with, your GPS pinpoints your exact location at the start of your trip – in other words, it tells you where you are. And when you create a financial strategy, your first step is to evaluate your current situation by answering these types of questions: What are your assets? How much do you earn? How much do you owe? How much are you contributing to your IRA, 401(k) or other retirement accounts? Once you’ve got a clear picture of your finances, you’ll be ready to begin your journey toward your long-term goals. Once your GPS has identified your starting point, it will then show you where you want to go and the routes to help you get there. And it’s the same with your financial strategy – you want it to help lead you to a particular place in your life. In fact, a well-designed strategy can show you the steps you need to take to help reach more than one destination – to a place where you can send your children to college, a place where you can retire comfortably, a place where you can leave the type of legacy you want, and so on. Here’s another element of your GPS that applies to your financial strategy – the warnings. You’re certainly familiar with those thick red lines your GPS shows to indicate traffic slowdowns ahead. And while they’re
L09000082276
annoying, they’re also useful in cautioning you that you may arrive at your destination later than you had originally planned. Your financial strategy can also express “warnings” about events that could hinder you from reaching your goals. These obstacles might include an illness or disability that could keep you out of work for a while, or the need for some type of longterm care, such as a nursing home stay or the services of a home health aide. Your financial strategy can not only identify these threats, but with the guidance of a financial professional, suggest potential solutions. In addition to providing warnings about things such as heavy traffic and road construction, your GPS can change your route if you miss a turn or if you decide, for whatever reason, to go a slightly different way. Your financial strategy can also show you alternatives, if it’s comprehensive and overseen by a financial professional, who, using specialized software, can create hypotheticals – illustrations that provide alternative outcomes for different steps, such as retiring at various ages, investing different amounts each year or earning different rates of return. These hypotheticals can be quite helpful to you as your chart your course toward your goals, especially if you need to change your plans along the way. Your GPS and your financial strategy are two great tools for helping get you where you want to go. This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor. Edward Jones, Member SIPC Edward Jones, its employees and financial advisors cannot provide tax or legal advice. You should consult your attorney or qualified tax advisor regarding your situation.
edwardjones.com/adam-benabram
March 2022
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
LOCAL BUSINESSES FIND NEW HOMES
By Sharon Still
ing new equipment and new ovens installed at the new location.” He added that the new restaurant The new location is just north of the intersection of Lithia Pinecrest and Bryan Rds. Its hours are 11 a.m.-9 p.m., Monday-Thursday, and 11 a.m.-10 p.m., Saturday and Sunday. Uncle Louie G also has closed its doors in the Shoppes at Osprey. Owner Enza Leo said that there was some confusion about The pylon sign will need amending as business changes at when its lease ended, and they the Shoppes of Osprey. were notified on December 30, Two neighborhood staples, FishHawk Piz- 2021 that the lease would be terminated, za and Uncle Louie G, are officially closed. and the business had until January 31 to vaPreviously located in the Shoppes at Osprey, cate. After discussions with the landlord and the plaza across from the FishHawk Ranch neighboring restaurant The Scrambled Egg, main entrance, both will continue operating Uncle Louie G decided it would be in their in new locations. best interest to leave the plaza. Bay Street Commercial Broker Michael If you are craving Uncle Louie G’s more Braccia reported there is no vacant space than 90 flavors of ice cream, fabulous milk available in the plaza, and he added that the shakes and other sweet creations, the Leos sign advertising 1,500 sq. ft. of space for encourage their fans to visit Frankie’s Italian lease will soon be removed. Deli Tampa & Uncle Louie G. Word around the neighborhood is that “We have already seen many of our regMarty’s Pizza Rock, which also has a loca- ular customers from FishHawk at the new tion in Brandon, will take over the space va- location,” commented Enza,. cated by FishHawk Pizza. Braccia said that She added that Uncle Louie G will still do he could not divulge any information about the concessions at the FishHawk Aquatic new leases as these items need to be final- Center and the dessert truck will be out and ized between the landlord and the tenant about in the FishHawk area offering neighbefore any announcements can be made. borhood favorites. After finding out that its lease would not Visit Frankie’s Italian Deli & Uncle Louie be renewed as the landlord was seeking G at 3930 U.S. Hwy. 301 in Riverview. The something fresh and new to fill the space, hours are 11 a.m.-9 p.m., seven days a week. FishHawk Pizza secured a spot at 7013 Lith- View the menu and options for carryout at ia Pinecrest Rd. with plans to open during www.frankieandunclelouieg.com. the first week in March. Co-owner of The Scrambled Egg Joel Gra“We added new bathrooms prior to nata confirmed that The Scrambled Egg has Christmas and made other improvements assumed the lease for the adjacent unit, forto the FishHawk location,” said John Urso, merly Uncle Louie G. For more info on the whose wife, Jennifer Zinerco, is the primary plaza, contact Bay Street Commercial at owner of FishHawk Pizza. “Now, we are hav- 813-254-6756, ext. 13.
Page 9
GOWNS FOR GIRLS HOLDS MARCH BOUTIQUES By Kate Quesada Preparing for Ave. or a pickup a middle or high can be schedschool dance is uled by consuch a special life tacting gownsevent, but it can be forgirls.info@ stressful for stugmail.com. dents who don’t The boutiques have the money will be held on to go shopping. A Saturday, March group of residents 5 and 12 at is changing that by the Family Life offering free dressCenter at St. es with Gowns for Andrew’s UnitGirls. ed Methodist For just over Church, located three years, Gowns at 3315 S. Bryan for Girls has been Rd. in Brandon, collecting dresses from 10 a.m.-4 people no longer Gowns for Girls is holding events for local students p.m. to pick out dresses for dances this month at St. need and offering There are no Andrew’s United Methodist Church. them to those who qualifications for do through a unique boutique hosted at a a girl to come and shop for a dress. local church. “We work mainly on the honor system,” “Stephanie Brown, a teacher at Mul- she explained. “If a girl comes looking rennan Middle School, had a student for a dress, we will not turn them away. who couldn’t afford a dress to go to the We have contacted some of the guidance eighth-grade dance, so she took her shop- counselors and social workers at the high ping for one,” said Alicia Tew. “From that schools to help us get the word out.” experience, we realized that there was Tew would like to thank Tide Dry probably a need for seniors who couldn’t Cleaners on Bloomingdale Ave. Owners afford their prom or homecoming dress.” Barry and Sharon Wright, St. Andrew’s Tew also realized that many girls who United Methodist Church for making the have dresses from their proms and home- boutiques possible and the community coming probably don’t use them anymore. for the dress donations. “We reached out to the community and “I spent the first year traveling around the started collecting the dresses,” she to collect the dresses from around the explained. “It has been an amazing expe- area when the thought came to mind rience.” to ask Barry and Sharon to be a dropThe dresses are collected throughout off center,” she explained. “They agreed the year and stored in a storage unit until without hesitation.” they are needed. Dresses can be dropped For more information, email Tew at off at Tide Dry Cleaners on Bloomingdale gownsforgirls.info@gmail.com.
Page 10
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
LEAVEN BREWING BOTTLE CLUB IS A BIG HIT WITH FAMILIES
By Amy Schechter
When KJ and littles. Noland Jillian Lynch makes sure to started Leaven build a curBrewing they riculum your could not have littles will imagined how love though: soon their cus“I put out tomers became sensory toys like family. Jillian and items for said, “We’ve realthem to play ized quickly that with to keep we opened the them busy in brewery to make a stimulating beer, but somefashion. After times the beer icebreakers, takes a back seat we do some Winter Lynch invites you to Leaven Brewing’s Bottle Club. because it’s more sort of physiabout the people that come through the cal activity, whether that be just [a] fun tap room.” With a booming mug club, song with movement. I’m also teaching they have a loyal following of regulars ea- the parents some great resources and ger for great conversations along with a videos that you can use at home.” great selection of beer. If you’re looking for something similar, However, with the birth of their daugh- you have to drive into Tampa, and Jillian ter, Winter, they found they were missing knew that just wasn’t an option. “The Rivout on something big. As new parents, erview community is not going to wake they realized how hard it is meet up with up with their 9-month-old, pack a diaper other new parents. “It only seemed fair bag, get themselves ready for the day that if Mom and Dad had a mug club, and trek themselves across the bay and Winter has her own club,” Jillian said. get back in time for nap time,” she said. Then, with the help of mug club member Now they have the option right in their Renee Noland, who is certified in early backyard. childhood education and has been teachAt only $25 per class, you won’t want ing for 10 years, Bottle Club was formed. to miss the next meeting scheduled for Specifically designed for moms and March. For more information and meetdads and their kids 2 and under, Leav- ing dates, you can check out Facebook en Brewing’s Bottle Club is a fantastic at www.facebook.com/leavenbrewing place for you and your baby to bond with or Instagram at instagram.com/leaveneach other and socialize. You can expect brewing. You can also call 677-7023 or 60 minutes of fun filled with music, ex- visit it online at www.leavenbrewing. ploration, reading and, of course, there’s com. Leaven Brewing Co. is located at a beer at the end—for the bigs, not the 11238 Boyette Rd. in Riverview.
Volume 21, Issue 3
FISHHAWK CREEK ELEMENTARY STUDENT PUBLISHES HIS SHORT NOVEL MONSTER APOCALYPSE By Lily Belcher Over the summer, ed to the story Fishhawk Creek Elethroughout the mentary fifth-gradsummer. Oguzhan er Kerem Topsakal used a transcriponly wanted to play tion software to video games, but his convert the audio parents had other recording of Topplans for his sumsakal’s story to mer vacation: they text. wanted him and his “Even though brother to practice he did that, he telling stories to required me to build their imaginaedit it. Editing a tion and creativity. story is one of After a summer of the toughest jobs storytelling and lots you can imagine,” of editing, young auwrote Topsakal. thor Topsakal finalAfter all the ized his novel, Monhard work TopKerem Topsakal publishes his short novel “Monster sakal had put ster Apocalypse. Apocalypse” “[My father, Oguinto writing and zhan,] invented this revising Monster activity to see if we could Apocalypse, his parents detell stories spontaneously, cided to publish it. Oguzhan and he thought it would hired an illustrator to create boost our imagination. I do pictures to complement Topnot want to admit [it,] but sakal’s story about the main I enjoyed some parts of it,” character, Liam, and his batsaid Topsakal in the “About the Author” tle against the king of the monsters. section. Topsakal said the plot was inspired by Topsakal expands on the origins of the similar books he has read, such as Wings activity within the section, noting that of Fire, Warriors and The Last Kids on this was not his father’s first time trying Earth, and that Liam is his favorite beto get his son to “utilize [his] time wisely.” cause of his bravery and courage. Oguzhan has encouraged his son to take a “I don’t know if I am going to pursue a break from his video games and attempt- writing career, I am just a kid,” said Toped to pique Topsakal’s interest in other ac- sakal. “If people read this book and appretivities, such as novel writing. ciate it, I can write another one.” Oguzhan encouraged him to continue Topsakal’s book, Monster Apocalypse, is inventing his story and recorded it on his available on Amazon and Kindle at www. iPhone 10 minutes at a time as he add- amazon.com/dp/B09T2XGYBR.
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
March 2022
DREW’S RV TECHS OFFERS SERVICE & SALES THAT CAN’T BE BEAT
By Amy Schechter
Do you own a recger. That way, you reational vehicle (RV) can try it out beand want to keep it fore you buy a unit. driving for years to Whether it’s for an come? Are you thinkawesome tailgate ing about purchasing or a cross-country or renting an RV? adventure, if you’re Drew’s RV Techs has ready to rent, trade what you need to keep in or buy, they have making memories and upfront pricing and having adventures. financing options to Family-owned and fit your budget. operated, Drew’s RV Drew’s RV Techs Techs boasts an exis also a business tensive inventory of sponsor with Critter pre-enjoyed RVs for Adoption and Ressale plus knowledgecue Effort (CARE), able and experienced Drew’s RV Techs offers a wide selection a local dog and cat technicians. Check rescue. Anklin, an of vehicles for sale and rent as well as out its competitive on-site repairs. Drew Anklin, owner and animal lover, doprices and person- operator, has over 30 years of experience nates much of his working on RVs. alized service that spare time and enbig-box stores ergy to support cannot compete their efforts in with. Drew Anproviding loving klin, owner and homes for resoperator with cued animals. He over 30 years and his shop cat, of experience Tux, would love working on and to see you and around RVs, will answer all your take on nearly questions about any repair. “We RVs. fix things other For more inpeople won’t. People come in with vehi- formation call 645-7870 or visit www. cles for which the manufacturer no lon- drewsrvtechs.com and www.cruiseamger makes the part. We make parts work erica.com/rv-rental-locations/florida/ and fabricate things so we can complete tampa. Drew’s RV Techs and Cruise the repair,” he said. America are located at 1601 S. U.S. Hwy. Plus, Drew’s RV Techs is perfect if 41 in Ruskin. It is open on weekdays, 8 you’re considering an RV. You can rent a.m.-5 p.m., and Saturdays, 8 a.m.-12 a unit for a day, a week, a month or lon- Noon.
EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES AVAILABLE
Page 11
TAKE A HIKE AT FISHHAWK CREEK NATURE PRESERVE By Michelle Caceres Many people are drawn to Lithia Springs Park to immerse themselves in the refreshing, cool waters of the headspring. However, as FishHawk resident Kerrie Hoening discovered, there’s more to enjoy near this special park. Running adjacent to the park is FishHawk Creek Nature Preserve, a 3,286-acre site bisected by FishHawk Blvd. and divided into a north and south section. The north portion, which can be accessed by entering Lithia Springs Park (for a $2 fee per vehicle) at 3931 Lithia Springs Rd., includes two pavilions with picnic tables and more than 3 miles of hiking trails. The south portion has free parking at 16640 Boyette Rd. and includes pavilions with picnic tables, a basketball court and a hiking trail, a portion of which is closed for restoration. The north portion of the trail can also be accessed via a paved walkway between Starling and The Preserve. After walking through the gate, the trail entrance is on the left side of parking area. “It’s a hidden gem a stone’s throw from where we live,” she said. “It was so picturesque and there was also access to FishHawk Creek.” The trail, though not paved, is wide and well marked. While mountain
bikes might be able to navigate the sometimes-rough terrain, it’s best to leave your road bike at home. When taking a hike, bring plenty of water, download the trail map, tell someone your plan, wear proper shoes and sun protection and stay on the marked trails. Spring is a great time to take a hike on one of Florida’s many nature trails. To help get residents moving, Hillsborough County Parks & Recreation is sponsoring the 2022 Hiking Spree. Register for the program online, download the Hiking Spree’s printable trail list and start hiking. Participants who complete a minimum of eight designated trails between November 1, 2021 and March 31, 2022 will earn a prize. While the trails in FishHawk Creek Nature Preserve aren’t part of the program, other local trails located in Alafia River State Park, Alderman’s Ford Conservation Park, Edard Medard Conservation Park, Alafia River Corridor South Preserve and Bell Creek Nature Preserve are on the trail list. Trails are open from sunrise to sunset. Visit www.hcflgov.net/hikingspree. For more information about FishHawk Creek Preserve call 673-7876.
813-689-8131 3159 E. State Road 60 - Valrico
Clean, Protect & Beautify The Outside Of Your Home $109
$109 $149
FREE
PHONE ESTIMATE
$109 $109
Page 12
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
HESS ORTHODONTICS MAKING SMILES BRIGHT IN THE COMMUNITY
By Libby Hopkins
looks forward to their appointment, that’s a win in my book.” “We really are a family here at Hess,” Hess said. Dr. Laura Rey joined the Hess Orthodontics team. “The team Dr. Michael Hess, owner and loves spending founder of Hess Orthodontics, has time with each other, and we been an orthodontist since 2004. always have the best time.” “I was born and raised in Florida,” If you ask Hess what he Hess said. “I graduated from the likes most about his job, he’ll University of Florida College of tell you that he loves changDentistry, where I received my ing his patients’ lives. “I have doctorate of dental medicine and had some really amazing pagraduated as the valedictorian tients and have heard endless of my class. I earned my master’s stories about how their new degree in orthodontics from the smile changed their life,” Hess University of Michigan. I was exsaid. “A child who was bullied cited to return back home after because of their teeth, or a graduating to begin practicing in young couple getting Invisalign the Sunshine State. I most enjoy together right before their spending time with Julianna and wedding, or an older adult who my son Jackson. I owe much of my success has had problems eating and chewing their to my family and to the best team ever.” whole lives but never had orthodontic treat“When we first started, we [had] just one ment—you name it, I’ve heard it, and I can location in Riverview,” Hess said. “Now we never get over the fact that I have a direct have five locations scattered across three impact on people’s lives..” counties with four doctors.” This past FebHess Orthodontics recently started ofruary, Dr. Laura Rey joined the Hess Ortho- fering professional Zoom whitening in the dontics team. office. “This is something we are offering to When Hess started his orthodontics busi- past and current patients as well as nonpaness, he wanted to create something innova- tients,” Hess said. “Patients can see years of tive and professional but still fun and family stains brighten up to eight shades lighter oriented. with just one appointment.” “We’ve tried to create an experience for If you would like to learn more about Hess our patients so coming to the orthodontist Orthodontics, you can visit their website doesn’t feel like a chore or your average at www.hessorthodontics.com or call 645doctor visit,” Hess said. “If you or your child 4377.
Volume 21, Issue 3
SATIN & LACE BRIDAL BOUTIQUE, A HIDDEN GEM OF THE COMMUNITY
By Libby Hopkins
Winthrop Town be together for Center is known for the whole findits cool restaurants, ing-the-perfectbeautiful homes dress experiand monthly pop-up ence.” market, but among Once the all this awesomebride-to-be ness is a true hidden chooses her gem. This hidden dress, she then gem is called Satin gets to do a brid& Lace Bridal Boual walk so her Winthrop Town Center is known for its cool tique, and Alison and restaurants, beautiful homes and monthly pop- family can see Peter Farnan own up market, but among all this awesomeness is her in her chosen a true hidden gem. This hidden gem is called it. “We’ve had varidress. “We put a ous businesses since Satin & Lace Bridal Boutique, and Alison and veil on her, give Peter Farnan own it. 2006, but we [got] her a bouquet of the bridal business from a previous own- flowers and even play her wedding song er in 2018,” Alison said. “It was original- as she does her bridal walk for her famly in another location, but we totally ren- ily to see,” Alison said. “No other bridal ovated it and brought it to Winthrop.” shop does this for a bride shopping for a Satin & Lace Bridal Boutique is Riv- wedding dress.” erview’s premiere bridal boutique. “We If you ask Alison what her favorite pride ourselves on making our brides part of her job is, she’ll tell you it’s workfeel special and making their dress shop- ing with the bride to find that perfect ping an experience they will never for- dress. “I love educating the brides on the get,” Alison said. “Each bride receives a perfect dress, and whether or not they personalized shopping experience with find their perfect dress at our shop, we her own private suite. We will share a make them feel like a princess on the celebratory champagne toast with them day they are looking for their wedding when they say ‘Yes’ to their dress. Our dress.” expert staff eagerly awaits our customIf you’d like to learn more about Saters’ arrival and are dedicated to making in & Lace Bridal Boutique, you can visit their experience private, stress-free and its website at www.satinandlacebridalfun.” boutique.com. You can also see some of The boutique has a dress for every the boutique’s beautiful dresses on its budget and style, and it will help its cli- Facebook page at www.facebook.com/ ents confidently say “Yes” to their dress. satinandlacebridalboutique. “Our customer service and our expeThe boutique is located at 11286 Sullirience is what makes us different,” Al- van St. in Riverview. If you would like to ison said. “We have two private fitting make a shopping appointment, you can rooms for the and her family so they can call Alison at 381-4110.
