Bloomingdale/FishHawk
22
May 2022
Volume 21, Issue 5
Ph: 813-657-2418
See Story on Page 19
CELEBRATING 20 YEARS OF PUBLISHING P OSITIVE COMMUNIT Y NEWS
SIXTH ANNUAL HALLE GRACE TOY DRIVE WILL DONATE TOYS TO LOCAL HOSPITALS
By Lily Belcher
surgery.” Last year, the toy drive collected over 2,100 toys and donated to five locations, and the foundation hopes to surpass that number this year. The drive donated 300 toys in its inaugural year in 2016 and has grown exponentially since. The Halle Grace Foundation has worked with other schools
Halle Grace Heilman’s sister, Neeley, bringing toys from the toy drive to young children in the hospital.
Each year, toys are donated to local hospitals supporting pediatric patients.
and organizations to offer service hours to student volunteers that help collect toys and advertise the collection. Halle battled for 15 years against the illness, taking joy in proving the doctors who limited her wrong. She learned to dance, developed a love for fine cuisine despite being on a feeding tube for years and even ran a 5K at 7 years old. To donate, drop toys off at 2928 Chelsea Woods Dr. in Valrico, Melissa Snively’s State Farm office in Lithia, the Florida Hawks FC soccer fields in the FishHawk Sports Complex or Bloomingdale High School. To donate on Venmo or for more information, contact jillianheilman@gmail. com. For more information on Halle’s story, visit thehallegracefoundation.org.
Osprey Observer 2109 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. Valrico, FL 33596
By Marie Gilmore A national Plus, coming faith-based soon. movie producTo date, tion compaJCFilms has ny now has produced over a presence 50 faith and in Valrico. family films. JCFilms StuJason Campdios has bell, preslaunched its ident of most recent J CFilms Behind the scenes production S tudios, during the shooting club, JCexplained, of Losing to Win, a Films Stu“Each of new faith-based, full-length feature dios Tampa. these Profilm shot in ValriAnd immeduction co in April. diately after Clubs are forming, the being creatclub put its first full-length feature film ed to offer both education and opportuinto production. Filming for seven days in nity for people of faith to get involved in April, the movie was shot on location in Christian films. Each location is designed Valrico, Lithia, Plant City, Riverview, Bran- as a hub for Christian movie making, from don and Tampa. The film, called Losing to script writing to acting; the goal of these Win, follows four candidates through a re- clubs is to tell Christ-centered redemptive ality show challenge and shares their sto- stories through film by creating compelry of regaining faith, building relationships ling, entertaining and wholesome conand finding support through friends. tent.” In March, JCFilms Studios Tampa put In addition, Campbell hopes JCFilms out a casting call for a faith-based mov- Plus will become the premier platform for ie featuring Dean Cain, best known for the growing number of independent Chrisplaying Superman in the Lois & Clark: The tian filmmakers. New Adventures of Superman series, who “As more faith films are being produced, has been a long-standing supporter of it’s time we have our own digital platJCFilms. Cain was in town in May for the form,” Campbell said. finale of the filming at 5th Gear Fitness JCFilms Plus is also going to serve as in Valrico. The owners, Jessica Adams and the distribution platform for the minisGretchen Trasorras, are also the directors try’s production clubs. These nationwide of the Tampa Club and have been involved film clubs will produce over 20 films in the in professional acting and training for next year. years. JCFilms Plus has already been endorsed “I had the opportunity to be on set and by top Christian leaders in film, music and be a principal character in two JCFilms church leadership. The video-on-demand productions,” explained Adams, “and we platform is set to launch in June. wanted to bring a production club to the For more information on the clubs, upTampa area because we think we can pro- coming productions and the new streamduce really great movies right there in the ing service, visit www.jcfilms.org. area.” The cast and crew filmed for a total of nine days and the movie is now in post-pro- OSPREY RIDGE RESURFACING.......PG 3 duction. Once released, it is planned to be RIVERVIEW WOMAN’S CLUB .....PG 15 submitted to the streaming services and be available live through a new family-friend- EYE ON BUSINESS ...................PGS 25-26 ly, faith-based streaming app, JCFilms ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT..............PG 37
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The Halle Grace Foundation is hosting its sixth annual Halle Grace Foundation Toy Drive until May 30 to celebrate Halle Grace Heilman’s 22nd birthday. Halle passed away in July of 2015 after suffering from a rare chromosome deletion, but, following her death, her family established a foundation in her name to keep her memory alive and celebrate her life. “It makes her birthday something we still celebrate every year. We know that other kids are getting presents on her birthday, so that makes us happy,” said Jillian Heilman, mother of Halle and founder of the nonprofit organization. The toy drive is its way of giving back to their community and supporting young children like Halle who are in the hospital. The toys suited for patients up to 18 years old will be donated on Halle’s birthday on Thursday, June 2 to Tampa General Hospital, St. Joseph’s Hospital and other hospitals in the area. “One of the things that brought her a ton of joy, especially when she was a little kid, was when the toy cart came by, and it would come by every day of the week, and there would be a new toy she could pick out,” said Jillian. “It would just brighten her day no matter what her treatments were or if she was going to
LOSING TO WIN MOVIE FILMING BRINGS DEAN CAIN TO VALRICO
Not to be combined with any other offer. Only valid at Riverview, FL - Boyette location.
Hillsborough County School Board members signed a proclamation at their April 5 meeting in support of the Month of the Military Child, which since 1986 has been celebrated in April. The Osprey Observer would like to thank all who are serveing and have served, along with the spouses and children who have sacrificed their lives. See full story on page 4.
5/31/22
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5/31/22
Page 2
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
Volume 21, Issue 5
May 2022
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
NEWSOME SENIOR NAMED COUNTY JROTC CADET OF THE YEAR
By Michelle Caceres
Newsome High School senior William Bean was selected as the 2021-22 JROTC Cadet of the Year.
Newsome High School senior and Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps (JROTC) cadet William Bean is the 2021-22 JROTC Cadet of the Year. Bean accepted the award at its annual recognition dinner in April. Out of 5,200 JROTC students in Hillsborough County, 10 cadets, who displayed outstanding achievements and dedication to academics, extracurricular activities and participation in their JROTC programs, were nominated for the award. Bean, who has a 6.57 GPA, was selected to receive the top honor. After the cadets’ transcripts, community service hours and essays were evaluated, the selection board interviewed each cadet. “In the end, after answering a series of questions in 10 different categories, William performed a little better on those questions, and that was the determining factor,” said Director of Army Instruction (DAI) Sam Taylor, who oversees the Hillsborough County Public Schools Cadet of the Year Board.
After graduation, Bean plans to study construction science at the University of Tennessee. “Sitting at the dinner surrounded by great people and listening to everyone’s accomplishments, I would have been proud to have lost to any of them,” he said. “I’m so honored to be here and to have won this award,” he added. Bean is not the first Newsome student to earn the honor. Five former Newsome cadets were named JROTC Cadet of the Year, including Andrew Fischer (202021), Zachary Dench (2019-20), Katherine Metheny (2018-19) and Dylan Renfro (2017-18). The Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps is a federal program sponsored by the United States Armed Forces in high schools across the United States whose purpose is to prepare high school students for responsible leadership roles while making them aware of the benefits of citizenship. “High school is such an interesting time, but I’ve learned so much in JROTC and the group of friends I’ve made there have helped me get through it,” said Bean. “I’ve made friends for life.” For more information about JROTC, visit www.hillsboroughschools.org. For more information about Newsome High School, visit www.hillsboroughschools.org/newsome.
Effective May 1, 2022, our office will be located at 13459 FishHawk Boulevard, Lithia, FL 33547. Come see us.
Page 3
OSPREY RIDGE ROAD RESURFACING AND SAFETY IMPROVEMENTS SET FOR SUMMER TIMEFRAME
By Linda Chion
Work is set to begin the first week in June on the Osprey Ridge Rd. resurfacing project from FishHawk Blvd. to Dorman Rd., according to a report presented on April 20 to Hillsborough County commissioners. At the meeting, commissioners approved a budget amendment that would add $1.19 million to the project’s price tag for additional safety features and to account for an increase in costs since the A view of the Osprey Ridge Rd. resurfacing project, including the project’s inception. With the Parkset Dr. and Churchside Dr. roundabout. budget amendment, the cost needs more than temporary repair,” one amounts to $2.61 million, up from $1.42 milrespondent said. “This is a much-needed relion. pair,” said another respondent, noting that According to county officials, “the work “there are so many potholes, improperly will address the failing existing pavement repaired potholes and overall safe driving conditions and improve pedestrian safety” conditions causing risk to even pedestrians.” and will be completed during the summer As for construction expectations, counbreak “while school is out to minimize the ty officials noted in December 2021 that a impact to pedestrians.” road closure and detour will be required for Records show the work will include millthe single-lane roundabout pavement reconing and resurfacing, related roadway work, struction at Parkset Dr. and Churchside Dr. sidewalk repair, curb work, signage and The closure is expected to last less than 30 signal work. Funding for the resurfacing, days. Advance closure notice will be given, restoration and rehabilitation project is set and signs will mark the detour route. to come from fuel tax reserves and from County officials noted as well that safe the Safe Routes to School project, a nationaccess to homes, schools and businesses will al, state and countywide effort to promote be maintained throughout construction, exwalking and biking to school as a safe, popucept during the required road closure. “Norlar and fun alternative. mal construction noise” from heavy equipThe project in December was featured in ment and excavation should be expected the county’s online public engagement hub, and “all areas affected by the construction which detailed construction plans and exwill be restored.” pectations and drew 195 participants and For more information, visit www.hcflgov. 175 comments. net and search for board meetings agendas “The road is in bad shape and certainly and transcripts.
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Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
Volume 21, Issue 5
MILITARY CHILD MONTH CELEBRATED IN APRIL, HILLSBOROUGH SCHOOL OFFICIALS TAKE NOTE
SOUTHSHORE GROUP FIGHTS AGAINST HUMAN TRAFFICKING
In step with the the award-winning U.S. Department of MacDill Council for Defense, which for 35 Educational Excelyears has recognized lence (MCEE), an exApril as the Month tensive collaboration of the Military Child, between military Hillsborough County leaders, educators School Board memand community leadbers this month apers. According to proved a proclamaschool officials, the tion that recognizes district this year has the unique life and 19 schools with miliHillsborough County School Board memchallenges of military tary family life counbers signed a proclamation at their April children. selors, up from six in 5 meeting in support of the Month of the “We recognize that Military Child, which since 1986 has been 2019-20. military children serve “Children of sercelebrated in April. and sacrifice alongvice members are a side their parents and continue to inspire source of pride and honor to us all,” the us despite the challenge they face due to proclamation reads, “and it is vital to rectheir unique situations, such as having ognize their contributions, celebrate their a parent deployed for extended periods strength and let our men and women in of time, changing schools and leaving uniform know that while they are serving friends,” said school board member Hen- our nation, we are serving their children.” ry ‘Shake’ Washington at the board’s Toward that end, resources are availApril 5 meeting. “We are so very honored able on the school district’s website, that the men and women who serve our which includes links to Our Military Kids, country trust their children’s education to the National Military Family Association, Hillsborough County Public Schools.” Seasons of My Military Student, SesaAccording to school district figures, me Street for Military Families, Yellow Hillsborough is home to roughly 4,600 Ribbon Reintegration Program, Military dependents of active-duty military mem- OneSource and Military Kids-Special Edbers and 8,700 military-connected stu- ucation Alliance. Visit www.hillsboroughdents. Nationwide, there are more than schools.org/militaryfamilies. 1.6 million military children, according For military family support and serto a defense department report, which vices, interstate and school-to-school notes that on average, “military families transition help, scholarship and grant move every two to three years, impact- opportunities, workshops and more, visit ing military children through changing MCEE at www.macdillfss.com/school-lischools and support networks.” aison-officer. For ways to ‘purple up’ and MacDill Air Force Base representatives celebrate military children, visit www. were in attendance on April 5 for the dodea.edu and www.defense.gov/spotHillsborough proclamation, which notes lights/month-of-the-military-child.
16 at 1 p.m. in Room 30 at the United Methodist Church of Sun City Center. The speaker will be Jennifer Sillings, special agent at Homeland Security. On Sunday, May 22, there will be a Tip Your Hat Tea in honor CAHT Puppeteer Show Director Jan Gurley, Deb Petrocelli as Leo the Lion of all the resilient and Betty Mitchell as Frosty the Penguin performing at an after-school event. teens and women Twenty-one million the organization people worldwide are supports. The event will victims of human trafbe held from 2 p.m.-4 p.m. ficking. The Southin the SCC Community AsShore group Campaign sociation Atrium’s Florida Against Human TraffickRoom at 1009 N. Pebble ing and Domestic VioBeach Dr. Tickets are $35 lence (CAHT) is a 501(c) per person. (3) not-for-profit organi“It’s a very rewarding zation whose mission is nonprofit organization rather than a soto support the fight against human traf- cial get-together,” said Lou Anne Rossficking and related domestic violence is- deutscher, who manages the website sues by providing educational awareness and public relations. She explained the to schools and the community at large. heart-shaped logo with an opening at the The 11-year-old group serves the bottom means “to let the bad out and the tri-county area, working with multicul- good in.” In addition, the group’s motto is tural groups in providing short-term “Preventing and mending broken hearts.” housing and other basic needs to families. Donations are accepted to help fund Mentoring, scholarships, employment the group’s safe sheltering program, vicand referral services also are offered. The tim services, educational awareness and group donates needed funding and tan- prevention activities for schools and the gible items to at-risk youth, law enforce- community. For tickets to the Tip Your ment, regional anti-trafficking nonprofits Hat Tea, send a check to CAHT, P.O. Box and rehabilitation centers. 5491, Sun City Center, FL 33571. More Residents and business owners looking information can be found at www.scto get involved can attend the next and cblueheart.org; for the tea, click on ‘Ticklast meeting of the year on Monday, May ets to Events.’
By Linda Chion
By Sharon Still
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
May 2022
Page 5
NEWSOME JAZZ FESTIVAL WILL FEATURE ANIME-INSPIRED BIG BAND Staff Report for them to continue making music in the future with a professional group. And this particular group, will not disappoint.” So far, joining Newsome High School at the festival are jazz ensembles from Bloomingdale School, Newsome High School will host its second annual Jazz Festival, A Night Under High Brandon High the Stars 2002, on Saturday, May 7. School and Fans of live jazz East Bay High music -- and also anschool. Gates ime -- will be thrilled are currently to hear the line-up scheduled to for Newsome High open at 4:30 School’s second anp.m., but may NEWSOME HIGH SCHOOL’S nual Jazz Festival, A sooner, 2ND ANNUAL JAZZ FESTIVAL open Night Under the Stars should more 2002, taking place at schools join the the Newsome High line-up. School football stadiAttendees um on Saturday, May should bring 7. blankets and Along with perforlawn chairs so with mances by area high May 7 at 4PM they can relax school jazz bands, the Newsome High School Stadium comfortably on Orlando-based Bebop the grass at the Featuring Newsome, East B ay, B randon Bounty Big Band will and B loomingdale jazz bands ... plus stadium. Food headline the night Bebop Bounty Big Band and Food Trucks! trucks will be with a 10-piece proBring a blanket or chair! available, infessional band percluding Hawai$1 5 for adults, $5 for age 5 -1 8 FEATURING THE SOUNDS OF forming the music of Visit NewsomeBand.com/ jazzfest COWBOY BEBOP ian-style Blue the hit anime classic Coconut BBQ, Cowboy Bebop. Fans sweet treats from Uncle Louie G’s, and of the series (#spacecowboys) will want a selection of teas from HTeaO, which to sing, dance and clap along to the will be opening a shop in FishHawk this iconic soundtrack, including the opening summer. theme song Tank! Tickets are $15 for adults, and $5 for “We are thrilled to be able to once students age 5-18 (free for age 5 and again host this event for the commuunder). All performing students receive nity” said Kevin Sayers, Newsome High a free admission wristband so they can School band director. “Hearing the stay for the headliner performance. For sounds of our local students perform is tickets, final performance schedules always a thrill for the community. When and general information, visit Newyou finish the night with a fantastic someband.com/jazzfest. professional band, these same students Newsome High School is located at get to experience what it could be like 16550 FishHawk Blvd. in Lithia.
By Nitish S. Rele
nitishrele@gmail.com
OUTDOOR AFICIONADOS, ALL-NEW MAZDA CX-50 HAS ARRIVED! Nestled against high compression the backdrop of ratio to raise fuel the Santa Ynez economy, and the Mountains sits G-Vectoring Conthe American trol uses engine Riviera, i.e., the timing for more gorgeous Mediaccurate turn interranean-style puts. coastal city of We cruised Santa Barbara, on the CaliforCalifornia. It is nia highways in no wonder then the CX-50 bethat Mazda picked fore tackling the rigCX-50 (S) this California seaors of a planned offTires: 225/65/R17 side wonder, known road track made up of Wheelbase: 110.8 inches for spotless beaches, steep slopes and sharp Length: 185.8 inches sprawling ocean views, downhills. The off-road Weight: 3,706 pounds Suspension: MacPherson strut world-class wineries, mode provided plenty front, torsion beam rear enchanting gardens, of punch and control breathtaking land- Steering: power rack and pinion to hold the CX-50 in Fuel capacity: 15.8 gallons scapes and sights and check and on course. City: 24 mpg demanding but varied Mazda also provided Highway: 30 mpg terrain, to test the allus a U-Haul truck for Website: www.mazdausa.com new CX-50. a couple miles. Thanks Built at the new to the tow mode, which Mazda Toyota Manufacturing plant in can pull up to 3,000 pounds, it proved to Alabama, the compact SUV with stan- be an effortless task. dard and enhanced all-wheel drive is purA Mazda first is a panoramic moonpose-built for the active and outdoor life- roof, and it has the most standard safety style. It may convey a square and rugged features of its siblings. Ten packages are silhouette but also boasts a sporty image. offered along with such choices as a roofLower, wider and longer than the CX-5, top tent, bike/luggage/kayak carriers, the 2023 CX-50 with sport, off-road and cargo box, outdoor backpack, crossbars, tow modes delivers a confident, fun-to- surfboard attachment and many more drive feel, especially if you are going off accessories for the outdoor enthusiasts. the beaten track. Also borrowed from the CX-5 are the The CX-50 also shares powertrains and neat 7-inch instrument cluster and an 8.8 transmission with its smaller sibling. A or 10.25-inch color infotainment display. 2.5-liter, six-cylinder, naturally aspirated Base-priced at $26,800 and topping at engine puts out 187 horsepower at 6,500 over $41,000 (with hybrid and electrified rpm and 186 pounds-feet of torque at trims to follow), the CX-50 shows prom4,000 rpm; the 2.5-liter turbo blasts off ise amid the crowded compact crossover 256 hp at 5,000 rpm and 320 pounds- field of three million annual sales. With feet of torque at 2,500 rpm. Both are a peppy performance, athletic stance, mated to a six-speed auto gearbox. The top-notch interior and superior off-road ride is equipped with the direct-injection prowess, it will surely make a major dent Skyactiv, which uses a torque boost via a into the crammed market.
