Valrico
22
December 2021
Volume 18, Issue 12
Ph: 657-2418
CELEBRATING 19 YEARS OF PUBLISHING P OSITIVE COMMUNIT Y NEWS
FLORIDA DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH PARTNERS WITH DELIVERXD TO OFFER ANTIBODIES TEST
By Libby Hopkins
Postal Customer
ECRWSS EDDM
PRSTD STD U.S. POSTAGE PAID TAMPA, FL PERMIT #2397
more. As a locally owned and operated pharmacy, it devotes much of its time and effort to preventative and curative health care to ensure the wellness of the community. The goal is to provide easy access to therapy that places a high value on personal wellness and disease prevention. “Once again, DeliveRxd Pharmacy has No-cost, at-home COVID-19 monoclonal antibody treatment is now available through the Florida Department of Health and DeliveRxd. stepped up to offer our region a service No-cost, at-home COVID-19 mono- that is not offered in most other placclonal antibody treatment is now avail- es around the nation and world,” said able through the Florida Department of Dr. Douglas Holt, director of the Florida Health and DeliveRxd. Department of Health in Hillsborough Those who would like this option do County. “In addition to being a convenot have to be homebound or bedrid- nient option, this also helps reduce acden. Additionally, DeliveRxd Pharma- cess issues.” cy continues to offer the COVID-19 Monoclonal antibodies are like the anvaccine to those in Hillsborough and tibodies your body makes to fight virusPinellas. There is no out-of-pocket cost es and other bugs, but they are made in for those who choose the services. the labs of pharmaceutical companies. “We are excited to add this as an They’re designed to target the corooption for those in the region,” said navirus spike protein. When the antiWilliam Parker, president and found- bodies bind to the spike protein, they er of DeliveRxd Pharmacy. “We aim block the virus from entering your to improve the health and wellness of body’s cells. If the virus can’t enter every patient that we serve. We aspire cells, it can’t make copies of itself and to deliver the highest quality and most continue spreading within the body. comprehensive pharmacy health care If a person is already sick, monoservices. Our commitment to integrity clonal antibodies prevent them from and improving the health and wellness having severe symptoms that require of our patients will forever guide us.” hospitalization. If someone has been DeliveRxd offers convenient, ze- exposed, monoclonal antibodies can ro-cost prescription delivery through- fend off the virus to prevent him or her out the Tampa Bay Metro area. At from becoming sicka in the first place. DeliveRxd Pharmacy, it specializes in To schedule an at-home COVID-19 services including preventative health monoclonal antibody treatment or vaccare, front-door pharmacy delivery and cination, call 932-6266.
ALAFIA DRIVING ACADEMY PREPARES NEW DRIVERS FOR THE ROAD By Taylor Wells sure what the other schools cost these days, but I know we cost. I like to think that the parents get their money’s worth when they book with us,” said Founder and Owner Cole Dolmseth. “Communication is key; we are on time. If we are running late, we’ll let you know. If you call us and we can’t Brandon Anderson, a driving instructor with Alafia Driving Academy, get to the phone, we standing next to his white 2019 Kia Sportage. will call you back. If you have For those who are questions, I’ll seeking professional answer them driving instructors the best I that can come to can—or find you, they’d have a out for you.” hard time finding ones better than Alafia Lessons come in several packages and Driving Academy. The local company has been around since 2013 and provides ser- can be personalized to what you need. The vices from Sun City Center up to Mango, academy recommends a 10-hour package, covering Ruskin, Apollo Beach, Riverview, but you can also get more lessons, includFishHawk, Valrico, Brandon, Western Plant ing its 20-hour package. Plus, it has lessons for manual transmission/stick driving, a City, Dover and Seffner. Telling from personal experience, the 3-in-3 driver course for the three-crashesinstructors are top-notch. Even on the in-three-years law and extra lessons even first lesson while driving in the rain, the after getting your license. Alafia Driving Academy offers free pickinstructor had no issue providing instruction. They’ll calmly communicate what you up at homes in its service area, and you can should be doing, let you know what you’re meet up with instructors if you live outside doing well, explain how to improve and their service area. It is also looking for new cover all the bases so that you have a solid instructors; if you want to teach driving and want a fairly flexible job, be sure to grasp on safe driving in no time. Things that the instructors will do in- contact the academy. For more information, to schedule a lesclude starting by practicing the basics in a neighborhood and later driving on back son or to contact the academy, visit www. roads and highways, going for longer dis- alafiadrivingacademy.com or www.linketances in traffic, changing lanes, doing din.com/company/alafia-driving-academy, info@alafiadrivingacademy.com, U-turns, parking to the left and right and email much more. Plus, they can prepare you for check out its Facebook page @AlafiaDrivthe DMV driving test and help you pass it ingAcademy or call 438-9712. easily. “I like to think that we set the standard for driving schools. New, high-end, maintained cars. Internal and external dash CIRQUE ITALIA ......................................PG 3 cams, GPS tracks of where we went, af- WINTER VILLAGE ................................ PG 9 ter-lessons reports to the parents after EYE ON BUSINESS ...................PGS 25-26 every trip. Back when we started, none of COMMUNITY ARTS.........................PGS 35 the other schools did any of that. I’m not
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Cirque Italia is bringing a brand-new production to Brandon from Friday to Wednesday, January 7-17, 2022. See full story on Page 3.
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Valrico Edition
Volume 18, Issue 12
December 2021
Valrico Edition
SPECIAL FRIENDSHIP LEADS TO DONATION FOR STUDENTS AT DOVER ELEMENTARY By Kathy L. Collins A longtime Baldwin said, friendship and “When they told a desire to help me about the children came toschool, I wanted gether recently at to get involved.” a local elementary Dover Elemenschool when handtary School is made, crocheted a Title I school. toys were donated Many of the famto help make this ilies who attend year’s Great Media are low-income, Giveaway special. and many are The handcrafted from migrant toys consist of rofarmworker fambots, clowns, flailies. mingos, alligators, Kerri explained dragons, bunnies the purpose of and more. giving the stuKerri Aman is dents books and the media special- Children at Dover Elementary School in Dover are go- reading budist at Dover Elemen- ing to get treated to a fantastic Great Media Giveaway dies. “They have tary School. Every this year thanks to Claudia Baldwin (center); her long- someone to sit year, Kerri randomly time friend and Valrico resident Sandra Aman (right); with and read selects two children and Kerri Aman (left). Baldwin, who lives in New York, and there is no from each class and handcrafted 400 crocheted toys for the students so they judgment.” Kerri could have a reading buddy. gives them a holiday added, “We try to gift paired with a book. Kerri’s mom, San- build a home library by giving them books. dra Aman, told her longtime friend, Clau- Studies show that children whose homes dia Baldwin, about Kerri’s project. It just have 50 books or more do better in school. so happens that Baldwin, who is the Exalt- We also give books to the children whose ed Ruler of her Elks Club in Penn Yan, New families have to leave so they have a couple York, was looking for a community charity of books with them.” project. Baldwin, who was a music teacher for Sandra explained, “During one of our many years, said, “Giving away like this is phone conversations, I was telling Claudia what Elks do.” about Kerri and the Christmas give away.” Kerri said, “This is a wonderful school Baldwin has a knitting group at the Elks with great students, teachers and staff. Club. They make teddy bears for foster Everyone puts in their best efforts.” children. When Sandra told Claudia about The Great Media Giveaway takes place the project, Baldwin asked how many Ker- the week before Winter Break. ri needed. The number 100 was discussed, Kerri collects used and new books. If you but Baldwin went above that and created would like to donate, please contact her at 400 stuffed animals of all kinds. kerri.aman@hcps.net.
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CIRQUE ITALIA COMES TO BRANDON
Staff Report
Have you ever dreamed of going on an epic pirate adventure and discovering a buried treasure? Cirque Italia is giving you the opportunity to come along on a thrilling quest in the brand-new production coming to Brandon from Friday to Wednesday, January 7-17, 2022. An exhilarating expedition in search of pirate booty, Cirque Italia has sought to bring a highclass experience to audiences all over the United States since its inception in 2012. The story begins with Ringmaster ‘Clown Rafinha’ fishing when he unexpectedly catches a bottle with a treasure map stuffed inside. His ensuing journey takes the audience through storms on the high seas, dreams of angelic aerialists, pirate fights and more. You will see swashbucklers balancing upside down on a rum barrel, juggling knives and even one having a run-in with a mermaid. Your jaws will be dropped, and you will be hanging on the edge of your seats with its suspenseful crossbow act and its dangerous Wheel of Death performances. Try not to flinch and look away if you don’t want to miss any of the excitement. Will Clown Rafinha finally defeat the other pirates who are after his treasure and claim it for himself? You’ll have to see the show for
Cirque Italia is bringing a brand-new production to Brandon from Friday to Wednesday, January 7-17, 2022.
yourself to find out. Manuel Rebecchi, president and owner of Cirque Italia, is tremendously proud of his circus heritage and feels extremely privileged to be able to share it with you in such a fun and memorable way. Cirque Italia continues to contribute to the modernization of the performing arts and the circus industry by abiding by a strict animal-free policy and is enforcing all recommendations set forth by the CDC and local municipalities. The show will take place under the white and blue big top tent at 459 Brandon Town Center Dr., near the grass lot by Dillard’s. Tickets may be purchased at www.cirqueitalia.com/tickets or by phone at 941-7048572. The box office opens on-site on Tuesday, the week of the show, and is open from 10 a.m.-6 p.m. on days with no scheduled show and from 10 a.m.-9 p.m. on days with scheduled shows. For more information, visit www.cirqueitalia.com and make sure to check all social media accounts.
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Valrico Edition
Volume 18, Issue 12
December 2021
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Small Plant City means his prodbusiness owner and ucts have traveled teacher Mathew internationally. Boddiford started “What’s really his own laser encool is the stuff graving business, that I’m making ELC Creations, in in my garage in his garage last Plant City is all year. In December over the world. It of 2020, Boddiford was kind of neat was talking to his to think about,” brother, who gave said Boddiford. him the idea to purSince starting chase his first laser the company, Bodengraving machine. diford has worked He started by ento make his small graving a few prodwarehouse in his ucts for his friends garage a better and family, but ELC Mathew Boddiford started ELC Creations for his environment. He Creations eventualhas added air three kids, Evelyn, Levi and Cade. ly grew into a busiconditioning and ness. made the garage ELC Creations, strong enough named for his three so he could kids, Evelyn, Levi and work through Cade, sells custom storms and hurengraved products ricanes. Since from tumbler cups he is a full-time to cutting boards English teacher to notebooks. Cusat Durant High tomers can send the School and fadesign they want enther, he usually graved on the natural works well past or synthetic material midnight to fill to Boddiford, who orders after his then digitizes the kids have gone to design and engraves bed. the product. Boddiford “I try to keep a plans to use the variety of products extra money he is at different price making from the points … I have, for example, Christmas one-person-owned and operated comornaments. They go for anything like $5 pany to pay for his kids’ college. While when it’s not a customized one,” said Boddiford’s motivation is supporting his Boddiford. “The most expensive prod- three kids, he also uses his company to uct I have currently (at $125), besides support local schools and organizations a custom giant sign, would be a 20-inch, by supplying products for fundraisers. olive wood charcuterie board.” To purchase personalized products Boddiford has had the opportunity to from ELC Creations, visit Boddiford’s engrave custom acrylic motorcycle parts website at elccreations.com or email for The Ruck Shop in Zephyrhills, which him at matt@elccreations.com.