March 2022
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
Page 13
Page 14
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
HIGH SCHOOL STUDENT SHOWS MUSICAL EXCELLENCE IN TAMPA YOUTH ORCHESTRA & MORE
By Ariana Pedraza
Local students are and Ensemble for working hard to reach solo and group their goals during their performances as school years through acwell. ademics and extracurricTreloar does ular activities. FishHawk not only play her resident Taylor Treloar instrument for is one of them, repeatthe accolades, edly reaching excellence however. She through music. A Newhas also enjoyed some High School junior, playing her inTreloar is 16 and a part strument to help of the Newsome High the community School orchestra prothrough being a gram as well as the Tampart of ensembles pa Metropolitan Youth like Harmonies Orchestra (TMYO), for Health and Taylor Treloar standing with her cello. where she made princiTMYO’s Toys for pal cellist. Tots event. Treloar, who also plays Though she exthe piano, began playing cels in the music her cello eight years ago world, Treloar’s because her elementary accomplishments school had a strings prodo not end there. gram and wanted to give While balancit a try. ing her musical “I started playing celextracurricuTaylor Treloar playing at a Newsome lo because my parents lars, she has also concert. thought it would be the least screechy maintained a current 4.0 grade point instrument,” she said. “I keep playing be- average and is a part of Newsome High cause I love it and love the people that I School’s chapter of the National Honor get to meet through music.” Society. During her high school career, Treloar When asked about Treloar, Newsome has auditioned for and was principal Orchestra Director Christopher Allen cellist—first in the state—for the ninth had only praises. “Treloar is a very rare through tenth-grade All-County Orches- talent that I am absolutely pleased to tra, a group of the best musicians in the have in this orchestra program. We are state, and again this year in the 11th fortunate to have her. Her musicianship through 12th-grade age bracket. She has is well beyond her years and affects evearned multiple superior ratings at Solo eryone around her,” said Allen.
Volume 21, Issue 3
HEALTH FAIR & BLOOD DRIVE SCHEDULED FOR PARK SQUARE
By Kate Quesada
FishHawk Ranch is inviting you to For mammography appointments, go to spring into health and come out to Park www.adventhealthmobilemammography. Square on Saturday, March 26 from 10 com, click ‘Schedule Appointment,’ click a.m.-1 pm for its health fair, which is a ‘Corporate, Government and Community free community event. Events,’ scroll down and click ‘Mar 26,’ According to click ‘Register’ and FishHawk Ranch then select your CDD Activities Codesired time. ordinator Susan To make an apParvin, the event pointment to dowill feature free nate blood, go to health screenings, w w w. o n e b l o o d . a blood drive, o rg /d o n a t e - n o w healthy food samand use sponsor ples, fitness and code #25477. All A health fair is scheduled for this month in healthy food prep donors will receive FishHawk Ranch. d e m o n s t ra t i o n s a OneBlood© shorton the center stage, giveaways, raffles, sleeve T-shirt and $20 e-gift card plus a music, a bounce house, face painting and wellness checkup, including blood presmuch more. sure, temperature, iron count, pulse and Parvin invites residents to pick up a cholesterol screening. wellness passport at the event and get it Businesses participating in the event stamped at all interactive vendor booths include AdventHealth; Anytime Fitness; for a chance to enter to win a raffle prize. At Last Chiropractic; BayCare Fitness; Passports are free and will be available at Botany Bakeshop; Camp Gladiator; Camthe event. po Family YMCA; Canine Cabana; Care Services available at the event also in- Package Meal Prep Co.; CycleBar of Branclude a full range of dermatology services don; Hillsborough County Fire Departfrom OnSpot Mobile Dermatology Bus ment; FishHawk Martial Arts Academy; and AdventHealth Mobile Mammography. Fishhawk Modern Dentistry; FIT4MOM “We are also pleased to bring these con- Fishhawk; Fleet Feet of Brandon; Gannon venient and important life-saving, state- University; Hess Orthodontics; Inspired of-the-art mobile services right to you,” Mobile Fitness/RockStar Fit Camp; Karsaid Parvin. “Skip the wait time and com- ma Yoga & Fitness, LLC; Medi-Weightloss; mute and make your appointment today. Millennium Physicians Group; Motion ChiMost major insurance plans accepted.” roTherapy; Nékter Juice Bar Mobile Van; To schedule an appointment for the OnSpot Dermatology Mobile Bus; Tampa Dermatology Bus, go to www.onspotder- Bay Speech, Language & Reading Clinic; matology.com/fishhawk and select your and OneBlood. desired time slot. The mobile clinic will be For more information, contact Parvin on-site from 8 a.m.-5:30 p.m. to accom- at 957-1841 or email sparvin@fishmodate more appointments. hawkranchcdd.org.
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
March 2022
Page 15
WOODIE’S WASH SHACK SEEKS FISHHAWK REZONING DESPITE RESIDENT RESERVATIONS
NEWSOME HIGH SCHOOL GRADUATE CREATES PRODUCT TO HELP TRAVELERS PREVENT BOTTLE SPILLS
The purpose of the modification is to increase the allowable building area by 2,956 square feet from 3,544 square feet to 6,500 square feet. The applicant is proposing a condition that the uses be limited to a maximum of 6,500 SF building area for a Car Wash use, or any other PD-C(N) use which generates peak hour trips equal to, or less than, the Car Wash use. Woodie’s Wash Shack is seeking rezoning for a 1.2 acre Tim Miller, president of Woodlocation on FishHawk Blvd. and Osprey Ridge Dr. ie’s said, “We believe in giving Woodie’s Wash Shack hit the ground back to our community, practicrunning in the Tampa Bay market just over ing eco-friendly protocols, and building rea year ago with plans for major car wash lationships with our neighbors.” And when expansion, up to 20 locations in the next asked about the resident concerns, Miller few years. In fact, with only a few loca- added that the company faced similar tions open and dozens in the acquisition concerns when it planned its Gandy locaand planning stages, the company made tions and he is confident that once resia commitment to becoming a major com- dents learn more about the company, they munity brand. will be more welcoming of the concept. Five locations are already open in TamThe proposed FishHawk location is the pa, St. Pete, and soon to open in Wimauma former Center State Bank site at the but it’s a 1.2 acre corner spot in Lithia that northeast corner of Fishhawk Blvd. and is raising concerns from neighbors and is Osprey Ridge Dr. The existing building will delayed by a rezoning requirement. be demolished to make room for the car All Woodie’s locations use state of the wash tunnel with equipment, storage and art technology that promotes conserva- staff space. tion by recycling approximately 75% of County staff have presented no objecwater used in the process. tions to the proposal. Woodies actually doesn’t need a rezonTo date, more than 300 residents have ing to put a car wash on the location of submitted letters of concern regarding the closed bank site it purchased, howev- traffic, noise levels and water conservaer, for aesthetics and proposed growth in tion. The next rezoning hearing meeting the area, the company wants to put in a has been re-scheduled and is now schedflagship location and needs minor modifi- uled for Tuesday, April 12, 9 a.m. Board of cations to the current commercial zoning County Commissioners Land Use Meeting. of the site. For info, visit www.woodieswash.com.
In her freshman nonprofit organizayear at Newsome tion that cultivates High School, Kelly entrepreneurial skills Shea was traveling in their students. Last when one of her pump year, Shea placed secbottles spilled in her ond in Blackstone’s bag. Shea’s experiBig Ideas Competience is not out of the tion and fourth in The ordinary, especially Joust, where she was for frequent travelthe youngest competers, but her experiitor in UCF history to ence sparked an idea make it to the finals. for a product that By placing in both would lock the pump competitions, she on similar bottes to earned funding prevent spills, and so and gained feedthe idea for DripLock back from prowas born. fessionals. She Shea is now a sophsaid one of the omore at the Univer- Kelly Shea invented her most important idea for DripLock at sity of Central Florida pieces of ad(UCF) and used its UCF when she was just vice given to her 18 years old. innovation lab last was to make the year to create a prototype for DripLock. product stackable to fit differently size Shea’s motivation to invent a product to shafts on the bottles rather than trying to solve her problem came from her love for create differently sized products. Shark Tank and extra free time during Following her success in Blackstone’s quarantine. competitions, she was offered a job as “I was on campus, but all of my classes the prototype development coach, where were online, so I was bored a lot because she helps students with unique ideas start I had nothing else to do. So, I just con- businesses. tacted the innovation lab at UCF. They “The innovation lab is separate from the had someone show me how to make a car Blackstone Launchpad … I kind of started on a 3D modeling software, just to show a bridge between the two,” said Shea. me basics, and I made my product,” exHer product now has its own website plained Shea. and customers, and travelers can purFollowing the creation of the initial chase DripLock for $19.99. model for DripLock, Shea submitted the For more information on Kelly Shea’s model to two competitions run through product and her story, visit buydriplock. the Blackstone LaunchPad at UCF, a com.
By Marie Gilmore
B We
rin g
Life
AJ’s Fine Wines & Liquor ur Spirits In Yo
Craft Beers
3443 Lithia Pinecrest Road
at the corner of Lithia-Pinecrest & Bloomingdale in the Publix Plaza
813-654-6488
BUY HERE / SMOKE HERE
Neighborhood Liquor Store with Cigars
HAVE A DRINK ON OUR PATIO BAR
FINE WINES Plumpjack Cakebread Cade Nickel & Nickel and MORE!
• Self-serve Bar • Walk-in Humidor • Walk-in Beer Cooler • Craft Beers • Gluten Free Beers • Organic Beers • Variety of IPA’s • Stouts • Non-alcholic Beers Available • Specializing in Fine Wines • Special Orders Upon Request • Call About Delivery
We
Thank You
for your business the past 17 years & look forward to your continued support of our small business. Hours: Mon. - Thurs. 10am - 10pm Fri. - Sat. 10am - 11pm Sun. 11am - 8pm
By Lily Belcher
Page 16
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
Volume 21, Issue 3
LOCAL RESIDENTS HAVE NEW FAMILY MEMBERS THANKS TO OPERATION LOTUS & DIAMONDCREST LITTLES By Kate Quesada
Four local families received new canine family members last month thanks to a special program with both Diamondcrest Littles and Operation Lotus.
It is no secret that a dog can be the heart of a family, especially a family that has experienced hard times. Thanks to a generous donation by a local breeder and coordination by charity Operation Lotus, four therapy dogs found new homes, for free, with families last month. FishHawk resident Melanie Brockmeier-Jordy started Operation Lotus after her husband, Leon, passed away in 2012. She has used the charity to help local families in crisis ever since, and the donation of the dogs was something she had always wanted to do. After receiving her own dream dog— Lennon, a King Charles cavalier—in October, Brockmeier-Jordy decided to make it happen. “My wish has been to have and train to be a therapy dog to visit hospitals and schools,” she explained. “Through the process of receiving Lennon, the breeder, Diamondcrest Littles, learned about Operation Lotus and our mission.”
Owner Heather Muzzey reached out to Brockmeie r -J o r d y and offered to donate two puppies from their latest Aussalier litter to Operation Lotus to give to two families who have experienced loss or tragedy and need the love that a dog could bring. “We were overjoyed to team with them in an effort to find such families,” she said. “When I lost Leon, the unconditional love and comfort that my dog Madisyn brought me is something I will never forget. Dogs know when we are in pain, and as I would cry and grieve, she would snuggle even harder. She just knew I needed her.”
Operation Lotus made a Fa c e b o o k post looking for nominations and received dozens of emails, all telling de-
serving stories. “It really seemed like an impossible choice to make,” explained Brockmeier-Jordy. “As the letters kept coming in, Diamondcrest Littles then told us they wanted to donate all four of the puppies left in the litter if they were cleared by the vet.” The four families were chosen by Brockmeier-Jordy and received their dogs on Valentine’s Day. “The families were all overjoyed, and she’s tears of joy as they held their pup for
the first time,” she said. The first dog, Gucci, went to the Baker family, who had recently suffered three stillborn pregnancies. Versace, the male pup, went to Renata Varnadore, a breast cancer survivor and school counselor who plans to bring the dog to school to help thousands of students. The McNeal family, who recently suffered the loss of their father, Matthew, to brain cancer at 34, received Fendi, and Prada was given to Billy Reese, who is medically retired from the U.S. Army and suffers from PTSD. He recently lost his 14-year-old dog, who provided him so much emotional support. “Donating these puppies to these families has made my heart feel so good,” said Muzzey. “This is as much as I gift to me to be part of this as it is a gift to you.” To learn more about Operation Lotus, visit https://operationlotus.wixsite.com/ website, and for more information about Diamondcrest Littles, visit www.diamondcrestlittles.com.
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
March 2022
Page 17
HILLSBOROUGH SCHOOLS ANNOUNCES FOUR FLORIDA PREPAID SCHOLARSHIPS WORTH COMBINED $25,000
Staff Report
Hillsborough County lifelong career. With Public Schools recentone scholarship aidly partnered with the ing high school seFlorida Prepaid College niors and the other Program to announce for one of our youngfour scholarships est learners, these worth a combined awards truly recog$25,000. The Superinnize the spectrum of tendent Addison Davis important work our Future of STEM Scholeducators take part Hillsborough County Public Schools arship will be awarded in here in Hillsborrecently partnered with the Florida Prepaid to three students. This College Program to announce four scholar- ough County Public scholarship is a twoSchools,” said Davis. ships worth a combined $25,000. year Florida College “Hillsborough CounPlan worth $8,000. ty Public Schools has a laThese scholarships are ser-like focus on providing designed to encourage the most robust STEM new teachers to join the programs for our stueducation workforce in dents to prepare them for areas with critical shortthe careers of tomorrow. ages. To apply for this It is equally as important scholarship, students that we focus on cultivatmust meet criteria and ing STEM educators who write a 500-word essay have a passion for the about why they want to subject and for teaching become a teacher in a students a genuine love of STEM subject. science. This scholarship Superintendent Adwill help to support one dison Davis’ Preparing Students for Life of our future educators, who will in turn Scholarship is a $1,000 Florida 529 Sav- inspire our learners to excel in STEM,” said ings Plan awarded to a parent or guardian Larry Plank, director of K-12 STEM educawho attends a kindergarten registration tion. event or begins the registration process Florida Prepaid kicked off its annual by Saturday, April 30 for the 2022-2023 open enrollment period by offering famacademic year. An eligible student’s name ilies who purchase a 529 Prepaid Plan will be drawn at random. by April 30 up to $500 in a 529 Savings “The Florida Prepaid College Program Plan to be used toward additional college is a proactive way that parents can begin expenses. Open enrollment runs through to prepare their learner for postsecondary April 30 and is the annual window when education. We are so fortunate to be able families can lock in future tuition costs at to provide students an opportunity to help today’s plan prices. Visit www.myfloridapay for college, which is a pathway to a prepaid.com for more information.
DIRECTORY OF LOCAL BUSINESSES
BARBER BARBER
ADVERTISE WITH US $50 per ad or as low as $200 per month*
Open 7 Days
includes ALL 5 EDITIONS per month
*
Call Us Today! (813) 657-2418 or Visit OspreyObserver.com
861 Lithia Pinecrest 813-653-9595
$5 OFF (NEW CUSTOMERS ONLY)
HOME INSPECTIONS
4 Point Inspections Wind Mitigation Roof Re-certifications Buyer/Seller Full Home Inspections
813-842-0740
tracer.inspections@yahoo.com
PEST CONTROL YARD GREETINGS ELECTRICIAN RV REPAIR & SVC DOG TRAINING CERTIFIED
Specializing in
YARD GREETINGS
that make any day a celebration!
Serving Riverview, Brandon, Plant City, Fishhawk, Lithia, Valrico and surrounding areas.
Residential and Commercial
(813)716-9196
TNTtermiteandpestcontrol.com
signgypsiesriverview.com signgypsiesriverviewfl@gmail.com
813-530-9618
LOCAL & FAMILY OWNED “DYNAMITE CUSTOMER SERVICE”
LESSONS MUSIC LESSONS
PIANO & VOICE LESSONS Tracey Magruder tracey.magruder@gmail.com
traceymagruderstudio.com
INSURED “Since 1972”
Family Owned and Operated
Mobile RV Repair Fans & Fixtures • Panel Changes & Services Boat Docks • Pool & Spa Wiring Technician travels to your RV. Generators & Surge Protectors Remodels • Exterior & Specialty Lighting REPAIRS, MAINTENANCE, INSTALLATIONS, 813-672-4084
www.BryanHindmanElectric.com Florida State Certified Electrical Contractor | EC#13004922
PAINTING
LICENSED
ACCOUNTING
UPGRADES AND INSPECTIONS.
Honest. Reliable. Experienced.
• Puppy Training • Obedience Training IN • CGC & Therapy Training YOUR • Service Training HOME • PTSD Training • Protection Training • Aggression or County Citation
813-753-9303
813-685-6666 allamericandog.net
WEBSITE/BRANDING
HEAT & AC
Website Design Branding Services Marketing Material Design
Residential & Commercial Installation & Repair Commercial Refrigeration
MV104106
GARY D. MEYER
ALL WORK GUARANTEED
Certified PubliC ACCountAnt
FREE ESTIMATES
PROFESSIONAL PAINTING SPECIALISTS Celebrating 30+ Years In Business “20 Year Osprey Advertising Partner”
• Accounting & Bookkeeping • Compiled Financial Statement Presentations • Tax Return Preparation for Individuals, Corporations, LLC’s and Partnerships • Consulting for New Business Startups • Financial & Estate Planning
813-971-4067
gmeyer4@tampabay.rr.com Serving the Tampa Bay Area Since 1980
(813) 787-7668
www.monsterabranding.com
(813) 671-2555
Page 18
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
SUPERINTENDENT RECOMMENDS BUS DRIVER PAY INCREASE TO COMBAT SHORTAGE By Superintendent Addison Davis Our parents and families have faced a multitude of challenges as our community acclimates to the impacts of COVID-19. One of the more unexpected side effects of the worldwide pandemic has been a crippling labor shortage facing multiple industries across our nation. Our educational system has unfortunately not been immune to this development. Parents in Hillsborough County Public Schools are keenly aware that this district is contending with a critical shortage of bus drivers. These hardworking and dedicated individuals are the backbone of our district, and without them our exceptional educators would not be able to change the lives of our learners. However, it has always been a challenge to recruit and retain bus drivers. In fact, in other states this year, the National Guard has been called in to drive children to school because they simply do not have enough people to fill the positions. Hillsborough County Public Schools is currently in need of approximately 130 bus drivers, which means those currently driving are performing double and triple runs to ensure students make it to school safely. Unfortunately, this creates angst for our learners and families as they experience delays both to and from school.
It is for this reason I made the recommendation to our school board to raise the hourly rate for our bus drivers from $14.57 to $16.04 per hour. This will represent one of the highest pay rates in the state for bus drivers, which we in turn anticipate will help to alleviate a shortage while recruiting and retaining more highly qualified individuals to transport our learners to and from school. I want to remind our community that bus drivers have been on the front lines since the pandemic began. These talented and passionate individuals did not have the opportunity to work from home as they drove food and academic materials to families while our brick-and-mortar schools were closed. They deserve our respect and appreciation for the difficult work they have performed. This initiative will also impact veteran drivers who will receive a well-deserved raise from their current salaries. This move will not only strengthen our transportation department; my hope is that your family will see a noticeable difference with time as we work diligently to combat these complex issues. Bus drivers are often the first smiling face a student encounters as their school day begins. We are excited to welcome new and highly qualified individuals to the HCPS family to make a difference in children’s lives every day.
CUSTOM HAIR For the hair you’ve always wanted!
Lori, • Human Hair & Synthetic Hair Wigs Owner & Client • Permanent, Non-Surgical Options Since 1969 • Chemotherapy & Alopecia Specialists • Largest Selection of Human Hair Toppers in Tampa Bay • Also offering sales & service of all MEN’S hair systems FREE CONSULTATION! PLEASE CALL.
CustomHairTampaBay.com BRANDON (813) 651-9484 117 N. Kings Ave
CLEARWATER (727) 725-1052
(Across from Costco) 2643 Gulf to Bay, Ste. 1530
TAMPA (813) 932-5327 1425 W. Busch Blvd.
steve@mastergaragedoor.com
mastergaragedoor.com Garage Door Service, Repair & Installation for:
• Residential Garage Doors • Garage Door Openers • Broken Springs • Cables • Rollers • Doors off Track
Always Free Estimates 24 years serving the community with only the highest quality parts and service.
Volume 21, Issue 3
HEADACHES!