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Page 6
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
HILLSBOROUGH CAMBRIDGE SCHOOLS SET TO EXPAND WITH SCHOOL BOARD VOTE By Linda Chion Hillsborough and Riverview County School High Schools Board memand at Shields bers were set Middle School in to approve at Ruskin, as well their April 19 as at East Bay meeting a letHigh School in ter of approval Gibsonton, Spoto with Cambridge High School in Assessment InRiverview, Wharternational Edton and Freedom ucation (CAIE) High Schools in to expand Photo courtesy of Linda Chion. New Tampa and CAIE programs Blake, ChamberSumner High School has been a Cambridge AICE school since its inception. The program is set to excountywide. lain, Jefferson, “Since the fall pand to more Hillsborough County Public Schools. King, Leto and of 2020, Sumner Middleton High High School has been the only Cambridge Schools in Tampa. AICE high school program in HillsborSchools now with Cambridge programs ough County Public Schools,” according are Rodgers Middle Magnet School in Rivto a school district report prepared for erview, Franklin Boys and Franklin Girls school board consideration. “The Cam- Preparatory Academy Middle Schools in bridge expansion will begin in the fall of Tampa and Sumner High School at the 2022 with the addition of 13 high schools border of Balm and Riverview. and one additional middle school. This According to school officials, Sumner will allow addition students to take ad- High administered 977 AICE exams in vantage of Cambridge Lower Secondary, spring 2021. Roughly three out of four Pre-AICE and AICE courses.” exam takers received a score that qualThe Cambridge Advanced International ifies them for potential college credit. Certificate of Education (AICE) was first This school year, Sumner reportedly has awarded in 1997 and has since become 1,187 students enrolled in at least one popular with a range of schools in differ- AICE course, with school officials exent parts of the world. It encompasses pected to administer 2,474 examinations the ‘gold standard’ Cambridge Interna- this spring. Sumner offers 17 AICE and tional AS and A Level qualifications and six Pre-AICE courses with 72 and 94 secoffers students the opportunity to tailor tions, respectively. their studies to their individual interests, For more about the AICE program, visit abilities and future plans within an inter- Cambridge Assessment International Ednational curriculum framework. ucation at www.cambridgeinternational. School board members were set to ap- org, or visit www.hillsboroughcountyprove for the 2022-23 school year Cam- schools.org and search for ‘Cambridge bridge programs at Brandon, Plant City schools.’
Volume 21, Issue 5
LOCAL ROADWAY PROJECTS TRUDGE ALONG By Michelle Caceres divided road, including enhanced pedestrian, bike and bus facilities. With an estimated cost of more than $105 million, it’s still in the planning phase, which the county hopes to wrap up by 2024. Construction dates haven’t been determined. •Project #69679028 - Boyette Rd. at Dorman Rd. Intersection Improvements: Improvements are including but not limited to roundabout installation on Boyette Rd. at Dorman Rd. Bicycle and There seems to be no relief anytime soon from traffic pedestrian traffic will also be considered. congestion in Lithia. With an estimate cost of more than $4 million, it’s still in the planning phase with Congratulations, FishHawk friends, we made the top 25. Unfortunately, it’s not a list an estimated completion date of 2026. •Project #69679022 - Lithia Pinecrest of the best places to live or favorite vacation Rd. at Fishhawk Trails Dr./Hawkpark Blvd. destinations. This list is more nefarious. As of April 14, three automobile accidents Intersection Improvements: This project inwere reported at the intersection of Fish- cludes converting the unsignalized intersechawk Blvd. and Osprey Ridge Dr., earning tion to a signal with turn lane improvements. us the number 25 spot on the Hillsborough Costing approximately $1.5 million, this projCounty Sheriff’s Office’s list of intersections ect is in its construction phase, estimated to with the most accidents. While it’s a far cry be completed in mid-2022. •Project #69679022 is part of an interfrom the top spot (seven accidents were reported at both the intersections of Causeway section bundle of three intersections, which Blvd. and S. Falkenberg Rd. as well as N. Dale include locations in Plant City, Lithia and RivMabry Hwy. and Waters Ave.), we’re only erview,” said Senior Media Relations Strattalking about a two-week period, and, as of egist for Hillsborough County government Chris Wilkerson. “As of now, the substantial this writing, the month is still young. Driving in the FishHawk area is frustrat- completion is set for July 30, 2022, with final ing. You’ve probably seen me in my car on completion on August 29, 2022.” What does all this mean for residents? It one of our roads seething. We have roadway construction on almost every road out of the means more waiting for much-needed roadcommunity and more cars seem to be on the way improvements. Maybe we should all buy road every day as new homes are construct- self-driving cars so while we’re sitting in trafed at a rapid rate, and there seems to be no fic, we can catch up on our favorite Netflix shows. If your budget doesn’t allow for a verelief in sight. The following projects are slated in the hicle upgrade, guess you’ll just have to take a deep breath and watch out for other vehicles Lithia area: •Project #69649000 - Lithia Pinecrest (let’s reduce those traffic accidents) as you Rd. Corridor Improvement from Fishhawk patiently inch your way to your destination. For information, visit www.hillsboroughBlvd. to Lumsden Ave.: This is corridor improvement of Lithia Pinecrest Rd. from Ad- county.org/government/departments/pubelaide Ave. to Lumsden Ave. to a four-lane lic-works or call 813-635-5400.
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May 2022
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
TAMPA-HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY PUBLIC LIBRARY UPCOMING SUMMER AUTHOR SERIES By Tatiana Ortiz day, June 29 at 2 p.m. Those who participate will enjoy a variety of authors who write books for schoolaged readers from kindergarten through high school. These featured authors have a variety of published books that appeal to multiple reading levels too. Chely Cantrell, manager of library development at the Tampa-Hillsborough County Public Library, stated how students will beneA flyer for the Summer Author Series with Tampafit from it: “By connecting Hillsborough County Public Library. students with authors and Students searching for that next book encouraging reading for to dive into while school is out for the pleasure, this will also help combat the summer should participate in the Tam- typical “summer slide” students often pa-Hillsborough County Public Library’s experience, while also creating opporsummer series of virtual visits with ac- tunities for students and families to reclaimed children’s authors. connect with the community and public This series is presented in partnership library.” with the Hillsborough County Public Students will need a computer or moSchools’ Library Media Services, which bile device to attend these programs was selected as one of 200 libraries live through the GoTo Webinar site or nationwide to receive a $10,000 Hu- app. During each session, they will get manities Grant as part of the American a chance to interact and ask the authors Library Association’s American Rescue questions. The library has copies of the Plan. The grant will help the library de- authors’ books available to borrow out liver programs and services related to so that the participants can see the tiliterature, culture, history as well as oth- tles before the presentation. er humanities subjects. “In addition, for those who register The Summer Author Series will con- and attend will also have an opportunity sist of three free virtual events starting to get a free book by one of the authors,” on Friday, June 3 at 6:30 p.m. with au- Cantrell said. thor Kate DiCamillo, next author Kate To sign up or to learn more about othMessner on Thursday, June 16 at 2 p.m. er summer reading programs, visit hcplc. and then author Greg Neri on Wednes- org/summer.
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INTERACT CLUB OF TAMPA BAY GIVES STUDENTS AN OPPORTUNITY TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE By Tatiana Ortiz Local students It is open to the have a new way public, charter, prito give back to the vate or homeschool community this students and is the year. second communiThe Brandon ’86 ty-based group of Rotary Club sponits kind in the state sored the Interact of Florida. Club of Tampa Bay The students will for students ages also be introduced 14-18 to complete to what rotary service projects is, how it works and earn commuand much more. nity service hours Bloomingdale High School students participating Norgard said that in the Providence Blvd. cleanup, which occurred that can go toRotary can open on March 19. wards Bright Fudoors for people. tures Scholarships Connie Tritt, while learning leadership president of Brandon ’86 skills and much more. Rotary Club, expressed On March 19, the Inher excitement for the teract Club of Tampa Bay new Interact Club of partnered with Keep TamTampa Bay. pa Bay Beautiful to com“This is a great opporplete its second project. tunity for the students,” The project consisted of Tritt said. “We also hope a clean up to the road of to have around 20 to 30 Providence Blvd. between students in the Interact Bloomingdale Ave. north Club of Tampa Bay.” to the next traffic light. Interact Club of TamStudents earned a minipa Bay meets on the mum of four community first Monday of each service hours. month from 6-8 p.m. at Chad Norgard, president elect of the Rivard-Simmons Rotary Civic Center, Brandon ’86 Rotary Club, shared his located 3007 S. Kings Ave. in Brandon. thoughts behind why the club became The next meeting will be held on Monestablished: “We want to help the stu- day, May 2. Parents are also welcome to dents with ways to get community ser- attend. Food will be provided. vice hours, along with teach them how For more information, contact Norto take care of their community. We just gard at 813-454-5072 or send an email want to be that resource to assist.” to interactoftampabay@gmail.com. The Interact Club of Tampa Bay is Check out their Facebook page, www. community-based versus school-based. facebook.com/interactoftampabay.
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Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
FLORIDA LEGISLATURE PASSES BILLS WHICH AFFECT PUBLIC SCHOOL STUDENTS
By Kathy L. Collins
The 2022 Florto schools ida Legislative t h a t Session has endwere ‘not ed with a number found in of bills which diviolation rectly affect Florof emerida’s kindergargency ten through 12th rules prograde students. mulgated The Alliance for The Alliance for Public Schools advocates for students and pubby the Public Schools lishes information about legislative bills that will have sweeping D e p a r t effects on public school students. monitors edument of cation policy and educates and informs the Health related to face covering mandates public about the changes occurring in public during the 2020-21 and 2021-22 school education. year.’ Although not taking funding away According to the Alliance for Public from districts was less punitive, this means Schools, “The Legislature passed the new that 12 districts with some of the state’s state budget with record-high pre-K-12 neediest students will not be eligible for supfunding thanks in large part to money plemental funding.” provided by the American Recovery Act. Bills that take effect on Friday, July 1 Lawmakers also passed a number of bills when signed by the Governor include SB that will bring sweeping changes to public 1048 regarding Student Assessment. The schools across the state, mainly to the test- Florida Standards Assessment (FSA) will be ing and assessment system.” replaced with newly created progress moniFirst up, the Legislature passed one of the toring and testing standards. largest pre-K-12 budget increases in state HB 7 is a bill called Individual Freedoms. history. The budget includes an increase in This bill eliminates some mental health per-pupil funding. The base student allo- programs for students and restricts how cation, which determines the base level of race-related issues can be taught in public funding for a district, was also increased. school. According to the Alliance for PubThe budget specifies that $100 million in lic Schools, “This is an attempt to eliminate nonrecurring funds will be used to provide critical race theory, which has never been an increase for VPK providers who raise taught in Florida’s K-12 public schools.” all employee salaries to $15 per hour. The HB 1467 creates requirements for school Teacher Salary Increase Allocation was also districts when selecting material which are increased. placed in media centers. According to the Alliance for Public HB 461 revised the requirements to qualSchools, “Advocates successfully prevented ify for Bright Futures Scholarships. In adthe original bill language that cut $200 mil- dition to volunteer hours, students can use lion from 12 of the state’s largest districts. paid work experience as well. Instead, the Florida School Recognition ProFor more information, please visit www. gram (A-School Money), will only be granted all4schools.org.
Volume 21, Issue 5
A LOCAL TRADITION FOR 46 YEARS: WILD GAME NIGHT
By Libby Hopkins
Established in variety of expert1961, the Rotaly prepared wild ry Club of Brangame fare, indon is a part of cluding the club’s the foremost famous venison organization for chili, quail and businesspeople wild boar dishes and professionand swamp cabals committed to bage. The gencommunity and tlemen indulge international serin an authentic vice. Ybor City cigar Rotary Interrolled on-site and The Rotary Club of Brandon recently held its 46th national’s motto socialize with felannual Wild Game Night on March 11. is “Service above low hunting and self,” and this motto is why fishing enthusiasts around the Brandon club has been an open bar stocked with hosting its Wild Game Night top-shelf liquors and draft for 46 years. and craft beers. “Wild Game Night is the “This event does raise club’s biggest fundraiser,” money for local charities said Brandon Rotary member as well,” Campoamor said. and Wild Game Night Chair “The charities differ each Joe Campoamor Jr. “We had year, and one year we even to cancel Wild Game Night last year be- purchased a bloodhound for the Hillscause of the COVID-19 pandemic, but borough County Sheriff’s Office.” this year we came back strong with Some of the local charities that will more than 600 attendees and a gross benefit from this year’s Wild Game profit of about $120K.” Night are ECHO, High 5 Inc., Rotary’s This year, the event took place in March Camp Florida, Outreach Free Clinic and and saw a new location for the event. Resource Center (formerly Brandon For many years, Wild Game Night was Outreach Clinic), the Angel Foundation held at Lupton’s Boggy Bottom Ranch, a FL and a few others. “Each year, we wooded outdoor event venue located in add new charities but also support ones Plant City. “Lupton’s sold the property, from previous years,” Campoamor said. so this year we held Wild Game Night at Campoamor and the rest of the rotary Hillsborough County Fairgrounds,” Cam- are already planning Wild Game Night poamor said. “Also this year, we had to 2023. “This is a big event and takes prepare all the food, which was a lot of many months of planning,” Compoamor work but also a lot of fun.” said. “It truly is a labor of love for us.” Each year, the guys-only fundraiser To learn more about the Rotary Club attracts outdoorsmen from throughout of Brandon, visit www.brandonrotary. Hillsborough County eager to sample a org.
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Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
May 2022
CHANNING PARK NEIGHBORS ORGANIZE CANDIDATE MEET & GREET By Marie Gilmore represent the governor in your area.” According to organizer Rick Kunz, “Some months ago, a group of six of us, all neighbors in the Channing Park neighborhood, got together and decided to host a meet and greet of candidates at our neighborhood clubhouse.” Candidates were given a few minutes to present their platform and answer questions from the audiChanning Park neighbors hosted a political meet and greet with ence. eight upcoming election candidates. “The idea was to let the A small group of Channing Park candidates speak for themneighbors organized a community selves and answer questions that meet and greet of the local candidates spoke to our concerns,” said Kunz, who for the upcoming election and neigh- is also the committeeman for Precinct bors were happy to hear that South- 700 for the Republican Party. “We eastern Hillsborough County is a point were encouraging neighbors to hear of great interest for all parties. for themselves what the candidates The meeting, held at the Channing thought and then decided who best Park Clubhouse in late February, was represented their views.” attended by about 30 or so neighbors Rick, his wife, Kris, and other neighand eight candidates. The candidates bors distributed over 700 invitation included: cards to Channing Park and beyond. For the school board, there were MeThe primary election will be held on lissa Snively (District 4), up for reelec- Tuesday, August 23 with early voting tion, and both Roshaun Gendrett and from Monday through Sunday, August Aly Legge for District 6 at large. 8-21. This year’s general election will For county commissioner, there were be held Tuesday, November 8 with Joshua Wostel and Chase Harrison for early voting from Monday through District 7, Noelle Licor for District 4 Sunday, October 24-November 6. The and Donna Cameron Cespeda for Dis- deadline to register to vote for the pritrict 5. mary election is Monday, July 25. Representing Governor Ron DeSanFor more information on the upcomtis’ office was Taylor Sanchez, who ing election, candidates in your area or was happy to be included and added, about how to file to run for office, visit “I am available to the community to www.votehillsborough.com.
Page 9
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Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
Volume 21, Issue 5
LOCAL GIRL SCOUT TO EARN HIGHEST AWARD WHILE HELPING VICTIMS OF DOMESTIC VIOLENCE
By Aurora Oldman
The Girl Scout Gold Award is the highest achievement a Girl Scout can earn. To earn this award, a Girl Scout must identify an issue in her community she wishes to address, develop a solution, plan and coordinate a project to involve that solution and implement it, ensuring that it is a program that endures and continues to address the issue at hand. Only five percent of Girl Scouts earn this award nationally, and this achievement embodies all of the values and aspects of the Girl Scouting program, most notably making the world a better place. Fossil Valley Girl Scout Aurora O. of Lithia, who will be completing her 13th year of scouting and graduating from Newsome High School this month, decided to round out her Scout experience by earning this award. After much research, she decided to initiate a program that would help women who have been victims of domestic abuse and violence. Aurora wanted to provide a service to victims that would let them know that there are people who care about them, that they are not alone and that would help them get life started again, as many leave their situations with nothing more than the clothing they have on. Aurora worked with the Women’s Resource Center, operating in Polk County, creating Blessings Bags to provide an initial 50 care kits filled with personal care and hygiene items and notes of encouragement to give these women a few less things they have to think about and focus on their healing. Appealing to her community, Aurora coordinated a drive to collect donations from individuals and corporations alike, allowing her to provide a robust offering of items to address basic needs—things so many of us take for granted. Program Director Joy Kruppa, on behalf
Women’s Resource Center Program Director Joy Kruppa and Girl Scout Gold Award candidate Aurora O. of Fossil Valley Troop 621 at the Winter Haven program offices.
of the organization, was excited to work with Aurora in developing the program, helping her identify items most in need and what would be most appropriate to provide. When accepting the donation on March 21, she expressed her sincere thanks on behalf of everyone who would be receiving the items and was so happy to see a young person taking on a task like this. When asked about her experience, Aurora said, “I selected this program because victims of domestic violence are often overlooked in society—it’s a problem people don’t want to acknowledge. They know it’s happening, but they don’t want to talk about it.” A required component of the award is
The “Violence at Home Signal for Help” is a silent symbol and single hand gesture that indicates you are in need of help. This was developed by the Canadian Women’s Foundation in April 2020, and adopted by the Women’s Funding Network, to be used in video or in-person circumstances.
to create awareness and provide education about the issue being addressed. To do so, Aurora set up an Instagram account, @gsnewbeginning, which you are invited to follow. She posts statistics regularly and offers words of encouragement for everyone, along with helpful tips to help identify possible victims or even the abuse itself. According to the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence, every minute, 20 people become victims of abuse in the United States. One in four women and one in nine men have experienced abuse at the hands of partner. It is estimated that over 736 million women have been subjected to domestic violence at least once. In 2019, there were over 6,000 reported cases of domestic violence in Hillsborough County
in one year alone, as well as over 4,600 reported cases in Polk County, which has a smaller overall population than Hillsborough (source: Florida Department of Law Enforcement). Considering what it takes for survivors to come forward, the number of unreported cases is likely much higher. Victims can be of any age, any gender and are all around us, often unseen and unheard. Completing this project gave Aurora a new perspective on societal issues, making her more mindful of others and realize that not everyone has the same experience. “I realized there are a lot more people, even in my immediate community, that have been affected by domestic violence than I thought. So many people who provided donations did so because they themselves or someone they know are survivors.” “Girl Scouting has, among other things, improved my communication skills and taught me that I can make a difference. My involvement with the program since kindergarten has contributed significantly to my life, making me who I am today. I am truly grateful for all of the contributions the project has received, and it’s been an honor to be able to help these survivors,” she said. Donations are still being accepted, as the program is meant to continue. While Aurora will be going off to college in the fall, the program will continue through a Polk County organization called The Cherubs of Charity. She will continue to provide assistance in coordinating efforts, as she will be staying in state while attending college. For more information, visit www.gswcf. org and www.girlscouts.org.