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Valrico Edition
Volume 18, Issue 12
HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY PET COUNTY APPROVES REDISTRICTED MAP FOR COUNTY COMMISSIONERS RESOURCE CENTER SEEKS DONATIONS Staff Report THIS HOLIDAY SEASON There were four in-perRANGE 17 EAST
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son public engagements and four public meet2 ings since September where many residents made their voices heard about the 3 maps. The approved map meets all criteria set forth by the 1 BOCC, such as targeting 0 percent retrogression of minority composition in districts, including main4 taining a high enough Black population (39 percent) in District 3 so as to maximize the opportunity for a minority candidate to be elected. Similar population sizes in single-memThe Hillsborough County Board of County Commissionber districts to comply ers (BOCC) recently approved a map with new commission with the ‘one person, one districts for the four single-member BOCC districts. vote’ requirement. The The Hillsborough County Board of population variance as depicted on County Commissioners (BOCC) recent- the approved map is 7.7 percent. Disly approved a map with new commis- tricts should be as compact in form as possion districts for the four single-mem- sible and be contiguous. Districts should ber BOCC districts. allow for the representation of general Redistricting is the mandated redraw- areas of the county that have similar ining of local, state and federal political terests or affinities. boundaries every 10 years following the Next, the map will need to be legally federal census to account for changes described and submitted to the Florida in population during the previous de- Secretary of State. cade. Hillsborough County added about Hillsborough County’s redistricting pro250,000 new residents since the last re- cess has been completed in time for the districting process in 2011. state to record the maps for use in the The approved map can be found at hc- 2022 election cycle. The census informaflgov.net/redistricting. tion was delayed because of the pandemThe process of drawing the new maps ic, which put the redistricting process in was designed to maximize public access a shortened timeframe, but the deadline to the maps that were under consider- was met. ation and to open the process to resident For more information, visit www.hcflfeedback at every point in the process. gov.net/redistricting. Keystone
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Knights
Lake Magdalene
ANDERSON RD
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LINEBAUGH AVE
University of South Florida
Thonotosassa
TEMPLE TERRACE
THONOTOSASSA RD
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FLORIDA AVE
Lake Carroll
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STATE ROAD 60
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LUMSDEN RD
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ROAD 39
Davis Island
Progress Village
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EUCLID AVE
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HI LIT
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Palma Ceia
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Harbour Island
Hyde Park
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Town 'N Country
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COUNTY ROAD 579
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Tampa Bay
Pinecrest
COUNTY ROAD 672
Apollo Beach
Balm
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TOWNSHIP 31 SOUTH
US HIGHW AY 301
US HIGHWAY 41
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Adamsville
Boyette
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Shadow Run
BOYETTE RD
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MacDill Air Force Base
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Picnic
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19TH AVE NE
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Wimauma
STATE ROAD 674
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TOWNSHIP 32 SOUTH
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TOWNSHIP 31 SOUTH
By Tatiana Ortiz
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Lutz
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TOWNSHIP 27 SOUTH
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LUTZ LAKE FERN RD
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The idea of be“For the past few ing able to give to years, we have done a someone as well as wish list based off of a furry friend such the needs for the comas a dog or a cat munity,” Postiglione can be heartwarmsaid. ing. Many of the Some of the items on Hillsborough Counthe Amazon Wish List ty departments are range from peanut butseeking donations ter, broth, cat toys, dog that will help pets and puppy pads and and residents in more. Once the items need celebrate the get purchased, the doholidays. Every denations will be shipped partment created directly to the departan online wish list ment for distribution to that can be found those in need. These doon Amazon for the nations will benefit the pets, kids, families pets in foster care, resOne of the Hillsborough County Pet Resource and adults it serves, Center’s dogs, named Gucci, playing with a toy ident shelter animals which includes the and the Safety Net Prolike the ones on the wish list. Hillsborough County gram, which keeps pets Pet Resource Center from being turned in to the and more. This gives shelter by families in a cripeople an opportunisis. It also needs blankets, ty to give back to the which can be new or gently community. used. The blankets can be With that in mind, dropped off inside the dothe Hillsborough Counnation bins located outside ty Pet Resource Cenof the Hillsborough County ter provides pet care Pet Resource Center. items and pet food for Hillsborough Coun“Overall, by people helping with the ty residents who need help feeding their donations, it gives the animals a sense of dogs and cats. The pet food pantry here comfort while they wait to get adopted,” consists of a wide array of items, such as Postiglione said. dog food, cat treats, cat food and much To donate toward the wish list, visit more. https://amzn.to/3I2BSa9. It is located at Lauryn Postiglione, program coordina- 440 N. Falkenburg Rd. in Tampa and open tor at the Hillsborough County Pet Re- Monday through Saturday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. source Center, mentioned how the idea of Call 744-5660. For questions, email peta wish list came about. info@hcflgov.net.
Valrico Edition
December 2021
HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY ALLOCATES FEDERAL FUNDING TO LOCAL PROJECTS Staff Report
Hillsborough County has approved a list of projects to benefit infrastructure, affordable housing, fire rescue and food-insecure households to be funded by the American Rescue Plan Act - Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds (‘ARPA Funds’). The Hillsborough County Board of County Commissioners, which approved the county’s general ARPA Funds investment plan, called the Hillsborough County ARP Investment Plan (the ‘Investment Plan’) on September 1, approved funding for six Investment Plan projects during its regular board meeting on November 3. The approved projects appropriate more than $103 million received from the federal program and targets long-term investments to promote community health and stability. A large portion of the funds will be allocated to essential infrastructure programs such as septic-to-sewer conversions, which protect groundwater in parts of the county that were developed before the county had wastewater services, and stormwater drainage programs. Other funding allocations will help the county address social issues such as food insecurity and homelessness, including the purchase of a 36-unit apartment building in the University Area to provide affordable housing opportunities for residents emerging from homelessness. Funding also has been allocated for Hillsborough County Fire Rescue to implement a new station alerting system to
replace outdated alerting and dispatching technology in the county’s 44 fire stations. The county projects must fit guidelines established by the federal government but will also address the County’s unique community needs and economic ecosystem characteristics and reflect the board of county commissioners’ collective values in addressing residents’ needs. The recently approved projects fall under four of the five categories set out in the Investment Plan: Water, Sewer and Broadband Infrastructure, which will provide necessary investments in projects that improve access to clean drinking water and improve wastewater and stormwater infrastructure systems; Public Health Response, which provides resources to meet and address the emergent public health needs; Negative Economic Impacts, which assists households or populations affected by the negative economic impacts of the COVID-19 public health emergency; and Revenue Replacement-Funded Government Services, which provides government services to the extent of the reduction in revenue experienced due to the COVID-19 public health emergency. The county will continue to review and approve projects over the next three years until the entire $285 million that was received through the ARPA Funds is fully allocated, which must be done by December 2024. For more information, visit www.hillsboroughcounty.org.
Expiration 01/01/2022
Page 7
STUDENTS AT SUMNER CAN EARN BRIGHT FUTURE By Michelle Caceres At Sumner High the program in ninth School, there’s a secgrade and complete ond path to the covit by their junior eted Florida Academic year,” said Nelson. Scholars Award, part Since the school of the Bright Futures only opened last year, Scholarship program, he has students who that covers 100 perare cramming their cent of tuition and courses into a shorter applicable fees for stuperiod of time. dents attending a pub“Forty-four stulic institution of higher dents are on track to Students who earn the AICE diploma at Sumner earn the AICE diplolearning. Students who earn a High School and complete 100 community ma this year,” he said. Cambridge Advanced service hours also are awarded with a Bright In addition to the Futures Scholarship. International Certifischolarship, students cate of Education (AICE) diploma based on also earn college credit for the classes. The AICE exams, complete 100 hours of com- Florida Department of Education has estabmunity service and submit their Florida Fi- lished credit course equivalencies for the nancial Aid Applications by their high school AICE program at public state colleges. graduation date will earn the award. “This program is a game changer and an Sumner High, which opened last year, is opportunity for students to challenge themthe only high school that offers the AICE di- selves and be exposed to higher-level thinkploma. ing,” said Nelson. “It also saves parents and “It’s a big-ticket reward for our students students a lot of money and giving kids opat Sumner,” said Principal Robert Nelson. portunities that they didn’t think they could “When the complete the AICE program, the have.” SAT/ACT score and GPA requirements of Senior Joanna Milla started the program Bright Futures are waived.” last year as a junior and will earn the AICE The path is not a cakewalk. Students fol- diploma upon graduation. lowing the AICE curriculum for graduation “I’m really grateful for the benefits of this purposes have different requirements than program,” she said. “Even though it can be the standard 24-credit diploma require- a heavy workload sometimes, I’ve learned ments. It’s a rigorous, international, pre-uni- so much and will be able to pay for college versity curriculum and examination system now.” which requires that students complete a Milla has applied to The University of Tamminimum number of AICE-(college)-level pa and her dream school, the University of courses across a range of subjects. Comple- Miami. tion of the AICE curriculum requires stuFor more information about Sumner’s dents to complete a minimum of seven AICE AICE program, visit www.hillsboroughcourses and take (and pass) the exams for schools.org. For more information about the each. Bright Futures Scholarship program, visit “Our vision is that students will begin www.floridastudentfinancialaidsg.org.