Headaches can happen for many reasons which make it difficult to know what type of headache you have and the cause. Migraines, tension/cervicogenic headaches, and cluster headaches are the main forms of primary headache disorders. Commonly enough, many of them can be traced back to the neck or surrounding musculature. WHAT IT IS Posture plays a critical role regarding neck pain, which can cause pain in the head region, triggering a headache. Existing in today’s world with desk jobs, poor sleeping habits, and excessive technology use — to name a few — all can have potential influence on headaches. The muscles, tendons, and ligaments of our neck are pain sensitive and can send symptoms to other areas of the body. WHAT IT ISN’T Cervicogenic headaches, or secondary headaches which are caused by another illness or physical issue, are rarely a sign of something scary or dangerous. However, it’s important to distinguish the difference from other types of headache as they can share similar symptoms. Migraine headaches are typically more severe and have a known trigger, e.g., food, light, smells. Pain is usually on one side of the head with symptoms behind the eye and at the back of the head and nausea and vomiting are common. Some experience “auras” or visual disturbances preceding a migraine. Migraines can last a few hours to as long as a few days and can occur seldom or several times a year. Cluster headaches are very intense and commonly felt right behind one eye, and their underlying cause is unknown. They occur regularly over a period in “clusters” and can last anywhere from 30 minutes to a few hours, occurring multiple times in a day over several weeks. If a headache occurs suddenly and accompanied by pain, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, or unconsciousness — especially when associated with trauma — seek emergency medical care immediately. Treatment at Motion ChiroTherapy will always be in a
1-on-1 setting with the doctor for every visit. We believe in patient empowerment and autonomy and being able to control your own pain. We teach our patients how to catch the beginning stages of potential headaches and how to control them. We can’t all avoid bad postures and prolonged sitting or driving, but understanding your triggers will make you less susceptible to headaches!
CALL TODAY Dr. Robert Lutz
16765 FishHawk Blvd, Lithia • 813-793-7791 (Located in the Winn Dixie Shopping Plaza)
www.MotionChiroTherapy.com
March 2022
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
Page 19
INSURANCE & FINANCIAL PLANNING SERVICES
Leatherback sea turtles are the largest living species of turtle in the world, and they can be found nesting on Florida beaches between March and July. These prehistoric and highly migratory creatures can travel thousands of miles and be found in deep zones of the open ocean, where they can dive to depths of over 4,000 feet. Every few years, the females return to the location at which they were born to crawl ashore our sandy beaches in order to lay their eggs. Leatherback nesting within the state of Florida is primarily done on the east coast with over 50 percent of their nesting occurring in Palm Beach County alone. Leatherback sea turtles will lay eggs every two to three years and will deposit several clutches along the coast each season. Clutches will average around 70-100 eggs, which the nesting females deposit into holes that they dig on the beach or around the sand dunes. The females then return to the ocean while the eggs incubate in the sand, typically hatching 60-70 days later. Once emerged from their nest, hatchlings will also make their way to the ocean. Their rate of survival from hatching to adulthood is estimated to be 1 in 1,000. These giant marine reptiles have existed since the age of the dinosaurs and are unique compared to the other six species of sea turtles because of their lack of scales and hard shell, which instead have a soft carapace covered by leathery skin. In fact,
their name originates from this distinction. Easily identified by their sheer size, leatherbacks are mostly dark grey and black with white patches of spots and dashes along their body. Leatherbacks are quite impressive, as they average 5002,000 pounds and can reach lengths of 4-8 feet long. Adult leatherbacks have a diet which consists mainly of jellyfish, but they have also been found to consume mollusks, squids, fish and tunicates. Leatherback sea turtles are listed as a critically endangered species by the IUCN (International Union for Conservation of Nature) and are federally and state protected. This protection extends to their nesting grounds, nests and eggs. It is illegal to hunt, harm, harass or disturb both sea turtles and their nests. Sea turtles are also susceptible to the effects of human-induced activities, such as pollution, artificial lighting, development, beach erosion and nourishment, fishing line entanglement and damage to beach dunes. We can help these animals survive for generations to come by recycling, reducing waste and keeping our beaches pristine and turtle friendly. Ali Holton is currently director of FishHawk TNR, Inc. She has a masters in biodiversity, wildlife and ecosystems and 20 years of experience specializing in animal behavior and conservation. To reach her, email FishHawkTNR4@gmail.com.
COMPREHENSIVE FINANCIAL PLANNING • RETIREMENT PLANNING ESTATE PLANNING • LONG-TERM CARE • LIFE INSURANCE MEDICARE COVERAGE • COLLEGE PLANNING "We are here for you and for all your financial planning and insurance needs."
813-627-0872
912 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. Brandon, FL 33511
www.preservation1st.com
Michael Beiter, Sr.
Christian Beiter, CFP®
Securities offered through J.W. Cole Financial, Inc. (JWC), Member FINRA/SIPC. Advisory services offered through J.W. Cole Advisors, Inc. (JWCA). Preservation 1st Financial Group, LLC. and JWC & JWCA are unaffiliated entities.
Is Your Child Talking?
By age two, your child should have 200 words and combine 2-3 word sentences.
PATIENT of the MONTH
Brett “Brett has only been in speech for a few months and I have already noticed a tremendous improvement in his confidence, vocabulary, pronunciation and overall speech. The staff at Tampa Bay Speech are always welcoming and energetic! My son absolutely loves going!” - Ashley (Mom)
TAMPA BAY SPEECH, LANGUAGE & READING CLINIC Serving local area families for over 19 years!
Therapy Services: Articulation • Apraxia Auditory Processing • Autism • Sensory Feeding Disorders (813) 368-2485 (813) 368-2485 NEW Apollo Beach Park Square - Fishhawk 417 Apollo Beach Blvd. 16144 Churchview Dr., Ste. 109
“We love because He first loved us.” 1 John 4:19
Doctor Malcom S. Clements- Pastor
First Baptist Church of Gibsonton Traditional Worship Service Old-time Gospel Hymns Nursery Available Children & Youth Ministry
Sunday School…………. 9:30 A.M. Morning Worship……… 10:30 A.M. Sunday Evening…………. 6:00 P.M. Mid-Week (Wed.)……… 7:00 P.M.
9912 Indiana St. • Hwy 41 & Estelle Ave • Gibsonton, FL 33534 813.677.1301
Specializing in treatment of:
• Rheumatoid Arthritis • Psoriatic Arthritis • Osteoporosis • Gout • Osteoarthritis • Lupus
www.SWFLRHEUM.com
813-672-2243
On Site:
• Lab • Ultrasound • Infusion Suite • Clinical Research
NOW ACCEPTING TRICARE INSURANCE!
Dr. Priya Reddy M.D. FACR Board Certified Rheumatologist
Dr. Gina Prakash M.D.
Board Certified Rheumatologist
Accepting New Patients Most Insurance Accepted
Dr. Atefeh Vafa M.D.
Board Certified Rheumatologist
Teena Lukose PA-C
Two Convenient Locations: 11954 Boyette Rd., Riverview | 4002 Sun City Center Blvd. Ste. 101
Page 20
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
Volume 21, Issue 3
Hearing Loss Association Of wall art—almost everywhere you go. Nail sales and adult beverage sales, will raise the basics and have fun at Brush Pen Let- funding to build a facility in Pasco CounAmerica Meeting
Pet Adoption, Hearing Loss, Cartooning & More... Compiled by Jenny Bennett jbennett@ospreyobserver.com
Celebrate National Pet Adoption Week
National pet adoption week is from Monday, February 28 through Sunday, March 6. Rescue Pets of Florida is partnering with PetSmart stores, including the Brandon and Valrico stores, to do large adoption events during the weekend of Saturday
The mission of the Hearing Loss Association of America is to open the world of communication to people with hearing loss by providing information, education, support and advocacy. The Sun City Center chapter will be holding its next meeting at St. Andrew Presbyterian Church, located at 1239 W. Del Webb Blvd. in Sun City Center, on Tuesday, March 15 at 12:30 p.m. This will be a hybrid meeting, available to attend in person or via Zoom. A guest speaker will present, and there will be time to mingle afterwards. RSVP via email to debbe.hagner@gmail. com or text 727-271-0770. If you have any questions, contact Eloise at eloise6376@ gmail.com.
Cartooning Classes With Alejandro At Center Place
Cartooning classes with Alejandro Algarin at Center Place will talk about cartooning and cartooning history as well as show how to express emotion and acting through cartooning. With these classes, you will discover how to create and evoke laughter and convey humor using simple shapes and composition as well as express everyday characters, scenes and stories. The classes at Center Place, located at 619 Vonderburg Dr. in Brandon, are on Tuesdays at 4:30 p.m. for kids who are K-7 years old and from 6-7 p.m. for those 8-14 years old. For more information, visit www. centerplacebrandon.com or call 685-8888.
and Sunday, March 5 and 6. Adoptable dogs and cats will be available, as well as special giveaways. Staff and volunteers will help potential adopters learn about caring for pets and the types of tools, products and services they may need. The adoption event will run from 11 a.m.-4 p.m. at the PetSmarts located at 1051 W. Brandon Blvd. in Brandon and 3313 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. in Valrico. Rescue Pets of Florida is completely run by volunteers and is always looking to recruit more. For more informa- Calligraphy Classes Coming To tion on the adoption event or volunteer Ruskin Learn to create the beautiful writing opportunities, visit its Facebook page @ on you see on invitations, place cards and rescuepetsofflorida.
tering 101. A professional calligrapher will teach you the basic strokes, the principles of modern lettering and how to make that brush pen behave. The next class will be held at the beautiful new Holiday Inn Express in Ruskin on Saturday, March 5 from 1-3 p.m. The class fee is $40, which includes professional instruction, and all supplies are included. For registration information, call 489-5507.
ty to house female minors who were rescued from human sex trafficking in Florida. Performers include: The Jukebox Johnnies, Dottie Kelly and Rock The House Band, Alex Lopez and headliner Mr. Sipp – The Mississippi Blues Child. The event will take place on Saturday, March 12 from 12 Noon-8 p.m. at Land O’ Lakes Heritage Park, located at 5401 Land O’ Lakes Blvd. in Land O’ Lakes. Tickets are available on eventbrite. com and facebook.com by searching ‘Pasco Spring Bazaar To Benefit Blues Festival.’ If you have additional questions about the event, tickets, procedures Kittie Corral Kittie Corral, a nonprofit animal or limitations, contact 727-674-1464. rescue, is holding an outdoor spring bazaar on Saturday, March 12, from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Bingo Returns To St. Stephen at Lake Wimauma Convention Catholic Church Center, located at 5408 SR 674 St. Stephen Catholic Church, loin Wimauma. There will be vencated at 10118 St. Stephen Cir. in dors of all kinds, including arts, Riverview is pleased to announce crafts, pet-related businesses, the return of bingo to its Famifood trucks and more. Beauly Life Center. The event is held tiful raffle baskets will be on the fourth Tuesday of every available to win. If you are interested in month. The next date is Tuesday, March being a vendor, please contact Angelite 22, and it will begin at 6:30 p.m. The doors Bragg on 634-5873 or 731-6303 for more open at 5:30 p.m., and a concession stand information; apply early, as only two ven- will be available for refreshments. There dors per industry will be allowed. For more will also be a 50/50 raffle, and proceeds information on Kittie Corral, visit www.kit- from the evening will support community tiecorral.org. families in need and church groups like St. Vincent de Paul.
Pasco Blues Benefit Concert To Benefit Bridging Freedom Organization
The Pasco Blues Festival hosts leading blues performers from the Tampa Bay area and national award-winning acts at Land O’ Lakes Heritage Park each year. This year, Florida Penguin Productions and the Rotary Club of Wesley Chapel are partnering to raise funds for the Bridging Freedom organization. Event profits, including ticket
Grace Community Market
Grace Community Church, located at 5708 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. in Lithia, is holding its next market day on Saturday, March 26 from 9 a.m.-2 p.m. There will be a wide selection of vendors with food and fun as well as local shopping for Mother’s Day, Father’s Day and graduations. If you are interested in being a vendor, please register at www.gracecommunitymarket.com.
Deep Tissue Neuromuscular Pre-Natal Sports Massage To Schedule Your Appointment
Call or Text (813) 323-4901 Professional, Licensed Massage Therapist with over 18 years experience! License # MA 39122
813.433.4047
www.ajwestfallco.com licensed✦bonded✦insured In Business Over 20 Years
FULL SERVICE CLEANING COMPANY
Residential ✦Commercial Moving/Home Sale Presentation ✦Tenant Turnover
1 6 6 3 7 FishHawk Blvd. • Suite 1 0 1 • Lithia
Located in the FishHawk Office Park, behind Taco Bell
Schedu le You r Appointment Today!
(8 1 3 ) 6 5 7 -7 3 3 7
www.premiercarepeds.com “We pride ourselves in developing a personal, caring partnership dedicated to tailoring our services to meet the individual needs of our neighbors and their families.” -Dr. Minick and Dr. Pruitt Regu lar Hou rs: Mon-Fri 8 am-1 2 pm & 1 pm-5 pm | After Hou rs: 2 4 hou rs, 7 days a week
March 2022
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
Page 21
THE BAY AREA RENAISSANCE FESTIVAL RETURNS FOR ITS 44TH YEAR
CUSTOM HAIR TAMPA BAY HELPS CUSTOMERS REGAIN SELF-CONFIDENCE AFTER HAIR LOSS
The Bay Area Area RenaisRenaissance sance Festival Festival returns brings some of for its 44th seathe most unique son from Satentertainment, urday, February shopping and 19 to Sunday, educational April 3. The fesopportunities,” tival is open on Whipps said. weekends from “Each weekend 10 a.m.-6 p.m., features a difrain or shine, ferent theme and is located with specialat Withlacoochized entertainee River Park in ers, vendors Dade City. “Join and artisans King Henry the who help bring The Bay Area Renaissance Festival returns for its 44th 8th and the Vilthe theme to lagers of Fittle- season from Saturday, February 19 to Sunday, April 3. life. This year’s The festival is open on weekends from 10 a.m.-6 p.m., worth as they theme weekinvite one and all rain or shine, and is located at Withlacoochee River Park ends are Wine, in Dade City to the magical Romance & 16th-century European village featuring 15 Song, Highland Fling, Pirates & Pups, Barstages of exciting entertainment, in- barian Brew Fest, Shamrocks & Shenanicluding musicians, magicians, jugglers and gans, High Seas Adventure and Wonders more,” said the festival’s corporate compli- of the World.” ance and communications director, StephJousting is the one of the festival’s most anie Whipps. “More than 100 artisans will popular attractions, and it happens three fill the festival marketplace to display and times a day during the festival. The first sell their handcrafted goods for a truly match is at 1 p.m. and then the second is fabulous and endless shopping experience. at 3 p.m. The final match of the day is at 5 Our guests will interact with memorable p.m. The jousting matches are free to atcharacters and enjoy full-contact, live, ar- tend with your purchased festival ticket. mored jousting, seven theme weekends Adult tickets are $22.95, seniors are and fabulous food fit for a king or queen.” $18.95, children ages 5-12 are $14.95 and The first weekend of the 2022 Bay Area children ages 4 and under are free. Visit Renaissance Festival kicked off on Febru- the festival’s website at www.bayarearenary 19 and will run for seven weekends fest.com or call 1-800-601-4848 for more (Saturdays and Sundays) through April 3. information. Withlacoochee River Park is “A festival tradition for 44 years, the Bay located at 12838 Auton Rd. in Dade City.
Things often get ‘hairy’ the hair in place for at Custom Hair Tampa four to six weeks. Bay, but for this business “Wake up every that’s precisely the goal. morning with hair,” Owned by Dan and Lori said Lori. “Wash it, Younkman, Custom Hair swim with it and just Tampa Bay offers nonlive your life.” surgical solutions for men Her favorite part of and women with hair loss the process is when as a result of male and the hair system comes female-pattern baldness, in and customers see chemotherapy, transthe total transformaplants and burn scars, altion. opecia, autoimmune disFor Apollo Beach eases and other hair loss resident Jim Klein, his conditions. new hair has given him Located at 117 N. Kings increased self-confiAve. in Brandon, solutions dence. “I have the hair Owned by Dan and Lori Younkthat the Younkmans ofI used to have and man, Custom Hair Tampa Bay fer include 100 percent look so much younger,” Remy human hair wigs, offers nonsurgical solutions for men he said. and women with hair loss. toppers and custom hair Brandon resident solutions for men and women. Expert and longtime customer Susan Saylors, staff members are available to assist whose hair started thinning as a result of clients in choosing from its selection of lupus, echoed Klien about the increased wigs or one of its hair systems. self-confidence from her hair replace“We’re here to advise you every step of ment system. the way and walk you through the entire “Stylists at Custom Hair have given me process,” said Lori, who is not just the long hair, shorter hair, have changed the owner but also a customer. color,” said Saylors. “What’s great is it’s She understands exactly how a thick such a high quality that nobody knows head of hair can restore confidence. it’s not my own hair unless I tell them.” Customers meet with technicians in Custom Hair Tampa Bay has been private consultation rooms where their helping customers enjoy long, thick and heads are measured, hair color and tex- healthy hair worthy of a Pantene comture are matched and hair systems are mercial for more than 50 years. created to make each person look their Custom Hair Tampa Bay is open Tuesbest. day-Friday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m., and Saturday, Hair replacement systems are light- 10 a.m.-4 p.m. weight, breathable and secure thanks to For more information, visit www.custhe surgical-grade adhesive that holds tomhairtampabay.com or call 651-9484.
By Libby Hopkins
By Michelle Caceres
CAC1820162
NOW HIRING
OODC20
03/31/2022
Disclaimer: Offer valid only when coupon is presented at drop-off. Not valid on dry cleaning, wash & fold, laundry or laundered shirts, leather, wedding dresses or alterations. Coupon can only be for services sold at participating Tide Cleaners locations. It cannot be redeemed for any product sold at any other retail store. Cannot be used with any other discount or promotion. One discount per household. Offer valid for one-time use through 03/31/2022
(813) 662-4243
1928 E Bloomingdale Ave
OOCFTR20 OODC20
(813) 251-2234
1529 S. Dale Mabry Hwy
tidecleaners.com
Page 22
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
MAGNET CHOICE WINDOW OPENS By Michelle Caceres Hillsborough student is interested in this County Public school, you should definiteSchools’ second ly apply.” magnet, school For leaders at Hillschoice and choice borough County Pubhardship applicalic Schools, it’s all about tion window for choice. Parents can choose the 2022-2023 from various schools based school year opens on their child’s interests on Wednesday, and way of learning. OpMarch 23 and runs tions can be based on locathrough Saturday, tion, interests, curriculum April 2, giving stuor system of learning (eidents the opporther brick-and-mortar or tunity to enroll in virtual schools). elementary, mid“Magnet schools offer The second magnet, school choice and dle or high school choice hardship application window opens students the opportunity magnet programs to explore and engage with on Wednesday, March 23. or schools outside their education in ways their neighborhood boundaries. they never have before,” said Cox. With 38 national and global award-winSchool choice enrollment for elementary ning magnet schools that boast more than and middle magnet schools is determined 80 programs for students, there’s something via a computerized lottery system that sorts for everyone, including science, technology, through all applications after the window engineering and mathematics (STEM); fine closes. Families will receive an email notiand performing arts; international studies; fication by late April indicating whether career and technical education; and world they’ve been accepted to a school of choice. languages. A 39th magnet school, Water- The magnet high school process is criteset’s soon-to-be-named pre-K-8 magnet ria-based. school with a capacity of 1,600 students, The first application window ran from is slated to open in August and will feature October to December. After the lottery, paran international studies program that will ents were notified of the results in January. infuse STEM as well as an arts program. A There is a brief period of time during which robotics lab, augmented reality lab and arts an offer must be accepted before it expires. and graphic design lab will provide hands-on “If you didn’t get an offer in the first aplearning to students. It will be the first mag- plication window, your application rolls over net elementary school in the SouthShore to the second window so you don’t have to area and first pre-K-8 school in Southeast- reapply,” said Cox. ern Hillsborough County. For more information about SouthShore’s “There are still spots remaining at this new magnet school, call 272-4692. To learn new school, but we expect to have more ap- more about Hillsborough County’s magnet plications than available spots,” said Super- schools, visit www.hillsboroughschools.org/ visor of Magnet Schools Bob Cox. “If your magnet.
Assisted Living
“Tessera Brandon...living your lifestyle.”
Memory Care
“Living the present...cherishing the past.”
Questions about memory loss? Alzheimer’s and Dementia Support Groups -LIVE and ZOOM Call for Zoom link
• Active contemporary style living • Spacious apartments • All day dining from 7am to 7pm with a bountiful variety of choices • Pet friendly • Educational and social opportunities • Cable and Wi-Fi included • Live entertainment from Bach to Big Band • “Wine Down” Wednesdays
Assisted Living Facility #AL13150
Located in the heart of Brandon close to I75, Hwy 60 and Hwy 301
1320 Oakfield Dr., Brandon, FL 33511 (813) 607-6880
Call TODAY for special pricing!