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
May 2022
CARDINAL ROOFING AND SOLAR IS COMMITTED TO COMMUNITY
Page 11
NEWSOME CHORUS WINS BIG AT NASHVILLE HERITAGE FESTIVAL
By Michelle Caceres
By Sharon Still For three genera“We have sertions, the owners and vants’ hearts, and staff at Cardinal Roofit shows in the way ing and Solar Technolwe pour into our ogies trusted that the community,” she pathway to continued said, noting that success lay in listening the company also and learning from the is a big supporter previous generations. of local schools and This mindset has helped involved in several them stay open during organizations. good and bad financial “We are set For nearly 50 years, Cardinal Roofing and times. Quality craftmanapart by being loSolar Technologies has been serving the local ship coupled with small cally owned, locally community. town service are at the run and a charitacore of the company’s busible company that puts ness, and it shows. Owners into the community who Roger Jenkins, Bridget trusts us with their roofJenkins Wilson and Chad ing needs,” she explained. Curchin are committed to “We all live, work and play the local community, from where are customer base sponsoring Honor Flight is.” of West Central Florida to She warns customgiving their time and efforts to the upcom- ers about underinsured roofing companies ing Angels for Change Gala. that are knocking on doors and under-cut“We started and were successful with a ting pricing. Many people find these types truck and a pad of paper; we have grown of companies going out of business, leaving and thrived with technology and more em- a useless warranty. “We do not use scare ployees,” said Jenkins Wilson. tactics, pressure homeowners or give an Cardinal Roofing offers practical solutions estimate that could change mid-job,” said for both residents and commercial business- Jenkins Wilson. “It’s challenging for homees by repairing or replacing roofs and edu- owners to understand that we are the less cating customers about the importance of expensive company over time as we stand maintenance to increase the roof’s longevity. behind our work.” “We’re proud of our work and stand beShe added that education is a large part hind every shingle and nail,” commented of what they do. “It’s so rewarding to see Jenkins Wilson. people relax after we explain fully what is She also said that what makes her most going on, and to take the ‘scary’ out of conproud is the company’s dedication to the struction.” Cardinal Roofing is located at community, including its upcoming ninth 1312 Orangewalk Dr. in Brandon. Its office annual sporting clays event, Shoot for Those hours are 8 a.m.-5 p.m., Mon-Fri. Call 813Who Shot for U.S., benefitting veteran char- 689-7663 or visit www.cardinalroofingandities. solar.com for more information.
Newsome High School’s choral groups won big at WorldStrides’ Nashville Heritage Festival.
There are several gold mines in Tennessee, but Newsome High School Chorus students didn’t need to do any panning to strike gold. The group of 58 choral students that attended WorldStrides’ annual Nashville Heritage Festival earned enough awards to receive an invitation to the organization’s annual Festival of Gold competition as well as an invitation to perform at Carnegie Hall in New York City. Approximately 12 choirs were accepted to perform at the jam-packed, fourday festival, which included a tour of the Country Music Hall of Fame; festival performances, where a panel of adjudicators provided written and recorded feedback; clinics; and an awards ceremony and dinner. Three Newsome choirs attended the event: Chamber, ELITE Show Choir and a festival choir composed of students from several Newsome choirs. “None of the students had been on a competition trip before because of COVID, and there was a lot of excitement and anticipation leading up to the festival,” said Newsome Choral Director Jeff Bogue. “The students work hard to prepare for it, and it also helps them build
self-confidence. There are so many lessons they take from this.” Awards won included: all three choirs received the Adjudicator’s Award (earning gold ratings) for their high scores, the festival choir placed second in their division, Chamber Choir placed first in their division and earned the Outstanding Choral Group Award (with the highest combined scores of all choirs in the competition) and ELITE placed first in their division. Newsome choirs also won for having the highest combined scores of any choral program. In addition, Newsome student Alex Romero won the Maestro Award for his solo performance. The festival choir performed two selections: “I Believe” and “He’ll Make A Way.” ELITE performed three selections: “Swing Street” by Barry Manilow, “Blackbird” by The Beatles and “Peroxide Swing” by Michael Bublé. Chamber performed two selections: “Unclouded Day,” composed by Shawn Kirchner, and “The Awakening,” composed by Joseph Martin. Romero’s solo performance was “He’ll Make A Way,” composed by Byron J. Smith. Bogue was grateful for all the parents, chaperones and accompanists who made the event possible. “Thank you for all the support we receive,” he said. For more information about Newsome’s choral department, visit www.hillsboroughschools.org/newsome.
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Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
Volume 21, Issue 5
HCA FLORIDA BRANDON HOSPITAL RECOGNIZED FOR SPINE SURGERY
HEARTS & HEELS HELPS WOMEN CONNECT WITH ONE ANOTHER
HCA Florida Brandon Hospital Brandon Hospital are committed to is one of America’s getting patients 100 Best Hospitals back to a healthy, for spine surgery, active lifestyle,” according to new said Bland Eng, research released chief executive offiby Healthgrades, cer at HCA Florida the leading reBrandon Hospital. source that con“Being recognized nects consumers, for the third conphysicians and secutive time as Tien Le, MD, one of five spine surgeons at HCA health systems. one of America’s Florida Brandon Hospital, reviews a patient Every year, 100 Best for Spine chart with Katherine Lyme, Clinical Nurse Healthgrades evalSurgery is a great Coordinator in Surgical Services. For more uates hospital perhonor and speaks information the hospital’s spine program, visit formance at nearly volumes to the hcafloridabrandonhospital.com. 4,500 hospitals dedication, passion nationwide for 31 of the and talents of our spine most common inpatient care team.” procedures and condiFor its analysis, Healthtions. This is the third congrades evaluated approxsecutive year that HCA imately 45 million MediFlorida Brandon Hospital care inpatient records for has been recognized with this honor. nearly 4,500 short-term acute care hosThe hospitals that have achieved the pitals nationwide to assess hospital perHealthgrades America’s 100 Best Hos- formance in 31 common conditions and pitals for Spine Surgery Award have procedures and evaluated outcomes in demonstrated exceptional quality of appendectomy and bariatric surgery uscare. For the 2022 report to the nation, ing all-payer data provided by 16 states. Healthgrades compared America’s 100 Healthgrades recognizes a hospital’s Best Hospitals for Spine Surgery Award quality achievements for cohort-specific recipients as a group to all other hospi- performance, specialty area performance tals as a group. and overall clinical quality. Individual pro“Consumers can feel confident in the cedure or condition cohorts are designatAmerica’s 100 Best Hospitals for Spine ed as five-star (statistically significantly Surgery for their commitment to qual- better than expected), three-star (not ity care and exceptional outcomes. The statistically different from expected) and recognition helps provide peace of mind one-star (statistically significantly worse when selecting a place for care,” said than expected). Brad Bowman, M.D., chief medical officer The hospital is located at 119 Oakfield and head of data science at Healthgrades. Dr. in Brandon, FL. For more information, “The spine specialists at HCA Florida visit hcafloridabrandonhospital.com.
Women who the entrepreneur, may be seeking an bookkeeping baoutlet as they try sics as well as to maintain that social media and work-life balance marketing. The could find it quite events promote cumbersome, esa fresh and compecially without fortable style of knowing the renetworking that sources or groups organically conavailable within nects women. their community. Hearts & Heels In 2018, Hearts started with & Heels, a wom- Riverview resident Geneva Maresma, founder of eight women. Hearts & Heels and business owner of a pediatric en’s networking speech pathology practice and a copywriting studio. Since its incepgroup located tion, the group in the Greater Tampa continues to grow. Bay area, was founded In November 2021, by Riverview resident Hearts & Heels Soul Geneva Maresma, who Circle, a membership is a 16-year local busigroup, became estabness owner running a lished. Nearly 70 propediatric speech pafessionals have joined thology practice and a this paid membership, copywriting studio. which costs $297 anMaresma shared how Hearts & Heels nually. Also, more than 800 women are came into fruition: “I saw a void for in its free Facebook group, Hearts and quality women’s networking in the south Heels Tampa (formerly Hearts and Heels and east Hillsborough County areas.” Connection and Networking Group). “To add, I felt we deserved the same Do not miss an opportunity to attend access to social networking and educa- the upcoming open-invite Social Rush, a tion opportunities, “she stated. speed networking event, on Wednesday, What sets it apart would be that it May 18 from 6:30-9 p.m. at the Sweet sees each woman as a whole—her busi- Bites Baking School in Brandon. For ness, family life and mindset, commu- tickets, visit https://heartsandheels.co/ nity and relationships, all intertwined. calendar. Hearts & Heels abides by its mission of “This will be a fun evening event to work well, take care, do good and grow meet new business connections and together. It also places a big emphasis make new friends,” Maresma said. on providing affordable business and For more information, visit https:// personal development classes that are heartsandheels.co or email Maresma at taught by its members and span a vari- heartsandheelstampa@gmail.com. ety of topics, such as mental health and
Staff Report
By Tatiana Ortiz
May 2022
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
Page 13
Page 14
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
Volume 21, Issue 5
TAMPA KIDS CAMP CREATES HOPE FOR AREA FOSTER CHILDREN
OPERATION POLLINATION SEEKS COMMUNITY-BASED PROJECTS
Executive Direcneeds junior countor Scott Mulhollen selors, ages 16-17, founded Tampa Kids to help with drama Camp in 2016 after and puppets. You several years of him can apply to be a and his wife, Kris, camp counselor at serving as foster tampakidscamp. parents. With the org/counselor-applitagline “Fostering cation. Hope for the Fu“The most amazture,” the couple, ing thing about who could no lonserving at camp is Tampa Kids Camp’s Royal Family Kids ger foster children Camp is looking for volunteer counselors to the difference you due to some health help transform the lives of foster children. No can make in a fosissues, decided to ter kid’s life,” said experience is needed. create a one-week camp to keep Mulhollen. “Even though we are only themselves involved with them a week, the impact afwhile creating a way fects them for life.” to focus on the foster “It is incredible to see many of children’s needs and these kids arrive the first day of provide a safe and nurcamp, and they are totally shut turing environment. down, shy and Through what they not talking to may call divine intervention, anyone,” deshortly after, a friend from church introscribed Mulduced them to Royal Family Kids Camp, a hollen. “In just weeklong overnight camp for foster kids a day or two, ages 6-12. every camper This summer, Royal Kids Camp, a breaks out of life-changing week of camp for children their shell and becomes the kid that they who have experienced abuse, neglect and deserve to be.” abandonment, will be held from Monday, In addition to the summer Royal Kids July 18 through Friday, July 22. Camp, Tampa Kids Camp also offers Teen “What makes our camp so unique is Reach Adventure Camp (TRAC), one for that we have a ratio of one adult to ev- boys and a separate one for girls, both for ery camper.” commented Mulhollen. “This ages 12-15. The next three-day weekend allows us to really treat each camper like TRAC camps will be held during spring royalty and give them a life-changing break 2023. week of camp.” Foster families can register with Tampa He added that with about 70 campers Kids Camp directly by emailing camp@ attending the camp, the organization is tampakidscamp.org. For further inforsearching for 70 volunteer camp coun- mation, visit www.tampakidscamp.org or selors over age 18. Additionally, the camp call 813-720-7470.
At the forefront entities seeking to of Rotary Internacreate, develop and tional’s Operation execute communiPollination initiative ty-based projects of is the Hillsborough their own. HSWCD Soil & Water Coninvites people to do so servation District along with an “action (HSWCD) and Roawareness project” tary Club of Branthrough its Hillsbordon Global Eco, ough 100 Conservawhich together have tion Challenge, which signed a pledge to in April kicked off its conduct one or more Photo courtesy of Linda Chion. fifth year. projects benefiting “When you realize The ‘Our Pollinators’ boxed mural, designed pollinators over the and painted by students, was part of the Hills- the population of the next two years. butterfly borough Soil & Water Conservation District’s monarch 1,800 sq. ft. exhibit at the Florida State Fair. The Brandon club, dropped more than formerly known as 80 percent over the the Rotary Club of Branpast 20 years, and that don South, adopted its the nation’s bee count new name after Rotary dropped 45.5 percent International adopted between April 2020 and protecting the environment as its seventh April 2021, it’s very clear we have a very focus area. To receive Rotary grants, proj- serious problem that impacts every single ects must be affiliated with one of its fo- person,” said Betty Jo Tompkins, HSWCD’s cus areas, which include as well promoting executive director. peace, fighting disease, saving mothers and Tompkins also is a Rotary Club of Brandon children, supporting education, growing lo- Global Eco member, whose president, Mike cal economies and providing clean water, Meegan, spearheads his club’s Operation sanitation and hygiene. Pollination efforts. His wife, Debbie Meegan, The focus on bees, bats, birds and but- past president of the Rotary Club of Branterflies, along with other pollinators, is a don, is set to become Rotary’s District 6890 critical endeavor, given that 75 percent of governor in 2022-23, a role Tompkins filled the approximately 1,330 crop plants grown in 2001-02. worldwide for food, fiber and medicines are For more information, visit www.opepollinated by such animals and insects, ac- ationpollination.net and www.Hillsborcording to the Operation Pollination pledge oughSWCD.com. You can contact Tompkins signed by HSWCD and Rotary representa- at 813-477-8332 and bjt6890@gmail.com. tives. Visit Rotary Club of Brandon Global Eco on Operation Pollination is open to individ- Facebook @BrandonGlobalEco. The club uals, families, schools, businesses, civic and meets 6 p.m. virtually on the second and youth groups, nonprofits and government fourth Monday of the month.
By Sharon Still
By Linda Chion
(Take Out Only)
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27 Years in Brandon!
May 2022
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
Page 15
GIRL SCOUTS TRANSFORM ROOM THE RIVERVIEW WOMAN’S CLUB CELEBRATES 10TH ANNIVERSARY AND EARN SILVER AWARD By Kathy L. Collins (4th AABn) has been a part of our community for over 80 years.” “Because of this rich history that the Marines hold in our community and the incredibly demanding nature of their work, our group chose to create a space for the men and women of 4th Assault Amphibian Battalion to relax, reflect, learn and strengthen their camaraderie,” Madison explained. The room the Girl Scouts are The Girl Scouts from Troop 33101 of the Caloosa unit in Girl Scouts of West Central Florida Council, in seeking their Sil- transforming is located within a ver Award, transformed an unused room and turned it into set of buildings off to the right a small area for relaxation and reflection for the Marines of side of Gandy Blvd., before you the 4th Assault Amphibian Battalion. head over the bridge to St. Petersburg. The Girl Scouts from Troop 33101 of the Several of the girls in the troop have Caloosa unit in Girl Scouts of West Cendirect connections to military service. tral Florida Council are working toward Lourdes Reyes is the troop leader, and their Silver Award. The Silver Award is her husband is a veteran. Reyes said, “Girl the highest award a Cadette can earn Scouts are not only about arts and crafts. and only 10 percent achieve this. They learn basic skills that aid both their Ella Madison, a Cadette from Troop physical and mental health. Now they 33101, along with a group of four fellow want to do more for the community.” seventh grade Girl Scouts, are working Madison explained the project by staton a community service project with the ing, “We took an unused conference room goal of bettering the community. Accordand turned it into an amazing room full ing to Madison, the task is to turn an old of artifacts, such as sand from Iwo Jima, conference room at the 4th Assault Amuniform items and battlefield maps. We phibian Battalion into a heritage room ripped out carpet, painted, built shelves where Marines can relax in their spare and hung items. In the process, our group time. Madison said, “This is a way for us learned so much from the Marine volunto give back to those who risk so much teers. Our pride and respect for all the to protect and serve our country. It is Marines there and what they have done meant to be a place where Marines can has grown tenfold. We only hope this unwind and display their rich history.” room will mean as much to them as it Madison added, “The United State Madoes to us.” rines, 4th Assault Amphibian Battalion
By Libby Hopkins The Riverview Womfor Life to fight cancer,” an’s Club is a local Jofko said. “This year, nonprofit organization in honor of our 10th that was founded in anniversary, 10 scholApril 2012 by Donna arships will be awarded Lee Fore and Jeanne to local graduating high R. Burkeson. These two school seniors.” women had a vision to The celebration will provide scholarships take place on Wednesto Riverview students, day, May 18 from 6:30support various educa9:30 p.m. at Summertion needs and to idenfield Crossings Golf tify and support comClub in Riverview. Tickmunity outreach. The ets are $50 per person group is celebrating its and include dinner, a 10th anniversary this cash bar, an awards year. presentation, a motiThe Riverview Woman’s Club is The mission of the vational speaker and a celebrating its 10th anniversary by Riverview Woman’s surprise guest. “Sandy awarding 10 college scholarships. Club is to enrich their Murman, former Hillscommunity through fellowship and educa- borough County commissioner, will be the tional support. motivational speaker, reprising her speak“The difference between the Riverview ing engagement at the Riverview WomWoman’s Club and other clubs is that we an’s Club’s very first luncheon,” Jofko said. are business-focused,” said Club President “Various sponsorship promotional packagJill Jofko. “We have opportunities for peo- es are available and are tax deductible.” ple to promote their businesses, which The Riverview Woman’s Club Foundahelps their businesses grow and become tion Inc. awards scholarships to graduatknown in the group. Our group as a great ing seniors in Riverview, and, for members mix of women from our community.” only, scholarships are awarded to member Since the club’s mission is to support children or grandchildren with no Rivereducation, the club thought giving away view residential requirement. “I feel … one 10 $1,000 scholarships to local students of the club’s biggest accomplishments for would be a great way to celebrate the the last 10 years has been the scholarclub’s 10th anniversary. “Since our start ships we have awarded to the students in in 2012, the club has awarded 45 scholar- our community,” Jofko said. ships and supported the community, such If you would like learn more about the as by helping Rodgers Middle School start Riverview Woman’s Club or if you’d like to their STARR program, donations towards attend the 10th anniversary celebration, the fight against human trafficking, the you can visit its website at www.riverend to Alzheimer’s and support of Relay viewwomansclub.org.