Expiration 01/01/2022
Expiration 01/01/2022
Page 8
Valrico Edition
TAMPA METROPOLITAN AREA YMCA RECEIVES FUNDING FOR WATER SAFETY TRAINING
Staff Report
The Tampa the generosity Metropolitan of POOLCORP, Area YMCA is we will now be teaming up with able to reach SCP Distributors even deeper Inc., Superior into our comPool Products munity and and parent comserve kids who pany POOLCORP otherwise may to provide scholnot have expoarships for water Representatives from SCP Distributors, Superior Pool Prod- sure to these safety lessons to ucts and parent company POOLCORP present the Tampa vital life-savarea children. Do- Metropolitan Area YMCA with funding for 100 lifeguard ing programs,” training scholarships and Safety Around Water lessons for nated funds will said Matt 1,400 students. From left to right: Tampa Metropolitan Area provide 100 life- YMCA CEO Matt Mitchell; Taylor Anderson, Lisa Pace, Bill Mitchell, presguard training Gifford and Curtis Litteral of SCP Distributors; and Bobby ident and CEO scholarships and of the Tampa Mull of Superior Pool Products. Safety Around Metropolitan Water (SAW) lessons Area YMCA. for more than 1,400 The Tampa Metrochildren who might not politan Area YMCA is a otherwise be able to afcause-driven, four-star ford to participate. charity that has been The Safety Around Water Program con- strengthening Hillsborough and East Pasco sists of a course of eight 40-minute sessions communities for 132 years through youth where students learn important skills in and development, healthy living and social rearound water, including survival skills like sponsibility. pushing off from the bottom of the pool to Across the association, 18 facilities engage resurface, safety skills like water rescue 223,000-plus men, women and children— techniques and identifying a safe place to regardless of age, income or background— swim and basic swimming skills like floating, to nurture the potential of children and teens blowing bubbles and beginner swim strokes. as well as improve our community’s health The lifeguard training scholarships pro- and well-being. vide employment opportunities and support POOLCORP is the world’s largest wholeneeded for community pools to be able to be sale distributor of swimming pool and reopen and operate safely. Both classes will lated outdoor living products. POOLCORP be available at 12 Tampa Metropolitan Area operates 409 sales centers in North AmerYMCAs. ica, Europe and Australia, through which “The prevention of childhood drown- it distributes more than 200,000 national ing remains a top priority for our YMCAs brand and private label products to roughthroughout Tampa Bay. We know water ly 120,000 wholesale customers. For more safety programs can save lives, and through information, please visit www.poolcorp.com. Specializing in treatment of:
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Volume 18, Issue 12
HILLSBOROUGH SCHOOLS RECEIVE FEDERAL GRANT By Michelle Caceres cused courses at Robinson High School. “Students in the elementary program will be getting 13 or 14 hours a week of a much more intensive Spanish language curriculum starting at a young age,” said District Supervisor of K-12 World Languages Melissa Morgado. The district is trying to meet Hillsborough County Publics Schools won a $1.7 million grant to the needs of the current and fuoffer Spanish language immersions classes at some schools. ture job market, as the demand The Department of Defense Education for bilingual employees continActivity (DoDEA) recently awarded a World ues to grow in this country. Language Advancement and Readiness “Our mission is to create a community of Grant worth $1.7 million to Hillsborough global learners equipped with the necesCounty Public Schools. The district was one sary skills and knowledge of languages and of nine districts in the nation to receive this cultures to communicate effectively in a award. The DoDEA awarded a total $47 21st-century, multilingual environment,” said million across 41 grants as part of its 2021 Morgado. program. Schools were selected based on the grant’s The grant will establish, improve and bol- criteria that selected schools needed a minster world language programs targeting stu- imum of a 10 percent student population dents in highly military-connected schools. from military families. Starting in August 2022, a Spanish language This new program is different than the disimmersion program will be offered at four trict’s Spanish dual language immersion inelementary schools: Dawson Elementary, struction, currently offered at Canella, Deer Lanier Elementary, Summerfield Crossings Park, Ruskin, Reddick, Westchase, Bellamy Elementary and West Shore Elementary. and Crestwood Elementary Schools. Hillsborough County Public Schools uses District officials are working this year to a 50/50, two-way, dual language immer- develop the rigorous curriculum and prosion model in which students receive math, vide training and personal development for science, social studies and language arts in- teachers selected for the program. struction in English 50 percent of the time “Our goal is to create a sustainable proand the other 50 percent in Spanish to devel- gram that can be replicated at any school in op proficiency in both languages. the District,” said Morgado. “By expanding World language instruction will also be our dual language program we are expandbolstered at the middle and high school lev- ing on the foundation of global citizenship.” el through the Bridge to Bi-Literacy project Visit www.dodea.edu. For more informawith the addition of Spanish career explora- tion about the district’s Dual Language Imtion courses at Barrington and Randall Mid- mersion Program, visit www.hillsboroughdle Schools and even deeper, higher-level fo- schools.org.
FINANCIAL FOCUS
DON’T AVOID ‘TABOO’ TOPICS WITH OLDER PARENTS
If your parents are getting close to retirement age, or are already retired, it may be time to talk with them about financial and aging issues, some of which may involve difficult conversations. For the sake of everyone in your family, don’t avoid these “taboo” topics. You’ll need to be careful about approaching these subjects with your parents. Mention ahead of time that you’d like to talk to them about their future plans and reassure them that you want to understand their wishes, so their affairs will be taken care of as they would like. If your parents are agreeable, choose a location comfortable for them and ask whom they might like to invite (or not invite). Then, think about how to open the conversation, preferably not with what they want to do with their money – this could be interpreted as your seeking information about your inheritance or being skeptical about their financial decisions. Instead, build a broad-based discussion about their vision for their aging years. A series of shorter conversations may allow you to cover topics more comfortably, one by one, rather than trying to solve everything at once. Try to address these areas: Health care – You’ll want to learn if your parents have established the appropriate health-related legal documents – a health care power of attorney, which gives someone the authority to make important decisions about their medical care if they become unable to do so themselves, and a living will, which spells out the extraordinary medical treatments they may or may not want. Independence – As people age, they may begin to lose their independence. Have your parents considered any options for long-term care, such as a nursing home stay, or the services of a home health aide? And
do they have plans in place? If they plan to receive support from family members, do their expectations match yours? Financial goals – Focusing on the personal and financial aspects of the legacy your parents want to leave can be a valuable conversation. Have your parents updated their will or other arrangements, such as a living trust? Have they named a financial power of attorney to make decisions on their behalf if they become incapacitated? Do they have the proper beneficiary designations on their insurance policies and retirement plan accounts? If you can position these issues as being more about your parents’ control over their financial destiny, rather than “who will get what,” you’ll more likely have a productive conversation. Last wishes – You’ll want to find out if your parents have left instructions in their will about their funerals and last wishes. Express to them that you, or another close family member, should know who is responsible for making sure their wishes are met. Money, independence and aging can be sensitive topics. Don’t think you have to go it alone – you can enlist help from another close family member. Or, if you know your parents are working with a trusted advisor, such as an attorney or financial professional, you could see if they’d be willing to have this person participate in your talks. You might even be able to introduce them to one of your advisors. In any case, keep talking. These conversations can be challenging, but, if handled correctly, can be of great benefit to your parents and your entire family. This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor. Edward Jones, Member SIPC Edward Jones, its employees and financial advisors cannot provide tax or legal advice. You should consult your attorney or qualified tax advisor regarding your situation.
edwardjones.com/adam-benabram
December 2021
Valrico Edition
WINTER VILLAGE AND ICE SKATING RETURN TO DOWNTOWN TAMPA FOR THE HOLIDAYS By Kathy L. Collins This year’s Winthat makes ter Village and a 10-minute outdoor ice skating loops around rink will be bigger the park during and better than the light show. ever. It is a great You must holiday activity for purchase and the whole family. reserve tickets The Winter Village for ice skatis located in Curtis ing in advance. Hixon Waterfront Area residents can get into the holiday spirit with a visit Tickets are Park at 600 N. to Tampa’s Winter Village, located in Curtis Hixon Wa- $17 and include Ashley Dr. in down- terfront Park in downtown Tampa. You can enjoy lights, skate rentals. Santa sightings, ice skating, shopping and more. town Tampa. The The Winter Winter Village is open through January Village is open seven days a week, with 2, 2022. the exception of Thanksgiving. It is also New to the holiday celebrations this subject to weather conditions. year is the Tampa Bay Lighting-themed “We are always looking for ways to 360-degree holiday light show with il- enhance the Winter Village experience, luminated trees synchronized to music. and this will be our most memorable Also new are the festivities that are ex- year yet,” said Shaun Drinkard, senior panding at Lykes Gaslight Square Park, director of public programming and opwith Sweet Street at The Square featur- erations at the Tampa Downtown Parting Sweet Mama’s Ice Cream shop along nership. “We are excited to partner with with beautiful lighting, local shops and the Tampa Bay Lightning this year. You activities every Sunday. will see a lot of new holiday decorations Back this year is the popular Win- in honor of our back-to-back Stanley ter Village Express. The family-friendly Cup Champions,” added Drinkard. excursion takes you from Downtown’s “We are growing the celebrations Whiting Station to Ybor and back on the throughout downtown Tampa and creTECO Line Streetcar. The one-hour trip ating a destination that everyone can features a holiday sing-along, holiday enjoy for the entire holiday season,” trivia, milk and cookies and added sur- said Lynda Remund, president and CEO prises along the way. The Winter Village of the Tampa Downtown Partnership. Express only runs on Sunday evenings. “We are also happy to support our small In addition to the 5,000-square-foot businesses, who can help you find the ice skating rink, the Winter Village fea- perfect gift for everyone on your list,” tures random Santa sightings, the Curtis added Remund. Hixon Choo Choo and shopping and beverFor information on hours and to reage options. The Curtis Hixon Choo Choo serve tickets for ice skating, please visit is a 12-seat, three-car, trackless train www.wintervillagetampa.com.
Page 9
BRENDA WADE & TEAM RAISE $37,600 FOR FOOD BANK & FOSTER CHARITIES By Kate Quesada the highest was $10,000. Donors included Rory Weiner with the law office of Rory Weiner, Michael Couture with Couture Painting, Brian Hodgers with Complete Choice Insurance, Joel Meek with Meek Insurance Group, Todd Martin with The Brenda Wade Real Estate Team raised $37,600 to be split between A Kid’s Guaranteed Rate, Place and Bell Shoals Real Hope Food Pantry at its ninth Partners in Giving event. Patrick Latimer with United MutuThe holiday season is a little easier al Funding, Jon Howard with The Home for two local charities thanks to The Loan Expert, Bart Rice with The Rice Brenda Wade Real Estate Team. For the Financial Group, Jeff Grove with Valley ninth year in a row, the team hosted a Bank, Cole Dickerson with Ribbon, Jay Partners in Giving event, which this year Grechika with CertaPro Painters, Steven raised $37,600 to be split between A Gonzalez with Gonzalez Roofing, Sue LuKid’s Place and Bell Shoals Real Hope ther and Rebecca Gullick with All AmerFood Pantry. ican Title, Aaron Davis with Hillsborough Brenda Wade, who started the event Title Company, Cheryl Leiman with Execas a way to bring people who want to utive Title Company, Mike Yeager with A help the community together, donated Buyer’s Choice Home Inspections, Matt to the same charities nine years ago at McArty with Omni Home Inspections, the first Partners in Giving. Lisa Schalk with Toffee to Go, Matt Wil“We work where we live and we want lums with Willums Home Services and to give where we live,” said Wade, who Marie Gilmore with the Osprey Observer. has been selling real estate in Eastern “We win awards every year for being Hillsborough County for 21 years. the number one team in Hillsborough At the event, which was held at Xscape County and have been recognized for Theatre in Riverview so that attendees many years as one of the top teams in could spread out, the community mem- the U.S. by The Wall Street Journal,” bers invited by Wade gave a donation said Wade, “but our favorite reward is a and then had the opportunity to give a happy customer, and we focus all of our 15 to 20-minute presentation. This was attention on our customer and helping the first year the event was held any- them accomplish their goals.” where other than Wade’s Valrico office. To learn more about The Brenda Wade According to Wade, the minimum Team, visit www.brendawade.com or donation from partners was $400 and call 655-5333.
Page 10
Valrico Edition
CHICK-FIL-A OPENS FIRST PLANT CITY RESTAURANT WITH LOCAL HERO PRIZES AND $25,000 DONATION TO FEEDING AMERICA
Volume 18, Issue 12
VALRICO COMMUNITY COMES TOGETHER TO HELP QUEENA
By Libby Hopkins
Staff Report
A new Chickher new role as fil-A® restaurant the operator of is open for busiChick-fil-A Plant ness in Plant City City. Alongside with local resident her family, who Dawn Redmon as will help support the independent restaurant operfranchised owner/ ations, Redmon operator. is excited to call Redmon will Plant City her new be responsible home and make a for all day-to-day lasting impact in activities of the the community. business, includ“ Th ro u g h o u t ing employing my life, mentoring approximately youth has always 160 full and partbeen my passion,” time team mem- Chick-fil-A Plant City opened on December 2 at 1101 said Redmon. Goldfinch Dr., off of Thonotosassa Rd. bers, cultivating “With the opening relationships with local organizations and of Chick-fil-A Plant City, I look forward neighboring businesses and serving guests. to developing and encouraging my team Chick-fil-A Plant City is located at 1101 members. As a local business owner, I am Goldfinch Dr., off of Thonotosassa Rd., and humbled by the opportunity to show care will be open from 6:30 a.m.-10 p.m., Mon- for our neighbors and serve our guests day through Saturday. great-tasting food with Chick-fil-A’s signaA Florida native, Redmon grew up in ture hospitality.” Mulberry, just down the road from her new In place of the traditional Chick-fil-A First restaurant in Plant City. After graduating 100® grand opening celebration, Chick-fil-A from Nova Southeastern College, she began Plant City surprised 100 local heroes makteaching middle school while supporting a ing an impact in Hillsborough County with local Chick-fil-A restaurant with its mar- free Chick-fil-A for a year. Additionally, in keting efforts. Inspired by the restaurant’s honor of the new restaurant opening, Chickwelcoming atmosphere, Redmon started fil-A donated $25,000 to Feeding America. working nights as a part-time team mem- The funds will be distributed to partners ber and eventually left teaching to pursue a within the Greater Tampa area to aid in the career with Chick-fil-A. She quickly rose to fight against hunger. leadership positions within the restaurant For more information about Chick-fil-A, and was selected to become the operator visit www.chick-fil-a.com. For the latest of Chick-fil-A Westfield Brandon in 2016. news and updates on Chick-fil-A Plant City, After serving the Brandon community for visit the Chick-fil-A Plant City on its Facefive years, she is thrilled to transition into book page @ ChickfilAPlantCity.