TesseraBrandon.com
Volume 21, Issue 3
NEWSOME HIGH SCHOOL FFA STUDENT COMPETES IN TRACTOR DRIVING CONTEST
By Tatiana Ortiz
In the seventh grade, Kenneth Hiscock, ag when Lithia resident advisor at Newsome Brody Sansom took High School, stated his very first ag class, what it takes to beit sparked an interest, come successful in which helped shape his this particular contest: FFA (Future Farmers of “The students begin America) journey. Sanpracticing for it about som, who is a senior and 2-3 months out, which FFA student at Newincludes studying in some High School, had the book to learn all of the opportunity to comthe different aspects pete in the Safe Tractor of the tractor and Operation and Mainmore.” Brody Sansom, Newsome High School tenance CDE (Career The Newsome High Development Event) senior, holding the ribbons he won at the School FFA offers all contest. All of his time Safe Tractor Operation and Maintenance kinds of CDE programs CDE districts. and dedication led to a that the students can positive outcome, as he get involved in other won the sub-districts than tractor driving. and districts. Hiscock said that FFA Sansom shared how is a big part of prohe felt about competing moting growth and in this contest. development lead“This was an aweership, and it is also some chance for me to a building block for make sure I represent those students to gain not only my teachers more confidence. but also the whole FFA Sansom has a Brody Sansom, Newsome High School chapter to the best of bright future ahead my ability,” Sansom senior, driving a tractor at the Safe Tractor of him. This fall, he Operation and Maintenance CDE said. will be attending Emsub-districts. In order to particibry-Riddle Aeronautipate in this contest, the student must be an cal University, located in Daytona Beach, to active member of a chartered Florida FFA earn a degree in unmanned aircraft systems. chapter and enrolled in grades nine through Sansom also hopes to go into the Air Force 12. The Safe Tractor Operation and Mainte- to serve his country. nance CDE contest is designed to develop For more information about Newsome the ability of all FFA members to demon- High School FFA, visit www.facebook.com/ strate their knowledge and skills in the FFAnewsome. To learn more about the Flormaintenance and safe operation of tractors. ida FFA Association, visit https://flaffa.org.
March 2022
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
Page 23
Page 24
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
Volume 21, Issue 3
Celebrating 41 Years Serving our Community Thinking it’s time for a new roof? Do you think your roof may have wind damage? DO NOT REPLACE YOUR ROOF WITHOUT LETTING US TAKE A LOOK!
ROOF REPAIR AND REPLACEMENT SERVICES
813-643-8333
www.CertifiedRoofers.com Family owned business serving our neighbors since 1981! <<< Alex (Owner) with his sons... “Our next generation of roofers!”
Bloomingdale/FishHawk 41-48
Celebrate St. Paddy’s Day At The Salty Shamrock The Salty Shamrock is an authentic Irish bar and restaurant in the center of Apollo Beach at 6186 U.S. Hwy. 41. It is celebrating St. Paddy’s Day with two huge parties. St. Puppy’s Day will kick off the week on Sunday, March 13 at 11 a.m. with costume contests, a puppy parade and over 25 vendors and adoption agencies. There will also be all-day food and drink specials. St. Paddy’s Day, itself on Thursday, March 17, is an all-day celebration starting at 11 a.m. Ireland’s Irish Ramblers will entertain inside the pub from 11 a.m.-3 p.m. and there will be constant entertainment on the outdoor stage. Irish food specials as well as green beer flowing from the taps will be available all day long. Additional information on events at the Salty Shamrock can be found by visiting its Facebook page @saltyshamrockFL. Popular Cuban Restaurant Celebrates Anniversary La Septima Cafe is celebrating 27 years in business. It is well known as a Brandon staple for its delicious and authentic Cuban fusion cuisine. After having to close its dining room due to COVID-19, the restaurant pivoted to serving family meals to take home, which remain very popular and are a great deal at only $39.95. La Septima Cafe was very happy to be able to reopen the dining room for
counter service earlier this year and has welcomed many familiar customers faces back. La Septima Cafe is located at 702 W. Lumsden Rd. in the La Viva Plaza in Brandon. For more information, visit its website at www.laseptimacafe.com or call 685-0502.
na Hanson. This company has been serving this area for 20-plus years and Jon has been an employee of the company for over 10 years. Jon and Megan are FishHawk residents and public service workers; Jon is a firefighter and Megan is a teacher at Bevis Elementary school. Tropical Elegance is known throughout the community for competitive prices, high-quality products and unmatched customer service. It specializes in plantation shutters, shades, blinds, motorization and more. To view products and find out more, visit www.tropicalelegancewindowfashions.com, view on Facebook @TropicalEleganceWindowFashions or call 766-9744.
Citrus Home Center Buys Mobile Homes Citrus Home Center was founded as a full-service mobile home dealership based in Central Florida. It invests in used/unwanted mobile homes as well as land with mobile homes on it. No title? No problem, it can resolve most issues. Its team is dedicated to making the selling experience as easy as possible with cash offers tailored to meet your needs while building lasting relationships with valued clients. Visit www.citrushomecenter.com or call 407680-3014 for more information. Tracer Inspections Offers Services To Homeowners Tropical Elegance - Veteran Team Tracer Inspections is a one-on-one, customMember Now New Owner er and service-based company that educates Jon and Megan Hurst have bought the consumer on the condition, quality and Tropical Elegance Window Fashions durability of their real estate investment. It from the original owners, Don and Sabi-
offers a variety of inspections, including prepurchase, prelisting and general inspection of current home, all carried out by licensed inspectors. Wind mitigation and roof recertification inspections can also help save homeowners money on their insurance. For more information, visit its website at www.tracerinspections.com, call 842-0740 or follow on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/ Tracer-Inspections-105036448757542. Then Barbershop Is There For All Your Barbershop Needs Then Barbershop is a family-owned business where all customers are valued, located at 861 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. in Brandon. It ensures the best quality of service for all customers with the goal of making sure everyone has a great experience when getting their hair cut. It is open Monday to Saturday, 8 a.m.-7 p.m. and Sunday, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. An appointment is not necessary. You can follow it on Facebook @thenbarbershop or call 6539595 for more information. Cakes Or Cupcakes To Make Any Occasion Special What sweeter way is there to celebrate or solve the little things in life than with cake?
WISDOM TEETH REMOVAL Jason Edwards DMD
Arina Doroshenko DDS, MD
TEETH IN ONE DAY
Tom Backeris DMD
IMPLANTS
G SPRIN BR E A K NG,
I IS COMDULE SCHE AY! TOD
Comprehensive Oral Surgery
813-452-6380
2922 Lithia Pinecrest Road | Valrico, FL 33596
ValricoOralSurgery.com
Page 26
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
BUSINESS COLUMN CONTINUED... Check out Adjudicake, where its specialty is custom, handcrafted, 6-inch cakes and cupcakes—all beautifully packaged and ready to gift. Owner and local resident Judi Prinzivalli believes “every day is a special occasion.” Birthdays, new home, promotions, corporate referrals or even just because are only a few ideas; the list is endless. Whatever the reason, Adjudicake is ready to help you celebrate with the perfect cake. Like Prinzivalli said, “Life is too short to say no to cake.” Support your local artisan baker and visit Adjudicake on Facebook @Adjudicake, go to www.adjudicake.com or contact Prinzivalli at 313-6292. Shell Point Marina Is Your One-Stop Shop For All Boating Needs Shell Point Marina is centrally located at 3340 W. Shell Point Rd. in Ruskin near both Tampa Bay and St. Petersburg, making it easier to plan your day trips when taking family or friends out on your boat. It is surrounded by beautiful islands and small coves which you will find great for fishing, shell searching, relaxing and much more. Shell Point Marina also has its own team of mechanics, making it a one-stop shop marina. It specializes in bottom painting, fiberglass and blister repair and sand blasting. Other services include mechanical servicing, detailing, canvas and upholstery, transport loading and more. For additional information, visit its website at www.shellpointmarina.com, Facebook @ruskinshellpointmarina or call 645-1313.
Wingspread Farm Enters Valrico Business Hall Of Fame Each year, the Valrico Award Program identifies companies that it believes have achieved exceptional marketing success in their local community. These are companies that enhance the positive image of small businesses through service to their customers and community. One of them is Wingspread Farm, which is very proud to have won the Best of Valrico Award in the Farm category for the fourth successive year. This distinction qualifies Wingspread Farm for an exclusive Hall of Fame Award. Wingspread Farm is located at 3003 Pearson Rd. in Valrico. It carries farm-fresh eggs, artisan breads, cookies, jams, seasonal produce and specialty Hungarian products. For more information, visit its website at www.wingspread.farm or call 361-1546. It is closed Mondays and Tuesdays.
Dorothy Cares Assisted Living Facility Wins Best Of Senior Living Award Dorothy Cares Assisted Living Facility was recently awarded the Best of Senior Living Award by A Place for Mom for the fourth year in a row. Dorothy Cares has two locations, 11626 Tropical Isle Ln. and 10427 Crestfield Dr., both in Riverview. Each location offers individualized personal and skilled nursing care in private and semiprivate rooms in a homelike setting with home cooked food. Owner Dorothy Araujo said, “With this coronavirus pandemic, it’s been a rough year, but through it all we have kept all of our residents coronavirus-free at both locations. I am so proud of all our accomplishments and Total Financial Picture™ Wealth all my staff.” Additional information on Dorothy Cares Assisted Living Facility can be Strategies John and Claudia Exner, owners of To- found on its website, www.dorothycaresalf. tal Financial Picture™ Wealth Strategies, com, or by calling 862-8871. take a holistic approach to wealth management. It starts by working with the Royal G Snacks Launches New client to create a personal comprehensive Healthy Snack Line Royal G Snacks (RGS Foods), located financial plan, then helping to implement, benchmark and adjust the plan where at 850 E. Adamo Dr. in Tampa, recently necessary. Having a comprehensive and launched a new line of healthy snacks. Its customized analysis of your overall finan- mission is to ensure that every one of its cial condition will allow you to set goals, products is made with high-quality ingreaddress any issues and pursue the protec- dients to ensure the satisfaction of its custion and growth of your personal wealth. tomers at all times. Each product is made Total Financial Picture Wealth Strategies with you and your loved ones in mind, and is located at 100 Ashley Dr. Ste. 600 in it is working towards becoming a reliable Tampa. Additional information can be provider of nutritious and delectable snacks. found on its website at www.totalfinan- For more information about RGS Foods, viscialpicture.com or by calling 703-343- it its website at www.rgsfoods.com or call 941-357-3189. 6878.
Volume 21, Issue 3
PROGRAM CONNECTS ADULTS WITH CHILDREN IN NEED Staff Report my first hearing, I “Every kid is one knew I was in the caring adult away right place, and this from being a sucis what my heart cess story,” said Josh wanted me to do. I Shipp, a foster child couldn’t be happier who knows firsthand with the decision. I what a difference just wish I had done it can make to have it sooner.” a consistent, caring You can help adult who wants to change a child’s be there for you. Volstory. A foster child unteering as a Guardwith a Guardian ian ad Litem (GAL) ad Litem volunteer for children in fosgets better grades, ter care can make a receives more serwonderful difference for the child—and The Guardian ad Litem program is looking for vices, has fewer foster home placeyou, as some of the adult volunteers to connect with local foster ments and is more program’s current children. likely to be advolunteers will atopted. They feel test. more secure and “There are many develop higher worthy forms of self-esteem bevolunteering,” said cause someone Kristine, “but in is offering enthis, I have found couragement. something that feels really important.” And what do children say about how ad Guardian a With a few hours a month, Litem gets to know a child as well as what their Guardian ad Litem makes their life needs they may have and represents the better? “You help me find places to live child’s best interests in court. The program where people are nice to me.” “You listen to provides training. Mary, a newer volunteer, me.” “You check on me—if my grades are was nervous about taking on the role of a good and I am going to school.” “You make Guardian ad Litem but said she was quickly me laugh.” “You like donut holes too.” Guardian ad Litem volunteers are from reassured. “In training, the GAL staff was backgrounds and careers. They domany she expect,” to clear and direct on what said. “They offered support as I began to nate an average of 10-15 hours per month build relationships with these children in a of their time. Information sessions about the Guardian ad Litem Program and what hard season of their lives.” A volunteer is part of a multidisciplinary volunteers do are available via phone. To team and requires no social services or le- learn more, visit www.galtampa.org or gal degree. Nicole L. said, “After attending contact Guardian ad Litem at 272-5110.
March 2022
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
Page 27
Page 28
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
CHINI TAKES THE LEAD AT MARY & MARTHA HOUSE
By Kate Quesada
Bill Chini has big Chini credited the plans for Mary & Marteam Herring built with tha House (MMH). Chithe success of the charni, who has been on ity. the board of the orga“In my mind, the staff nization that provides was committed to doing shelter and services the very best they could to victims of domestic to continue to help othviolence and homeers in need, and to keep less women and their Laurie’s legacy alive,” he children since 2018, said. recently took over as MMH looks at those executive director. in need differently than Born in South New Bill Chini recently took over as executive most. director of Mary & Martha House in Jersey, Chini enlisted “MMH is guidance,” Ruskin. in the Air Force afhe said. “Society is very ter high school and served quick to expect everyone to at MacDill AFB in Tampa. know what to do and are even Post-military, he worked in quicker to throw them away hospitality, eventually beinstead of taking the time to coming the general managhelp them. We don’t do that er of Little Harbor Resort in here. We help with the obstaRuskin. cles, we help with the baggage, we help Former MMH Executive Director Laurie women and children get back on the path Herring, who passed away last year, en- to success. Our future is going to be a couraged Chini to join the board. bright one, for both our survivors and our “I had no idea what that meant and was organization.” a little reluctant at first, but I knew what Chini’s goal, as MMH celebrates its 40th the organization did and wanted to be a anniversary this year, is to be able to help part of it,” he said. “I have close family more people, with the idea of including a members who suffered through domestic larger thrift store, more housing and more violence when I was a child. During my on-site support services for families. time in New York, I was homeless for a “It’s going to take a lot of planning, short while. Knowing about this place that work and capital. One thing I’ve learned assisted people affected by two issues I from working in this operation more closewitnessed/lived through my life, this was ly is the unwavering support from our a chance to help others.” community,” he explained. “The big plans Chini stepped up when Herring got sick we have can look scary at times; however, but never thought he would permanently I’m confident we can accomplish anything take the role. with the support of our community. They “I hate telling the story of how I became always have our back.” executive director because to me it’s a sad To learn more, visit https://marymarstory,” he said. thahouse.org.
(Take Out Only)
YBOR Room
Now OPEN!
27 Years in Brandon!
Volume 21, Issue 3
VALRICO ENTREPRENEUR PROVIDES INSIGHTS THAT HELPS GIVE WOMEN A VOICE By Tatiana Ortiz Throughout your women to stand lifetime, you may out, rise and face some unexthrive. pected hardships An e-book verwhich are challengsion of Becoming to overcome. ing an UnstopValrico resident pable Woman Heather Stokes EntrepreneurBenton, co-author was launched and financial conon January 25 sultant/licensed and a paperinsurance agent, back version was took what she launched on Feblearned from those ruary 1, which challenges in her can be purlife to help other chased on AmaValrico resident Heather Stokes Benton recently women and famizon and soon in had a chapter published in the bestselling book Becoming an Unstoppable Woman Entrepreneur. stores such as lies. Benton was Walmart, Target asked to be part of a book project by and Walgreens worldwide. On the first the She Rises Studios community. This day of the e-book’s launch, it achieved book, Becoming an Unstoppable Wom- Bestseller in the United States, United an Entrepreneur, is the second book in Kingdom and Canada in six different cata six-book series, and Benton’s chap- egories. The book also hit the top 100 ter is called “Faith, Focus and Financial list and more. Benton is offering autoGrowth.” The chapter talks about Ben- graphed copies of the book, which cost ton’s journey to entrepreneurship, the $24.95, including a free digital downhighs and lows, how she found a balance load, for those who order it through her between running a growing business and website. more. “Overall, it has been encouraging for Benton stated her thoughts on being me to just have the accountability as I involved with the project: “I feel really represent this movement of Becoming honored and humble to be even consid- an Unstoppable Woman Entrepreneur,” ered.” Benton said. This book is written for women who are The hardcover will be available on Satalready in business as well as for women urday, March 5. who are ready to launch themselves into To purchase, visit www.financialthe entrepreneur world. It is comprised gps-hs.com/product-page. To join the of an anthology of 26 powerhouse, in- She Rises Studios Facebook group, visit dustry-leading women from across the www.facebook.com/groups/sherisesstuglobe who will inspire purpose-driven dioscommunity/.
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
March 2022
FISHHAWK WOLFPACK CHEER BRINGS HOME TWO NATIONAL TITLES; FIVE OVERALL By Nick Nahas
Photo credit: Wolfpack President and Head Coach of the Knockout Varsity team Megan Swe.
The Legacy PeeWee team (ages 9-12) brought home a third-place trophy.
The Knockout Varsity team (ages 12-15) won the Pop Warner Nationals this December.
FishHawk Wolfpack Cheer, a local Pop Warner cheer organization, recently brought home two national titles. All three of their competitive teams advanced to the National Cheer and Dance Championship this past December. Each team came home with national trophies. The Knockout Varsity team (ages 12-15) and the Hotshots Mitey Mite team (ages 7-9) both won the Pop Warner Nationals in their respective age divisions. The Legacy PeeWee team (ages 9-12) brought home a third-place trophy. This is the organization’s fourth and fifth national championship titles overall. Knockout made it onto the highlight reel focused on the Pop Warner Nationals that aired nationally on Fox Sports Networks. “I’ve been with Wolfpack since we started in 2007, and this is the most successful season we’ve had as a whole, as far as national accomplishments,” said FishHawk Wolfpack Cheer Director Merideth Van Auken. “Our coaches and cheerleaders worked hard all season long, and it showed.” In 2020, the program didn’t compete with Pop Warner. According to Van Auken, not counting 2020, 2021 is the 11th consecutive year that FishHawk Wolfpack had
The Hotshots Mitey Mite team (ages 7-9) won the Pop Warner Nationals as well.
teams advance to compete at the nationals and bring home national trophies. The two national titles this year make them five-time national champions. “Our goal is to grow our program and have continued success at the regional and national levels while also improving our cheerleaders’ skills,” said Van Auken. “It’s so rewarding to see the cheerleaders come back to cheer for us year after year because they enjoy it. We love having our older girls remain a part of our program as junior coaches to help teach what they’ve learned to our younger cheerleaders. We look forward to that continuing.” The two teams that won nationals will continue into the spring. Knockout will compete twice in March, and Hotshots will compete once more at the end of February. FishHawk Wolfpack Cheer always welcomes new athletes, coaches and board members to their program. Registration for the 2022 season opened on February 1 and practice starts on Monday, April 4. More information can be found on the website (fishhawkwolfpack.com) and Facebook page (www.facebook.com/fhwolfpack).
Locally-Owned Complete Eye Exams Designer Frames Contact Lenses
RD EST ECR PIN HIA LIT
MIL S. LER RD
Dr. Sheree Wright, O.D. • Dr. Branning Hollis, O.D. • Dr. Mona Kardani, O.D. FAAO
BLOOMINGDALE AVE
We accept VSP, Eyemed, Cigna, Aetna, Tricare, United Healthcare, and more. *see store for details
813-654-0220
3307 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. Valrico (In Front of Sprouts)
www.myfloridaeyecare.com HOURS: MON 9AM-2PM, TUES-FRI 9AM-5PM
Page 29
Page 30
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
ECHO HOSTS ANNUAL BREAKFAST AT NEW EVENT CENTER AT NEW HOPE CHURCH IN BRANDON By Libby Hopkins
On Thursday, March 10, ECHO will host its sixth annual breakfast at New Hope Church’s new event center in Brandon and it will focus on its amazing volunteers.