Page 16
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
Volume 21, Issue 5
RESIDENTS EXPRESS FRUSTRATION OVER TENNIS CLUB MANAGEMENT CHANGE By Michelle Caceres
Starting on May 1, FishHawk Ranch Tennis Club’s management company will change from The Tennis Connection to Tipsarevic Luxury Tennis.
Greg Betza was a nonresident member of FishHawk Ranch Tennis Club for almost two years, shuttling himself, his wife and son to lessons and games. Betza hadn’t played tennis in years but wanted to get back into the sport during COVID-19. He searched the area and joined FishHawk Ranch Tennis Club because of the quality of the courts and its seasoned staff. Soon after, his wife, who has never played organized sports, started taking group lessons and fell in love with the game. His son also started taking lessons, both group and private, and joined the club’s tennis team. One day, he realized his family was spending so much time in FishHawk that they may as well live closer to the courts, so he bought a home in the neighborhood. “One of the main reasons we moved here was because we play so much tennis and it was just more convenient to live closer to the club, and the fees would be included in our CDD,” he said. The same week they moved, he received news that Dave Freiman, owner of The Tennis Connection and FishHawk Ranch Tennis Club’s director, would soon be replaced by Tipsarevic Luxury Tennis. “We were so satisfied with Dave and his staff and the way they were running the club that we were surprised that a change was being made,” he said. “We were on our way to the club when we heard the news that a new director would be coming, and when we got to the club, it was just a surreal moment. Families started showing up, and it was a moment of sadness and disbelief.” Betza had signed a petition in support of the current director, but FishHawk Ranch’s CDD board voted on the change after receiving several proposals from other companies. Proposals were submitted by Tipsarevic Luxury Tennis, Arch Amenities Group, PNW Wellness, Rizzetta Amenity, Boom Boom Manage-
ment, Scott Smith Tennis and The Tennis Connection. CDD board members voted to accept Tipsarevic Luxury Tennis’ proposal. The company was founded in 2013 and is managed by Janko Tipsarevic, who achieved a career-high singles ranking of number eight on the Association of Tennis Professionals Tour. Other clubs managed by the company can be found in Dubai, Cancun, Montenegro and Berlin. According to its proposal, the company will provide a world-class staffed tennis program for all ages and levels, a high level of customer service and satisfaction, a stocked pro shop with top-named brands, upkeep of the facility and optional exhibition matches. It offered a three-year contract that included three resident tennis professionals (a tennis director, head pro and first assistant pro) who would be paid by the CDD (a total of $60,000 a year). Thirty percent of the club’s total revenue will be paid to the CDD. CDD District Counsel Vivek Babbar said the change was necessary so the CDD would be remain in compliance with updated IRS guidelines regarding tax-exempt entities. “Because of IRS updates, we needed to make certain we were in compliance with its rules,” he said. “The CDD board was tasked with making the decision that they think is in the best interest of the district and its residents. It had to take back control over this amenity and all aspects of it.” The revenue breakdown was very favorable to the district, said Babbar. Tipsarevic begins its contract on May 1. It is already offering registration for junior and adult clinics in May as well as summer camps beginning on Tuesday, May 31. For Betza said the future of the club is uncertain, but he has hopes that the new director will offer the same level of great service he’s come to expect from the club. “I’m hoping for the best,” he said. “But if it doesn’t work out here, it’ll be a shame, but we’ll have to look elsewhere for a tennis program.” For more information about Tipsarevic Luxury Tennis, visit www.tipsarevicluxurytennis.com. For more information about FishHawk Ranch CDD, call management company Halifax Solutions’ president, Eric Dailey, at 813-575-1955.
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May 2022
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
FATHER BRAD REED MAKES HIS NATIVITY CHURCH SERVICES ENGAGING AND INTERACTIVE
Page 17
NEW BOOSTER PUMP STATION CONSTRUCTION MEANS ROAD CLOSURES By Brad Stager
By Lily Belcher
In January of 2021, “I believe that Father Brad Reed joined Christ didn’t become a Nativity Catholic Church human being to teach to serve the members us how to become of the congregation God, he taught us how and lead the young stuto truly be human, dents at Nativity Cathand so I have a very olic School to devoted earthy and humble relationships with God. incarnational spirituReed, who was ordained ality,” said Reed. in 2016, aims to engage Reed aims to be the school of young Cathan approachable role olics and make his sermodel for the students vices interactive, which at Nativity because he he does through jokes, Father Brad Reed uses a unique wants to show them riddles and questions. He style of preaching for the students that God, too, is apof Nativity Catholic School. includes parodies of wellproachable. His misknown songs, such as Michael Jackson’s sion and influence don’t just extend to “Man in the Mirror” and Bon Jovi’s “Livin’ those sitting in the pews for Mass each on a Prayer,” to catch his congregation’s day, as Reed is active around campus, atattention and make his messages mem- tending student athletic events and even orable. hosting a fantasy football league among “My message is a little bit simpler and the staff. more direct with the kids, and it involves He attended Nativity’s annual Burying more real-life, concrete examples than it of the “Alleluia” this year as well and apdoes in a regular Sunday Mass when I’m plauded the tradition, saying the remindpreaching to a diverse group,” Reed said er has helped him remember not to say about the Wednesday morning church the word during the season of Lent. He services for the students. also said that he was also struck by the Reed makes himself available to teach parish’s genuine devotion and reverence religion classes, specifically about the and explained that it drew him to Nativsacraments, during school hours. He has ity. talked specifically to the second grade “I’m super grateful to be a part of such class to calm their nerves ahead of their a wonderful, supportive, faithful, diverse first reconciliation and communion in community. I think [Nativity’s] diversity May. Nativity is his third assignment is what really means the most to me,” since being ordained to the priesthood, said Reed. “Despite the different [demobut he had the opportunity to teach reli- graphics], they all seem to get along and gion classes at his prior parishes and has it just meshes well, … its inspiring.” extended that experience to Nativity’s For more on Nativity Catholic Church, classrooms. visit nativitycatholicchurch.org.
Tampa Bay Water’s new booster pump station in Brandon is designed to help keep up with the water needs of a growing population while blending into the neighborhood along S. Mount Carmel Rd.
A new water supply booster station under construction will go a long way in helping to keep up with the water supply needs of the growing population in Southern Hillsborough County, but the promise of a reliable water flow from taps and spigots comes with a bit of traffic inconvenience for some residents. Construction of Tampa Bay Water’s Brandon Booster Station requires closing of S. Mount Carmel Rd. between Lumsden and Durant Rds. during certain phases of the work. According to a news release, Tampa Bay Water anticipates three periods of road closures, with the first one occurring now until about Saturday, May 21. Access to S. Mount Carmel Rd. will be maintained for residents with through-traffic rerouted on Durant, Lumsden, and Valrico Rds. Mandalay Rd.is also closed to through traffic because it is a narrow residential street. The closures allow installation of pipelines along S. Mount Carmel Rd. that will connect the utility’s water transmission main on Durant Rd. to the new booster station. The new booster station will increase the volume of water delivered to the Hillsbor-
(Ages K-5)
ough County Lithia Water Treatment Plant by 5-7 million gallons of water daily. Nearby residents should not notice the booster station once it is operating, according to information on Tampa Bay Water’s website, which describes the facility as an approximately 6,500 -squarefoot building that will house pumps and electrical equipment. A construction rendering shows a design that would not be out of place in a suburban office park or residential area. Landscaping is designed to minimize the station’s presence, and lighting will be configured to provide security with minimal illumination beyond the property. The cost of the project is $19.8 million with construction expected to continue through late 2023. Projects like the booster station are needed to meet the water needs of the region, according to Justin Fox, an engineering manager for Tampa Bay Water, who compared the water pressure boost the facility will provide to what happens when turning on the faucet at home. “If you have a lot of pressure when you turn it on, more water’s going to come out of that faucet,” he said during a public online meeting about the project in February. “We’re going to boost pressure so that we can get more water to residents that need it.” You can learn more about the Brandon Booster Station project by visiting tampabaywater.org.
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Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
HIGH-GROWTH HILLSBOROUGH CONNECTS WITH HIGH-GROWTH PICKLEBALL By Linda Chion Pickleball is ing sport for picking up with adults,” MacKexpansion plans enzie said. Addin Hillsborough ing new courts County that inand turning clude adding existing tennis courts or ducourts into dual-striped courts al-striped courts to parks in Branfor pickleball “is don, Bloomingsomething we’re dale, Plant City, recommendProgress Vil- The pickleball courts at the Bertha and Tony Saladino ing to meet the lage, Seffner, Park in Brandon are part of a $900,000 upgrade reviewed growing needs of by Hillsborough County commissioners in March. Springhead, the county.” Tampa, Thonotosassa and Wimauma. Proposed for the county’s fiscal year The courts at the Bertha and Tony Saladi- 2023 budget, which starts on October 1, no Park in Brandon are part of a $900,000 is roughly $3 million in funding, which inupgrade reviewed by Hillsborough County cludes pickleball courts for Branchton Park Commissioners in March. With funds from in Thonotosassa, Higginbotham Park in Hillsborough County Parks impact fees, the Seffner, Progress Village Park, Balm Park project calls for replacing one of the park’s in Wimauma, Springhead Park in Plant City, two basketball courts with two pickleball Westwood Lakes Park in Tampa and the courts, building a new basketball court, ex- Northlakes Sports Complex. panding the parking lot and adding sports According to MacKenzie, courts are unLED lighting for nighttime playing, storm- der construction at Town ’N Country Park water improvements and self-paced fitness and currently exist at Bloomingdale East zones. Park, Keystone Park and Northlakes. Du“This is a very popular park for residents al-striped locations are on tap as well for who live in the area,” said Jason MacKen- Bloomingdale West Park, North Brandon zie, park planner and development manag- Sports Complex, Heather Lakes Sports er for Hillsborough County Parks & Recre- Complex, Fawn Ridge Park in Tampa, Nye ation. “Outside of its dog park and walking Park in Lutz and the Roy Haynes Park and trail, the park needed more amenities to Recreation Center in Tampa. round it out.” Meanwhile, pickleball options include Pickleball, a sport for all ages and abili- courts at High 5 Inc. in Brandon and the ties, is a cross between tennis, table tennis, FishHawk Pickleballers in Lithia. racquetball and badminton. For more, visit www.hillsboroughcounty. “There’s always been an interest in pick- org, www.fishhawpickleball.com and www. leball since it became the fastest-grow- high5inc.org.
Volume 21, Issue 5
CHECK OUT THE 2022 COMMUNITY WATER WISE AWARDS PROGRAM
By Lynn Barber
Does your landAttaching a scape have what photo or two is it takes to win? helpful. On-site Enter today to landscape evalfind out! uations will be The 2022 Comscheduled and munity Water conducted in Wise Awards, July and August sponsored by with homeownTampa Bay Waers and business ter, were created owners. Winning to recognize indientries will reviduals and busi- The 2022 Community Water Wise Awards, sponsored ceive a beautinesses commit- by Tampa Bay Water, are open to applications this ful, handmade, ted to conserving mosaic stepmonth. our water reping-stone for sources and prohomeowners or a tecting the enviplaque option for ronment by using businesses. Florida-Friendly Today is a great Landscaping™ time to complete (FFL) principles. and submit your There are nine application. We FFL principles, hope to receive which include: your entry soon. right plant, right Thanks in adplace; water efvance for parficiently; fertilize ticipating. If you appropriately; have questions mulch; attract regarding the wildlife; manage yard pests responsibly; Tampa Bay Water Community Water recycle; reduce stormwater runoff; and Wise Award program, please contact me protect the waterfront. Many of these at 813-744-5519, ext. 54105 or email principles are used as part of the land- me at barberL@hcflgov.net. scape evaluation process for this awards For more information about the Floriprogram. da-Friendly Landscaping™ Program, asYou can view photographs and watch sistance with gardening and irrigation short videos of past winners at https:// system-related questions, contact the awards.tampabaywaterwise.org/. The UF/IFAS Extension Hillsborough County deadline for entries is Thursday, June at 813-744-5519 and visit our website 30. Complete your application now, at http://sfyl.ifas.ufl.edu/hillsborough/ which will take about five to 10 minutes, upcoming-events/ for upcoming workthen submit online at the link above. shops.
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
May 2022
SOUTHERN CONSTRUCTION TEAMS UP WITH 100-DAY DREAM HOME
By Sharon Still
The Valrico-based Southern Construction recently joined with the HGTV show 100-Day Dream Home to turn dreams into reality for Valrico residents.
The Valrico-based Southern Construction recently joined with the HGTV show 100-Day Dream Home to turn dreams into reality for a fellow resident new to the Valrico area. Southern Construction has been in business since 2015 building custom homes throughout Central Florida, including Hillsborough, Polk, Pasco, Pinellas and Manatee counties. 100-Day Dream Home with locals Mika and Brian Kleinschmidt, both graduates of Riverview High School and owners of Dirt 2 Design, is in its third season on HGTV. Mika, the realtor, and Brian, the developer, join with local designers and builders to create each client’s dream home in 100 days or less. As the featured builder in a March episode, Southern Construction Owner Blair Johnson said he is excited about this opportunity and adds that if the show is picked up for season four, Southern Construction hopes to be a part of future episodes. With a shortage of supplies on every-
thing from lumber to lighting supplies, Johnson explained that his company aims to procure materials in anticipation of need as not to delay construction. “We pre-purchase windows, cabinets, tresses and whatever we can to set us up for success,” he said. The episode that aired on March 14, “A New Chapter,” left viewers teary-eyed after the unveiling of the 3,200 sq. ft. home for a widowed, single mother of three, whose dream is to start a career in the culinary field. Noting the homeowner’s goal of becoming a chef, the kitchen serves as the center piece of the home. “My house is absolutely beautiful,” said homeowner Tabatha Copper. She hopes to finish her culinary studies and start a career as a personal chef, doing meal prep and catering. 100-Day Dream Home airs on HGTV Sunday nights at 8 p.m. Past episodes, like the one featuring Southern Construction as the builder, can be viewed on Discovery+. For more information about 100-Day Dream Home visit www.hgtv. com. Southern Construction is a certified VA homebuilder and can be reached at 813-848-4213.
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Page 19
GET THE DIRT:
LIMITATIONS TO LAZY GARDENING BY LYNN BARBER, FLORIDA-FRIENDLY LANDSCAPING™ AGENT A recent article covversus a beneficial inered how you can have sect. If you must, use a beautiful landscape a nonchemical and while maintaining a least-toxic product. lazy gardener lifestyle. Spot-treat plants as This one explains the needed, not the entire limitations to lazy garlandscape. dening. Lazy Pest ManageMulch: It takes a litment (LPM) Alternatle work to put it down, Photo courtesy of Jaclyn Rivas. tives: Use two pinchbut it saves a lot of time Lynn Barber illustrates how lazy garden ing fingers to squish ing can limit your results. and effort in the long pests, hard-spray with run. Mulch regulates water and/or prune soil temperature, adds off infested sections organic value, inhibits and place those secweeds and retains soil tions in your housemoisture. Pine bark, hold trash, not your pine straw/needles, yard waste, which eucalyptus, melaleuca could be recycled elseand leaves are good where. For more info options. Cypress is not on nonchemical solubecause when cypress tions, go to: ‘Ask IFAS’ stands are cut down Managing Yard Pests. for mulching, the habInefficient Irrigaitat of native birds and tion: If you have an animals is destroyed. in-ground irrigation Fertilizing: First system, do you have and foremost, read broken heads, plants the fertilizer ordinance or other materials for your county so you blocking the spray know when you can pattern, and/or a rain fertilize. Use slow-reshut-off device that lease fertilizer. To be really lazy, don’t fertil- does not work? Do you have program A, ize until you are sure of light rain for activa- B and C set to run subsequently? Are the tion. Water-based fertilizers leach through times that are set for each irrigation zone the soil after rain or irrigation. appropriate? Is your water bill for more Why Prune? Reasons to prune include than 20,000 gallons of water per month? training the plant to grow in a certain di- If yes and if you are a Hillsborough County rection and improving health by removing water customer, call Paula Staples at 813diseased stems, creating better air circula- 744-5519, ext. 54142 to see how she may tion; increasing flowering, allowing for big- be able to help you decrease your water ger fruit on some types and more abundant usage. foliage; being able to restrict growth and Right Plant, Wrong Place: Site conkeep the plant in the boundary of available ditions are very important when making space; and you can remove dead flower plant selections. Consideration should be heads from a plant to encourage further given to light (sun/shade), soil pH and texblooming. ture, water, wind and other conditions. An War on Weeds: A weed is the wrong invasive plant is never the right plant in any plant in the right place, right plant/wrong place. Not sure if it’s invasive? Go to ‘Ask place or a plant with nine lives. Using mulch IFAS’ Assessment of Non-Native Plants in (depth 2-3 inches after it settles) helps. If Florida’s Natural Areas. You have the ‘opyou chose to fight the weed war, you can portunity’ to move the right plant to the cover weeds with newspapers to smother right place in your landscape, or you can them and/or point, aim and squeeze with an take the time and expense of replacing it environmentally friendly weed killer spray. after it dies. Pests—Biting, Sucking and Chewing: Rewards of Laziness: Reading, golfing, We have aphids, caterpillars, slugs, snails, sleeping, cooking, crafting, outings with scales and spider mites. Less than one per- family and friends, more gardening, attendcent of all bugs are bad bugs. “When we kill ing an Extension workshop … your choice. off the natural enemies of a pest, we inherit Lynn Barber is the Florida-Friendly Landtheir work,” said entomologist Carl Huffak- scaping™ agent for UF/IFAS Extension er. The first step, however, is to properly Hillsborough County. Contact her at labaridentify the insect to be sure it is a pest ber@ufl.edu.