Former Senator Ronda Storms recently held an event in Valrico to benefit Queena Nguyen, who was brutally attacked at the Bloomingdale Library in 2008.
Queena Nguyen, who was brutally attacked at the Bloomingdale Library in 2008, is considered to be a champion in the Brandon community, and recently residents came together yet again to help support her. “I remember, in 2011, Queena was set to lose the majority of her benefits on her 21st birthday when she aged out of child Medicaid services,” said Queena’s mother, Vanna Nguyen. “Former Senator Ronda Storms worked tirelessly on behalf of Queena, writing countless letters and having meetings with state agencies. Thank God for the help of Senator Rhonda Storms, Queena could be enrolled in the Aged and Disabled Adult Medicaid Waiver Program. So, she has been my hero and role model since then.” Storms recently held a fundraiser for Queena and her family at Gather & Seek Vintique in Valrico. “When Queena’s book first came out, I was hesitant to read it,” Storms said. “When I finally did, I was so inspired by the book, it
was on my heart to do something, yet again for Vanna and Queena.” Storms’ son, Gideon, also was curious about Queena’s book, The Life She Once Knew, as well. “When I told him what it was about and he read, he said we should do something for Queena,” Storms said. “I knew then that we needed to do something since the book inspired my son and I.” Storms contacted Gather & Seek Vintique’s Alicia Bingham, who agreed to host the book signing fundraiser for Queena and Vanna. “The host committee for this event approached several artists in the community, who donated art for the event,” Vanna said. “This was a wonderful event and the event raised $3,195, which has been a blessing for Queena. We are so thankful for Rhonda and everyone who came together for this event.” Vanna truly believes these community events help Queena in more ways than just financially. “The community comes together to help lift our spirit and continues to support Queena towards her recovery,” Vanna said. “I feel how much the Lord loves Queena and sees our family through the community. We feel strongly that it was God’s intention to encourage us and support our family through the love of our community.” To learn more about Queena’s book or to purchase a copy of it, visit Queena’s website at www.joinqueena.com.
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December 2021
Valrico Edition
T&J PAINTING THANKS COMMUNITY AS IT CELEBRATES ANNIVERSARY
By Kate Quesada
Jennifer and Sherwin Williams, Tony Friedin addition to richsen celeworking hard to brated a special make a name for kind of anniT&J Painting in versary on Dethe community. cember 1. The “We are honcouple moved ored to serve to Florida a the SouthShore year ago with and Hillsborough their business, T&J Painting recently celebrated a year in the SouthShore County area of T&J Painting, Tampa Bay,” said community. a full-service Tony. “We absopainting company, and lutely love our community on November 30, they and enjoy having the privthanked the community ilege to do our small part for supporting them with to keep it beautiful, fresh an anniversary celebraand vibrant. We have met tion at Summerfield Golf so many wonderful people, Club in Riverview. whether that be customers, “My wife and I started vendors or business commuthis company as a means nity partners.” to better provide for our The couple also gives back four young children,” said to the community. Jennifer Tony. “We mean it when we say that every is a member of the Sumner High School job truly does matter.” Booster Club, the Riverview Woman’s T&J Painting is licensed and insured, of- Club, an ambassador to the Greater Riverfering commercial and residential painting view Chamber of Commerce and a memalong with deck and fence staining, wood ber of the Valrico FishHawk Chamber of rot replacement and extensive repair ser- Commerce. vices. “We also strive to give back to our com“T&J Painting strives to be an industry munity as much as we can,” said Tony. leader in providing a high level of quality Tony encourages residents to check out and customer service,” said Tony. “We un- the company’s Facebook page and website derstand that you have options in which for examples of current and past projects. company you choose to paint your home, “We put full effort in making sure that but we feel very confident that we will be all our clients are completely satisfied,” the most qualified and professional paint said Tony. “We have built a very strong company that you have potential to deal reputation with our customers and in the with.” painting industry.” Jennifer and Tony are proud to particVisit www.tandjpaintingfl.com or call ipate in every project the company takes 723-9124. Tony can be reached at tony@ on, using high-end brands exclusively from tandjpaintingfl.com.
Page 11
COUNTY OFFERS NEW TEXT SCHEDULING SERVICE
Staff Report
Residents can now sign up to receive texts from Hillsborough County about permit inspections.
Hillsborough C o u n ty ’s Development Services has launched its first-ever text messaging service for inspections for permit holders. The new service allows holders of permits issued through the County’s HillsGovHub online permitting system to send a text message to receive an inspection’s result, as well as schedule, reschedule or cancel existing scheduled inspections. The feature adds a new level of convenience for contractors and homeowners by allowing them to bypass the traditional HillsGovHub portal to access inspections. For professionals in the field who often request multiple inspections a day, this will lead to significant time saved. To access the new feature, users will need the permit number and the applica-
ble inspection code. To use the new text service, users can simply text SCHEDULE, RESCHEDULE, CANCEL, or RESULTS to 844529-6141. Users will then need to follow the interactive prompts for entering the permit number, inspection code and other details. Since launching HillsGovHub in January 2021, Development Services has continued to seek enhancements that will better meet the needs of clients and increase the efficiency of the permitting process. Step-bystep instructions for inspection scheduling, HillsGovHub training, FAQs and additional resources are available through the HillsGovHub section of the county’s website. For further assistance with inspection requests, call 641-6970.
Page 12
Valrico Edition
Volume 18, Issue 12
LOCAL MILITARY HEROES RECEIVE ALL-TERRAIN WHEELCHAIRSStaff Report his left leg in February 2019. He was also awarded the Purple Heart for injuries sustained during combat. Freedom Alliance President Tom Kilgannon presented the customized chairs to Flores and U.S. Army Corporal James Donaldson, a Zephyrhills resident and Purple Heart recipient. “Each of these heroes have made incredible Photo courtesy of Photos FLA sacrifices for our country Freedom Alliance President Tom Kilgannon presents an all-terrain and their sacrifice must wheelchair to U.S. Army Corporal Jonathan Flores on November 19 never be forgotten,” said at Veterans Memorial Park in Tampa. Kilgannon. “We hope A local hero received recognition and these chairs help allevimore from a military support organiza- ate the pain from their wounds and protion last month. vide comfort as our troops use them to Plant City resident U.S. Army Corporal access Florida’s beautiful beaches and Jonathan Flores was one of two wounded join in other recreational activities that local veterans who each received a cus- would not be possible without the assistomized all-terrain wheelchair from Free- tance of a chair like this,” he concluded. dom Alliance during a double donation Freedom Alliance is a charitable orgapresentation on November 19 at the Iraq nization providing support to wounded Memorial at Veterans Memorial Park in troops and military families in a variety Tampa. of ways. The group has awarded more Following the 9/11 attacks, Flores was than $20 million in college scholarships inspired to serve his country and enlisted to the children of heroes killed or disabled in the U.S. Army in 2005. On July 4, 2007, in military service and spent millions while conducting combat patrols, his ve- more helping injured veterans and their hicle was hit with a pressure plate IED families with recreational therapy, Heand small arms fire. He was transported roes Retreats, care packages for deployed via medevac helicopter and transferred troops, mortgage-free homes, all-terto Walter Reed National Military Med- rain wheelchairs and much more. ical Center, where he medically retired Learn more about Freedom Alliance in September 2008. The wounds he sus- at freedomalliance.org or facebook.com/ tained in 2007 led to the amputation of FreedomAlliance.
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December 2021
Valrico Edition
Page 13
Page 14
Valrico Edition
Volume 18, Issue 12
SMOOTHER RIDES ON THE WAY FOR PLANT CITY BOULEVARD HAS BEEN LOCAL DRIVERS NAMED FLORIDA MAIN STREET OF By Brad Stager THE MONTH Hillsborough In Summerfield, Staff Report
County’s efforts to resurfacing projects fix roads needing include Melinda, potholes filled and Glenshire, Spottsa fresh coat of aswood and Dixon Drs., phalt are getting a as well as Stanford boost as local offiand Sumner Rds., cials prepare to Lovers Ln. and Enspend about $40 trance Way. million on road Hinson and Ranch improvements. Rds. as well as HardThe county is More traffic barricades will be seen as Hillsborough er Oaks Ave. in Valusing $35 million County prepares to spend about $40 million on road rico will receive road in American Res- resurfacing and repair projects, including several in surface upgrades. cue Plan Act fedIn Bloomingdale, Southern Hillsborough County. eral dollars as well Bell Grande, Hickoas an additional $5 million ry Creek, Shady Leaf, Emerald the board of county comCreek and Holleman Drs. as well missioners (BOCC) approved as Coppertree Cir. will have reto fund the roadwork. The surfacing performed. ARPA funding was approved In the Balm/Wimauma area, in March and includes monLong Rifle Dr., River Estates Dr. ey to support transportation and Bledsoe Loop’s road surfaces needs. will be improved. Overall, eight major roadIn Ruskin, Sweeney Dr. and way corridors will be re33rd St. will see resurfacing imsurfaced, as will 89 neighborhood roads. provements, as will Eagle Palm Dr. and ValRepairs will be made to an additional 32 erie Ln. in Riverview and Old Big Bend Rd. roads. The resurfacing and repair work will in Gibsonton. improve about 285 miles of what transporThere will also be localized repair work tation officials refer to as ‘lane miles’ of Hill- performed on Bentwood, Faxton, New Bedsborough County roads. ford and Seton Hall Drs., as well as MeadTwo of the eight major resurfacing proj- owlark Ln. in the Sun City Center area and ects affect roads in Central and Southern a section of Old Mulrennan Rd. in Valrico. Hillsborough County. In Brandon, Oakfield During the BOCC’s discussion about the Dr. will be resurfaced from S. Lakewood Dr. road work during its November 17 meeting, to S. Parsons Ave. In Gibsonton, Riverview Commissioner Ken Hagan highlighted how Dr. from S. U.S. Hwy. 41 to Alafia Dr. in Gib- some projects to fix long-standing road sonton will also be resurfaced. problems will finally get some attention. Brandon area roads that are being re“Some have been on our unfunded list for surfaced include Orangewalk, Elk Spring, over a decade and now we do have a fundWindhorst Ridge and Branda Vista Drs., as ing source that will address our needs,” he well as Robin Hill Cir. and Lakehurst Way. said.