On Thursday, March 10, ECHO will host its annual breakfast at New Hope Church’s new event center in Brandon. “Our first breakfast was held in October 2015,” Eleanor Saunders, current executive director of ECHO, said. “The ECHO Board of Directors and our former executive director, Stacey Efaw, envisioned an annual fundraising event that would showcase firsthand stories, a clear presentation of ECHO’s vision for the future and an opportunity for attendees to partner with us in creating a community of hope and stability for neighbors in crisis.” This is ECHO’s sixth annual breakfast. “ECHO does not hold multiple events a year,” Saunders said. “This is our most important fundraising event. We hold to exactly one hour. It is a time for the community to meet a few individuals who have been helped, our volunteers, our board of directors and our staff. It is truly a feel-good, rally-cry type event. There is the desperate need in our community and there is some concrete,
life-giving ways that all of us can be a part of the solution.” In the past breakfasts, ECHO has highlighted those who have helped, its staff and its board. This year, guests will be hearing from ECHO’s volunteers. “ECHO could not thrive without our committed team of volunteers,” Saunders said. “We are literally nothing without them. We will be hearing this year from a few of our faithful volunteers, what have they witnessed over the past year and why do they keep coming back, week after week.” Saunders hopes everyone who attends this year’s breakfast will leave inspired. “First and foremost, I want all participants and attendees to walk away encouraged, inspired and activated to do more,” Saunders said. “The last year has been one of substantial growth for ECHO and there is nothing but additional growth ahead. The breakfast provides unrestricted revenue for the organization. The funds will empower us to hire additional staff and expand our mobile back to work program.” ECHO has been a part of the Brandon community for many years, and Saunders is proud that her organization can continue to help those in need in our community. “ECHO is part of the very fabric of Brandon,” Saunders said. “Founded in 1987, the organization serves over 15,000 local residents per year, providing everything from emergency food and clothing to one-on-one job coaching and advocacy. When our neighbors are in crisis, they have somewhere to turn.” If you would like to learn more about ECHO, you can visit its website at www. echofl.org or call 685-0935. ECHO is located at 507 N. Parsons Ave. in Brandon.
Volume 21, Issue 3
LEANNE’S OLD FASHIONED COOKIES SERVES UP SMILES
By Amy Schechter
From hearing her ly built their social college professor say media presence and her idea would nevhelped put them in er work to running a good spot despite a successful famithe difficulties of the ly business, LeAnne pandemic. Now, she, Crabtree knew the under the direction of Lord had a hand in all Hopper, is writing a of it. “God put peobook about her fample in our lives. He ily’s story called God built our base before Has a Sweet Tooth. It I even knew it would tells the story of how be a company,” she an unlikely idea, when said. And if you want given over to God’s a taste of heaven, hands, became someher family’s secret thing so much more. fourth-generation LeAnne; her husband, recipe is close. Travis; and their famNow, LeAnne’s Old LeAnne’s Old Fashioned Cookies offers ily truly believe Lesix delicious flavors. Fashioned CookAnne’s Old Fashies boasts six ioned Cookies is delicious flavors: also a ministry, fudge spectacuand their story is lar, coconut chipset to come out a-roons, chocolate this year or late chip pecan, early next year. white chocolate Besides permacadamia nut, sonalized gifts, oatmeal raisin LeAnne’s Old and peanut butter. Boxes start at a Fashioned Cookies is happy to be a dozen cookies and range all the way up part of your next corporate event. to its 72-cookie tower. It’s the perfect She’s looking forward to baking for the gift for a special occasion, a holiday or TASTE at The Straz on Saturday, April a thank-you. Each tasty treat is individ- 9, where supporting the arts is sure to ually wrapped, so they’re perfect for taste amazing. Mother’s Day and gradsharing in office and education settings uations are soon approaching as well, as well as at your next gathering. so you’ll want to get your order in soon. Her daughter, Amanda, who just It really is the perfect gift for all occagraduated with her bachelor’s degree, sions and celebrations. still does marketing. Also, LeAnne is so We don’t blame you if you cannot very thankful for her business coach wait. To order online, visit leannescookand friend, Steve Hopper. He real- ies.com or call 888-651-0045.
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
March 2022
Page 31
ENTERTAINMENT, FOOD AND MORE AT STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL
By Kate Quesada
rides and a wide variety of food. “We feel like this is a theme other fairs and festivals, in our profession, can relate to,” said Davis. “Like most fairs and festivals, the Florida Strawberry Festival represents a piece of Americana, a time in American history when events like ours brought communities together to celebrate the harvest, and that’s No. 1 in our book.” Each year, nearly 500,000 visitors enjoy the festival’s headline entertainment, youth livestock shows, exhibits of commerce and, of course, its strawberry shortcake. The agricultural center features livestock shows, sales and contests and a Kiddie Korral that is open daily with activities for younger guests. The entertainment lineup features 24 Concerts and more! The first The Florida Strawberry Festival will take place in week includes Lady A on March 3; The Plant City next month. Beach Boys and Boyz II Men on FriIt is that time of year again. March in day, March 4; Lauren Daigle on Saturday, Eastern Hillsborough County means not March 5; and Sammy Hagar and the Circle only delicious strawberries but also world- on Sunday March 6. Kenzie Wheeler kicks class entertainment at The Florida Straw- off week two on Monday, March 7, with berry Festival when it comes to town. Lee Greenwood and Jake Owen performTaking place from Thursday, March 3 ing on Wednesday, March 9. Nelly will take through Sunday, March 13 in Plant City, the stage on Saturday, March 12 and The the theme for this year’s festival is ‘#1 For Bellamy Brothers and Sam Hunt will close FUN.’ It is the 87th time The Strawberry down the festival on March 13. Festival has taken place. Other entertainment at the festival “Our festival and the City of Plant City will include the Belmont Festival of Maghold the strawberry in high regard,” said ic Show, K9s in Flight, Circus Incredible, President Paul Davis. “We’re No. 1 for Rock-It the Robot, Robinson’s Racing Pigs wholesome family fun and excitement.” and the Dakin Dairy Farm Milking Parlor. The 11-day event offers something fun For more information and a full listing of for the whole family with a daily schedule entertainment times, visit www.flstrawof events, including concerts, shows and berryfestival.com, Facebook, Instagram even a parade in addition to the midway and Twitter (#berryfest22).
(813) 643-7173 • • • • • •
Plumbing Repairs Re-pipes Drain stoppages Home Additions Remodels Fixtures & Accessories
• • • • •
Backflow Device Testing Water Softener Installation Water Heater Installation New Construction (Residential) New Construction (Commercial)
Find out more at our website:
WWW.COGGINSPLUMBING.COM Proudly serving the Tampa Bay area for over 30 years.
24 Hour Emergency Service
10%
$50
$200
YOUR NEXT SERVICE CALL
NEW WATER HEATER PURCHASE & INSTALLATION
RESIDENTIAL REPIPES
Expires 3/31/2022
Expires 3/31/2022
Expires 3/31/2022
OFF
OFF
OFF
NOW Accepting New Patients Call today to schedule an appointment.
813-530-0903 631 W. Lumsden Rd. | Brandon, FL 33511
Page 32
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
GET THE DIRT:
HORTICULTURE EDUCATIONAL OPPORTUNITIES
Volume 21, Issue 3
MASTERPIECE GARAGE OFFERS READERS $100 OFF MAKEOVER PROJECTS By Amy Schechter
ABOUND
BY LYNN BARBER, FLORIDA-FRIENDLY LANDSCAPING™ AGENT Are you interested in gardening? What about recycling and composting? Want to save water or know more about drought-tolerant plants? Do you have an hour to learn something new that is beneficial to the environment? If you answered “Yes” to any of the above questions, we have a great suggestion for you: check out your county’s calendar of events. Each of the 67 counties in Florida has one. In your web browser, look up ‘UF find your local office.’ Upcoming programs are listed on the calendar with a link for registration. Many are free, and some have a small fee. Examples of upcoming events in Hillsborough County follow: Triple Workshops: Composting, microirrigation and rainwater harvesting workshops are offered monthly from February through October. Learn how to create your own soil amendments and save water by using a microirrigation kit and rain barrel. Attend one, two or all three workshops. Compost attendees receive a compost bin, kitchen bucket and compost thermometer. Microirrigation attendees will take home a traditional micro kit, rain gauge and hose timer. Rainwater harvesting attendees will receive a food grade barrel that has been drilled and spigoted as well as learn how to use the water and on which plant materials. Reference materials are provided to attendees for each of the presentations, and there is a drawing for giveaway items at the end of each class. Recycle Your Yard and Recycled Yard Art: See how much fun you can have creating and using items you are recycling in your landscape. Repurposing items will add humor to your life. This presentation will definitely give you ideas and make you
laugh. Vegetable Microirrigation: This kit is a great addition to your vegetable garden. You will learn how to connect the kit to a hose bib and appropriately water vegetables. Patio/Container Microirrigation: It works well for patio, container and hanging plant containers. This kit can connect several pots/ containers on your patio, lanai or front porch. Tips to Help Your Yard Weather Dry Conditions: Gain useful ideas to help your landscape survive Central Florida’s dry spring season and conserve water in your landscape. This class will provide information to help you determine when, how and why you should take specific actions during our dry months. Vermicomposting (Composting With Worms): Find out how to create the bin, what these specialty worms eat and how to harvest the castings. The nutrient-rich worm byproduct works very well in any garden, and you can make your own worm tea for watering plants … not drinking! While not necessarily an upcoming event, we also offer in-ground irrigation evaluations (telephonic or in person) for high water users. Contact Paula Staples at staplesp@hcflgov.net. For more information on environmental horticulture, contact the University of Florida/Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS) Extension Hillsborough County at 744-5519, visit its office at 5339 County Rd. 579 in Seffner or check out its website, calendar of events and Facebook pages. Lynn Barber is the Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ agent for UF/IFAS Extension Hillsborough County. Contact her at labarber@ufl.edu.
10% OFF
entire purchase
Sunflower Cafe 3452 Lithia Pinecrest Rd., Valrico 813-65-SUSHI
Only valid with regular menu. With this coupon. Must present before submitting payment. Before tax. One coupon per visit. Not valid with other offers Offer expires 3/31/2022
step process that uses a special chemical to seal your floor rather than a regular epoxy. Plus, they have over 20 color options available. W h i l e your floor may steal Founded in 2005 by father and son Ed and Jerrett Swing, Masterpiece Gathe show, Masrage is committed to bringing customers the highest quality garage solutions. terpiece Garage Are you tired of tracking dust and has a variety of custom-built cabinet and concrete into your home? Have you storage options so you can hide all of ever spilled a chemical and ruined your that garage clutter. Jerrett is confident garage floor? Do you want an outdoor their quality beats the competition: “We workspace that’s stylish and function- carry a line of garage cabinets designed al? Then you need to give Masterpiece for the humidity in Florida; they have a Garage a call. Mention this ad and you’ll solid back on them for added strength. receive $100 off. There’s never been a Plus, they are reinforced with aluminum, better time. so shelves and cabinets won’t bow.” Founded in 2005 by father and son Ed Masterpiece Garage has a reputation and Jerrett Swing, Masterpiece Garage that speaks for itself. Jerrett went on to is committed to bringing customers the say, “People will tell me one of the reahighest quality garage solutions. It offers sons they use us are we are family owned. a variety of flooring, cabinets and stor- We’ve grown through word of mouth; my age spaces to fit your needs and budget. employees are like family, and I take care Its liquid granite garage floor system of them like they’re family. The floor guys creates a combination of style and dura- are all trained personally by me. I go out bility customers rave about. Jerrett ex- and do all the estimates and work on all plained the benefit, “You’ll want to stay the projects. I’m involved in the process in the space. It’s just so clean after the from start to finish. I don’t have estimaprocedure, you’ll feel you can eat off of tors or subs, and I don’t do multiple jobs it.” Masterpiece Garage can finish your at the same time; I start one and I finish flooring in as little as a day, and it holds it.” If there’s a name synonymous with up to wear and tear. Unlike some painted trust, it’s Masterpiece Garage. floors that can lift up from the heat of For more information or a free ‘in-gatires, with proper care, these floors will rage’ estimate, call 541-0002 or visit last a lifetime. This is due to the multi- masterpiecegarage.com.
Welcoming New Patients! DR. JENNIFER CONDE BOARD CERTIFIED DERMATOLOGIST
Medical Dermatology
Cosmetic Dermatology
Pediatric Dermatology
Acne
Jeuveau® Injections
Atopic Dermatitis
Moles
Dysport® Injections
Mulluscum
Eczema
RHA® Fillers
Warts
Fungal Infections
Restylane® Fillers
Eczema
Melasma
Chemical Peels
Acne
Psoriasis
HydraFacial
Rosacea
Microneedling
©
Skin Cancer
3452 Lithia Pinecrest Rd, Valrico (Located in the SteinMart Plaza)
813-65-SUSHI
Mon - Fri 11:30-2:30 & 5-9 | Sat 12-9 Sundays 12-8:30 (Serving lunch until 3 p.m.)
813-530-6511
5607 Skytop Drive, Lithia, FL 33547
ccdermatology.com
March 2022
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
Page 33
HOPE FOR HER OFFERS MARCH CLASSES Staff Report
KNOWLEDGE IS A USEFUL TOOL IN NAVIGATING ALZHEIMER’S DISEASE
By Kathy L. Collins
Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive dis- and is also available via text message at ease that destroys memory and other im- 646-585-5283. The web chat and text mesportant mental functions. It is very common sage features are available in over 90 differwith about three million cases per year. As ent languages. the population of the United States ages, The Alzheimer’s Foundation of America the number of people diagnosed with Alz- also offers educational conferences and weheimer’s disease will inbinars and hosts daily crease. It is a growing virtual therapeutic prohealth issue. gramming in the forms Until there is a cure, of art, music, dance and caregivers need to be fitness. armed with education Its National Memoand the tools to provide ry Screening Program the best possible care The Alzheimer’s Foundation of America offers free, confidenoffers a multitude of programs and serfor their loved ones and tial, virtual memory vices for those who suffer from Alzheimake sure that they mer’s disease as well as for their caregivers screenings. A memory and their loved ones screening is a simple and other professionals who care for are living a high quality and safe evaluation those afflicted with the disease. of life. tool that checks memThe Alzheimer’s Foundation of America ory and other thinking skills. It can indiis a nonprofit organization whose mission cate whether an additional checkup by a is to provide support, services and educa- qualified health care professional is needtion to individuals, families and caregivers ed. affected by Alzheimer’s disease and related It also offers dementia care training dementias nationwide and to fund research for professionals and research grants. for better treatment and a cure. Its services One important program it offers is careinclude a National Toll-Free Helpline (866- giver support groups. 232-8484), the National Memory Screen“Knowledge is a useful and powerful ing Program, educational conferences and tool that can help make any situation materials as well as ‘AFA Partners in Care’ easier to navigate, especially something dementia care training for health care pro- as challenging as caring for a loved one fessionals. with Alzheimer’s disease,” said Charles The Alzheimer’s Foundation of America’s J. Fuschillo Jr., president and CEO of the toll-free hotline is staffed by licensed social Alzheimer’s Foundation of America. workers trained in dementia care. The HelpFor more information that the Alzheiline is open from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., seven days mer’s Foundation of America has to offer, a week. The Helpline has a webchat feature please visit www.alzfdn.org.
Hope for Her is offering classes to help women live their best lives.
“We are excited to have our second series of Healthy Habit Classes on Monday evenings in March from 6:15 pm to 7:30 pm,” said Hope for Her Director of Operations Myriam Lugo. The group’s mission is to help women and their families in crisis find stability and live their best lives, and these new classes go along with that. “We are creating a community of women who want to live their best lives,” said Lugo. “We do this by sharing our mutual experience and growing together. All facilitators will share from their personal experiences.” This month’s classes are: March 7 - Nutritional Health With Charlee - Baking Low Carb If you’re wanting to try low-carb sweets but are not sure where to begin or not sure about almond flour, then come check out this class where you will learn how to bake low-carb chocolate chip cookies using almond flour. You’ll also learn about the different sweeteners available and how they are used. Get ready because recipes and samples will be available. March 14 - Emotional Health With Ilene - Declutter Your Heart, Part 2 Join the class on March 14 to free your mind of overload and your living space of
stuff. Learn tips for decluttering to ease anxiety and emotional stress. Let’s organize, give away and feel hope to head into spring with enthusiasm. March 21 - Physical Health With Amanda and Vivienne Get energized with Hope for Her! You’ll dance and move for 30 minutes of Zumba, then you’ll slow down by stretching, relaxing and praising God. March 28 - Spiritual Health With Kristen - Learning To Love Ourselves as God Loves Us Hurtful relationships or traumatic pasts can make us feel that we aren’t good enough. If our hearts really wrestle with that, we may be hesitant to accept that we are fully accepted and loved as God’s children. Many of us struggle to believe that God truly loves and forgives us for our past, but God’s forgiveness and love are truly available to every one of us. Join in on March 28 for an interactive discussion and time of sharing with other women working to overcome shame and explore evidence from the Bible that can empower us to move with hope and confidence. To register, call 309-3357. Classes will be held at 140 Yarbrough Rd. in Brandon. To learn more about Hope for Her, visit www.hopeforherfl.org.
Page 34
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
Volume 21, Issue 3
Pre-Open Special! First 20 Residents Save Up to $3,500 and Enjoy a Two-Year Rent Lock Call Today for More Information: (813) 344-3987
CALL FOR AN APPOINTMENT
March 2022
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
Page 35
NEWSOME WOLVES HOCKEY CLAIMS LIGHTNING CUP CHAMPIONSHIP By Nick Nahas The Newsome don’t get after scorWolves have being during a regular come one of the game. The moment most dominant that sticks out the hockey programs in most is definitely the the state, claiming feeling after Ethan their first Lightning Kitsis scored in overCup Championship time to advance us since 2008 after to semifinals.” beating SteinbrenNewsome Hockey ner 4-1. Photo Courtesy of Gavan Howard Head Coach Mark “The moment the The Newsome Hockey team won their first Light- Rosengard has been ning Cup Championship since 2008. final buzzer went with the program off at the end of the for the past decade, game, a surge of excitement rushed through stepping into the head position in 2020-21 me because of what our team accom- during the height of a pandemic. He took his plished,” said junior team captain and left/ club, along with Assistant Coach Matt Dykright wing Christian Aguiar. “This win meant stra, to the championship in just two short a lot to me because I was very happy to see seasons, winning the Lightning Cup for the all the work the team and our coaches put in first time in 14 years. this season and the years before pay off and “I would like to give a special shout-out to lead us to the win.” Coach Mark and Coach Matt for everything Newsome had 63 students making up two they have done for us,” said Aguiar. “They varsity teams and one junior varsity squad. give it their all to make us better players and The Newsome Wolves and the Newsome a better team, and they really prepared us Wolverines were two of six ‘Pure’ Tier 1 var- for playoffs and states this year. I am honsity squads in the 22-team Lightning High ored to have been selected as captain this School Hockey League (LHSHL), meaning year and I am looking forward to working that all players in the Newsome Hockey pro- with all the existing and new players this gram attend the school. Tier 2 teams pull spring to become a better team so we can students from multiple high schools to field defend our title next year and for the years a complete program. They anticipate having to come.” 70 players in the 2022-2023 fall season, The Wolves have qualified for the SAHOF making them bigger than the current New- State Tournament in Orlando at the end of some Football team and the largest program February. in the LHSHL. “We hope to win states and go play in “Each game had a moment that sticks out nationals,” said junior defenseman Cole in my mind leading up to the championship,” Parkhurst. “Our team is only losing a few said senior center/defenseman Braxton Lu- players this year and, hopefully, we can win cero. “Every goal scored was a rush of ex- the cup again next season.” citement and celebration that you typically
Cold fronts in the area here should be be- up to haul in. A heavy rod matched with a ginning to subside. With that, waters should 6000 series reel is a great setup. A 60 lb. be warming up and bringing in the Spanish test main line with 45-65 lb. steel leader will mackerel and king mackerel, or kingfish. work great. Stinger rigs, which can be handThe water is very clear made or ready-made right now due to the drop and purchased at bait in water temps. Coming in shops. These comMarch, the only big issue prise of a 3 ft. length will be finding a day with of leader attached to low to moderate winds. a 4/0 bait hook. AtTemperature of the watached to the hook ter is key to finding these will be another 4-5 great fighting, pelagic in. segment of steel Jak and Greg with a nice king mackerel fish. Start with a larger with a #4 treble hook outside the Skyway. rod and real setup. as the stinger. These For Spanish mackerel, are designed for the traditional setup is trolling through and sufficient. Steel leader around the bait balls is sometimes a go-to you will see getting but can be cumberworked by kings and some to use and result Spanish mackerel. in some leader-shy Live bait is the best fish that won’t hit. and are caught with Find the big schools of Jen had a great fight sabiki rigs, #6 or #8, pulling this fine king jigged around the bait, which will make mackerel to the boat for pilings, buoys or the their appearance first Brian had three king a smoked fish dip. in front of the Skyway bait school you will mackerels to the boat, Fishing Piers. Greenies see. Large threadfin and blue runners are but we decided to keep will be a great bet on the baits of choice. Troll about four knots, this monster. catching these fish and be sure you set your poles in tight to but try to find some long shank hooks, 1/0, the rod holders as these kings hit that bait at your local bait shops. This will reduce like a freight train. many of the cutoffs that always occur when Check your local bait shops, Bait and fishing these toothy fish. Gotcha plugs, also Tackle of Apollo Beach, Palmetto Bait & at the local bait shops, are a great cast-and- Tackle and Reel ‘Em In Bait &Tackle, for the retrieve lure to catch many of these fish. latest news on the sights of bait pods. OutFast, sporadic jerky on the retrieve is the side and inside the Skyway Fishing Piers for best method. Silver spoons are also a go-to. Spanish and outside the Skyway, all the way Kings are a much larger cousin of the out to Marker 1, Whistle Buoy, in the chanSpanish mackerel and require a stouter set- nel out of the bay.