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Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
Booster Club, Genealogy, Free Concert, Classes & More... Compiled by Jenny Bennett jbennett@ospreyobserver.com
543,129 visitors to take part in concerts, livestock shows, free entertainment, rides, food, arts and crafts vendors and more. “We had a phenomenal run, and we are truly thankful,” said Florida Strawberry Festival President Paul Davis. “We had good weather, terrific crowds and everyone seemed to be enjoying time with their families.” The 2023 Florida Strawberry Festival will be held from March 2 through March 12. For more information, visit www.flstrawberryfestival.com.
Riverside Jukebox Swing Band Durant Athletic Booster Club Playing Free Concert Riverside Jukebox Swing Band (RJSB) is General Meeting Durant High School’s Athletic Booster Club will be holding its general meeting on Monday, May 9 at 7 p.m. in its media center. It is seeking additional board members for the new school year. If you are interested, please email durantboosters@gmail.com by Thursday, May 5 to have your name submitted.
GFWC Brandon Junior Woman’s Club Bunco
a new band formed to entertain the SouthShore community with music from the big band era to the 1980s. Audiences love to dance, and the music covers multiple dance styles from cha-cha to polka with plenty of ballads to slow dance to. RJSB has 16 musicians, including saxophonists, trumpeters, trombonists and a rhythm section. The band is playing a free concert/dance at Redeemer Lutheran Church, located at 701 Valley Forge Blvd. in Sun City Center, on Wednesday, May 18 at 7 p.m. Donations to the church’s food bank are encouraged.
The GFWC Brandon Junior Woman’s club Healthy Habits Classes At Hope is hosting a bunco fundraiser on Thursday, May 12 from 6 p.m. at The Bridges, located at For Her Hope for Her has a mission to help 11202 Dewhurst Dr. women and their families in crisis find in Riverview. Bring stability and live their best lives. It aca friend and enjoy an complishes this through support and edevening of fun with ucation. Every Monday evening, it holds refreshments, raffle free classes from 6:15-7:30 p.m. on a vabaskets, a 50/50 riety of subjects at 140 Yarbrough Rd. in drawing and prizes. Brandon. To register for a class, call 813Tickets are $20 and 309-3357. available until Sunday, May 8 at www.gfwOn May 2 and 9 feature a two-part Emcbrandonjuniors.org. There are limited seats powerment Workshop titled ‘Reset: Live so get your tickets today. Your Life.’ Sandy Velapoldi and Gheri Hicks will give practical tools for budgeting and
South Bay Genealogy Society Meeting
HOW THE MILLAGE REFERENDUM COULD HELP OUR COMMUNITY By Superintendent Addison Davis Since arriving in March 2020 as the superintendent of Hillsborough County Public Schools, my team and I have worked diligently to overcome financial challenges that have plagued this district for close to a decade. I am proud to state by the end of this fiscal year, Hillsborough County Public Schools is slated to overcome a $150 million deficit, realizing a more stable financial stature that will translate into a brighter future for our organization and most importantly for our students. We emerged from this financial shortfall in part by making difficult staffing decisions at all levels that undoubtedly had an impact on children. Florida is ranked 43rd in per-pupil funding, leaving many school districts like ours without adequate funds to recruit and retain highly qualified teachers as we all contend with rising inflation that is leaving educational systems with severe staffing shortages. Our school board has taken my recommendation to place a millage referendum on the Tuesday, August 23 ballot that would provide an estimated $126 million per year over four years to our district if approved. If this measure passes, 75 percent of this money would go toward providing salary increases for teachers and support staff. We realize the crucial role our educators play in the lives of our children and families, and we must continue
On Tuesday, May 17, the South Bay Genealogical Society will meet at the United Methodist Church of Sun City Center’s Life Enrichment Center, located at 1210 W. Del Webb Blvd. in Sun City Center. An optional round table discussion begins at 10:30 a.m. followed by a sit-down luncheon at 12 Noon. Amy Lay will be the guest speaker and present Fold 3: Command and Conquer, a walk through the basics and then give additional tips, information and shortcuts on using the military records in genealogical research. The cost is $15 for the meal and presentation. For reservation and meal choice, call Diane Loudermilk at 864-6071330.
handling the legal consequences of medical emergencies. The workshop goals are to educate women on handling money and how a medical crisis can affect their families and finances, how to develop a budget that can be readily implemented in their lives and how to create valid, immediately effective designations of health care surrogate and living wills for each woman present. Class times are 6:15-7:45 p.m. On May 16, there will be ‘Functional Fitness with Amanda,’ where you can learn relaxing stretches and healthy lifestyle techniques. Florida Strawberry Festival An- On May 23, there will be ‘Make Stress Work for You!’ With it, you can learn to idennounces Record Attendance The 87th annual Florida Strawberry Fes- tify major stresses like change, conflict, crittival ended in March with an outstanding icisms, concerns and crisis, as well as learn attendance record. The 11-day event drew about stress relief.
FishhawkTrails Trails 2021 2022 Garage Fishhawk GarageSale Sale Saturday, May 21st, 2022 Saturday, September 18th, 2021 9am (1 Day Only) 9:00 am- -2pm 2:00pm (1 Day Only) (7:30 am – 9:00 am for community residents only)
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Volume 21, Issue 5
L09000082276
to examine proactive solutions to illustrate their importance to our community and its collective success. If approved, the additional funds would also be utilized to expand art, music and PE for our youngest learners, offering equitable access across all grade bands. These funds would also provide us a unique chance to elevate our workforce development programs to develop a talent pipeline for students in medical, construction and logistics-related fields. You may be wondering how this would impact you if approved. Using a $300,000 property value as an example, the millage increase would translate to an additional $22.92 per month, or $275 per year, for a homeowner. Hillsborough is the only large school district in the state that has not passed a millage increase. Taxpayers in 21 Florida counties have approved this additional funding source to offer competitive teacher salaries while creating innovative experiences for learners. While we understand the referendum may be a heavy lift for some families in a time of such uncertainty, it has the potential to make an enormous difference in the lives of our teachers, staff, students and families. I encourage community members to vote on August 23. We will work together to proactively problem-solve in order to create a brighter future for our students and community as a whole.
May 2022
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
OVER 500 POSITIVE REVIEWS SHOW PEOPLE LOVE ADVANCED ORAL SURGERY OF TAMPA IN VALRICO
By Sharon Still
Dr. Thomas Backeris recently joined Advanced Oral Surgery of Tampa’s Valrico office, and the staff said people love him.
The light and cheerful atmosphere at Advanced Oral Surgery of Tampa in Valrico is intended to take the fear out of going to the dentist. As evidenced by the more than 500 positive Google reviews with words like ‘professional,’ ‘friendly’ and ‘kind’ throughout, even by people with self-proclaimed fear of the dentist, people love it. “We realize that people are scared to visit the dentist, so we do what we can to create a more cheerful environment,” said Terry Brown, business manager. At Advanced Oral Surgery of Tampa in Valrico, Dr. Jason Edwards and Dr. Thomas Backeris specialize in wisdom teeth removal, dental implants, complete teeth replacement (full arch) under IV sedation as well as other oral surgery needs using the latest techniques and advanced training. “Many dental practices offer limited tooth extractions or implants,” Brown added. “We specialize in these areas with outstanding patient care.” Dr. Edwards has extensive training in
facial trauma, pathology and reconstruction; anesthesia; craniofacial surgery; bone grafting; dental implants; and surgical dental extractions. His love for his job led him to participate in cleft lip and palate surgical missions in Mexico to benefit underprivileged children. “We manage each case … individually and customize treatment,” commented Dr. Edwards. “What remains consistent is treating each patient and family with care, dignity and compassion.” “Dr. Thomas Backeris joined last summer and is developing a very strong reputation for skill and care,” said Brown. He trained extensively in anesthesia, facial trauma and reconstruction, pathology, orthognathic surgery, complex bone grafting, dental implants and surgical dental extractions. “We are continually upgrading our technology, such as digital scanning to avoid the discomfort and time with traditional impressions,” added Brown. “We are growing and expect to add surgeons in the near future,” noting a newly acquired location in South Tampa. Advanced Oral Surgery of Tampa’s state-of-the-art Valrico office is at 2922 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. It is open Monday through Thursday, 8 a.m.-5 p.m., and on Friday, 8 a.m.-3 p.m. For more information, call 813-452-6380 or visit www.valricooralsurgery.com and www.advancedoralsurgerytampa.com.
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Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
ALL SEASONS WEALTH HELPS WITH LONG-TERM FINANCIAL GOALS & SUCCESS
By Michelle Caceres
Everyone makes both the good plans, but mostly times and bad.” short-term plans, Working with a like what’s on financial advisor the dinner menu means having a or where they’re partner to act as headed for summer a guide through vacation. While the complex and these plans give us ever-changing fiimmediate gratifinancial landscape, cation, one type of answer questions planning is crucial about particular to achieving longinvestments or just term financial sucoffer advice during cess. traffic life events. Jason DiMeo, DiMeo’s designachartered finantion as a CFA means All Seasons Wealth financial advisor Jason DiMeo cial analyst (CFA) he has expertise in helps clients achieve their financial goals. with All Seasons financial research, Wealth, said a comprehensive financial plan portfolio management, investment consulthelps his clients meet their individual goals. ing, risk analysis and risk management. While not as easy to procure as a pizza or A Clearwater native, DiMeo served in the airline tickets, establishing financial goals Marine Corps for four years then moved and creating a plan of action to meet those back to Florida to attend The University goals ensures smooth financial transitions of Tampa, where he studied finance and through all phases of life. accounting. He joined All Seasons Wealth With a range of services including asset in 2010 after working at Goldman Sachs, management, financial planning, estate PricewaterhouseCoopers and Merrill Lynch. planning and retirement planning, DiMeo He currently resides in Lithia with his wife, can use your current income, savings and in- Iris, and three children. vestments and project what clients will have He realized he wanted to work with indiwhen they’re ready to retire. vidual clients after experiences in his youth Even with a solid financial plan in place, taught him the importance of budgeting he said it’s important to foster one key trait and making prudent money management to reach your financial goals: discipline. “You decisions. need to have tremendous fortitude to look “I enjoy teaching and partnering with out over a time horizon that could span de- others as they journey along their financial cades and say, ‘Hey, I need to take these ac- path,” he said. tions today for a better future,’” he said. “In For more information about All Seasons addition to that, you also need the strength Wealth, visit www.allwealth.com or call and drive to keep the plan going through 813-490-6610.
Volume 21, Issue 5
VALRICO CHAMBER AWARDS SCHOLARSHIPS TO SENIORS
By Kate Quesada
Four local high obtain his captain’s school students license and evenhave a head start tually captain a after graduation tugboat. thanks to a local Littlefield is a organization. The new student at Valrico FishHawk Lennard and has Chamber of Commade a big impact. merce (VFCC) reHis teachers said cently awarded he is an outgoing, The Valrico FishHawk Chamber of Commerce scholarships to funny and hard(VFCC) recently awarded scholarships to four gradufour graduating ating seniors: Ashton Kitchiner and Madison Gioven- working student. seniors: Ashton co from Newsome High School and Connor Newell He is originally Kitchiner and Madfrom Alabama and and Levi Littlefield from Lennard High School. ison Giovenco from brings his patentNewsome High School as well as Connor ed mix of charm and work ethic to any acNewell and Levi Littlefield from Lennard tivity that he tackles. High School. Kitchiner is graduating in the top 1 perThe students received scholarships for cent of his graduating class at Newsome. He $750 at a college, university or vocation- volunteered over 275 hours with the Tampa al-technical college at the chamber’s April Sailing Squadron teaching young children meeting. and teens how to sail. He is a member of the According to Dr. Bob Lutz, owner of Mo- Newsome Lacrosse team, club lacrosse and tion ChiroTherapy and scholarship chair at is a lacrosse official. He was awarded the the VFCC, Newell and Littlefield are involved Top Male Scholar-Athlete Award in his sein Ring Power’s ThinkBIG program. nior year. He will be attending the University “They will alternate every eight weeks be- of Florida in the fall, and his goal is to pursue tween classroom instruction at South Geor- at least a master’s degree and own a large gia Technical College and a paid internship at business. a Ring Power branch, putting their schooling Giovenco volunteered over 88 hours at orinto practice with on-the-job training,” said ganizations including Girls With Confidence Dr. Lutz. “Upon successful completion of the and the Arlington Retirement Center during program, they will receive an associate de- high school at Newsome. She is a Newsome gree in applied technology.” Basketball and Track team member and Newell has been a member of the Len- played club lacrosse. She held a part-time nard Ag Department, National Honor Soci- job while serving in many various clubs and ety and FFA and has volunteered for over organizations. She will be attending Florida 40 hours with various organizations. He is State University in the fall, and her goal is an accomplished marine fiberglass repair to major in biological sciences and attend eitechnician and has been employed at Little ther veterinary school or med school. Harbor Marina since his freshman year. His For more information about VFCC, visit goal is to become a marine diesel technician, https://valricofishhawk.org.
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May 2022
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
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Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
Volume 21, Issue 5
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!
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Bloomingdale/FishHawk
May 2022, Vol. 21, Iss. 5
MICHELANGELO’S SISTINE CHAPEL EXHIBIT APRIL 29-JUNE 29 MORE INFORMATION ON PAGE 33
Randy Stolberg Joins nity. To learn more Citizens Bank & Trust about Alley Cat Pest Randy Stolberg has Control, visit www. recently joined Citizens alleycatpestcontrol. Bank & Trust as a first com or call 813-671vice president and market 3838. executive for the Valrico/ Brandon market. A FlorMission BBQ Celida native and 18-year ebrates Armed resident of the area, StolForces Week berg has over 25 years of Mission BBQ is well Alley Cat Pest Control recently celebrated its 15th banking experience and known for supporting anniversary with a ribbon-cutting from the Greater extensive knowledge of our military and veterRiverview Chamber of Commerce. the banking needs for both ans. Armed Forces Day small and large business- Randy Stolberg recently joined balances in your body and this year will take place es, and he is committed to Citizens Bank & Trust in Valrico. customizing a stretch routine on Saturday, May 21 and Mission BBQ is celdeveloping long-term relationships with his that is just for you. There are a lot of different ebrating with its own Armed Forces Week. clients. The Valrico office is located at 1016 benefits from stretching, and some include: Each branch of the military will be increased flexibility and range of motion, im- celebrated on its own day with a Bloomingdale Ave. proved posture, reduced stress and improved free sandwich for active duty and sports performance. StretchLab is locatStretchLab Opens In Brandon veterStretchLab is a unique wellness concept, ed at 11235 Causeway Blvd. in Brandon. ans of offering customized assisted stretch ses- More information can be found at www. t h a t sions. No two bodies are the same, and no stretchlab.com/location/brandon or by b ra n c h two stretches at StretchLab are the same. calling 813-734-8687. You can also follow followed by a free One-on-one stretching is about identifying it on Facebook @stretchlabbrandon. sandwich for all the tightness and imactive duty and Alley Cat Pest Control Celebrates 15veterans on SatYear Anniversary urday. Their days Alley Cat Pest Control recently celebratare: Army on ed its 15th anniversary with a ribbon-cutting Monday, May 16, Marine Corps on Tuesday, from the Greater Riverview Chamber of Com- May 17, Navy on Wednesday, May 18, Air merce. It is a full-service company specializ- Force and Space Force on Thursday, May 19, ing in integrated pest management for the Coast Guard on Friday, May 20 and everyone prevention of unwanted pests in your home on Saturday, May 21. Mission BBQ is locator business. Family-owned and operated, and ed at 1504 W. Brandon Blvd. in Brandon. named after the beloved family cat, Alley Cat More information can be found at www.misPest Control proudly serves the local commu- sion-bbq.com or by calling 813-830-9618.
Jason Edwards DMD
Adogable Pet Services Seeking Experienced Groomer Adogable Pet Services is an established, locally owned business based in Sun City Center, and it is looking for experienced dog groomers to join its team. “We are not just highly trained groomers, we are consultants for the well-being of your pet,” said Owner Laura Rubin. Adogable Pet Services is located at 4884 Sun City Center Blvd. in Sun City Center. For more information, call 813-419-4972 or visit its website at www.adogablepets.com. Winn-Dixie Grocery Stores Donate To Ukraine Southeastern Grocers Inc., parent company of Winn-Dixie grocery stores, is extending support to the citizens of Ukraine with a donation of more than $1.1 million worth of cleaning and sanitation supplies, personal protective equipment and nonperishable food items to Mission 823. Anthony Hucker, president and CEO of Southeastern Grocers, said “At Southeastern Grocers, we always put people first, whether they are in our fivestate footprint or across the globe. We refuse to stand idle when the people of Ukraine are in urgent need.” Mission 823 is a humanitarian nonprofit organization on the ground in Ukraine that seeks to help and protect at-risk children.
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Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
BUSINESS COLUMN CONTINUED... The White Oak Cottage Opens New Bistro White Oak Cottage Boutique is located at 10530 S. County Rd. 39 in Lithia. It is a destination where you can enjoy shopping, dining and drinking in more than 5,000 square feet. The boutique is full of unique items that Owners Melanie Bentley-Montanaro and Shaunessy Dobish take time cultivating, and there is truly something for everyone. It also offers a design services and catalog shopping if you do not find just the right piece in the shop. You can either start or finish your visit at the restaurant, where your experience will be just as unique
as the experience in the boutique. It offers gourmet sandwiches, flatbreads, harvest salads, soups, cheese and charcuterie, wine, beer and more. The menu is full of exceptional food that you cannot find anywhere else, and when you pair it with wine brought in from the Pacific Northwest, it is quite the experience. For more information, visit www.thewhiteoakcottage.com or call the boutique at 813-650-0054 and the bistro at 813-308-9994. Cigars On The Boulevard To Host Several Events In May Cigars on the Boulevard is busy hosting several events this month. On Saturday, May 21, there is a Browns Backers event hosting former NFL players from 4-8 p.m. Tickets are $200. It is also sponsoring a charity shoot-out event being held at Gun Craft
Inc., located at 2102 24th St. SE. in Ruskin on Sunday, May 29, beginning at 8 a.m. The event benefits Veterans to Veterans and is
$30 to enter, including the range fee and a cigar with a glass of beer or wine following the event. Tuesday, May 31 is Memorial Day, so that is when it will honor and remember our fallen with a roll call and celebration of life. Stop by to add your loved one’s name to its Wall of Honor. Cigars on the Boulevard is located at 1438 Apollo Beach Blvd. in Apollo Beach. Visit its website at www.cigarsotb. com or call 813-296-1016 for more information on any of the events mentioned. Wise Wings Life Skills Development Program Opens Wise Wings is a preteen life skills development program for children ages 9-12. It meets one day per week in fourweek sessions and focuses on developing skills in problem-solving, leadership, responsibility, task ownership and building and maintaining friendships. This is achieved through participating in various fun activities. Classes are held at 5919 Chert Hill Ln. in Lithia and are currently held on Saturday from 1-4 p.m., and if interest grows, additional classes will be added. For more information, email wisewingsworks@gmail.com or call 203465-2599.