Block Party. The block party featured live music, and food and drinks were offered at the participating businesses. Plant City Main Street used its ‘Topics on Tap’ events to recruit and educate existing and potential business owners about Photograph courtesy of Rob Yoho. Plant City Main Street was desig- opportunities in downtown, including grant pronated the November 2021 Florida Main Street of the Month. grams available through Last month, Secretary of State Laurel M. the City of Plant City. Matt Morrow, owner Lee announced that Plant City Main Street of The Tipsy Bookworm, summed up the was designated the November 2021 Florida impact of these efforts: “After I attended Main Street Program of the Month. ‘Topics on Tap’ and Plant City Main Street “Plant City Main Street’s revitalization ef- walked me through the city grants, it beforts are inspiring,” said Lee. “By supporting came clear that The Tipsy Bookworm betheir local businesses through community longs in downtown Plant City.” partnerships, special events, education and Florida Main Street is a program adminispromotion opportunities, Plant City Main tered by the Division of Historical ResourcStreet is helping to create a vibrant down- es under the Florida Department of State, town district for residents and visitors to which currently oversees 54 communities enjoy.” throughout the state. By implementing the Plant City Main Street was designated National Main Street Center’s Four-Point in 1985 as one of five pilot communities Approach, Florida Main Street encourages of the Florida Main Street program. Since economic development within the context its reorganization in 2018, Plant City Main of historic preservation through the revitalStreet has been effective in bringing people, ization of Florida’s downtowns—the combusinesses and jobs back to the downtown munity’s heart and soul. area. Since its reorganization, Plant City Plant City Main Street has seen a recent Main Street has reported approximately resurgence of business openings within its $1,044,782 in public and private reinvestdistrict. Referred to locally as the ‘Evers ments and welcomed 22 net new businessStreet Wave,’ the business recruitment es and 91 net new full-time and part-time efforts were spearheaded by Plant City jobs to the district. The organization has Main Street with support from community also reported 3,825 volunteer hours. partners. In May 2021, these revitalization Visit plantcitymainstreet.org or facebook. efforts and new businesses were highlight- com/PCMainStreet. Visit floridamainstreet. ed to the community with the Evers Street com or facebook.com/FloridaMainStreet.
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December 2021
Valrico Edition
NEW MANGO AREA PARK FEATURES INTERGENERATIONAL SWINGS
By Kate Quesada
Pratt explained that the playground is only one part of the recent improvements Hillsborough County Parks & Recreation has made to the park and recreation center. “The project also included additional amenities at the two dog parks, including shade shelters with decorative benches, a dog wash station, upgraded dog agility equipment and renovated restrooms with ADA-accessible sideMango Park & Recreation Center celebrated the grand opening of a new 8,000 sq. ft. playground for children of all abilities in October.
Children of all ages have a new place to play this month. Mango Park & Recreation Center celebrated the grand opening of a new 8,000 sq. ft. playground for children of all abilities in October and it has been a hit with locals from throughout the area ever since. According to Hillsborough County’s Todd Pratt, the playground includes numerous play units designed to encourage children to stay active and have fun, including intergenerational swings that allow adults and children to swing together facing each other. In addition to traditional elements such as swings and slides, the playground includes rope and rock climbing structures, musical elements and synthetic turf. The park and recreation center is located at 11717 Clay Pit Rd. in Seffner and includes two basketball courts, two softball fields with lights in addition to the playground equipment and a dog park.
walks,” he said. “The basketball courts and rental shelters were improved, and the recreation center now has a renovated patio area, upgraded catering kitchen for community rentals and more storage.” The recreation center also offers rooms to rent and hosts after-school and summer camp programs for youth. For more information, visit www.hillsboroughcounty.org/en/locations/mango-recreation-center.
Page 15
TONY BARONI’S REAL ESTATE TEAM INCLUDES FORMER UFC FIGHTER SHAH BOBONIS
By Lily Belcher
Tony Baroni, local real He fought in estate agent for Keller Costa Rica profesWilliams, is the CEO of sionally in the early his team, managing his 2000s after meetgroup of buyers and ing Jorge Masvidal sellers that guide cusat his boxing gym. tomers through the real Masvidal encourestate market. aged Bobonis to try “The Promise means a local MMA gym that we will deliver the and Bobonis immebest service you could diately quit boxing ever imagine receiving. to pursue MMA That everyone on our fighting. team will be focused After he was and care about your Shah Bobonis fought in the UFC before joining done fighting prothe Tony Baroni Real Estate Team needs as if you were fessionally, he our only client,” according started coaching to their website. “That we young fighters, such will anticipate challenges as Chris Barnette. and get ahead of it so we “Now that I’m can stop any surprises. coaching, it is just The Tony Baroni Team are as fulfilling as when focused on making this a I was fighting,” said five-star experience that Bobonis. exceeds all your expectaWhile he contintions.” ued to fight and One of Baroni’s team stay active outside a members is former UFC professional fighting fighter Shah Bobonis. rink, he joined BarBobonis’ path to the real estate field was oni’s team. He chose the real estate busianything but typical. The 43-year-old was ness because he had some sales experience drafted by the Seattle Mariners to play through working at his gym and even manbaseball out of high school. While he en- aging a P.F. Chang’s out of college. joyed baseball, he found his passion in box“Tony [Baroni], by far, is the most fair ing and fighting after college. boss I’ve ever had across the board in any “There’s really nobody to blame but industry. He sets expectations and it is up yourself,” Bobonis said about fighting. “Ul- to you. Kind of like fighting, its up to you to timately, the battle goes through you. You sink or swim,” said Bobonis. get all the praise, or all the backlash, and I For more information on Baroni’s team, like that type of pressure.” visit tonybaroni.com or call 866-965-5603.
Page 16
Valrico Edition
Volume 18, Issue 12
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Valrico Edition
December 2021
HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY FLEET MANAGEMENT AND DIRECTOR RECOGNIZED AS BEST IN NATION
Staff Report
lective efforts of the Fleet Management employees who provide an invaluable public service of keeping county services for more than 1.4 million residents moving. Hillsborough County Fleet Management oversees more than 3,300 vehicles and equipment items valued at about $145 million for more than 30 county departments, along with other agencies and constitutional ofHillsborough County Fleet Management has been named fices. Vehicles range from genthe top government fleet in the country and Robert Stine has eral-purpose on-the-road vehicles been named the top fleet management director. to special-purpose construction vehicles, boats, trailers, buses, fire Hillsborough County Fleet Management has been named the top government fleet apparatus and more. Fleet Management is in the country and Robert Stine has been responsible for the vehicles’ maintenance named the top fleet management director. and replacement as well as managing fuel The honors were announced on Novem- consumption and delivery and setting poliber 16 at the Government Fleet Expo and cies for vehicle use. Among the department practices that Conference in Orlando. Fleets were judged on leadership with staff, customers and led to the award are fleet maintenance within the community; efficiency; over- programs that extended the life of vehicles; coming challenges; and having a vision and supporting energy conservation efforts; direction for the operation. Hillsborough professional staff and technicians with County was named the No. 1 large fleet in advanced certifications; the creation of the country for governments with 1,000 an emergency management plan that proor more assets and received the overall top vides for loss of refueling capabilities and honor for all government fleets regardless alternate shop facilities; an inventory management program that saves money and of size. Stine was named the 2021 Public Sec- time; continuous staff training; and an emtor Fleet Manager of the Year. Judges re- phasis on customer input. The department viewed each candidate in 10 categories: continued to provide outstanding customer business plan, technology implementation, service during the pandemic while ensurproductivity, policies, preventive mainte- ing employee safety by using a hybrid work nance program, utilization management, model of on-site, selective teleworking opreplacement program, customer service, erations and modifying vehicles as needed with items such as air purification systems fuel management and safety. The awards are a recognition of the col- or Plexiglas barriers.
Karla Marie Carolan, J.D.
As always, we are here for any legal support you may need and wish everyone good health.
Page 17
NEIGHBORHOODS ENCOURAGED TO APPLY FOR COUNTY GRANTS Staff Report Hillsborough informaCounty Neighbortion about hood Relations is y o u r providing neighneighborhoods with an borhood opportunity to enorganihance, improve and zation; transform their Proposal communities by acProject cepting applications Inforfor the 2022 Neighmation, borhood Mini-Grant The application period for mini grants from the county is now w h i c h open. Riverview’s Lake St Charles community previously received Program. much ina grant to develop an app for residents. The 2022 Neighclude a borhood Mini-Grant Program provides up to description and details about the proposed $5,000 of funding for neighborhood organi- project; Budget Proposal and Worksheet, zations that want to strengthen and engage which will provide a detailed budget protheir communities through innovative and posal and narrative; and finally, a volunteer creative community projects. proposal and form, which explains that projEstablished in 1988, the 2022 Neighbor- ects must be resident-led and must include a hood Mini-Grant Program is focused on en- list of volunteers who will participate in the couraging neighborhoods to invest in their project in the online application. future and create a legacy for years to come. Grants will be awarded the week of MonThe categories are designed to engage day, January 31, 2022. neighborhoods and neighborhood organiApplicants are encouraged to be innovazations and empower them to enrich their tive, original and to select a project that is communities. creative, engaging, enduring, and unites the The 2022 Neighborhood Mini-Grant Pro- community. gram categories are: Neighborhood IdentiNeighborhood, civic, homeowner and fication, Leadership Empowerment, Safety crime watch associations in Hillsborough Opportunities and Education, Environmental County that are registered with Hillsborough Enhancements, Health and Wellness En- County Neighborhood Relations are eligible gagement, Emergency Preparedness as well to apply, including those in Tampa, Plant as Neighborhood and Community Innova- City and Temple Terrace. If a neighborhood tion. or organization isn’t registered, registration The deadline to apply is 5 p.m. on Friday, is available on www.hillsboroughcounty.org. December 17. Visit hcflgov.net/minigrant to Many Riverview area communities have learn more about the grant application pro- received grants in the past, including Lake cess and requirements and to complete the St. Charles, which used the money to develapplication. The application is comprised of op an app for residents. four parts: Neighborhood Organization InFor more information, visit hcflgov.net/ formation, which needs to include pertinent minigrant.
Page 18
Valrico Edition
BRANDON REGIONAL HOSPITAL UNVEILS NEW NAMES AND BRAND IDENTITY Staff Report Brandon Regional of care in Florida, includHospital, its freestanding hospitals, freestanding emergency rooms ing emergency rooms and physician practicand physician practices, es are among the first will officially adopt the in the state to adopt statewide brand, uniting the new HCA Florida more than 11,000 active Healthcare brand this and affiliated physicians month. The new brandand more than 77,000 ing reflects the Brandon colleagues. sites’ connection to HCA “Our colleagues and Florida Healthcare, the physicians across Florida state’s leading collabohave long been united in rative network deliverserving our mission. Now, ing advanced, personwe will also be united alized care to Florida under the HCA Florida patients and families. Healthcare brand and Brandon Regional Hospital adopted the new HCA Florida Healthcare Owned and operated will continue to work brand this month. by HCA Healthtogether to deliver care, one of the top-quality care for nation’s leading patients across the healthcare proSunshine State,” said viders, the hosChuck Hall, national pital’s new brand group president at will create a uniHCA Healthcare. fied presence across the state for the benAs well as new names, HCA Healthefit patients, colleagues, physicians and care facilities throughout Florida are also communities. adopting a new “Diamond Plus” logo. The “We are excited to be one of the first new logo features a diamond in the middle hospitals to share our new names and representing our patients, who are at the logos with the public today,” said Bland center of everything we do. The four surEng, chief executive officer of HCA Florida rounding avenues represent how we come Brandon Hospital. “This initiative visual- together to serve our patients through our ly unites us with our colleagues and care legacy, scale, partnership and innovation. sites across Florida and reaffirms that we The HCA Healthcare orange evokes feelare all part of the same family that pro- ings of warmth and health, while the use vides our patients with high-quality and of the HCA Healthcare navy color in the compassionate healthcare services.” text reflects our long-standing foundation Brandon is one of the first of more than to commitment, trust and loyalty. 400 affiliated sites of care across the state The hospital is located at 119 Oakfield to begin using the HCA Florida Healthcare Drive in Brandon. For more information, brand. By spring 2022, the remaining sites visit HCAFloridaBrandonHospital.com.