･ Internationally Trained Staff ･ Color Specialists ･ Straightening Systems ･ Complete Nail & Pedicure Services (Including Shellac) ･ Advanced Skin Care (Micro-derm, Peels, 4 Layer Facelift) ･ Body Waxing ･ Permanent Make-up ･ Farm House Fresh ･ Bath and Body Products • Professional Teeth Whitening
B
Boulevard 813.571.5800 Gift Cards Available 210 E. Brandon Blvd., Brandon
SALON
www.BoulevardSalon.biz
Experience the Difference!
#MM27421 / #MA29471
Page 36
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
ADVENTHEALTH’S NEW RIVERVIEW HOSPITAL TARGETS 2023 OPENING
Volume 21, Issue 3
TAX HAPPENS IS HERE TO HELP THE COMMUNITY WITH ALL THEIR TAX NEEDS
By Libby Hopkins
By Sharon Still
The dirt is trator of Adturning, and ventHealth land clearing Dade City, Jeris in full swing ry Newmyer, on the 23-acre will continue property on in his current the east side position as of U.S. Hwy. he takes the 301 between helm as presiBalm Riv- Dump trucks and bulldozers are buzzing around the 23-acre dent and CEO erview and tract north of the Boyette Rd. and U.S. Hwy. 301 intersection as at the new the land is being cleared for Boyette Rds. hospital in RivRiverview’ s newest hospital set to open in a little more than a erview. as Adventyear from now. Health begins Once the with the construction of a new 209,000 sq. hospital opens, Newmyer will provide execft., 4-story, 80-bed hospital. utive leadership and oversee the day-to-day With a current price tag of $216 mil- operations of the hospital, working alonglion, AdventHealth West Florida Division, side his leadership teams to ensure the delivanticipates a completion date in Spring ery of high-quality care throughout the area. of 2023 as the company expands its geo- “We are committed to serving and growing graphical footprint in west central Flor- with the people of Riverview and reimaginida. ing the future of what health care is in this “We are excited to continue our growth community,” he said. strategy to meet the fast-growing needs The project is anticipated to have a $300 of Southern Hillsborough County,” said million economic impact, bringing nearly Mike Schultz, president and CEO of Ad- 2,000 new jobs to Riverview once it is fully ventHealth West Florida Division. built out. “This location was chosen with input “It is a huge economic impact for the from the community,” he said. “We want Greater Riverview area,” commented Greatto make it easy for people to have conve- er Riverview Chamber of Commerce Janet nient access to the expert care they need, Noah at the groundbreaking. when they need it, and help close the gap AdventHealth prides itself as being more in health care services in our community,” than hospitals. Schultz commented, “This he added. hospital is another addition to our robust The 80 beds at opening are part of the network of connected care that we’re profirst planned phase. The full-service hospi- viding in this area, including primary care, tal will provide emergency; cardiology; ob- specialty care, emergency services, outpastetrics and gynecology, including labor and tient imaging and more.” delivery; orthopedic; gastroenterology; and For more information, visit www.adventurology services. Additional space allows for health.com. Future job postings can be found expansion up to 200 beds as the communi- on AdventHealth Riverview’s Facebook ty’s need for health care grows. page at facebook.com/AdventHealthRivThe current vice president and adminis- erview.
a few miles from home and on Valentine’s Day 2014 [I] signed a lease and moved Tax Happens to Riverview, where [we] remain today. We grew from one person in one office to adding a fulltime assistant and seasonal employee in a full office suite.” Family and community Tax Happens LLC is a unique boutique-style CPA firm providing are important to Turner small businesses and individuals with hands-on personalized tax and her team. and accounting services. “I live Theresa Turnand work er moved to Rivin Riverview in 2004 erview as a single mothand we er with a daughlove this ter starting her junior year at Riverview town,” Turner said. “The community has High School. grown, but the people are what make this “I worked for a Big Four accounting community and our family are blessed to be firm in Tampa, but my heart wanted to be a part of.” a small-town CPA,” Turner said. “I desired Tax Happens clients range from individto be available to my clients and know uals new to the workforce, families, retirthem personally, and I saw Riverview as ees, small businesses and businesses with the perfect community for me to provide multiple locations that have tax filing obtop-notch services with the expertise my ligations. clients deserve. It took a few years; my “We specialize in the unique tax needs of daughter moved on to college, I became a each individual and small business,” Turner foster parent and I met my soon-to-be hus- said. “I am a CPA with a master’s degree in band, who had recently moved to Florida taxation and a passion for tax law. I will adafter retiring from the U.S. Army.” mit I am a tax geek who reads tax news for In 2013, Turner’s vision of a firm offering pleasure and completes far more tax law hands on tax and accounting services with continuing education than required each a core business model of being available to year.” clients, providing up-front pricing and clear Perspective clients can schedule a new deadlines became a reality with the cre- client telephone interview by calling Turnation of Tax Happens. er’s office at 603-2073 or online at www. “I worked remotely for a few months and taxhappens.com. quickly outgrew the ability to work from Turner’s office is located at 10018 Park my home office,” Turner said. “I ventured Place Ave., off Gibsonton Dr., in Riverview.
Jason DiMeo, CFA
Do you understand the risk in your portfolio? Do you know if your portfolio is truly diversified?
Jason DiMeo, CFA Contact us for a complimentary risk assessment today.
Jason.DiMeo@AllWealth.com P (813)490-6610 100 N Tampa Street, Suite 3750, Tampa, FL 33602 All Seasons Wealth is not a registered broker/dealer and is independent of Raymond James Financial Services. Securities are offered through Raymond James Financial Services, Inc. Member FINRA/SIPC. Investment Advisory Services are offered through Raymond James Financial Services Advisors, Inc.
LAKE BRANDON VILLAGE 11325 Causeway Blvd • Brandon (813) 655-1237
Hours:
6am - 10pm
BRANDON SOUTH 2010 Bloomingdale Ave • Valrico (813) 571-0569
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
March 2022
KRAZY KUP TO OFFER CLEAN COMEDY SHOW THIS MARCH Krazy Kup, an old-world, authentic cofKrazy Kup is owned and operated by feehouse located at 101 E. J. Arden Mays Frank, Wenda and Joshua Trunzo. The Blvd. in historic downtown Plant City, is Trunzos believe in community and are at it again with some great entertain- naturally committed to always being family friendly to all ages, young and old. Whether it is foot-stompin’ music, laughpresents ing out loud or showing off an e your talent, a visit to Krazy $20 Cl Kup on any day might just make your day. What makes this place reAs seen On ally unique is the variety of entertainment the Trunzos present. They offer a monthly open mic night, bluegrass jam, trivia night, retro movie night and local up-and-comPlant City’s own Krazy Kup, located at 101 E. J. Arden Mays Blvd. ing bands of all genres. They in Plant City, will offer area residents the chance to see some occasionally slip in a funreally unique and funny comedy when it presents Clean Comedy filled lip-sync night that is on Saturday, March 19 at 7 p.m. in the Loft always very entertaining. In ment for the local community. This time, addition, there are great prizes at many Krazy Kup will present Clean Comedy on of their events. Saturday, March 19 beginning at 7 p.m. in On top of Krazy Kup’s award-winning the Loft at Krazy Kup. coffee drinks, the ambiance and welKrazy Kup’s Clean Comedy, hosted by come feeling match the quality of what Gordon Davis, will feature comedians it serves. You can get great hot and cold Rodney Norman and Donnie Stopa. Nor- drinks, freshly baked pastries, gourmet man has been delighting audiences for wraps and salads. You will not want to over 20 years. He has a unique and sur- miss the largest selection of biscotti prising presence and is a former Marine found anywhere in the world. who has a Bachelor of Science degree in The Trunzos said, “If you have not yet philosophy. Stopa started doing comedy heard about Krazy Kup, which is locatat an early age. He formed his first come- ed one block from the train museum in dy band in the fifth grade and his style is downtown historic Plant City, you are observational yet engaging, so he always missing out on one of the really fun and connects with his audience and delivers friendly coffeehouses in the Tampa Bay the laughs. area.” Both Norman and Stopa have been For more information on Clean Comeseen on Dry Bar, Roku, TikTok, Prime Vid- dy and on Krazy Kup’s offerings, please eo and YouTube. follow them on Facebook and Instagram. Tickets to the show start at $20 and For the event’s page on Facebook and can be purchased through Eventbrite or ticket purchasing, visit www.facebook. at Krazy Kup. com/events/291522299741261/.
Page 37
THE VILLAGE PLAYERS PRESENT THE SOUND OF MUSIC The Village Players will present The Sound of Music in the historic James McCabe Theater, located at 506 N. 5th St. in Valrico, this March. Despite many obstacles, the biggest being COVID-19, The Village Players is ready to wow the audience with its rendition of The Sound of Music. The Sound of Musicwill be presented on Friday, March 11, 18 and 25 and Saturday, March 12, 19 and 26. The doors open at 7:30 p.m. and the curtain is at 8 p.m. The Village Players will offer two matinees at 3 p.m. on Sunday, March 13 and 20. Regular admission tickets are $18. For children, students, seniors and military with ID, tickets are $15. For groups of 10 or more, seating reservations must be prepaid and are available by calling Chris at the box office at 480-3147. To purchase tickets in advance, call the box office or visit www.thevillageplayersvalrico.com. The Sound of Music is a Rodgers and Hammerstein’s Broadway musical. It is based on a 1949 memoir written by Maria August von Trapp, The Story of the Trapp Family Singers. The book describes the life of the von Trapp family, from their beginnings in Salzburg, Austria to their adventures in America, where they escaped from Nazi-invaded Europe. The story reflects on family tragedies, victories and the kindness of strangers who soon became friends to the young family.
Gail Pierce, producer for The Village Players, said, “This is our second attempt to breathe life into this classic. We, like so many others, had to close until COVID was under control. I believe
The Village Players will present the classic musical The Sound of Music, featuring the seven von Trapp children, this March at its theater, located in the historic James McCabe Theater at 506 N. 5th St. in Valrico.
our patrons will find it worth the wait.” Pierce added, “The cast are all ‘in’ and have given this show 100 percent.” Domin Pazzo, director of The Sound of Music, is a veteran of the stage and The Village Players. “We were three weeks away from opening in April 2020, then COVID hit, so this show was two years in the making. I have some new cast members but a lot of my original cast members from 2020 came back. I am so glad to finish this journey with them,” Pazzo said. Pazzo added, “The audience will see a lot of hard work paying off. My seven von Trapp kids are so good and ready to perform in front of people.” For more information, please visit www.thevillageplayersvalrico.com.
Residential • Commercial Exterior Repaint Specialists License #L20000250797
WE TAKE THE PAIN OUT OF PAINTING, AND PUT THE WO BACK IN WONDERFUL!
(813) 723-9124 or (813) 670-8565 www.tandjpaintingfl.com
665 S. Kings Avenue, Brandon, FL
813-436-0708 | NEWVITALITYCENTERS.COM Hours: Mon-Thurs 9-5 Friday 9-12
• PRP Skin Rejuvenation • Medical Weight Loss • Hormone Replacement Therapy • MoreNova Linear Wave for Erectile Dysfunction
• PRP Hair Restoration • PRP Injections for Pain • IV Nutrient Therapy • And so much more!
MARCH INTO SPRING WITH SAVINGS! $500 OFF FULL EXTERIOR PAINTING Book Today!
Page 38
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
THE BABY SUITES AT HCA FLORIDA BRANDON HOSPITAL SEEKS VOLUNTEERS By Tatiana Ortiz When a baby enAt no charge, the ters the world for the individual can be first time, this creates a part of the Auxiliary. special moment for the In addition, certain mother and her newborn criteria must be met that will last a lifetime. in order to become HCA Florida Brandon a volunteer. For inHospital’s Baby Suites stance, you must invested in a multimilbe 18 years of age lion-dollar refresh, which or older. The Baby included a new, contemSuites plans to have porary welcome desk volunteers seven and reception area for days a week from 8 for their pregnant paa.m. to 8 p.m. with tients to ensure their an array of shifts. journey is memorable These shifts are as well as comfortbroken down able. The space is apfrom 8 a.m.-12 proximately 36,000 sq. Noon, 12 Noon-4 ft. As part of this re- The Morales family with their newborn at p.m. and 4-8 p.m. HCA Florida Brandon Hospital. fresh, the Baby Suites HCA Florida need a new group of Brandon Hospivolunteers to assist with welcoming tal’s Baby Suites is its full-service deand guiding the pregnant mothers and livery and labor unit in The Women’s their support person to their desired Center. Since opening, more than location. 100,000 babies have been delivered Jill Lansky, director of business de- there. The childbirth team is dedivelopment at HCA Florida Brandon cated to providing patients and their Hospital, explained the importance of families focused and compassionate having volunteers in the Baby Suites. care during the childbirth experience “Volunteers will allow us to greet throughout their postpartum stay. our pregnant patients, their support “All in all, our need for volunteers person and visitors with a warm smile will be ongoing,” Lansky said. and [create] a great impression and For questions or more details, conexperience while they are with us in tact Lansky at jill.lansky@hcahealththe Baby Suites,” Lansky said. care.com or send a text to 712-0064. Prior to volunteering, one must com- The link to the volunteer membership plete a volunteer membership applica- online application can be found here: tion under the Auxiliary Membership. https://bit.ly/332EqFD.
Marie Gilmore and Family at the Daytona International Speedway Private Charters: 4 hour, 6 hour, 8 hour & 2.5 hour Sunset Cruises. Cruising the Alafia River and Tampa Bay.
BOOK ONLINE
Call/Text 813-815-6220
Email: info@tikiboatofriverview.com
TIKIBOATOFRIVERVIEW.COM
Volume 21, Issue 3
THE 2022 VALRICO FISHHAWK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE SEEKS APPLICANTS FOR ITS SCHOLARSHIPS By Tatiana Ortiz why the student would be an excellent choice for the scholarship and complete additional requirements. Dr. Bob Lutz, owner of Motion ChiroTherapy and scholarship chair at the VFCC, stated what makes these scholarships unique. “It is business The Valrico FishHawk Chamber of Commerce is accepting applications owners investing in for this year’s $750 scholarship program. our youth,” Lutz said. Graduating high school seniors can “We want to be a now apply for the 2022 Valrico Fish- small part of allowing someone to reach Hawk Chamber of Commerce’s (VFCC) their dreams and goals.” scholarships. The group offers four $750 The VFCC is one of the premiere busischolarships for students who have al- ness organizations in Eastern Hillsborready been accepted to an institution, ough County. It consists of nearly 250 two for two or four-year accredited members representing businesses of all universities or colleges and two for an sizes. accredited vocational-technical college. On Tuesday, April 12, the winners and The scholarship monies are paid direct- their families will be invited to the VFly to the student to assist with required CC’s General Assembly at the River Hills books and tuition. Country Club located in Valrico. The There are some specific requirements winners will be announced and awarded for applicants. For instance, the candi- their checks. date’s parent or guardian must be a res“Overall, these scholarships are here ident of the Valrico or FishHawk area. and available for students; please apply,” Another requirement is that the student Lutz said. must attend Newsome High School, Applications must be received by Bloomingdale High School or Durant Wednesday, March 2. High School, or the parent must be a curThose interested in applying should rent paid member of the VFCC. Students speak to their guidance counselor or should also have an unweighted 3.0 or email Lutz at recognition@valricofishhigher GPA (Grade Point Average), com- hawk.org. For more information about plete a 500-word or less essay stating VFCC, visit https://valricofishhawk.org.
March 2022
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
COVID-19 TESTING COMES TO YOU AT HOME WITH BEEPERMD
By Libby Hopkins
Generations ago, As a small and health care profesgrowing company, this sionals made house event was exponencalls that were pertially more than just sonalized, private, growing pains. Most safe and convenient. experts did not anticThat at-home type of ipate this demand to service faded away arrive as fast and furidecades ago and has ous as it has. Through only been available as this time of adversity, a VIP service for a seBeeperMD has learned lect few at a very high how to be better precost. pared with managing BeeperMD is a new and handling excessive at-home health care demand. “However, service that comes to we believe a demand you. event of this magniBeeperMD is a new at-home health care “We currently sertude is very difficult service that comes to you. They are bringing vice patients in Flor- house calls back for sick visits and medical for any organization ida and New York,” to maintain full pretesting. said Lauren Berger of paredness along with BeeperMD. “We do have limited opera- successful execution,” Berger said. “We tions in other states that we are expand- will always continue to improve every day ing to this year. BeeperMD also services and thankfully we have come out better businesses nationwide.” on the other side of the Omicron phase of BeeperMD is bringing house calls back this pandemic.” for sick visits and medical testing. For at-home urgent care and COVID “Originally, one of our founders, Jeremy testing, you can simply call or make an apGelbart, offered COVID testing to a local pointment at beepermd.com, submit your school to help get kids back in class. It information and a BeeperMD clinician will took off from there, and before we knew come to your home to examine and/or test it, we were testing thousands of clients you to diagnose an illness. “Additionally, at home as well as employees at some of there is always a nurse practitioner or the largest companies in the state and be- doctor connected to your appointment yond,” Berger said. “Once Omicron hit, we via video chat,” Berger said. “We generally were inundated with an unprecedented test for symptoms related to COVID-19, demand for testing. Despite successfully flu, strep, respiratory infections and more. testing over 150,000 people across Flor- We also send appropriate prescriptions to ida during the Omicron phase of the pan- your pharmacy.” demic, BeeperMD definitely experienced If you would like to learn more about major operational challenges and a critical BeeperMD, you can visit its website at workforce shortage.” www.beepermd.com.
Page 39
Page 40
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
Volume 21, Issue 3
March 2022
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
Page 41
SUMMER CAMPS OFFER MANY OPTIONS TO KEEP KIDS ACTIVE AND ENGAGED Have you got the calendar ready? Summer is just around the corner and camps are gearing up for an active and busy camp season! The staff at the Osprey Observer has collected the top recommendations for local summer camps and created this special pullout section. We asked local camps what they are doing to keep students engaged and active this year! Buckhorn Springs Racquet & Pool Club Tennis Camp Do you have a budding tennis player in your home? If so, Buckhorn Springs Racquet & Pool Club camps might be the place for you. Camp Osprey, LLC For a fun, traditional camp experience, check out Camp Osprey which is located on 204 acres of beautiful woodlands alongside the Little Manatee River in Wimauma. Camp activities include high ropes courses, ziplines, horse back riding and much more. Hurricane Volleyball Academy Volleyball players should check out the camps offered at Hurricane Volleyball Academy (HVA) owned by Riverview residents Victoria and Brian Adams.