Volume 21, Issue 5
IT’S ALL ABOUT COMMUNITY & PATIENTS FOR DR. ANDREW DALEY By Sharon Still Finding a good doctor its, plus new patients is of utmost importance. ages 18 and older are One is Dr. Andrew Daley of currently being acDaley & Associates Prime cepted. Medical of Tampa Bay, Also high on Daley’s who is dedicated to bringlist is security and ing world-class service protecting patients’ and personalized care to identities. Daley & every one of his patients. Associates adheres “Dr. Daley is passionate to strict guidelines about community educawhen it comes to pation and access to meditients’ records. Fully cal care for all,” said Terra electronic medical reDawson, practice adminiscords ensure efficient trator. access and accurate “The true success of the Dr. Andrew Daley of Daley & Associates safekeeping while practice is due to the tire- Prime Medical of Tampa Bay and his maintaining the highteam is dedicated to bringing world-class less effort of the staff— est standards for the service and personalized care to every namely, Yesenia Mendez, privacy and security one of his patients. medical assistant,” Dawof records. son added. “She has been with Dr. Daley Daley recognizes the challenge today of since 2015 and has a special gift of caring finding affordable health care and accepts for patients and delivering excellent pa- most major insurances. He said, “The issue tient care.” stretches further than seeing the physiDedication to the community is a pri- cian but having access to affordable medority for Daley, a Brandon resident. That ication and therapy.” includes everything from participation in Daley & Associates Prime Medical of local events to support organizations like Tampa Bay is a traditional internal medthe American Heart Association, to get- icine practice with offices in Brandon ting out of the office and helping those in and Bradenton. From preventative health need. counseling to diabetic guidance, prospecDuring the pandemic, Daley offered free tive patients are offered a full range of consultations to both patients and non- comprehensive health services. “Internal patients alike to provide education about medicine is a widely encompassing disciCOVID-19. He conducted seminars spe- pline which deals with the clinical as well cifically targeting the black community as the psychology and social aspects of and provided education, free masks and medicine,” Daley explained. hand sanitizers to East Tampa community Daley & Associates Prime Medical of through faith-based organizations. Tampa Bay is located at 631 W. Lumsden Additionally, he is one of the few doc- Rd. in Brandon. Its office hours are 8 a.m.tors around that offers inpatient as well 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. Call 813as outpatient care and doctor home vis- 530-0903 for information.
May 2022
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
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Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
CAMPO YMCA HELPS MEMBER CELEBRATE 101ST BIRTHDAY
By Michelle Caceres
It’s not often that eral people gave speechan exercise gym ofes in his honor, including fers its members cake Roque himself. and other treats after “You just have to keep a fitness class, but going,” he said. when one of those Roque has certainly members is turning enjoyed a full life. He was 101, it makes an exborn in 1921, when the ception. world was reeling from Campo Famia different sort of panly YMCA staff and demic (the Spanish Flu). members couldn’t reHe was in the U.S. Army sist throwing the celfrom 1940-43 as a gunebration when they YMCA staff and members celebrated Valri- ner. Stationed in Eufound out Valrico res- co resident Fernando ‘Nando’ Roque’s 101st rope, he was the lone ident and centenarsurvivor of his battalbirthday. ian Fernando ion, who ‘Nando’ Roque were all would soon be killed in celebrating anaction. other birthday. Shortly Roque, a after reWorld War II turning veteran, faithfrom his fully attends tour of SilverSneakers classes twice a week. Sil- duty, he met and married Julia, the love of verSneakers is a health, exercise and well- his life. She passed away in 2015. Roque ness program that helps older adults live has four children and dozens of grandhealthy, active lifestyles by building muscu- children, great-grandchildren and even lar strength, improving joint mobility and great-great-grandchildren. increasing cardiovascular endurance. He was grateful that people took the ef“Some of the class members knew his fort to throw him the celebration that had birthday was coming up and wanted to do more than 30 people in attendance. something special to help him celebrate,” “He was so excited and happy we were said Wellness Experience Director Alex Sta- doing this for him, he even dressed up for fanes. the occasion,” said Stefanes. “As a WWII It was truly a group effort to pull the U.S. Army veteran and a regular participant event together. Members volunteered to in our group fitness classes, it was an honor make a cake and desserts; the fitness in- to celebrate with him today.” structor decorated the room and ended For information about the Campo Family class a little early so they could sing “Happy YMCA or SilverSneakers classes, visit www. Birthday,” have cake and socialize; and sev- tampaymca.org or call 813-684-1371.
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
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Volume 21, Issue 5
STARS FROM TELEVISION SHOWS AND MOVIES ATTEND TAMPA BAY COMIC CONVENTION
By Libby Hopkins
Comic and cosplay fans of comic authors and all over Tampa Bay will artists from the start, be thrilled to know the the company has made Tampa Bay Comic Conhuge strides and evolved vention (TBCC) comes to to almost max space at town from Friday through the current connection Sunday, July 29-31 at the center venue. Tampa Bay Convention “The support from Center. the community is so The Tampa Bay Comic amazing that we predict Convention is Tampa’s having the most special largest, true comic conguests we have ever vention. Featured are had in TBCC history by exhibitors that cater to showtime,” Malaga said. a wide spectrum of in“Not only that, we have terests, including comic evolved from the origibooks, magazines, toys, nal comic space to also games, Star Wars, Star include pop culture perComic and cosplay fans all over Trek, anime, manga, cosonalities. This means Tampa Bay will be thrilled to know splay, artwork, sketches that alongside meetthe Tampa Bay Comic Convention and apparel. ing Will Shatner from (TBCC) comes to town from Friday In addition, a roster Star Trek, you can also through Sunday, July 29-31 at the Tampa Bay Convention Center. of comic industry procatch popular personfessionals and comicalities like James ‘Murr’ dom-related celebrities are in attendance Murray from Impractical Jokers or, after for attendees to meet and greet. “This year’s meeting legendary Power Ranger Jason Dacelebrity guests are William Shatner from vid Frank, you can go see hall of fame voice Star Trek; James ‘Murr’ Murray from Im- actor Charles Martinet, who is the original practical Jokers; Jason David Frank from voice of Nintendo’s Mario character.” Power Rangers; Elizabeth Maxwell, a voice Tickets are available for TBCC and range actress; Gates McFadden from Star Trek: from $45-$221. “We recently started anThe Next Generation; Charles Martinet, the nouncing this year’s guest list and remindvoice of video game character Mario; Ross ing fans that our loyalty launch promotion Marquand from The Walking Dead, Red where tickets to the show are at the largest Skull and Ultron from the MCU; R.J. Mitte discount of the year is ending on the last day from Breaking Bad; and Dante Basco, who of April,” Malaga said. played Rufio in Hook,” said the convention’s Fans can expect a bigger and better expespokesperson and marketing manager, Ro rience than ever before. Malaga. For more information about the Tampa TBCC began in 2015 and has continued to Bay Comic Convention or purchase tickets, grow over the years. Bringing in a collection visit www.tampabaycomicconvention.com.
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
May 2022
BLAND ENG LOOKS BACK ON HIS TIME IN BRANDON AS NEW JOB CALLS HIM TO FORT MYERS
By Linda Chion
Bland Eng, workers. “Probthe outgoing ably the most chief executive heart-wrenching officer of HCA thing was there Florida Branwere people in don Hospital, the community is taking with who did not make him memories it. There were and mementoes, some fantastic including an success stories, award from the but that made Greater Branit all that much don Chamber of harder when Commerce and people you know, lessons learned people you care in the wake of a about, people you historic health knew through Bland Eng, outgoing HCA Florida Brandon pandemic. the chamber, did Hospital CEO. Eng, who not.” succeeded outgoing CEO Mike Fencil in The community offered great support, 2012, leaves Brandon to start his new Eng said, including people who donated duties as chief development officer for food and services and held signs outside HCA’s Fort Myers market. the hospital thanking health care workAt the podium on March 31 at the ers for their care and compassion. He Sheraton Tampa Brandon Hotel, Eng said he often is asked, “How do nurses thanked attendees at the chamber’s an- do it? How do you do it?”, and the annual meeting for the time he spent as a swer is simple. “We all went into health volunteer member and treasurer for the care because we wanted to serve people chamber board of directors. Upon re- in need,” Eng said, “and to be there for ceiving a chairman’s award from outgo- our communities.” ing Chair Jennifer Lopez, the FishHawk During his Brandon tenure, Eng overresident talked about his love for the saw the recruitment of physicians and community and what he called the two specialists, building upgrades and admost difficult years of his career to date. ditions and a myriad of new services, “I don’t remember a time where I’ve including for pediatric emergencies, regotten so many calls from people in the constructive surgery and comprehensive community who I knew who were sick,” stroke treatments. The outgoing CEO Eng said in an interview after the meet- takes special note of the ‘A’ Leapfrog ing about the enduring impact the coro- Hospital Safety Grade Brandon received navirus pandemic has had on health care in the fall for a sixth consecutive time.
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Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
Volume 21, Issue 5
GREENPAL NOW OFFERS A WAY FOR BRANDON RESIDENTS TO RECEIVE CONTACTLESS, CONVENIENT LAWN CARE
By Lily Belcher
Lawn care’s Uber fee to the company, is making its way not the customer. into the Brandon “I’ve been in landarea with Greenscaping my whole Pal’s expansion that entire life. I grew will bring the lawn up mowing lawns mowing app to Hilland did that through sborough County college. I knew there residents. GreenPal was a disconnect, … I GreenPal customers can select from a variety of is a Nashville-based knew that there had local lawn care professionals service that allows to be a better way residents to request to connect homelocal lawn services owners to landscapto care for their ing professionals,” yards in a safe, conexplained Caballero. tactless way. Caballero worked GreenPal, an app in sales on the West which was first Coast and saw diglaunched in Tennesital services like see in 2015, allows Uber find great homeowners to list success. He incorpotheir lawns and indicate when they need rated both his history of working in lawn service. From there, local, prescreened care and knowledge of sales to craft an lawn professionals can bid on the yard app that would become the “Uber for and the homeowner can decide which lawn care.” lawn service they will employ. Over 30 “I knew that if somebody was going to percent of GreenPal’s users are over the summon a stranger to pick them up and age of 60 and have benefitted greatly take them somewhere, they would do the from the availability of the contactless same with lawn care someday,” said Caservice made possible with the digital ballero. “That idea was sparked in 2012, payment method. but we didn’t actually get the ball rolling “We don’t actually have any influence until 2015.” on the pricing,” said Gene Caballero, Since its launch, GreenPal has expandco-founder of GreenPal. “We just connect ed to 48 states and has over 1 million the homeowner with the lawn care pro- homeowners signed up. Over 25 thousand fessional.” landscaping professionals are running Around 35 lawn care services in the their businesses on GreenPal and proBrandon area are available through the viding convenient, contactless service to app. GreenPal supports the local services their customers. by helping with marketing and route optiFor more information, visit www.yourmization and only charges a five percent greenpal.com/fl/brandon-lawn-care.
April showers bring May flowers, but what does May in Florida bring? Lovebugs. For those of us who live in the state, we are cautiously prepared to expect the presence of these critters at least twice a year. Lovebugs historically swarm in seasons and create a general nuisance to motorists and vacationers alike for the first few weeks of May and September. It is often wondered where they came from and what are they doing here. Lovebugs are interestingly a type of March fly. Easily identified by their thin, black body and bright red thorax, lovebugs are slow-flying insects who are closely related to gnats and mosquitos. It was originally thought that lovebugs were invasive, but that is not the case. In local regions, it is also common to hear the urban legend that lovebugs were created in a lab at a university in Central Florida, from which they later escaped to plague our spring and fall months. Variations of this myth have been shared far and wide, but it does not originate from truth. Lovebugs are a native species occurring naturally along the Gulf of Mexico, residing in states such as Texas, North Carolina and Florida and can also be found as far south as Costa Rica. Lovebugs live in this state year-round and swarm twice a year when they inevitably
seem to be everywhere. Prior to their swarmi n g /m a t i n g seasons, lovebugs are going through their life cycle on the ground under debris and decaying vegetation. Adult lovebugs feed primarily on plant matter and nectar. During their seasonal population outbreaks, the lovebugs are most commonly experienced flying in pairs. These are mating duos. Male lovebugs can swarm by the dozens in search of a mate to grasp ahold of, and once they do, they fly in unison. Lovebugs are typically encountered from dawn to dusk flying in large groups. An interesting fact about these insects are that the adults in the wild only live for a total of three to five days. Adult lovebugs are harmless to us as they do not bite, sting, attack or spread disease. They can be a nuisance and most notably wreak havoc on the front ends of our vehicles. A good tip during lovebug season is to keep your car waxed and to have dryer sheets handy to wipe the residue off your vehicle. Ali Holton is currently the director of FishHawk TNR Inc. She has a master’s in biodiversity, wildlife and ecosystems and 20 years of experience specializing in animal behavior and conservation. To reach her, email fishhawktnr4@gmail.com.
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Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
Page 31
BY MIKE MURPHY
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with a hook in it. These Well, the heat has been fish can be very finicky, turned back on in the Bay but when they turn on, it and that can only mean is game on. Heavier spinthe fishing is getting hot. Water temperatures are ning gear with a 6000 almost 80 degrees, and series reel is the best bet the grasses are back. The for being able to get these summer tides are moving silver giants to the boat. and giving us plenty of Regulations for catching water in the backwaters. and releasing tarpon proTrout are thick right hibit removing the fish now, and hungry. Artififrom the water, so keep Richard found a nice trout for the that in mind when catchcial jigs are the way to go table. for catching a few dinner ing tarpon. “Right place at fish. A 1/8-ounce jig head the right time” is the genwith a soft plastic of your eral motto for tarpon, and choice will make finding strong tides are best. these fish much easier. Spanish mackerel will Try to stress the use of be gathered in schools and jigs versus live bait for crushing the threadfins. the sake of survivability On the calmer days, it will of the trout and eliminate be easy to spot and chase lots of gut hook-ups that the bait pods for some may result in the demise sight fishing action with of many released trout. live bait, jigs or plugs. Be Search the flats and find alert for crevalle jack (cathe deeper pockets that nal tuna) to be into these Joe from New York with a hefty will hold fine schools of bait pods as well. redfish. trout. Also, remember Redfish are around, but the limits of 15-19 in., one over 19 in. and the large schools have broken up. Finding sinthree trout per person. gles under the mangroves with a groomed Tarpon will be rolling in mid-May in the pinfish will be your best bet. Trimming some outside passes around Egmont, around the tail and the dorsal fin with scissors will slow bridge and also over some of the inshore the baitfish down but not kill it. Redfish like reefs. These silver beasts can usually be the shaded areas under the mangroves, as caught on dead baits like threadfins. Chum do snook. Remember that snook are closed heavy in the tides and let a bait drift back until September.
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Page 32
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
RVR HORSE RESCUE HOSTS SUMMER FEST 2022
By Amy Schechter
Mark your calenshade of the pole barn dars for Saturday, while sampling deliMay 7 so you and your cious food and nonfriends can come out alcoholic drinks from to RVR Horse Rescue 3 C’s Catering. There for Summer Fest will be family friend2022. With free adly activities including mission, free parking raffles, face painting, a and all proceeds from bake sale, a cakewalk sales going directly RVR sells paintings its patients create during and games. Plus, there their rehabilitation. back to the nonprofit, will be a wealth of it’s an amazing deal for an vendor booths, RVR mereven better cause. chandise and a tack sale ofSince its inception, RVR fering new and gently used Horse Rescue has been items, like lead ropes and dedicated to rescuing, resaddles. Plus, its trainers habilitating and rehoming will showcase adoptable abused, neglected and horses. Whether you’re an injured horses. Longtime equestrian or searching for volunteer Julie Dennis exa Mother’s Day gift, there plained just how importwill be a variety of things ant this fundraiser is: “We from which to choose. are at maximum capacity RVR is still seeking venright now. Especially in dors. If you have somethe times we’re in, we get thing you want to sell for calls daily. There are families who are strug- your business, no matter how big or small, gling and can no longer care for an animal. you can rent booth space. You have the opWe’ve come across more horses that are tion to rent just the space or, for additional emaciated and abandoned.” She added, “The fees, RVR will provide tables/chairs as well. feed, the hay and the medical/vet needs of RVR hopes you come to find out what it the horses are higher than average” in the is all about, but it would love if you want to current market, especially for horses who commit to volunteering as well. It is always require considerable medical care. The non- seeking volunteers aged 16-plus and sponprofit is 100 percent run by volunteers and sors who want to dedicate time or funds to donations, and all proceeds will go directly ensure the well-being of their horses. back to caring for RVR Horse Rescue’s anFor more information, visit RVR online at imals. rvrhorserescue.org or find it on Facebook @ Summer Fest will be a blast. Not only can RVRHorseRescue. Summer Fest 2022 takes you tour the ranch and meet the horses, but place on May 7 from 11:30 a.m.-5 p.m. at you can also enjoy live music from Summit RVR Horse Rescue, located at 1710 SR 60 Kings, Modene and Joe’s Garage Band in the in Plant City.