Volume 18, Issue 12
GET OUTSIDE AND TAKE A HIKE DURING HILLSBOROUGH HIKING SPREE
By Kathy L. Collins
The sixth annual preserves with multiple Hillsborough County habitats like Edward Hiking Spree began Medard Conservation on November 1. This Park in Plant City. means it is time for all Most neighborhood residents to get out parks have ADA-accesand discover all of the sible trails. In addition, natural beauty that nearly all trails are Hillsborough County pet-friendly, and partichas to offer. ipants are encouraged Last year, my daughto bring their leashed ter, Katie, and I regispets. tered for and completKatie and I checked ed the Hiking Spree. It out many trails that was a really fun expewe enjoyed. The very rience. We have regfirst one we hiked was istered again for this Blackwater Creek Nayear’s Hiking Spree. ture Preserve in Plant More than 7,500 City. It is over four residents and pets regmiles in length and ratistered for last year’s ed a primitive trail of a Hiking Spree. If you strenuous nature. One complete it, you get to of our favorite hikes earn a prize, including was the Old Agrico Hika medallion, patch or ing Trail at Alafia State pet bandana. To earn Park in Lithia. This one The annual Hiking Spree is a fabulous a prize, you only need is rated easy but is also opportunity for residents to get out and to hike eight of the a primitive trail. enjoy the great outdoors. Hillsborough designated 26 trails County offers so much nature, including This year’s list inanytime between cludes three state the diverse and beautiful Blackwater now and Thursday, parks and, for the first Creek Nature Preserve in Plant City. March 31, 2022. You can also select one time, the preserve at the Manatee Viewtrail that is not on the list. ing Center in Apollo Beach. The trails are designed to offer someThe Hiking Spree is timed to take adthing for everyone, from hiking rookies vantage of the cooler, drier weather and (like me) to seasoned outdoor enthusi- to coincide with prime bird watching asts (like Katie), with hikes rated easy, season. Participants are encouraged to moderate or strenuous. The length of the post photos using the hashtag #TakeAtrails range from five miles to less than HikeHC. one mile. The environmentally diverse In order to receive a prize, you have to sites are spread throughout the county be registered. To register for the 2021and range from neighborhood parks like 2022 Hiking Spree, please visit www. Rodney Colson Park in Seffner to large HCFLGov.net/hikingspree.
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Valrico Edition
December 2021
Bingo Returns, Snow Days At Aquarium, Meetings & More Compiled by Jenny Bennett jbennett@ospreyobserver.com
Chill Cawfee Hosts ‘Bored On Sundays?’ Games Day
Board games have been found to strengthen relationships, increase brain function, reduce stress and to create happiness, creativity and confidence. Chill Cawfee is happy to host ‘Bored on Sundays?’, a day to come in and play some of the games that it has on its shelves like scrabble, chess, Othello, boggle and many more, or bring your own game to play. Bored on Sundays? is every Sunday from 7:30 a.m.-3 p.m. at Chill Cawfee, located at 3407 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. in Valrico.
A Kitten Place is a local cat charity that focuses its efforts on the most vulnerable in the county shelters. For more information, please visit its website at www.akittenplace.org.
Brandon League Of Fine Arts Competition
Brandon League of Fine Arts is holding its Squares Off competition at Center Place, located at 619 Vonderburg Dr. in Brandon. All entries must be square with a minimum size of 5 inches to a maximum of 24 inches, weighing no more than 5 lbs. Take-in day is on Friday, December 17 with a reception on Thursday, January 13, 2022, where prizes will be awarded. For full entry information, please contact the Brandon League of Fine Arts at blfa33511@gmail.com.
Black Cat 5K Was A Huge Suc- Bingo Returns To St. Stephen cess Catholic Church The inaugural Black Cat 5K race organized by local cat charity A Kitten Place was a huge success and raised over $15,000. A Kitten Place would like to thank all the sponsors and donors who helped make this such a successful event and especially the community of Twin Lakes for allowing them to hold the event there.
St. Stephen Catholic Church, located at 10118 St. Stephen Cir. in Riverview is pleased to announce the return of bingo to its Family Life Center. The event, held on the fourth Tuesday of every month, the next date is Tuesday, December 28, will begin
cent de Paul.
Page 19
East Hillsborough Democratic Club Meeting
at 6:30 p.m. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. and a concession stand is available for refreshments. There will also be a 50/50 raffle, and proceeds from the evening will support community families in need and church groups like St. Vin-
The East Hillsborough Democratic Club will hold its monthly meeting on Tuesday, December 14 at 6:30 p.m. All like-minded individuals are invited to join them at Brandon Crossroads Bowl, located at 609 Crater Ln. in Tampa. For those uncomfortable meeting in person, you may join on Zoom by going to Mobilize to register. For more information, visit the website at www.easthillsboroughdems.org or call 677-8300 and leave a message.
Congregation Beth Shalom Men’s Club Meeting
No December Meeting For The Alafia Republican Club
The Men’s Club of Congregation Beth Shalom will be meeting on Tuesday, December 14 at 7 p.m. at Jesse’s Steak and Seafood, located at 524 W. Brandon Blvd. in Brandon. You do not need to be a member of the congregation to join in the camaraderie. Visit its website at www. bethshalom-brandon.org for more information.
The Alafia Republican club will not be holding a meeting in December. The January meeting will be held on Monday, January 17, 2022 at O’Brien’s Irish Pub, located at 701 W. Lumsden Rd. in Brandon. Social hour begins at 6 p.m., followed by a guest speaker at 7 p.m.
Snow Days At The Florida Aquar- FishHawk Ranch Blood Drive ium FishHawk Ranch is Snow is in the forecast at The Florida Aquarium for Sunday, December 26 through Sunday, January 2, 2022. Join in all the frosty festivities with membership or general admission, from a Winter Wonderland dance party to an epic battle where you will throw snowballs at the pollution monsters and other interactive experiences.
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holding a blood drive at the Osprey Club, located at 5721 Osprey Ridge Dr. in Lithia, on Saturday, December 18 from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. All donators will receive a wellness check, a One Blood blanket and a $10 e-gift card. Online appointments are encouraged; to make an appointment to donate, please visit https://donor.oneblood.org/donor/ schedules/drive_schedule/1053586.
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Page 20
Valrico Edition
PENTY WINS ANNE FRANK HUMANITARIAN AWARD
By Michelle Caceres
Olivia Penty, a seas an assistant nior at Bloomingdale volleyball coach, High School, is this teaching beginyear’s winner of the ning players baAnne Frank Humanisic skills. tarian Award. EstabPresident of lished in 2001, the Tampa Metropolaward is presented by itan Area YMCA the Florida Holocaust Matt Mitchel Museum to one junior was pleased to from each Tampa Bay hear about Penarea high school for ty’s award. “She outstanding humaniis a great leader, tarian efforts. is patient, has exPrincipals and cellent communiguidance counselors cation skills and recommend students inspires others. for this prestigious She’s helped chilaward who have dren to learn and made a conscious degrow because of cision to better the her strong paslives of other individsion for the sport uals or groups both of volleyball,” he inside and outside of Bloomingdale senior Olivia Penty was a recipient said. “Most of of the Ann Frank Humanitarian Award for her her service is censchool activities. outstanding humanitarian efforts. Penty, a member tered around her of Bloomingdale’s women’s volleyball favorite sport.” team, volunteers as an assistant volleyInterim Executive Director at The ball coach at Campo Family YMCA and Florida Holocaust Museum Erin Blankenenjoys teaching beginning players the ship was congratulatory to this year’s sport’s basics. winners. “These students are living the Receiving the honor was a surprise for museum’s mission by bringing hope and Penty. “I am grateful to be recognized for positive change to their schools, their my volunteer work at the YMCA and for community and our world,” she said. doing something that I love,” she said. Blankenship welcomes sponsors willWinners receive a Florida Holocaust ing to help underwrite the cost of the Museum Family Membership and two gift membership and guest passes. guest passes. For more information about The FloriDue to COVID-19 protocols the awards da Holocaust Museum or the Anne Frank were delivered virtually this year in- Humanitarian Award visit www.thefhm. stead of during the regular ceremony at org or call 727-820-0100. To learn how the museum. Olivia volunteered in the to become a sponsor of the program, viscommunity at the Campo Family YMCA it the ‘Donate Now’ page on its website.
Volume 18, Issue 12
MOBILE EXAM VAN JOINS THE COMMUNITY By Libby Hopkins June Bryant of Riverrole of being able to view is a board-certified see and treat children pediatric nurse practiat schools and at their tioner. “I have been pracown home,” Bryant ticing as a pediatric nurse said. “This was such practitioner in the Tampa a blessing to so many Bay area for the past nine families who would years,” Bryant said. “I have have to take time off deep roots in Manatee and of work or even find Hillsborough transportation. BringCounties and ing this unique model have raised of health care to their my own childriveway without havdren here ing to intrude on their June Bryant of Riverview and have own personal space or is a board-certified pedia passion atric nurse practitioner. subjecting them to long for serving Bryant recently opened wait times in their cars v u l n e ra b l e her mobile exam van or in waiting rooms was populations business called Dr. Joonie’s something that I wantExaminavan. and bringing ed to explore, and then them the health care that they deserve.” we did.” Bryant recently opened her mobile exam Dr. Joonie’s Examinavan is a way to devan business called Dr. Joonie’s Examinavan. crease some of the barriers to health care “Dr. Joonie’s mission with opening a mobile that Bryant sees for the pediatric populaclinic is to provide patients with the best tion. “Being able to have patients schedule and most accessible pediatric health care their appointments online or via text brings possible from birth until 21 years of age,” the convenience of not having to wait on Bryant said. “I am dedicated to providing hold,” Bryant said. “Online intake forms lead high-quality health care by assuring that to less paper. For those that don’t have this each patient receives individual, person- technology, staff are happy to help those al attention as well as receiving that care over the phone or in person on the day of in the comfort of their own home. At Dr. the appointment. We are unique in that Joonie’s Examinavan, we strive to work with there will not be another van such as this the parents in the local community to im- since we built an exam room into the back prove the lives of our pediatric patients and of a cargo van which functions just as one their families. We provide advanced nursing would in a clinic. Another great factor is clinical expertise to parents and work with that Dr. Joonie’s Examinavan has the authoother health professionals in the community rization from the department of health to to help provide the best care for even the transport vaccines to patients’ homes for smallest members of our community.” administration at their home.” This mobile exam van has been a dream of If you would like to learn more about Bryant’s since before the recent COVID-19 Bryant’s mobile exam van or if you’d like to pandemic. “I was a school nurse practi- schedule an appointment, you can visit her tioner for a couple of years and loved the website at www.drjoonies.com.