Patel Conservatory The Patel Conservatory at the Straz Center is hosting a variety of week summer camps for rising actors, musicians, and dancers starting May 31 and running through August 5. Weekly camps will take place Monday through Friday. Trilogy Dive This summer, Trilogy Dive Center is hosting scuba camps for 10 to 17-yearolds: the Open Water Camp, for noncertified scuba divers, and the Advanced Open Water Camp, for those already scuba certified. Kids R Kids With locations in Valrico and Lithia, Kids R Kids has been offering summer camps since cians. 2004. This summer, the With a variety theme is Camp Boomerof camp options in full ang and students can sign and half-day experiences, there’s up on a weekly basis or for something for every young entertainer. the whole summer. Mathnasium of Riverview and Brandon Have your child’s math skills been impacted by the last school year? Have they fallen behind? Music Showcase The Florida Academy of the Performing Arts at Music Showcase offers summer camps for aspiring actors a n d musi-
High 5, Inc. Brandon’s High 5 Inc. is inviting students to sail away for the best summer of their lives, kicking off on May 31. YMCA All camps begin on May 31 and run through August 5 with ten separate sessions available Monday-Friday. TLC’S Gypsy Haven TLC’s Gypsy Haven offers weekly themed riding camps, ages 8-99, focusing on riding and grooming. The camps take place from 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Sidekicks Summer Camp Sidekicks Martial Arts is gearing up for its Summer Camp 2022 program with Martial Arts, field trips & more. Watch for our Summer Camp Sweepstakes link where the Osprey Observer will buy your child a week of camp at the summer camp of your choice! Or, enter now by emailing (subject line ‘Summer Camp Free’) contest@ ospreyobserver.com. Did we miss a great summer camp option? Let us know by emailing (subject line ‘Summer Camp’) to kquesada@ospreyobserver.com and we will be sure to add it to our full listing online. Have a great summer of fun!
Page 42
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
TRILOGY DIVE CENTER HOSTS SUMMER YOUTH SCUBA CAMPS
By Lily Belcher
This summer, Trilogy Dive Center is hosting scuba camps for 10 to 17-year-olds: the Open Water Camp, for noncertified scuba divers, and the Advanced Open Water Camp, for those already scuba certified. Successful students will earn their scuba certification as Open Water Diver or A d va n c e d Open Water Diver. “ [ T h e goal of the Trilogy Dive Center is hosting camp is to] two scuba camps for 10 to 17-year-olds this summer. have fun, meet new friends, explore our underwater world and get scuba certified,” said Scuba Instructor and Owner Mike Massaro. Each camp is offered every week this summer. No camps are held on the week of Wednesday to Sunday, July 4-8. Each week of camp will last Monday through Friday from 8 a.m.-5 p.m. at the Trilogy Dive Center on E. Columbus Dr. in Tampa. For the weeklong certification camp, campers will participate in 40 hours of dive instruction and leave with their scuba certification. The Open Water Camp is for those with no prior scuba certification. The camper will participate in the classroom, pool and open water checkout dives to earn
their Open Water Scuba Certification. “The camper starts off their week with classroom academics and pool work. This happens Monday-Wednesday. Thursday and Friday are spent at dive sites with the divers putting their newfound skills to work,” explained Massaro. “To become certified, they must attend every day, successfully pass all of the water skills in the pool and successfully complete four checkout dives that we conduct at lakes and springs.” Every diver starts with Open Water Scuba. Trilogy Dive Center’s instructors are military veterans, health care professionals and educators. They have extensive experience training young adults to scuba dive. Each camp is limited to 10 campers and will be led by an adult scuba instructor. Equipment, drinks and snacks will be provided, so the only things campers have to bring is lunch, sunblock and a towel. The Open Water Camp is $595, and the Advanced Open Water Camp is $695. Register now and give your child an adventure that will last a lifetime. Visit trilogyscuba. com, call 425-3500 or email scuba@triologyscuba.com.
Volume 21, Issue 3
THE PATEL CONSERVATORY AT THE STRAZ CENTER HOSTS SUMMER CAMPS
By Lily Belcher
The Patel Conservatory at the Straz Cen- final performances. Showstoppers: Broadter is hosting a variety of week summer way Intensive is available for teen students camps for rising actors, musicians, and danc- at the end of the summer as well. Musical ers starting May 31 and running through Au- Theater Camps are an option for musically gust 5. Weekly camps inclined actors and acwill take place tresses to combine Monday through their dancing, acting, Friday with preand singing talents and post-camp on stage. available for an Music camps and additional $30 intensives are availeach or $50 for able throughout the both extensions. summer, with focusThe Patel Cones on different genres servatory offers in each camp. summer dance “Summer music camps and intensives The Patel Conservatory offers dance, offerings at the Patel Confor beginner and ad- theater and music camps throughout the servatory allow students to summer. vanced dancers. The experience singing in a choir, advanced and intensive camps, which vary discovering a new instrument or playing in in price, do require prior experience, but a chamber ensemble. Instrumentalists and their Beginning Jazz Dance, Tap Dance, and vocalists of all ages have fun while developBallet camps are open to elementary and ing their talents,” according to the brochure. middle school dancers for $145. Group classes for violin to piano to singFor aspiring actors and actresses, theater ing to chamber music are offered over the students can register for The Patel Conser- summer and allow students to fine tune vatory’s production camps. their musical talents with a teacher. Private “The Patel Conservatory Theater de- lessons and music theory classes are also partment offers training in musical and available. non-musical theater through productions, For more on the camps offered with speperformance camps and technical theater cific dates, times, and pricing are available programs,” explains the summer camp bro- in the 2022 Summer Camps and Classes chure. brochure on the Straz Center’s Website at Young actors can participate in shows strazcenter.org. For more information on from Disney’s 101 Dalmatians to Shake- specific details of the camps, contact the speare’s As You Like It, where they will learn admissions staff at 813-222-1040 or 800theater basics and skills to showcase in their 955-1045 (toll free).
March 2022
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
YMCA CAMP INSPIRES DREAMS AND SUPPORTS CHILDREN By Amy Schechter Whether you riding, canoeing, need childcare visual arts and over the summore. mer or just want Besides many your kids to esconvenient locacape the house, tions in the Branthe YMCA has don, Riverview what kids crave and Apollo Beach at one of its area, including many summer the North Tampa camp locations. YMCA, Campo Camp CristiFamily YMCA and na Operations Spurlino Family That feeling when you’re ready for YMCA Summer Director Meagan YMCA at Big Bend Camp! Springer spoke Rd., the community with joy when she described is lucky to have Camp Cristina, summers at the YMCA: a 65-acre campus in Riverview “Camps provide an experience complete with many outdoor where kids have an opportuoptions, including a rock wall, nity that’s very unique. At the ropes course, horseback riding, heart of what we do, we are and water activities. always thinking of ways we All camps begin on Tuesday, can stimulate and support May 31 and run through Friday, kids through recreation while August 5 with 10 separate sesthey are out of school.” sions available from Monday to The American Camp Association (ACA) Friday. Book one weeklong session or book recently announced that the Tampa Met- them all. Camp programming runs from 9 ropolitan Area YMCA Summer Camps re- a.m.-4 p.m. with free early morning care ceived ACA-Accredited Camp status for the beginning at 7 a.m. and free afternoon ex2022 season. After a thorough review of tended care until 6 p.m. Prices start at only nearly 300 standards, the ACA found that $169 per week for YMCA members and the YMCA camps’ staff qualifications, train- are open to the public. Discounted rates for ing and emergency management reflect members, early registration, siblings, multithe highest standards in the industry. Plus, camp sign-ups and early-bird registration YMCA camps offer an array of fun where are available. activity specialists lead campers through For more information on specific lovarious experiences each day, including cations and pricing and to register, visit swimming, science, high ropes, outdoor tampaymca.org/programs/camp/sumeducation, nature encounters, horseback mer-camp.
Contact us today to schedule a risk-free assessment and learn about our summer specials. TWO LOCATIONS TO SERVE YOU Mathnasium of Brandon 813-655-6284 1048 Bloomingdale Avenue Valrico, FL 33596 mathnasium.com/brandon
Mathnasium of Riverview 813-565-1102 Coming 1388 US 301 Soon! Riverview, FL 33579 mathnasium.com/riverview
Page 43
FOR THE LOVE OF VOLLEYBALL, HVA IS HERE By Libby Hopkins Victoria and Brian Adams are both edu- ni go off to play volleyball at the collegiate cators. Combined, they have taught in the level,” Victoria said. “We believe in providing district for more than 25 years. “We live in a home for all levels of athletes to achieve Riverview, Florida and love it here,” Victoria their personal goals.” said. “Together, we The mission of HVA is to cultishare a passion for vate an environment of compethelping the youth itive learning through innovative in our communicoaching techniques and high ty, whether that is standards of performance. “HVA through education, is a volleyball club dedicated sports, community to player development both on service, you name it.” and off the court,” Victoria said. Brian won coach “HVA’s customized practice seof the year in 2012 at quences enable us to East Bay High in the maximize individual Western Conference skills training through for volleyball. “Brian a unique format.” The mission of Hurricane has been coaching for Volleyball Academy (HVA) HVA will offer vol14 years in Hillsbor- is to cultivate an environleyball summer camps ough County,” Victoria ment of competitive learning this year. “We have said. “I won teacher of through innovative coaching techniques camps that run all through the year at East Bay and high standards of performance for summer,” Victoria said. ages 8-18. High School in 2016.” “We will be offering bunBrian grew up playing competitive beach dles where people can pick and choose the volleyball and has always had a love for skills position they want to focus on. We will sports and coaching. “He is currently teach- have $10 open gym time where they get ing physical education at Riverview High some upfront instruction, then get to play School,” Victoria said. “About six years ago, some games in the gym. We will be offering he decided to begin the journey of fulfilling college camps as well. Our last college camp a personal challenge of starting his own vol- with Warner University resulted in a player leyball club. I jumped right on board.” And receiving a college scholarship to play volfrom there, Hurricane Volleyball Academy leyball. We target ages 8-18, both boys and (HVA) was born. girls, all skill levels.” HVA started in 2016 and has grown from If you’d like to learn more about HVA or a 15 to 18-year-old girls club to expand into their upcoming summer camps, you can a club for both 8 to 18-year-old girls and visit its website at www.hurricanevolleybalboys. “We’ve had dozens of Hurricane alum- lacademy.com or call Brian at 220-0905.
Page 44
Buckhorn Springs Racquet & Pool Club Tennis Camp Do you have a budding tennis player in your home? If so, Buckhorn Springs Racquet & Pool Club camps might be the place for you. Located at 2721 S. Miller Rd. in Valrico, camps take place Monday to Thursday from 9 a.m.-12 Noon, with Friday as a rain day. Camps, which boast a 6:1 student-to-instructor ratio, cost $185 a week, but if you register before Friday, April 15, you qualify for the early bird price of $170. New players get a free beginner racket when registering for more than two weeks. Additional discounts are available with inquiry. Snacks and meals are not included. To learn more, call 502-5160 or visit www.buckhornracquet.com. Camp Osprey, LLC For a fun, traditional camp experience, check out Camp Osprey, which is located on 204 acres of beautiful woodlands alongside the Little Manatee River in Wimauma. Camp activities include high ropes courses, ziplines, horseback riding and much more. Camps take place every week starting on Sunday, June 5, and campers can sign up for a week or the whole summer. Day and overnight options are available, with
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
day camp costing $325 a week and overnight being $645. Meals are provided and snacks can be purchased in the camp canteen. The camp is located at 18050 U.S. Hwy. 301 S. in Wimauma and can be reached at 941-928-6860. For more information, visit www.camposprey.com. Hurricane Volleyball Academy Volleyball players should check out the camps offered at Hurricane Volleyball Academy (HVA), owned by Riverview residents Victoria and Brian Adams. HVA started in 2016 and has grown from a 15 to 18-year-old girls club to expand into 8 to 18-year-old for both girls and boys with camps that will run throughout the summer. Options will include bundles where people can pick and choose the skills position they want to focus on and $10 open gym time, which will include instruction and games. College camps will also be offered. To learn more, visit www.hurricanevolleyballacademy.com or call 220-0905.
Mathnasium Of Riverview And Brandon Have your child’s math skills been impacted by the last school year? Have they fallen behind? Are there gaps in their learning? Do they need a greater challenge? If so, consider a summer math program with Mathnasium. But don’t wait too long because spots are filling up fast. Mathnasium’s personalized learning plans are proven to improve grades and give them a head start going into the new school year. With live faceto-face instruction, either in-center or online, its summer programs are designed to work in tandem with the other summer camps and activities. Just two or three one-hour sessions per week are all kids need to help keep their math skills on track for the upcoming school year, and your child will continue to enjoy summer because Mathnasium makes learning math fun. Call today for a free assessment. Mathnasium of Brandon (mathnasium.com/brandon) is located at 1048 Bloomingdale Ave. and can be reached at 655-6284, and Mathnasium of Riverview (mathnasium.com/riverview) is located at 1388 U.S. 301 and can be reached at 565-1102. Music Showcase The Florida Academy of Performing Arts at Music Showcase offers summer
Volume 21, Issue 3
camps for aspiring actors and musicians. With a variety of camp options in full and half-day experiences, there’s something for every young entertainer. T h e traditional camp exposes campers to music and more. You can sign up for one weeklong camp or you can sign up for multiple camps. Camps are structured by age, ability and interest. Its other camp option is a musical theater camp, where campers work together over the course of a few weeks to put on a show. Camp registration opens in mid-March. For further details, visit www.faopa.org or call 490-2787. Music Showcase is located at 402 Oakfield Dr. in Brandon. The Patel Conservatory The Patel Conservatory at the Straz Center is hosting a variety of week summer camps for rising actors, musicians and dancers starting Tu e s d a y, May 31 and running through
March 2022
Friday, August 5. Weekly camps will take place Monday through Friday, with preand post-camp available for an additional $30 each or $50 for both extensions. Information on the camps offered as well as specific dates, times and pricing are available in the 2022 Summer Camps and Classes brochure on the Straz Center’s website at strazcenter.org. For more information on specific details of the camps, contact the admissions staff at 222-1040 or 800-9551045 (toll-free).
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
Kids ‘R’ Kids With locations in Valrico and Lithia, Kids ‘R’ Kids has been offering summer camps since 2004. This summer, the theme is Camp Boomerang and students can sign up on a weekly basis or for the whole summer. “Camp Boomerang will showcase unique weekly themes designed to make your campers smile, think, explore, collaborate and grow in exciting new directions,” said Fernandes. “Our camp includes all meals and field trips to a Rays game, Sea Screamer in Trilogy Dive This summer, Trilogy Dive Center is host- Clearwater, Ringling Museum, Bucs stadium ing scuba camps for 10 to 17-year-olds: the and much more. We even go to the River Open Water Camp, for noncertified scuba Hills Country Club pool.” Kids ‘R’ Kids Valrico is located at 4321 divers, and the AdLynx Paw Trl. and can be reached at 657vanced Open Water 6200, and Kids ‘R’ Kids Circa FishHawk Camp, for those alis located at 5815 Kids Crossing Dr. in ready scuba certiLithia and can be reached at 654-7000. fied. Successful students will earn their High 5, Inc. scuba certification Brandon’s High 5, Inc. is inviting stuas Open Water Diver dents to sail away for the best summer or Advanced Open of their lives, kicking off on Water Diver. Each camp is limited to 10 campers and Tuesday, May 31. Campers will be able to will be led by an adult scuba instructor. Equipment, drinks and snacks will be provid- choose different activied, so the only things campers have to bring ties based on a cruise ship theme, including swimis lunch, sunblock and a towel. The Open Water Camp is $595, and the ming, diving, games and Advanced Open Water Camp is $695. To activities, a scavenger sign up for the camp or for more informa- hunt, dress-up days, varition on Trilogy Dive’s camps, visit trilogy- ous tournaments, bounce houses, a slip and scuba.com, call 425-3500 or email scuba@ slide, water slides and gaming tournaments. Camp is offered Monday through Friday triologyscuba.com.
from 7 a.m.-6 p.m. at High 5, which is located at 405 Beverly Blvd. in Brandon. Campers can sign up for weeks throughout the summer or the entire summer, with registration opening in April. There is a $40 registration fee per child and camp costs $160 a week per child. To learn more, visit www.high5inc.org or call 689-0908. YMCA Tampa Metropolitan Area YMCA has what kids crave at one of its many summer camp locations. YMCA camps offer an array of fun where activity specialists will lead campers through various experiences each day, including swimming, science, high ropes, outdoor education, nature encounters, horseback riding, canoeing, visual arts and more. All camps begin on Tuesday, May 31 and run through Friday, August 5 with 10 separate sessions available from Monday to Friday. Book one weeklong session or book them all. Camp programming runs from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. with free early morning care beginning at 7 a.m. and free afternoon extended care until 6 p.m. Prices start at only $169 per week for YMCA members and are open to the public. Discounted rates for members, early registration, siblings, multicamp sign-ups and early-bird registration are available. For more information on specific locations
Page 45
and pricing and to register, visit www.tampaymca.org/letscamp. TLC’S Gypsy Haven Located at 4325 Keysville Rd. in Lithia, TLC’s Gypsy Haven offers weekly themed riding camps, ages 8-99, focused on riding and grooming. The camps take place from 9 a.m.-2 p.m. from Monday, June 6 to Friday, August 5. Students pack their own lunch, snacks and drinks and are encouraged to wear light pants or leggings, but boots are a must. The camp boasts one teacher, one aide and one volunteer per 10 students. For more information, visit tlcsfarms. com, call Tammi at 842-4236 or email TLCS2867@aol.com. Sidekicks Summer Camp Sidekicks Martial Arts is gearing up for its Summer Camp 2022 program with Martial Arts, Amazing Field Trips, Educational Lessons, A r t s a n d C ra f t s and So Much more... Your Child Is Going to Have a BLAST! (Rising Kindergartners - Rising 6th Grade) Visit www.fishhawksummercamp.com or text 813-308-0368. Sidekicks is located upstairs Park Square in the heart of FishHawk Ranch.
Page 46
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
Volume 21, Issue 3
KIDS ‘R’ KIDS OFFERS SUMMER FUN & FIELD SAIL AWAY WITH HIGH 5, INC. SUMMER CAMP FUN By Kate Quesada TRIPS AT TWO LOCATIONS By Kate Quesada
Kids ‘R’ Kids Learnter play. ing Academy offers a Other themes safe, well-supervised, will include ‘Deeducational, engagcade Dash,’ ‘Natuing and thrilling sumral Talent,’ where mer camp experience students will draw for children K-5,” inspiration from said Owner Ben Ferthe earth and nandes. ‘What’s Cookin’,’ With locations in which will allow Valrico and Lithia, campers to cook Kids ‘R’ Kids has been up a ton and the offering summer chance to learn camps since 2004. how our taste This summer, the buds work with theme is Camp regard to sweet Boomerang and vs. sour vs. salty students can sign foods. The week up on a weekly baends with a potluck sis or for the whole dinner featuring a summer. favorite dish from “‘Camp Booeach of our campmerang’ will show- Registration is now available for camp at Kids ‘R’ ers. Kids in Lithia and Valrico. case unique weekly According to Ferthemes, designed to make your campers nandes, field trips will include a Rays game, smile, think, explore, collaborate and grow Sea Screamer in Clearwater, The Ringling in exciting new directions,” said Fernandes. Museum, a tour of the Bucs stadium and The summer will feature Australian more. themes including ‘Down Under,’ which will “We even go to the Riverhills County Club take campers to explore what makes Aus- pool,” he explained. tralia special, a movie themed week called The camp includes all meals and field ‘KidFlix’ and ‘Reef Creatures’ where campers trips, and space is limited. will pay a virtual visit to the beaches in AusKids R Kids Valrico is located at 4321 Lynx tralia including a deep dive into the Great Paw Trl. and can be reached at 657-6200 Barrier Reef and chance to learn about a and Kids R Kids Circa FishHawk is located at variety of ocean creatures that call it home. 5815 Kids Crossing Dr. in Lithia and can be The week will include beach games and wa- reached at 654-7000.
Summer camp is “We will have a DJ sure to be a hit at at the start of the Brandon’s High 5 Inc. week to do the ‘MunThe camp, which inster Drill,’” added Nelvites students to sail son. away for the best Camp is offered summer of their lives, Monday through Friwill kick off on May day from 7 a.m.-6 31. p.m. at High 5 which According to High 5 is located at 405 BevRegional Director Ererly Blvd. in Brandon. ica Nelson, campers Campers can sign up will be able to choose for weeks throughout different activities the summer or the enbased on a cruise ship tire summer with sestheme. sions starting on May “We will have a 31 and registration Summer camp at High 5, Inc. will have a cruise itinerary for opening in April. cruise theme this year. each day, but the There is a $40 regcampers will have the istration fee per child opportunity to make and camp cost $160 per their own choices as week, per child. well,” said Nelson. High 5, formerly BranCamp will consist of don Sports and Aquat‘The Stern,’ which will be ics Club (BSAC) has outside games, ‘The Lido been part of the BranDeck’ which involves don community since time in the location’s 1963 and was the area’s pool, field trip ‘Excursions,’ ‘Creative first multi-purpose facility, dedicated to Cover,’ ‘The Plank’ which is diving boards making positive impacts on the lives of and ‘Encounters’ which will involve pick- residents in the region and beyond. The leball, swimming and other sports and site also offers a competitive swimming recreation activities. program and Olympic-level diving as Other features will include a scaven- well as swimming lessons from beginger hunt, dress up days, various tourna- ners to adults. ments, bounce houses, a slip and slide, To learn more, visit www.high5inc.org water slides and gaming tournaments. or call 689-0908.