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Volume 21, Issue 5
MARY & MARTHA HOUSE CELEBRATES 40 YEARS WITH GALA
By Kate Quesada
On Friday, June beautiful interpretive 10, Mary & Martha dance routine,” said House is celebrating Chini. 40 years of posiIn addition, for the tively impacting the first time, the event lives of women and will include the prechildren with a gala sentation of three fundraising event. awards. The nonprofit, “The Mary & Martax-exempt corporatha House Thrive tion was founded in Award will be given 1982 and has been to a past client that helping Hillsborough Juanita Lolita will be the emcee at Mary has used their second County women and & Martha House’s 40th anniversary gala chance at indepenchildren escape dodence to the fullest,” in June. mestic violence said Chini. “Mary & and homelessMartha House Philness ever since. anthropic Award According to will be given to a Executive Dibusiness or individrector Bill Chiual who has done so ni, the event, much to give back with its ‘Time to our organization. to Bloom’ theme, will be extra special Lastly, and my personal favorite award, this year. is the Laurie Herring Legacy Award. “We feel that both our clients and our This award will be given to a communiorganization are ready to do bigger and ty member who is making the world a better things,” said Chini. better place, because that’s what Laurie The event will begin with an open bar did.” cocktail hour, but just before dinner, ChiAfter the program, Chini explained ni has a meaningful celebration planned. that the dance floor will open and mu“We are going to have a butterfly re- sic will be presented by a DJ. There will lease outside in memory of Laurie Her- also be a silent auction with items to bid ring,” he explained. on ranging from fun activities to jewelry Herring, the organization’s former ex- and sports memorabilia. ecutive director, passed away in 2021. The event will take place at The ReThe emcee for the event will be Juan- gent, which is located at 6437 Watson ita Lolita, who will also be performing a Rd. in Riverview. comedy bit. Sponsorship opportunities, which “Our dancers are returning this year— start at $500, are still available. For Darlene and Takiyah Johnson, a mother more information or to purchase tickets, and daughter who stayed at our shelter visit www.marymarthahouse.org or call a year or so ago—to perform another 813-645-7874.
May 2022
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
MICHELANGELO’S SISTINE CHAPEL: THE EXHIBITION COMES TO TAMPA
Staff Report
ed the Sistine Chapel in Rome, there were long lines, and we were rushed through. This exhibit in Tampa allows everyone an opportunity to see the amazing art at their pace and up close, at an affordable price, and enjoy an inspiring and unforgettable experience.” Guests may enhance The internationally acclaimed Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel: The their experience by Exhibition opens on Friday, April 29 in Tampa. adding an audio guide, with narrative accomThe internationally acclaimed Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel: The Exhibition paniment available in multiple languages, opened on April 29 in Tampa. The exhibi- including Spanish, French, Chinese, Koretion is a presentation of museum-quality, an and German. “We are delighted to bring this must-see near-life-size reproductions of one of the interactive art exhibit to the WestShore world’s greatest artistic achievements. “This exhibition gives visitors a chance Plaza,” said Larry Scollo, general manager to engage with Rome’s most iconic trea- of WestShore Plaza. “This exhibit will prosures in ways that were never possible,” vide a unique opportunity for visitors of said Martin Biallas, CEO of Los Ange- all ages to engage and interact with beaules-based SEE© Global Entertainment tiful art while visiting our space.” “We have had sold-out openings in San and producer of the exhibit. Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel: The Diego, Cleveland, Dayton, Philadelphia, Exhibition is a collection of the artist’s Washington D.C. and Dallas in recent renowned ceiling frescoes from the Vat- months, and it is our privilege to bring one ican’s Sistine Chapel, reproduced in a for- of Rome’s most iconic artworks to Tammat that allows viewers to get face to pa,” said Biallas. Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel: The Exface with the masterpieces. Through 34 artfully displayed reproductions, this in- hibition runs from Wednesday through novative presentation includes world-re- Sunday, 10 a.m.-6 p.m., from April 29 nowned pieces like The Creation of Adam to Sunday, June 26 at WestShore Plaza. and The Last Judgement, bringing them Tickets start at $20.20 per adult and $14 per child. Discounts for seniors, students, just a few feet away from the audience. “This exhibition is like a sanctuary, military and family bundles are available. you’re transported into a completely dif- Tickets are on sale now at www.chapelferent world,” said Biallas. “When I visit- sistine.com.
Page 33
HOPE 4 LIFE HELPS LOCAL FAMILIES WHO HAVE CHILDREN WITH AUTISM
By Libby Hopkins
Riverview resident agency,” Kramer said. “I Christine Kramer is a mom truly believe that it takes of two daughters on the a village of people using autism spectrum. She has their gifts and talents and a passion for being the their heart for service to hands and feet of Jesus, help individuals who cannot and her greatest desire live their lives without supis to serve those who are port. We currently rely on considered vulnerable, esstate funding through APD pecially the people who (Agency for Persons with are developmentally chalDisabilities) Florida, and it lenged. As such, Kramer is is becoming increasingly also the founder of Hope 4 difficult to keep our doors Life. open. I have seen agencies “Hope 4 Life was born around me closing their out of the challenges I doors because they simply faced trying to find supcan’t afford to do business port and services for my anymore. There are so daughters,” Kramer said. many people who need as“When my oldest daughter sistance to live meaningful was getting ready to gradand productive lives.” uate high school, I found Kramer believes Hope 4 Christine Kramer is the founder there were no supports to Life is so much more than of Hope 4 Life, an organization help her transition to adult- that helps families with children just an agency that helps. hood.” “We consider ourselves on the autism spectrum. Kramer spent years to be a family, and we networking with parents spend time together of children with simiwhen we can,” Kramer lar challenges. Finding said. “We go bowling schools, doctors and othonce a month, staff and er professionals willing clients. We partner with to work with her were other groups in the area daunting tasks. so clients can attend dances, picnics and “I learned the tremendous amount other fun activities and meet others in about what it takes to support an indi- the community like themselves. Our purvidual with disabilities, so I took what I pose is to give dignity and hope to people learned and began Hope 4 Life,” Kramer who might otherwise be overlooked or said. written off. If given a chance, and with Hope 4 Life’s main focus is to equip and the right support, they can live their lives empower individuals with disabilities by just like any other able-bodied person.” assisting them in developing pathways of To learn more about Hope 4 Life, find the independence which lead to a fulfilling life. group on Facebook at www.facebook“It is very difficult to do this as a small com/Hope4lifeu.
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Page 34
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
Volume 21, Issue 5
THE PLAY SCREWTAPE WILL BE PRESENTED CRUCE PEST MANAGEMENT OFFERS BY PLANT CITY ENTERTAINMENT TERMITE TREATMENT FOR RIVERVIEW, By Kathy L Collins APOLLO BEACH, TAMPA AND RUSKIN has a dazzling resolution, and you will By Lily Belcher Cruce Pest low any unwanted water to sit Management, in the house. located in RivCruce said that homeowners, erview off U.S. especially those living in houses 301 and Big 10 years and older, should take Bend Rd., offers a walk around the outside of both prevention their houses to make sure there and treatment is good airflow that can dry the services for sides of the house. This means southern Hillskeeping bushes and plants from borough County growing as termite seatightly Cruce Pest Manageson looms over along the ment’s truck at work Florida resihouse. helping residents fight dents. Termites Houses termites. plague Floridusually ian’s homes each year, especially since have a Florida is prone to hot and wet weather pretreatalmost year-round. ment to “I wanted to be able to provide a good d e t e r service at a fair price and make a fair livte r m i te s ing. I worked for larger companies and Subterranean termite damage to a w h e n door frame. all they were about were the numbers. built, but I’m not really a numbers person, I’m more a this treatment lasts less than five years. people person,” said Robin Cruce, owner of Cruce Pest Management offers treatment Cruce Pest Management. and an insurance plan for customers looking In colder states, residents get a break to protect their home from termites since from the wood-eating insects as they are common homeowners insurances do not not as active in colder, dryer months. Cruce cover termite damage. urges Hillsborough County residents to take Cruce Pest Management opened in May proactive steps in preventing termites from of 2016, so Cruce and her three employees destroying their homes. are looking forward to their six-year anniCruce’s main tip is to take care of mois- versary. ture around the house, especially in bath“We love this area [and] love working rooms, kitchens and around air conditioning here,” said Cruce. “Every day is an advenunits. Termites are attracted to moisture in ture.” the house and these areas, while not solely For information on termites, visit Departwood, typically use wood to support struc- ment of Agriculture’s website at fdacs.gov. tures, like showers. Residents should also For information on Cruce Pest Management, ensure grout is in good condition and not al- call 813-915-5973.
Plant City Entertainment will present Screwtape, a play by James Forsyth which is adapted from the book The Screwtape Letters
Plant City Entertainment will present Screwtape, a play by James Forsyth based on the book by C.S. Lewis, The Screwtape Letters, in April and May. This provocative play contains themes that may be inappropriate for young audiences. Screwtape will be presented on Friday, April 29 and May 6 and Saturday, April 30 and May 7 at 8 p.m. A Sunday matinee will be presented on May 1 and 8 at 2 p.m. Tickets are available online at www. plantcityentertainment.com ($1 service fee applied). General admission tickets are $20. Tickets for seniors and students are $18. Tickets for Plant City Entertainment members and groups of 10 are $15. Screwtape is directed by Jennifer Groff. The play features a character named Screwtape, a senior devil from hell. He delegates some authority to a junior friend, Wormwood, who is to seize the soul of a very human and lovable young man. The rather charming Wormwood is critically supervised. Advice from Screwtape is devastatingly perceptive of human foibles and, despite the love of a wonderful young girl, our young man is in terrible danger. Screwtape
learn something important about hell, heaven, religion and humanity. This is Groff’s first opportunity to direct a full-length play. She has a lot of experience directing small programs and skits. She has been acting since she was 12 years old. Groff explained, “I picked up The Screwtape Letters a few years ago. The version was a full cast dramatization audiobook produced by Focus on the Family Radio Theatre.” Groff added, “Many view demonic encounters as horrific, overwhelming occurrences. Circumstances such as hauntings or exorcisms are commonly understood as such. C.S. Lewis’ perspective is quite different. He describes how subtly demons use the power of suggestion to lead humans to make one bad decision after another until finally they have given up their very souls.” Groff said, “I could not be prouder of the work this cast has accomplished to bring Screwtape to life. They have worked diligently, maintaining professionalism and positivity even while facing adversity. We know there would be burdens to bear while working on a play about spiritual warfare.” She added, “It is my desire that this production will affect the audience by awakening mindfulness. I hope that those not familiar with C.S. Lewis’ masterpiece, The Screwtape Letters, will choose to read it with an open heart and open mind.”
Dustin Pasteur, senior director of design and construction; John Couris, president and CEO; Phil Dingle, chairman of the board; Kelly Cullen, executive vice president and COO; Heidi Benedetti of Gilbane Building Company; and Dean Head, director of facilities management, gathered to cut the ribbon on TGH’s new central energy plant.
Tampa General Hospital (TGH) executives flipped the switch at the newly constructed central energy plant at the recent ribbon-cutting. The A drone image of the new central energy plant at Tampa General Hospital. plant is part of TGH’s $550 million master facility plan. needs. Located 33 feet above sea level, the Its master facility plan is an invest16,000 sq. ft., 4-story central energy ment in our team, physicians, patients, plant holds four generators capable of in our academic health system and in our providing 100 percent power to TGH’s community,” noted Couris. main campus in the event of an outage In addition to the newly opened cendue to major storms or other disrup- tral energy plant, a new ICU opened in tions. With a price tag of $53 million, June 2021, renovations of the hospital’s the leading-edge design boasts the abili- regional burn center, an off-site sterty to withstand the impact and potential ile processing facility, more than 100 flooding of a Category 5 hurricane. new ICU rooms and other renovations “This additional generation capacity throughout the hospital are just a taste will take our campus from 50 percent of what the master facility plan encomemergency power to 100 percent re- passes. dundant power,” said Dustin Pasteur, Construction of these projects will run senior director of design and construc- through 2026. As TGH updates and adds tion. “With the addition of the natural to the 25-acre campus, covering over 3 gas generators, this also means we will million square feet, it will also renovate be able to run much of the plant con- the hospital’s main lobby, which will imtinuously, well beyond the 96-hour reg- prove patient and visitor flow and effiulatory requirement.” He added that the ciency. design looked toward conservation of For more information, go to www.tgh. natural resources; thus, three of the four org. generators run on natural gas.
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In addition to the generators, three new boilers with built-in redundancy create steam and hot water for the purpose of sterilizing surgical instruments, cooking and hot water for handwashing and personal hygiene. “Every aspect of our master facility plan is intended to create a health care network with the most advanced technology and cutting-edge care to serve the Greater Tampa Bay region and beyond. Our new central energy plant can accommodate our electrical power needs now and into the future,” said John Couris, president and CEO of Tampa General Hospital. Announced in September 2021, TGH’s comprehensive master facility plan is the largest in the hospital’s history, designed to serve the region’s increasing health care
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Life
By Sharon Still
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TAMPA GENERAL HOSPITAL’S NEW ENERGY PLANT BUILT TO MAINTAIN OPERATIONS AND WITHSTAND CAT 5 HURRICANES
Page 35
Life
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
May 2022
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Page 36
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
Volume 21, Issue 5
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
May 2022
THE STRAZ CENTER PRESENTS GREAT ’22-’23 BROADWAY SEASON
The Straz Center in downtown Tampa has a great series of Broadway shows available for audiences now though 2023. Pick your favorites and get your tickets now.
Broadway shows are back at the Straz Center for the Performing Arts in downtown Tampa. The 2022-23 season is underway, and there are some outstanding productions you will not want to miss. “Touring Broadway is back in Tampa in a big, big way,” said Straz Center President and CEO Judy Lisi. “This lineup truly is the best of Broadway, and we cannot wait to share it with Tampa Bay area audiences,” added Lisi. The offerings from the Straz Center include My Fair Lady (Tuesday, April 26 through Sunday, May 1), The Band’s Visit (Wednesday, May 4 through Sunday, May 8) and Pretty Woman (Tuesday, May 17 through Sunday, May 22). In the fall, the Straz Center will present Six, a new musical about Henry VIII’s six wives, from Tuesday, November 1 through Sunday, November 6. Hadestown will run from Tuesday, November 29 through Sunday, December 4. TINA The Tina Turner Musical, a new musical, will run from Friday, January 13, 2023 through Sunday, February 5, 2023. Chicago, a musical that has been running for over 25 years, will run from Tuesday, February 21 through Sunday, February 26, 2023.
The critically acclaimed book To Kill a Mockingbird is now a Broadway production thanks to Academy Award® winner Aaron Sorkin, who adapted Harper Lee’s Pulitzer Prize-winning masterwork. To Kill a Mockingbird runs at the Straz Center from Monday, April 11, 2023 through Saturday, April 16, 2023. Ain’t Too Proud will run from Monday, May 2, 2023 through Saturday, May 7, 2023. The new musical Jagged Little Pill will run from Monday, May 16, 2023 through Saturday, May 21, 2023. The season also features the unique comedy whodunit Shear Madness from Wednesday, February 15, 2023 through Saturday, April 8, 2023. In addition to the eight-show Broadway series, the Straz Center will present two special return engagements. Hamilton will be presented from Wednesday, December 28, 2022 through Monday, January 22, 2023. Wicked, the Broadway sensation that looks at what happened in the Land of Oz but from a different angle, will be presented from Wednesday, March 8, 2023 through Sunday, March 26, 2023. The Straz Center is continuously evaluating health conditions and adjusting safety protocols. Guests should always visit strazcenter.org/safety before attending a performance. Events, days, dates, times, performers and prices are subject to change without notice. For more information, call the Straz Center Ticket Sales Office at 813-229-STAR (7827) or visit www.strazcenter.org. Individual show tickets will go on sale at later dates, to be announced.
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BRANDON BALLET PRESENTS CINDERELLA Brandon Ballet will present Cinderella for one night only on Saturday, April 30 at 7:30 p.m. The ballet will be presented at Riverview High School, located at 11311 Boyette Rd. in Riverview. Tickets are available online at www.brandonballet.org. Adults are $35 ($40 at the door), children and seniors are $25 ($30 at the door) and homeschool groups and students are $15 ($20 at the door). Cinderella tells the story of a young girl who finds herself at the mercy of her cruel stepmother and stepsisters, who reduce her to a scullery maid. Despite her dreadful circumstances, she never gives up hope. Cinderella receives an invitation to a ball at the palace, and it is rumored that the prince is going to select his bride at the ball. However, her stepmother puts up many obstacles to her attending. But, in the end, Cinderella finds love and happiness. The role of Cinderella will be performed by Sarah Parry, a professional dancer with Brandon Ballet. Hannah Townend, administrative director for Brandon Ballet, said, “This is her second time performing the role of Cinderella, and she is excited to bring a fresh take to the role since her inaugural performance in 2018.” Brentwood Townend will be dancing the role of the prince. Townend is also a professional dancer with Brandon Ballet. In January of 2022, Townend said, “Brentwood Townend was asked to also fill the role of assistant artistic director at Brandon Ballet. Alongside Courtney Moody, fellow professional and performer
Brandon Ballet will present Cinderella on Saturday, April 30 at the Riverview High School Auditorium in Riverview. This one-night presentation is going to be an enchanting and beautiful version of the classic ballet.
of the Fairy Godmother role, he has been helping guide the ballet and the company as well as dancing the lead role in it.” The performance of Cinderella will also feature two guest artists. This includes Fay Leonard, who will be performing the role of one of the stepsisters, and Jeff Cassamajor, who will be performing the humorous role of ballet master in act one. According to Townend, “Choreography for this production is heavily inspired by the original choreography as well as the unique versions of the late Richard Munro and, more recently, Doricha Sales. Brentwood Townend takes their exciting and intricate choreography and adds other enchanting details and moments that we think the audience will thoroughly enjoy.” Townend added, “Though the Brandon Ballet is small, it is dedicated to bringing quality ballet training and performance to the Tampa Bay area. Our dancers are well-known for their professionalism and technical abilities. We pride ourselves on the individual growth of each dancer through the performances and events we offer.”
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Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
HCC ARTICULATION AGREEMENTS ALLOW STUDENTS TO EARN COLLEGE CREDIT IN HIGH SCHOOL By Michelle Caceres High school class•South County Career es don’t just preCenter: Administration ofpare a student for fice specialist. college, as they can •Spoto: Culinary arts, be a way to earn early childhood education, college credit while finance and veterinarian asstill in high school. sisting. In addition to the •Sumner: Culinary arts, well-known dual enTV production technology rollment program, and veterinarian assisting. an agreement beAdults who have tween Hillsborough Comearned industry certifimunity College (HCC) cations can also apply and the School Board of those certifications Hillsborough County that toward an HCC degree allows high school stuor certificate. Are you dents to take online or a Microsoft Certified in-person classes through Professional DevelopHCC, articulation agreeer? That equates to ments allow students to three hours of credit transfer in credits from towards the Ashigh school. sociate in Science HCC Career Pathways Coordegree. dinator Elizabeth Shelby said Transfer agreethe program works in conments with severjunction with local employers al public and prito address their needs and to vate universities prepare the workers of tomorallow students row with the right skills for to transfer their in-demand jobs. There are sevcredits earned at en high schools in the South HCC towards the County area that offer techniattainment of a Articulation agreements between the cal education programs. “This School Board of Hillsborough County bachelor’s degree. program allows student to and Hillsborough Community College Dr. Brian Mann, explore career pathways at helps students prepare for college and HCC associate careers. the high school level and earn vice president of college credit at the same time,” she said. Associate in Science Programs, said there Local high schools and their career and are many benefits from taking advantage of technical education programs include: these programs. •East Bay: Accounting operations, TV “These agreements exist to assist stuproduction technology, veterinarian assist- dents entering employment or higher eduing and web development. cation in obtaining industry certifications •Lennard: Early childhood education, ap- and an associate’s degree more quickly and plied engineering technology, aquaculture, inexpensively while strategically building hospitality & tourism management and TV workforce skills,” he said. production technology. The pathways programs, from high school •Newsome: Criminal justice, TV produc- to college to the workforce, help students tion technology, veterinarian assisting and gain the skills needed to prepare them for web development. successful careers in in-demand industries. •Riverview: Accounting applications, cuTo schedule an appointment with an acalinary arts, TV production technology, veter- demic advisor, visit https://www.hccfl.edu/ inarian assisting and web development. academics/articulation-agreements.