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Valrico Edition
LOCAL TEEN COLLECTS GIFTS FOR JOHNS HOPKINS ALL CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL
By Kate Quesada
Mulrennan Middle She is currentSchool student Addison ly collecting unKapustiak knows what wrapped toys, gift it is like to be a child at cards and items for Johns Hopkins All Chilchildren from birth dren’s Hospital. The Valto 21 years old and rico resident has been rewill be taking them ceiving treatment there to the hospital late since she was a baby, this month. and this has motived her “One of my favorto do something to give ite memories was back. when I was able to For the last five years, give a little girl with with the help of her cancer a special Mulrennan Middle School eighth-grade stumom, Alice Kapustiak, doll,” she said. “She dent Addison Kapustiak is collecting toys for Addison has orga- Johns Hopkins All Children’s Hospital for the had the biggest nized holiday toy drives smile. That makes fifth year with her charity, Sending Smiles. through her nonprofit, me the happiest Sending Smiles, and to when I know I can date has donated more make them smile. I than 10,000 toys and am so thankful for received the Commuall the support I get nity Hero of Tomorrow so I can continue to award from the Tampa make a difference.” Bay Lightning, which reToys can be sulted in a $25,000 dodropped off at nation to Johns Hopkins Mulrennan Middle All Children’s Hospital in School, located at Sending Smiles’ name, 4215 Durant Rd. in but she is not done yet. Valrico, or mailed to “I spend a lot of time 3721 Harrogate Dr., in the hospital and at the Valrico, FL 33596. Infusion Center getting If you would like to treatments,” said Addimake a donation, son. “This year has been money can be sent really hard for me; I spent through Cash App many weeks in the hospiat $SendingSmiles1 tal. It can be so hard beor Venmo @Sending away from everyone. I know how much ing-Smiles. All donations are tax-deductthese little things can make it a little easier. ible. To learn more about Sending Smiles, I want to help cheer up other kids when email sendingsmilestoallkids@gmail.com they are having a hard time or when they or find the group’s Facebook page at www. are sad.” facebook.com/SendingSmilestoAllKids/.
Page 21
WINDOW GENIE IS ONE-STOP SHOP FOR OUTDOOR HOME SERVICES FROM TOP TO BOTTOM
By Amy Schechter
and make it right. We guarantee our work. You can go to any Bob with a bucket pressure washer company, but who knows if they have insurance and knowledge?” Think about it. When you have individuals working on ladders and with chemicals, if something goes Mike and Mindy Barker are the owners of Window Genie of Southeast Tampa wrong, the cusBay. The company offers gutter cleaning, house washing, concrete/paver washtomer can be liaing and sealing and, of course, window washing and window tinting. ble. Window Genie It’s the perfect time of year. The holidays carries workers’ compensation insurance, are approaching, and the cooler weather in- so nothing ever becomes the customer’s vites families and friends outdoors. There’s problem. no better time to make sure your home and Plus, look no further for holiday lighting. outdoor spaces look their best. It offers professional installation and cusMike and Mindy Barker of Window Ge- tom light measurements. It helps design nie of Southeast Tampa Bay are your one- your holiday lighting vision, bring and instop shop for outdoor home services. Lo- stall all materials, maintain your lighting cally and veteran-owned, they specialize in during the season and take down and store gutter cleaning, house washing, concrete/ everything until next year. It’s hassle-free, paver washing and sealing and, of course, and there’s no more worrying about old window washing and window tinting. lights going out or using up garage space. Having lived in the areas for over 13 One phone call and they will come back out. years, they saw a need for a company you Window Genie serves all of Brandon, can trust. Have you ever paid for a job only Gibsonton, Lithia, Riverview, Apollo Beach, to have it half finished or been unable to Valrico, Fish Hawk, Bloomingdale and Progget in touch with a company when you ar- ress Village. To contact Window Genie to en’t happy? Window Genie stands by its schedule an appointment or free consulwork, and its professional team promises tation, call 906-5200 or visit www.winyou will be happy with the job. Mindy tells dowgenie.com/se-tampa. You can also find customers, “My husband and I are the own- the business on Facebook @Windowgeers. If you have an issue, we will come back nieofsetampabay.
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Page 22
Valrico Edition
RESIDENT DONATES OVER 20 GALLONS OF CAN TABS FOR THE SHRINERS FOR CHILDREN
By Makenzie Atkins
Local commuover to me, nity member Vera and I clean Baker has been them and orcollecting soda can ganize them tabs in Florida for into gallon over 15 years. bottles.” Along with the W h e n help of her friends, talking about neighbors and felthe prolow Moose Lodge cess, Baker members, Baker expressed has collected over a heartfelt 20 gallons of can thank you tabs. Once she colto all of her lects the tabs, she friends and donates them to Vera Baker, with the help of friends and neighbors, has n e i g h b o r s the local Shriners who help her been collecting, cleaning and organizing can tabs in Club, which then Ruskin for over 15 years. Pictured: George Banes, Baker collect the and Jim Porrett. recycles them can tabs for a and donates all the money to Shriners cause so near to her heart. Healthcare for Children. The Sun City Center Shriners Club was After losing her son, Baker moved to founded in 1963 under the auspices of Ruskin with her husband and began col- Egypt Shrine of Tampa, FL. Shriners Inlecting tabs for a neighbor to take with ternational is a fraternity based on fun, them to donate in their hometown. How- fellowship and the Masonic principles ever, when she found out there was a lo- of brotherly love, relief and truth with cal Shriners Club in Sun City Center, she nearly 200 temples (chapters) in several decided to get more involved. countries and thousands of clubs around As others saw her eagerness to donate the world. her time to such a noble cause, many The fraternity has supported Shriners neighbors and friends began to collect Hospital since it was founded in 1922. tabs as well. Baker is continuously over- Shriners Hospital for Children specializjoyed by the fact that so many are will- es in pediatric care with a mission to iming to join in and help with collecting, prove the lives of children and families. separating and dropping off tabs. With a focus on orthopedics, pediatric “Everybody knows I collect tabs now; I surgery, spine and spinal cord and sports have one couple that has two barrels on medicine, the local Shriners Hospital is their porch, one for can tabs and the oth- located on the campus of the University er for the cans,” said Baker. “When they of South Florida in Tampa. have friends over, they all separate the For more information, call 812-7170 or can from the tab and then bring them visit www.sccshrineclub.com.
Volume 18, Issue 12
LOCAL ROAD DESIGNATED TO FALLEN OFFICER
By Kate Quesada
nity until the very end of his life,” said Chronister. “Now when people drive down this stretch of roadway, they will be reminded of the legacy and impact left by Sergeant LaVigne.” LaVigne’s wife, Cathleen, also spoke at the ceremony and explained that in addition to being an officer, her husband was a loving father to his daughters, one of whom, Caitlin, is also a deputy with the Hillsborough County Sherrif’s Office. Sgt. Brian LaVigne’s wife, Cathleen, with children Caitlin-also a deputy He received many prowith the Hillsborough County Sherrif’s Office and son Liam. fessional achievements A local hero will always be remembered by in his career, including being named Deputy Brandon drivers thanks to a ceremony that of the Half in 1992 and receiving the Sheriff’s took place last month. Office Life Saving Award in 2017. The 2021 Legislature of Florida designat“This designation is not for the way Sered SR 60 from Philip Lee Blvd. to I-75 as geant LaVigne died. This memorial is how Sergeant Brian LaVigne Rd. in honor of the he lived,” Learned said. “To the 29 years, 361 fallen sergeant who was killed in the line of days of his service to the people of Brandon.” duty on January 11, and last month, RepreThe dedication of the roadway was made sentative Andrew Learned, along with other possible thanks to a bill, SB 1716, signed members of the Florida Legislature, Hillsbor- by Gov. Ron DeSantis in June. The measure ough County Sheriff Chad Chronister and named sections of roadways for three fallen Hillsborough County Commissioner Kimber- officers, including LaVigne. ly Overman, honored the late Sergeant BriAt the time, DeSantis spoke about the an LaVigne during an unveiling of his road importance of the recognition the measure plaque. allowed. LaVigne, who was 54, had one more day of “What we do here today, I know, is not gowork before retiring after 30 years when a ing to unring the bells, but I do think that it’s fleeing suspect crashed into the driver’s side an appropriate recognition, and I think it’s a of his cruiser. signal to say we’re not going to forget their “Sergeant Brian LaVigne will never be sacrifices,” DeSantis said. “We’re not going forgotten, and this will serve as another re- to forget what they did to protect our comminder of his selfless service to his commu- munities.”
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Valrico Edition
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Valrico Edition
Volume 18, Issue 12
Valrico
OPEN YEAR-ROUND PG 28 Christmas Offer From Hess Orthodontics Hess Orthodontics is bringing the holiday cheer by offering $1,000 off full treatment for all new patients. This discount can be applied to a full, comprehensive treatment for either braces or Invisalign. So, no matter what you decide, you will be able to take advantage of this awesome deal. The deal is limited to December 2021 only, so act soon; spots will fill up fast. Call to get your complimentary consultation scheduled and get your smile journey started during the most wonderful time of the year. Additional information can be found on its website, www.hessorthodontics.com, or by calling 645-4377.
an experience you will never forget,” said Owner Alison Farnan. Satin & Lace has dresses in every style and for every budget; accessories are also available, and a seamstress will make sure that the gown will fit perfectly. Satin & Lace is located at 11286 Sullivan St. in Riverview. To make a reservation or to find out more information, visit its website at www.satinandlacebridalboutique. com, call 381-4110 or follow it on Facebook @satinandlacebridalboutique.
Satin & Lace Bridal Boutique Introduces New Manager Satin & Lace Bridal Satin & Lace is located at 11286 Sullivan St. in Riverview. The team recently held a Grand Opening and Ribbon Cutting. Boutique, Riverview’s only intimate bridal boutique, recently held a ribbon-cutting to introduce Come To Cottonseed Marketplace its new manager, Jami. It offers a personal- For Your Handmade Gifts ized shopping experience with private suites. Cottonseed Marketplace specializes “We pride ourselves on making our brides in handmade wooden and leather enfeel special and making your dress shopping graved gifts and home decor. Gifts include
wooden Christmas ornaments, bookmarks, wine and liquor-themed personalized items, hand-tied macrame wall hangings and holiday-themed tiered tray decor bundles. The Cottonseed Marketplace is a proud, American family business owned by local residents Carrie and Joe Perkins. It is rooted in family and tradition and is a proud supporter of the Tunnel to Towers Foundation and One Tree Planted; every order plants a tree. The Cottonseed Marketplace is located at 4456 Mohican Trl. in Valrico and open by appointment; please call 7775608. You can view its products and shop online at cottonseedmarketplace. com and follow it on Facebook @TheCottonseedMarketplace. Pamper Yourself At The Beauty Room By Jennifer James The Beauty Room is owned by local resident Jennifer James, and she has over 36 years of experience in the beauty business and offers a boutique salon experience in
a private suite. The Beauty Room by Jennifer James specializes in precision cutting, color, highlighting, balayage and other services. “In a world where things are often confusing and during a time when we are carrying even more stress than usual, self-care is absolutely essential,” said James, “I thoroughly enjoy what I do, and I love to create and encourage beauty from the inside out. I believe that when a woman feels her best, she can be her best.” The Beauty Room by Jennifer James is located at 3448 Lithia Pinecrest Rd., Ste. 6 in Valrico. Additional information can be found on its website at www.vagaro.com/ thebeautyroombyjenniferjames, by calling 865-6256680 or follow on Facebook @thebeautyroombyjenniferjames. Chill Cawfee Opens New Riverview Location Chill Cawfee is much more than a local coffee shop. It strives to bring the community together while serving its own Peruvian house blend along with other healthy options and additives. The education center brings together neighbors and experts on alternative healing strategies and provides a social environment for like-minded community members to meet and enhance
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Valrico Edition
BUSINESS COLUMN CONTINUED... their experience. Owner Tom Quigley recently opened a location at 10526 Lake St. Charles Pl. in Riverview, directly behind the Winn-Dixie located on U.S. Hwy. 301. For more information, visit www.chillcawfee.com or you can reach them by phone at 443-0472.
call 405-4383.