March 2022
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
THE BRANDON BALLET PRESENTS PRINCESS TEA PARTY FEATURING CINDERELLA
By Kathy L. Collins
The Brandon Join Cinderella Ballet, estaband her fellow lished in 1993, is princess friends a nonprofit, preas they perprofessional balform excerpts let company that from Cinderella develops and prowhile you and motes opportuniyour guest saties for aspiring vor cupcakes young dancers. As from Sweetie’s a part of its misDelights, finsion, the Brandon Don’t miss the fun of the Brandon Ballet’s annual ger foods and, Princess Tea Party. Ballet provides of course, tea. the community with a number of events There is something for every member of and performances. One of its most popu- the family to enjoy, including immersive lar events is the Princess Tea Party. game time, appearances from your favorThe next Princess Tea Party will fea- ite princesses, raffles and prizes. If you ture Cinderella and will be held on Sun- are looking for a lively, Sunday afternoon day, March 27 at 3 p.m. at The Regent, family outing, look no further than the located at 6437 Watson Rd. in Riverview. Brandon Ballet’s Princess Tea Party. Tickets are $17.50 plus tax for adults and Hannah Townend with the Brandon children if purchased in advance or $20 Ballet said, “For ballet lovers of any age, plus tax at the door. If tickets are sold the Princess Tea Party is sure to be a out online prior to the event, tickets will Sunday Funday treat.” not be sold at the door. Tickets can be Masks are optional for all Princess Tea purchased by visiting www.brandonbal- Party guests. In order to ensure a safer let.org/events/. gathering, tickets will be limited, so reThere are lots of exciting events and serve your tickets now before it is too performances throughout the Brandon late. Ballet season that bring in audience memAfter you meet Cinderella and her prinbers and supporters alike, but by far the cess friends, make plans to attend the most popular among its young patrons is Brandon Ballet’s presentation of the balthe annual tea parties. The Brandon Bal- let, Cinderella, on Saturday, April 30 at let staff and dancers revel in the pleasure Riverview High School in Riverview. of providing such sweet events for young For more information, visit www.Branballet lovers and their families. donBallet.org or call 684-4282.
Ages 8 - 18
Page 47
GET READY TO ROCK YOUR SUMMER WITH THE FAOPA AT MUSIC SHOWCASE
By Amy Schechter
Want the perfect place to make memories and music? The Florida Academy of the Performing Arts at Music Showcase offers a magical summer camp experience for aspiring actors and musicians. With a variety of camp options in full and
FAOPA Summer Camp sign-ups start soon.
half-day experiences, there’s something for every young entertainer. Debbie Evans, Director of Accounts, cannot stress how wonderful the experience is: “It’s more than just learning about music or learning how to sing. Kids are gaining self-confidence and self-esteem. They blossom into performers who like music and like being on stage.” The traditional camp exposes campers to music and more. Every few hours students can learn an instrument like guitar and drums, take vocal lessons, take acting and improv classes, and do arts and crafts. You can sign up for one week-long camp, or you can sign up for multiple camps. Camps are structured by age, ability, and interest.
Their other camp option is a musical theater camp. Campers work together over the course of a few weeks to put on a show. They will memorize lines, music, and choreography. This summer, depending on the camper’s age, they will perform Oklahoma, Shrek the Musical, All Shook Up, and Six Live in Concert! Evans goes on to say, “If you do the musical camps, you’re learning about teamwork in an ensemble. A lot of parents are always so surprised. They had no idea their child had it within them when they see them perform.” Campe r s must bring their o w n lunche s , drinks, and snacks with snacks also available for purchase. The Florida Academy of Performing Arts is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that was established to support the performing arts through programs at the academy and in the community. Camp registration opens in mid-March. For further details, visit www.FAOPA.org or call 490-2787. Music Showcase is located at 402 Oakfield Dr. in Brandon.
Summer Camp Options Competitive Girls and Boys Teams
Summer Boot Camps (June/July)
Several skill specific sessions to hone a current skill or come to ALL and learn all aspects of volleyball positions. For beginner/intermediate and advanced players. This is a low commitment but high energy and fast paced skill building. A great way to learn or to continue to improve over the summer.
College Clinics (June/July)
Last year we welcomed both Webber International University and Warner University head coaches to host a college clinic for players in our area. This was for girls and boys and had beach and indoor volleyball opportunities.
Open Gym (June/July)
$10 Open Gyms- both beginner and intermediate advanced. If you want to have some fun give volleyball a try, make some friends in the process this is a great start for you. This open gym also gives you an opportunity to meet our amazing coaching staff and learn some quick basic skills.
High School and Middle School Dust off (Late July)
This is a targeted clinic designed to refresh and remind players of what High School and Middle School volleyball coaches are looking for. From skills, techniques even body language. Let us help you dust off your skills as you prepare for your schools volleyball tryouts.
Your One Stop Shop for all things VOLLEYBALL! Summer Camps • Fall Leagues • Team Camps • Skills Clinics Positional Trainings • Training for ALL Skill Levels
Visit Our Website For More Information!
813-220-0905 | HurricaneVolleyballAcademy.com
Page 48
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
DISNEY CHARACTERS RETURN TO TAMPA IN MARCH FOR LET’S CELEBRATE
Staff Report
The celebration of the century comes alive in Disney On Ice presents Let’s Celebrate, and this monumental ice-skating spectacular visits AMALIE Arena from Thursday to Sunday, March 24-27. Audiences will be a part of the magic of Disney as Mouse-ter of Ceremonies Mickey Mouse leads a parade of more than 50 beloved characters starring Minnie Mouse, Donald Duck and Goofy and featuring an ensemble of Disney Princesses, including Cinderella, Rapunzel, Ariel, Snow White and Tiana. The wintry wonderland of Disney’s Frozen also comes to life with Anna, Elsa and the hilarious Olaf as they discover that true love is the greatest magic of all. Exciting moments from Disney Pixar’s Finding Dory, Disney’s Aladdin and Beauty and the Beast will leave the whole family with memories to last a lifetime. The legacy of Disney is displayed through 14 classic and modern stories in this production that features an international team of award-winning figure skaters, high-energy choreography and a breathtaking set. With over 30 melodious masterpieces such as “Let It Go!,” “You’ve Got a Friend in Me” and “Hakuna Matata,” Disney On Ice Let’s Celebrate is the ultimate Disney fan experience. Families will join the fun in an exciting opening number that salutes Mickey Mouse
and Minnie Mouse as the original hosts of Disney On Ice in an unforgettable experience in your hometown. While delivering the same magical experiences guests expect from Disney On Ice, Feld Entertainment is continuing Guest Wellness Enhancements to help keep families safe at its live events. Feld Entertainment is working closely with venue partners to establish and follow COVID-19 health and safety standards in accordance with all federal, state and local guidelines. Full details on Feld Entertainment Guest Wellness Enhancements can be found at https://www.disneyonice. com/guest-wellness. Guests looking to purchase Disney On Ice souvenirs will find the process easier than ever thanks to a new contactless shopping experience with touch-free payment and digital purchasing options. Guests can preorder items prior to arriving at the venue. Once ordered, guests can pick up their purchases at a convenient, contactless pickup station during the show. Additional information can be found at www.disneyonice.com/tickets. The shows will take place on Thursday, March 24 and Friday, March 25 at 7 p.m.; Saturday, March 26 at 11 a.m., 3 p.m. and 7 p.m.; and Sunday, March 27 at 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. at AMALIE Arena, located at 401 Channelside Dr. in Tampa.
Volume 21, Issue 3
DANCING FOR A DIFFERENCE CELEBRATES NEW LARGER LOCATION
By Tatiana Ortiz
Since its estabA local dance studio lishment in May in Brandon had a fresh 2017, Dancing for start to the year with a Difference has and space its new grown, hence the name. Riverview resneed of this new ident Sara Battaglia, space. The former who is the president studio was 1,500 and director of Dancsq. ft. This new ing for a Difference, one is double that held a grand opening size. for the new studio Some of the Dancing for a Difference students wearBattaglia stat29. on January ing shirts with the new logo. the reason for ed Dancing for a Difhow it will and studio new the ference is a nonprofit organibe beneficial for the organizazation with a mission to make tion. dance more available to all ages “We have over 200 students and abilities within the Tampa and could not grow much Bay area as well as give back to the community. Prior to the name change, more due to limited size in space,” Battathe organization was called Dancing for glia said. “With the new space it provides us Donations. Battaglia felt that the time was room for more students,” she added. Dancing for a Difference offers a wide appropriate to move forward with the revariety of classes, such as ballet, jazz, tap, branding. The organization received a $13,000 voice, piano and moråe. Battaglia said that grant from the Mabel and Ellsworth Sim- they love to meet new people and welcome mons Charitable Foundation, Inc., which them to their dance family. Those who are helped with the funding of Dancing for a interested can register for these classes. “Overall, thank you to the community, Difference’s new studio. In addition, through with the dance families, for supportalong Comof the Valrico FishHawk Chamber merce, Dancing for a Difference was the ing us all of these years,” Battaglia said. For more information about classes, vis2021 Charity of Choice. Battaglia is also involved in other chambers, such as the Great- it https://www.dancing4donations.org. It er Riverview Chamber of Commerce and the is located at 1076 E. Brandon Blvd., Stes. #108 and #109 in Brandon. Call 601-3009. Ybor City Chamber of Commerce.
(Ages K-5)
March 2022
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
Page 49
20 YEARS SINCE SIGHTS WERE SET ON FORMING FISHHAWK YOUTH BASEBALL PROGRAM By Taylor Wells
Twenty years ago, on page lot of work, and three of the Osprey Observer’s a lot of effort put March 2002 FishHawk edition, into it, they’ve one of our first newspapers, we done a great job published a story about local resbuilding a great ident Vincent Guarcello trying to foundation for open a little league for his comwhat I inherited munity. Though he is no longer and what I’m trya direct part of it, Guarcello’s ing to build, and I efforts later led to the league hope I leave it in officially forming in 2008 under Two of FishHawk Youth Baseball’s concession a little better spot One of FishHawk Youth Baseball’s camps the name chosen in the original stand volunteers. Its volunteers are all a big when I eventually held in December 2021. part of making the league great. story: FishHawk Youth Baseball step down.” (FYB). FishHawk Youth “My son’s a 12-year-old don’t have the money to play,” said now and he’s one of the big“We’ve got over 550 kids in Baseball has been our league, and we do two seasons a Murphy, “It’s not about money for this ger kids up there, and it’s built up by its volyear. And we’ve been growing; COVID organization at all. Anybody can play.” fun to watch him around unteers; its partslowed us down a little bit … but we He added, “We want the kids to have the younger ones and help The Osprey Observer’s first news story nerships with the about the little league that would have been growing exponentially ever a place to come and make friends. It’s a them,” he said. county, local high become FishHawk Youth Baseball. since COVID let down a little bit, and fun, competitive environment at times, The group is entirely run schools and its we’re able to put the kids back out on but, more importantly, anybody can by volunteers. Be they board members, sponsors; and all the people involved. the field,” said Tom Murphy, president play and feel like they’re a part of it.” coaches, managers, cleanup crew or It’s a tough job when there’s so many Murphy joined the board because he concession stand operators, everyone people, but it’s easy when everyone has of FishHawk Youth Baseball. saw the amazing job it was doing with is a qualified volunteer. This includes the same goal, and Murphy wants to Children ages 4 to 18 years old can the kids and in managing all the work the kids’ parents, who are required to thank everyone for making FYB what join, and no prior baseball experience involved, and he is glad to lead and be volunteer if their kid wants to be a part it is today. is required. In this large league of local a part of it. Some of the things he loves of FYB, along with paying a registra- “We’re creating a sense of communikids with about 120 volunteers making most are the opening day ceremonies tion fee for each season. the experience a joy for all, FYB has ty around the baseball field, and I think where the kids are amped up in their Of course, if you want to volunteer, that’s a really cool thing that has hapcreated a great community. “We want to provide a place for uniforms for the first time; end-of-sea- you don’t need to have a kid in the pened over the years,” said Murphy. all kids of any skill to be able to play son tournaments where they have fun, league. Volunteers are always welcome. For more information about Fishbaseball. Also, it does not matter what compete, get a big trophy and get their About the people who started it all, Hawk Youth Baseball, including how their economical abilities are, we have picture on Facebook; and seeing them Murphy said, “The initial board obvi- to register your child or volunteer, visit scholarships available for kids that progress and become leaders. ously set the way for us. While it’s a www.fishhawkyouthbaseball.org.
Page 50
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
Volume 21, Issue 3
PHOTOS COURTESY OF BLOOMINGDALE ATHLETIC DIRECTOR SARA BOUGE.
BLOOMINGDALE GIRLS BASKETBALL WINS FIRST DISTRICT SINCE 1995 The Bloomingdale High School girls basketball team claimed their first district championship since 1995. The contest was close for two and a half quarters, but the Lady Bulls used their depth to pull away late in the third quarter, convincingly beating Braden River 57-34. The Bulls were led by junior guard Aissatou Diallo, who connected on six three-pointers. “Winning districts this The Bloomingdale High School girls basketball team claimed their first district championship since 1995. year meant everything to me,” said junior shootthat this was a turning point in their season ing guard Melody Womack. “It’s something because it brought the team together even that I’ve always wanted ever since I came more through adversity. He used the W4M to Bloomingdale. Knowing that it hasn’t (Win for Mel) hashtag on the official team happened in 25 years, and knowing how bad Twitter page as motivation to win for her. Coach Bower wanted to win and that he has The team’s spark plug and leading reboundnever had a district championship before, er missed the semifinals but was able to made us want it even more.” help her teammates accomplish something There was a lot of doubt that Womack that hadn’t been done since any of them would play again this season, let alone be were born—hang a championship banner able to play in the championship game after on the wall of the Bloomingdale gym. taking an elbow to the face and sustaining “Her showing that toughness and playing a substantial mouth injury in the Western through this pretty severe injury inspired Conference title game against Plant one me, and I know it inspired her teammates,” week prior. Head Coach Joel Bower said said Bower. “That was the spark I think we
work.” The girls knew how long it had been since the last district championship, and they especially wanted to win for their coach. “Coach Bower is the most dedicated, loving, caring and hardworking coach I’ve had,” said sophomore guard Faith Wilson. “He sacrifices his time to make us better. I’m so happy we were able to give this win to him because I know how much it The Lady Bulls are the No. 1 seed heading into the regional means to him. Coach Bower tournament. to me is like a second dad, needed Friday night to get us going.” and he challenges me to work harder and The Lady Bulls not only won District be the best player I can be.” 6A-11, they did it in dominant fashion, The Lady Bulls are the No. 1 seed headwinning 20-plus games for the first time ing into the regional tournament. They in 15 years, and the first time during beat Lennard in the quarterfinals 43-33 Bower’s 11-year tenure, with an impres- for their first regional win since 1995. sive 23-5 overall record. “This is such an amazing sisterhood. “It’s always a goal to win a district ti- We are like a family and have such a tle,” said Bower. “We expect to win, and strong bond that nobody can break,” said hopefully that just snowballs and creates Womack. “I think we have come so far that culture where kids are continuing to because of the chemistry, love and supwork hard and understand that what got port that we have for each other. There’s this for us was all the hard work,” said not another team I would want to be on. Bower. “If you continue to want to have We’re making history, and that’s somethat success, you have to continue to thing that I’ll never forget.”
March 2022
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
Page 51
PHOTOS COURTESY OF TRACEY SELLERS.
SIX NEWSOME STUDENT-ATHLETES INK ON NATIONAL SIGNING DAY Newsome High School lineup, or at least close was well represented to it, because I know it on National Signing Day is difficult to be able to with six student-athletes play up to that extent inking the dotted line to and start in college. determine where they Thank you, Mom and will go to college the next Dad.” four years. Cornerback and wide Cross country and track receiver Amiir Austin star Kendall Hughes will will spend the next four be spending her next four years at Northwest Misyears at the University of souri State as a sports Softball standout Sami Central Florida and will management/broadBridget Johnson signed a socLinebacker Alex Spitzer will Cross country and track star Ness will take her talents to cer scholarship with Georgia play football for Rose Hulman be a premed major. casting major. Kendall Hughes will be spendMcDaniel College in WestminCollege & State University and Institute of Technology and ing her next four years at the “The signing made me “I chose Northwest ster, Maryland and major in is currently undecided on her major in mechanical/computUniversity of Central Florida realize how far I’ve gotMissouri State because criminology with a minor in major. er engineering. and will be a premed major. forensic science. ten with my sport and they have a sports goals and how excited I broadcastam for the future,” said ing program Hughes. “UCF became the I’m really right school for me when interested I met the team and the in and the coach, everyone was suatmosphere per nice and I loved the up there recampus.” minds me of Bridget Johnson signed home and a soccer scholarship with the people Georgia College & State up there are very friendly,” said AusUniversity and is currenttin. “My ultimate goal for football ly undecided on her mawas to earn a scholarship and play at Cornerback and wide receiver Caden Huffman, linebacker and jor. Amiir Austin will spend the next the next level; now, the next goal is Newsome High School was well represented on team captain for the football “I have always had a four years at Northwest Missouri to play at an even higher level, such National Signing Day with six student-athletes team, signed to play at Trine Unidream of playing college as NFL, CFL or AFL.” State as a sports management/ inking the dotted line. versity in Angola, Indiana. soccer ever since I was a Caden Huffman, linebacker and broadcasting major. ball for Rose Softball kid,” said Johnson. “To be able to make it Hulman Institute of Technology in Terre standout Sami Ness will take her talteam captain for the football team, a reality is really rewarding and exciting. Haute, Indiana and major in mechanical/ ents to McDaniel College in Westminster, signed to play at Trine University in AnI am thankful to have had great coach- computer engineering. Maryland and major in criminology with a gola, Indiana. He will major in engineering es and trainers throughout club soccer. and business. “I am really excited to take the next big minor in forensic science. Without them, I would not have grown step in my life, academically and athleti“It was a surreal accomplishment, and “I was very excited to sign because this into the player I am today. Playing soccer cally,” said Spitzer. “Rose Hulman, I felt, has been my dream since I was 4,” said something I never thought would be here has also brought me my best friends, who was the right school for me because I Ness. “I was very glad that my friends, so quickly,” said Huffman. “Thank you to have never stopped encouraging me from loved the campus, and they are a well- coaches and parents could be there to everyone who has helped me out along day one.” known engineering school that will help support me. My goals for my first college the way and to everyone who has been by Linebacker Alex Spitzer will play foot- me get the job I want.” season are to try and get into the starting my side through thick and thin.”
BRANDON TERMITE & PEST CONTROL
Termidor
MEMBER WEST FLORIDA
10 Year Guarantee
Against Subterranean Termites
Main Office: 108 S. St. Cloud Ave. • Valrico • Fax 685-3607 • 6am-6pm Expires 3/31/2022
Serving: Clearwater-Lakeland-Orlando-Plant City For a FREE ESTIMATE call (813) 685-7711
#1 Bug Muggers Since 1973
Carepartners of those with any type of memory loss, whether family, friends or professionals, need to be equipped with the knowledge to best support their loved one. Gain this knowledge at our NEW hybrid support groups being held via Zoom and in person at Tessera of Brandon.
Hybrid Dementia and Alzheimer’s Support Groups Fourth Tuesday of Every Month at 6:30 pm Meeting in person and via Zoom!!! Zoom Meeting Number 897 6781 0479 Password: evening
Assisted Living Facility #AL 13150
Fourth Wednesday of Every Month at 2:00 pm Meeting in person and via Zoom!!! ZOOM Meeting Number 869 4044 7508 Password: support
Come a little early for refreshments! 1320 Oakfield Dr. Brandon, FL 33511 | 813-607-6880
EXPIRES: 9/30/2020
Exp 3/31/2022
Page 52
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
Volume 21, Issue 3