Volume 21, Issue 5
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
May 2022
Page 39
THE ALEXSTRONG FOUNDATION SUPPORTS PLANT CITY BOY BATTLING LEUKEMIA By Lily Belcher
THE FOREVER GAME Contributed by River Hills Country Club Why is golf such a success are infinitely great game for kids to higher. learn? Will they gain “Golf is deceptively fame and fortune by simple and endlessly smacking a little white complicated; it satisfies ball around? Or better, the soul and frustrates will they learn lessons the intellect. It is at the that can be applied same time rewarding to their personal and and maddening—and it professional lives and is without a doubt the careers in the future? greatest game mankind Hand a kid a golf club has ever invented,” said and see what happens. Arnold Palmer, aka The It is understandably King. an opinion in the golf River Hills Country Club is located at Golf offers outdoor 3943 New River Hills Pkwy. in Valrico. industry and by players physical activity, low around the world that golf is the game risk of injuries, suitability to abilities, that most closely resembles life. Both new friendships, bonding and confidence present “the thrill of victory and the agony building. Characteristics of honesty, ethof defeat,” (Jim McKay, ABC Sports), and ics, integrity, etiquette, manners, respect, it is one of the very few sports that can be discipline, perseverance, respect, honplayed for a lifetime. These factors make or, sportsmanship and responsibility are golf a great game for kids and adults to those derived in golf for the cornerstones learn. of a successful life. For parents of junior The chances of getting struck by light- golfers, it also opens the door for more ning may be lower than a kid gaining a friends as kids bond. spot on the television walking up the last Many clubs and facilities offer junior hole as the winner of a global event. It programming. We are lucky here at Rivmay even be harder to become one of the er Hills Country Club to have member and best in golf than in football, baseball and guest children attend numerous weekly basketball. Golf is a game where literally clinics, camps and leagues throughout the all can compete for a lifetime. Regardless entire year. Those ages 4 and up can parof ability, the chances a kid that learns the ticipate in fun activities while they learn. game early may transcend the lessons of Hook a kid on golf. Set them up for a life. the game into characteristics needed for You will be glad you did.
Sumner’s family started the Alexstrong Foundation to support other families after her son passed away from cancer. Cooper Wingate (above), is battling pediatric acute lymphoblastic leukemia.
The Alexstrong Foundation, a nonprofit organization that supports families with children facing life-threatening illnesses, is hosting the sixth annual Benefit Bass Tournament. This year’s tournament will help 3-year-old Cooper Wingate, who was diagnosed with pediatric acute lymphoblastic leukemia last year. The Bass Tournament will take place out of Grape Hammock Fish Camp at Lake Kissimmee where Alexstrong supporters and fishermen will catch up to six bass and participate in the weigh-in at 2 p.m. After the weigh-in, competitors and guests will have the option of entering a raffle for baskets that will be put together by Alexstrong Founder Lori Sumner. Many of the basket items are fishing and hunting themed, but Sumner raffles off other items, like purses, for supporters that may not be as interested in the tournament. “Even if you are not fishing the tournament, a lot of people will come around noon and hang out and buy raffle tickets,” said Sumner. “Most of our donations really just come from the community … people donate money, and we give it to [the family].” The Alexstrong Benefit Bass Tournament
is accepting individual and company sponsorships, and the money donated will go to purchasing raffle items and supporting Cooper’s family during his treatment. The Alexstrong Foundation’s fishing tournament first took place in 2017. Larry Walls, Sumner’s brother-in-law, hosted the first tournament to support Sumner’s family as her son, Alex, battled a brain tumor. Alex passed away shortly after his 14th birthday, but Sumner wanted to create a foundation to help families fighting similar battles and to honor her son. “It means that Alex gets to live on; people are saying his name and wearing shirts in his memory and sharing his story. He was one of a kind, straight A student, amazing big brother, so generous and respectful, just an all-around amazing kid,” said Sumner. For the fishing tournament, entry fee is $60 per boat and a big bass pot is $10 per boat. A $5 ramp fee will need to be paid at Grape Hammock’s office. For more on the tournament, visit their Facebook page or contact Larry Walls at 813-731-3112. To make a donation, contact Sumner at 813-493-2557. Visit their Facebook page @ alexstrongfoundationinc.
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Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
Volume 21, Issue 5
RESIDENT GIVES SANDWICH SHOP NEW LIFE AS HUNTER’S BRUNCH SHACK By Kate Quesada large breakfast menu includes omelets, breakfast sandwiches, traditional egg platters and creative options like shrimp and grits and country fried steak. Lunch options include a wide variety Growing up in the Riverview area, Hunter Giambra enjoyed the Riverview of sandwiches, Sandwich Shop on the corner of Riverview Dr. and U.S. 301. After its closing, homemade soups Giambra decided to create Hunter’s Brunch Shack in the same location, and salads as well which opened recently. as burgers for For 38 years, residents, every member of the including Hunter Giambra, family. enjoyed the Riverview Sand“The goal is to wich Shop on the corner of make sure there is Riverview Dr. and U.S. 301. something on the When the restaurant closed menu for everyone’s its doors, Giambra jumped at taste buds,” said the chance to continue the Giambra. location’s legacy, and late last There are also month, Hunter’s Brunch Shack daily specials and was born. a children’s menu. “Growing up, my dad used to Giambra has take me to the Riverview Sandowned and operatwich Shop on his day off from ed multiple businesses in the Tampa area. work,” said Giambra. “When I noticed that Most know him for his IT specialty and the shop closed abruptly and the ladies ‘Robocall Vigilante’ name. He has previwho have been there for fifteen to twenty ously received notoriety for his IT compayears were out of work, I knew I wantny, Hurricane IT Solutions. ed to purchase and freshen up the spot Hunter’s Brunch Shack is located at to welcome the same crowd and attract 8001 U.S. Hwy. 301 S. in Riverview and more families into the building.” can be reached at 813-898-0459. To learn Giambra was able to quickly reopen the more, visit www.huntersbrunchshack.com restaurant after refreshing the paint, bar, or follow the restaurant on Facebook @ tables and chairs. HuntersBrunchShack and Instagram @ Hunter’s Brunch Shack kept some of hunters_brunch_shack. The restaurant is the Riverview Sandwich Shop’s favorite open Monday to Friday from 7 a.m.-2 p.m. items and offers breakfast and lunch. The and Saturday from 7-11 a.m.
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May 2022
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
MEALS ON WHEELS OF TAMPA NOW SERVING DIABETIC AND RENAL MENUS
Staff Report
Page 41
CELEBRATE YOUR SENIOR WITH IMAGE360 MOBILE BILLBOARD
By Michelle Caceres
Meals on Wheels is now providing diabetic and renal menus to homebound recipients, in addition to the heart-healthy diet.
Meals On Wheels of Tampa (MOW Tampa) is now providing diabetic and renal menus to homebound recipients in addition to the heart-healthy diet. The meals are freshly prepared daily at the MOW Tampa facility and delivered to the homes of seniors and homebound neighbors in the Greater Tampa area. All menus have been evaluated by a registered dietician to ensure nutritional integrity. Steve King, MOW Tampa executive director, is very excited about the new menus. “Our executive chef has really created some great recipes, seasoning them with fresh ingredients, such as garlic and herbs, to enhance flavor while minimizing sodium,” said King. “Our plan is to rotate all the menus every 4-5 months to keep things seasonal.” The new diabetic menu is carbohydrate monitored. The renal menu has lower sodium, potassium and phosphorus levels and offers a quality source of protein with each meal. All the meals are offered in regular, chopped or pureed form to meet the changing needs of Tampa’s homebound and senior neighbors. When recipients were recently surveyed, the diabetic and renal menus were the most requested additions to the current
heart-healthy meals. MOW Tampa’s home-delivered meal program provides hot, nutritious meals to seniors (ages 62 and over) as well as disabled and homebound individuals who have difficulty shopping for food or preparing meals. Meals provide recipients with improved diet, health and wellbeing. A volunteer driver delivers a hot meal Monday to Friday. Frozen meals for the weekend are delivered on Friday. For many of the neighbors served, a visit from a volunteer is the only personal contact they will have that day. This allows for a ‘safety’ check in, which brings comfort and security for them and for their families. MOW Tampa serves from the county lines to the north and west, I-75 to the east, including Riverview and Gibsonton. MOW Tampa is completely privately funded and is not a government agency. The cost of meal service is determined based on the individual’s circumstances. The full cost of a meal is $5.50. No one is turned away due to financial reasons. If interested in receiving meals or to learn more about MOW Tampa, please call the office at 813-238-8410 or visit www. mowtampa.org.
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Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY UPGRADES FISHHAWK SPARTANS FOOTBALL FIELD By Nick Nahas Last year, the Fishduring that time. The Hawk Spartans, forprogram included merly known as the other sports, such as South County Spargolf and wrestling, tans Athletic Prothat they hope to gram, merged with bring back soon. the TBYL FishHawk Beiter plans to reWolves. The proimplement the honor gram’s football and roll program that procheerleading facilivides extra incentives ties are now based at to the students for the FishHawk Sports having good grades, Complex at 16000 along with a tutoring FishHawk Blvd. in Photos courtesy of the FishHawk Spartans. program. Also, the Lithia. According to The FishHawk Spartans had a successful Spartans are lookFishHawk Spartans first season after its merger with the TBYL ing for community FishHawk Wolves last year. President Christian sponsors as well as Beiter, the county will more volunteer footupgrade one of the ball and cheerleading fields with new artificoaches. cial turf. To make joining the “We are excited program easier, there about the upcoming are payment plans, season with our new multiple athlete disturf field,” said Beiter. counts and scholar“With the new field, ship opportunities we will have one of for those who can’t the biggest and most afford to pay regisexpansive in Hillsbortration fees. The program had another outstanding ough County.” If your child is infootball season all around with six out of its The nonprofit, now terested in joining seven teams making the playoffs. in its fifth year overthe program or if you all, had another successful football sea- want to become a volunteer football or son all around with six out of its seven cheerleading coach or become a commuteams making the playoffs. Over 200 stu- nity sponsor, visit fishhawkspartans.com dents have registered for cheer and foot- or reach out through Facebook @southball for the upcoming season, and they countyspartans. started conditioning on April 5. Donations can be made on the FishThe program was not able to compete Hawk Spartans Facebook page as well as in 2020 due to COVID-19. The players and through PayPal. Monthly or one-time docoaches associated with the organization nations can be made to the program for played and coached for different teams budget needs.
Volume 21, Issue 5
BLOOMINGDALE GIRLS BASKETBALL PLAYER EARNS DOTTIE MCGAHIGAN AWARD, COMMITS TO ST. THOMAS AQUINAS COLLEGE
By Nick Nahas
Photo courtesy of Bloomingdale Girls Basketball Program.
JoJo Raposo recently received the Dottie McGahigan award, given annually to the top senior girls basketball player in Hillsborough County.
It has been a whirlwind couple of months for Bloomingdale High School girls basketball player Joline ‘JoJo’ Raposo. She led the Lady Bulls to their first-ever regional title in February after being named player of the year in the Western Conference Federal Division First Team a few weeks before. She also competed in the Hillsborough County East/West All-Star Game and took home MVP honors for the east squad. She recently received the Dottie McGahigan award, given annually to the top senior girls basketball player in Hillsborough County. Three days later, she announced that she committed to play basketball for St. Thomas Aquinas College (STAC) in New York. “When I found out that I was player of the year, I was completely baffled,” said Raposo. “I never thought my name would ever get brought up in a conversation on that topic. But I was also happy because I feel like with everything that I’ve done these past four years, I earned it. But honestly, it wasn’t just me who did that alone, my teammates also played a big role in that accomplishment.” Raposo led her team with 10.6 points per game and 4.2 steals per game, adding three rebounds per game and 86 total assists on the season. Head Coach Joel Bower said that she not only was invaluable on the court, but she set a good example for her younger teammates off the court as well. “JoJo led our team by being one of our hardest working players and bringing an enthusiasm to the gym every day,” said Bower. “She backed that up by being our most consistent performer on the court. We were able to count on her production night in and night out.” Raposo has built a strong rapport with her teammates, who appreciate her talent Private Charters: 4 hour, 6 hour, 8 hour & 2.5 hour Sunset Cruises. Cruising the Alafia River and Tampa Bay.
on the court and her friendship off the court. “I have been teammates with JoJo for about a year and loved every moment of it,” said junior forward Kyrstin Wolff. “She has been there for not only me, but the whole team every day. She’s made me a better player and everyone around her better as well. What I am going to miss most is her energy. She is always positive and bringing everyone up. I loved being on the same team with her, and even more that I can call her my sister on and off the court.” The senior guard will take her talents to St. Thomas Aquinas College in New York in the fall. “The standout to me for St. Thomas Aquinas was the coach. He is so driven for me to be on the team, and he always puts his girls first,” said Raposo. “That was a huge thing for me, because caring for your players is the main key for successful seasons. The thing I look forward to the most for college basketball are the workouts and also the games. Now that I have to get used to a shot clock, I feel like it will be an interesting change in my game.” Bower will miss coaching the superstar guard, who led the Lady Bulls to their first final four in Bloomingdale’s history. “I will miss her positivity and her competitiveness,” he said. “I will miss her walking into the gym with a smile on her face but then when it was time to work, she flipped that switch and was a tough competitor. I think JoJo will have an immediate impact at STAC. I am really excited to see her growth, as I know she will have tremendous coaches working with her up there.”
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May 2022
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Page 43
PLANT CITY HIRES FORMER TAMPA BAY BUC MICHAEL CLAYTON AS HEAD FOOTBALL COACH Former Tampa Bay Buccaneers receiver Michael Clayton has a storied career as a football player, winning a national championship with Louisiana State University in 2003 and a Super Bowl with the New York Giants in 2012. He was selected 15th overall in the first round of the 2004 NFL draft by the Bucs and played six seasons with the team. Clayton now looks to add to his crowded mantle, this time as the head football coach of the Plant City Raiders. Plant City Athletic Director Randall Humphrey said that the addition to the program has created a buzz within the school and the community. “His accomplishments on the field really spoke for themselves,” said Humphrey. “His information and knowledge of football was clear, but when you really heard him speak to the heart of the student-athletes, the way he was able to speak directly to them really showed them instantaneously that he cared about them and that he would put together a program and pour all of his energy and effort into making sure they are successful in life.” Clayton, who always wanted to become a head coach, was introduced as the Plant City head man on April 1 in front of a gym packed with Raiders students and fans. He has a passion to pass on what he’s learned to a younger generation of football players. “Everything kind of aligned for me personally,” said Clayton. “I’m very lucky and very blessed to have the opportunity, and here we stand today, me being the head coach of Plant City High School.”
The Thonotosassa learned from football, in resident said that he’s terms of life skills.” had good and bad Clayton has a vested coaches, takes knowlinterested and a stanedge from the good dard of excellence when coaches and doesn’t it comes to his players try to reinvent the doing well academicalwheel. He cited his ly. He encourages them former coach, Nick to sit at the front of Saban, as a strong inthe classroom and parfluence and template ticipate fully in class. on his teaching style Every teacher at the and how he wants to school has his cell phone run his own program. number so that he can Clayton said his playkeep tabs on how his ers not only benefit by Defensive coordinator Terrence Hicks (left students are doing. He learning proper footwants them to represent to right), former Tampa Bay Buccaneers ball technique from the football program receiver Michael Clayton and offensive the former pro, but coordinator Kenny Kelly were introduced at well and become leaders a school pep rally on April 1. he also teaches them amongst their peers in valuable tools from the game that translate the classroom as well. into life skills they can take with them for the “The goal is to make academics a priority rest of their lives to become productive mem- to make sure that if they desire to play the bers of society. He wants to develop them as game of football, that they go through the football players and, more importantly, as full process of being great in every aspect of good, well-rounded young men. life, including academics and how to carry “I know how to motivate guys, being that themselves outside of football,” said Clayton. every player that puts on pads, you don’t pay “All of those things are going to help us build the price for no reason, you play the game a foundation.” to be the best at it, to win a championship,” The head coach has built a great coachsaid Clayton. “I’ve won a championship at the ing staff to help him spread his message. college level; I know what it takes to be the Former Wharton defensive coordinator Terbest in the world in college. I won a Super rence Hicks brings a lot of experience and Bowl in the pros; I know what it takes to be a leadership, taking charge of the defense. Ofchampion in the pros. I also know the lessons fensive coordinator Kenny Kelly, who played that I’ve lived in the past 20 years that I’ve quarterback at the University of Miami and
professional baseball, also coached in the college ranks as an offensive assistant at Florida International University. Plant City High School alumnus John Broome, who is a fixture within the Pop Warner community in the city, will be the junior varsity head coach. Clayton thinks that these hires will keep the top players from the area at the school and build a strong tradition of winning. Clayton hopes to make the city proud and give fans of the team something to cheer about and have pride in. He knows that his program can bring a different energy to Plant City. A new artificial turf field is in the process of being added to the football facility, and the team will break out new uniforms as well. He relishes the opportunity for his team to compete against the tough gauntlet of Hillsborough County. “We have to learn how to play football the right way,” said Clayton. “That’s goal number one, to set a standard of excellence in everything we do to finish hard for four quarters every time we get a chance to play. Obviously, the standard is set high to win every game that we play and to win a championship. Regardless of how young our players are, regardless of how inexperienced they are, the goal is to come together as a team and to win a championship, and I will hold them to that standard every single day.” Clayton will be hosting a camp in the near future with other former NFL players to teach football fundamentals. For updates about the camp, follow Clayton on Twitter @ MCListenUp.
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Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
Volume 21, Issue 5