Tony Baroni Team Gives Away Thanksgiving Pies The Tony Baroni Team gave away pecan and pumpkin pies for Thanksgiving as a way to thank the community for its support during the year. Pies were collected from its office at 2350 E. SR 60 in Valrico and a food truck and fun photo booth were also at the location so participants could enjoy a nice meal and take some photographs before leaving with their pie. For more information on the Tony Baroni team, visit its website at www.tonybaroni. com.
The Flying Locksmiths Celebrate Five-Year Anniversary Owner Michael Broussard recently gathered his team and family together to celebrate the five-year anniversary of The Flying Locksmiths at its new location at 6619 S. 78 St., Ste. 120 in Riverview. The Flying Locksmiths can protect your family and possessions as well as your business with security solutions for all. It combines experience, modern technology and business education to find the right fit for you. While defining its team as physical security specialists because they are extremely competent when it comes to rekeying your locks or installing door hard-
CORA Physical Therapy Launches Riverview Location CORA Physical Therapy brings trusted, highly skilled clinicians to the Riverview neighborhood, and it’s ready to introduce you to the industry’s most advanced treatments. The Riverview clinic provides treatment for general orthopedic and sports injuries, post-COVID care programs, geriatric rehabilitation and occupational therapy. CORA Physical Therapy is laser-focused on superior outcomes. CORA Physical Therapy is located at 11420 U.S. Hwy. 301 S. in Riverview. For additional information or to make an appointment, visit its website at www.coraphysicaltherapy.com or
Volume 18, Issue 12
ware. Its team will also implement full card access systems with security cameras and a complete, thorough security assessment of your home or building. For additional information, visit its website at www.flyinglocksmiths. com or call 716-5341. The Magnolia House Celebrates 1-Year Anniversary Mary & Martha House is celebrating the one-year anniversary of the opening of Magnolia House, its newest domestic violence shelter. It would also like to take this opportunity to express its thanks and gratitude to the community and the businesses that support its mission. Laurie Herring was also recognized for her complete dedication to this project and helping women and families in the community overcome the debilitating effects of domestic violence and homelessness. Herring, who passed away recently, is loved and missed daily. Master Garage Door Co. Celebrates 24 Years And New Role In The Community Master Garage Door Co. was established in November of 1997 by Steve and Tawnie Manning and is still family-owned and operated to this day. It offers only the highest-quality doors, openers, parts and service. “We love our community and its people,” said Steve and Tawnie. They are members of both the Brandon Chamber of Commerce and the Valrico FishHawk Chamber. “Both organizations do so much for our communities and have also given us the opportunity to meet other business owners that care for our community immensely.” Steve and Tawnie have been
through the Leadership Brandon program, which has given them a whole new perspective of our community and a behindthe-scenes look at all it has to offer as well as areas/charities that really need our help. It is
Steve’s privilege to serve as chair for the Leadership Brandon class of 2022. “We look forward to serving our community for years to come,” said Steve and Tawnie. Master Garage Door Co. Is located at 2405 Bell Shoals Rd. in Brandon. For more information, visit its website at www.mastergaragedoor.com or call 6847744. You can also follow it on Facebook @mastergaragedoor. Amani Med Spa Amani Med Spa, is owned by Dr. Gina Brar a personable and highly experienced Physician who is very hands on and offers top notch cosmetic and wellness services. “Our guests are like family who receive the most outstanding customer service from the moment they walk in the door. Their experience becomes a memorable one they will never forget and keeps them coming back to our beautiful spa” Dr. Brar. Services offered at Amani Med Spa include b o t o x /d y s p o r t , fillers, laser treatments, IV therapy, body contouring, float therapy, massage and facials. Amani Med Spa is located at 1102 Bloomingdale Ave. In Valrico. To find out more about the services it offers and to book an appointment visit its website at www.amanimedspa.com or call 685-6111. You can also follow it on Facebook @amanimedspa.
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Valrico Edition
Page 27
THE HILLSBOROUGH EDUCATION FOUNDATION HELPS CHILDREN IN NEED HAVE ACCESS TO ONLINE SCHOOL WORK
AMERICAN LEGION POST 148 HOSTS FUNDRAISER FOR ONE OF ITS MEMBERS
Hillsborough all their work Education Founeach day. The dation has been organization working hard to quickly reclose the ‘homealized that work gap’ by proa hotspot viding families in was not need with tools enough for like internet acthese chilcess and other redren and by sources. August the When schools foundation began to switch was working Francis Hernandez and her daughters use a Microsoft to virtual learning on securing Surface to complete homework, connect with teachers in early 2020, it funding to ofand access online programs that the schools require. started to become fer more than clear that many students had trouble just a hotspot. gaining access to online school. With some Many families feel the stress of helping students having to use smart phones to do their children succeed in the new learnhomework or leave their homes and sit ing environment that people around the somewhere with free Wi-Fi, Hillsborough world have been adapting to because of Education Foundation knew it had to step COVID-19. Francis Hernandez, a single in and help. mother of four children, gives an insight to The program provides students in need the pressures that families in our county, with a Microsoft Surface and one year and many others, are dealing with. of free internet access. As schools refer “There’s a lot of parents out there strugfamilies to the foundation, someone from gling; Wi-Fi is probably not a priority to a the team visits the homes to assess what lot of people,” said Hernandez. “Your light, the families need. Once provided with the your water, your utilities—you know, your tools, the families are then taught how to rent, that’s your priority. Cable and Wi-Fi, use the computer along with helping the that stuff is not cheap.” children learn how to use the online proHernandez’s children have improved grams needed for school. The team contin- since gaining access to reliable computers ues to provide resources for the families to and being able to connect with teachers help with using the computer or complet- online. She is grateful that the program is ing schoolwork. spreading through the state and is excited The organization first started helping for the younger generations to have acwith the divide in April 2020 by offering cess to a great education. families a hotspot for children to access To learn more, donate or volunteer with online programs. The district had distrib- Hillsborough Education Foundation, please uted laptops, but many families could not visit www.educationfoundation.com/iniafford Wi-Fi for their children to complete tiatives/digital-equity/.
The American wheelchair into Legion Riders the car. Alafia Chapter “Over the 148 will be hostlast year, my ing a poker run wife has also fundraiser on endured her Saturday, March own mobili19, 2022 for one ty challengof its members, es, which has Ed Linde, who is placed a greatin need of outfiter burden on ting a wheelchair our ability to adaptive accessigo anywhere,” ble vehicle. Linde said. The American Legion Riders Alafia Chapter 148 will be Linde suf- hosting a poker run fundraiser on Saturday, March 19, 2022 “This has been fers from Char- for one of its members, Ed Linde, who is in need of outfitting a an eye-opener wheelchair adaptive accessible vehicle. cot-Marie-Tooth and a realiza(CMT). CMT is a debilitating condition of tion of how much I rely on Vicki. When she the peripheral nerves that control the mus- travels for business or away, I am basically cles. It is the most commonly inherited pe- trapped at home. We have thought hard ripheral neuropathy, affecting more than and long, and even to regain a small bit of three million people worldwide. CMT is a my independence we began to look at acprogressive disease, causing loss of normal cessible vehicles, which has brought me to function and/or sensation in the feet, legs, this point: a new, accessible vehicle, with hands and arms. CMT is currently incur- the adaptable equipment I would require, able, but not usually fatal, though it can be would cost close to $80,000. We have severely disabling in some people. found good used vehicles, but they would “For years, we have supported and con- still need to be retrofitted with the equiptributed to our fellow riders, veterans ment required to meet my needs. I am not and the community,” Linde said. “Helping covered under the VA, and because of our those in need and in particular our veter- income, we do not qualify for any governans brings great pleasure to my wife, Vicki, ment or outside assistance.” and I. For us, it has always been easier to The poker run begins at 9:30 a.m. at give and contribute than to ask for help for American Legion Post 148 at 10708 ourselves when needed. I have come to a Hannaway Dr. in Riverview and ends at 3 point where I now reach out and ask for p.m. at AMVETS Post 44 at 5521 SR 60 your support. I find it difficult to ask for in Plant City. Registration fee is $15 and help and I know it’s not because I’m weak, include poker hands and a meal. If you but because I want to remain strong.” would like to participate in the fundraiser Due to the progression of his condition, for Linde, you can visit the post’s website Linde can no longer go anywhere without at www.americanlegionalafiapost148.org someone else to assist with loading his or call 677-6529.
By Makenzie Atkins
By Libby Hopkins
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Valrico Edition
PAT’S CORNER RETURNS TO CENTER PLACE FINE ARTS & CIVIC ASSOCIATION By Libby Hopkins Center Place Fine Creations, Afribera Arts & Civic AssociaShirts and Scented tion has been a part of Intensions Candle the Brandon community Company. “We are for more than 45 years. also working with One of the community’s ECHO of Brandon,” favorite parts of Center Hopkins said. “We Place was Pat’s Corner, are excited to offer which was the center’s ECHO’s adorable gift shop. shoulder bags and Pat’s Corner was mini bags made removed from Cenfrom clothes that ter Place and turned were donated for into storage and office Center Place recently reopened Pat’s Corner, ECHO.” space. This saddened which was the center’s gift shop. It’s coming Pat’s Corner gives back to Center Place as an artisans’ shop. many people from the local artist and makcommunity. ers a place to showcase their creative talWhen the COVID-19 pandemic hit, Cen- ents. “Keeping thing local and supporting ter Place was almost shuttered, which local is extremely important to me,” Hopmeant that Pat’s Corner would never re- kins said. “Pat’s Corner is doing two things: turn. “One of the things I wanted to bring it’s helping Center Place have another revback from Center Place’s past was the gift enue stream while making the local econshop or Pat’s Corner,” said Center Place’s omy stronger.” executive director, Libby Hopkins. Center Place’s executive board and HopPat’s Corner was name after Pat Odi- kins are currently working on Pat’s Corner orne, Center Place’s original executive di- operating hours. “We would like to have rector. “Pat made sure the gift shop was the store open Monday-Friday for a few stocked with art, jewelry, scarves and oth- hours a day,” Hopkins said. “We are looking er fun items,” said Hopkins. “I, too, want to the Brandon community for volunteers to make sure the gift shop is stocked with to help us run Pat’s Corner and we would new and unique gifts as well as art, but I love to have some more locally made prodwanted to take it a step further by having uct available in the shop.” only local artists’ works in the shop along If you are interested in volunteering at with locally made candles, clothing, purses Pat’s Corner during the week or if you’re and teas. We are still calling it Pat’s Cor- a local maker who would like to have your ner, but it will be considered a local artisan items available in the shop, please contact shop.” Hopkins at 658-8888. Center Place Fine Center Place is working with local cre- Arts & Civic Association is located at 619 ators Regalitea, Laura Elderberry, Hu- Vonderburg Dr., Ste. B in Brandon, next to madorables by Susan, Hogan Made, DVR the Brandon Library.
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Volume 18, Issue 12
TWO NEW THRILLS OPENING IN MARCH AT ADVENTURE ISLAND
Staff Report
nels that were once dark will now glow and groove as riders zoom through over 600 feet of fun. “The all-new Rapids Racer and new enhancements to another fan-favorite attraction with Wahoo Remix will elevate the Adventure Island guest experience in an unprecedented Adventure Island recently announced the opening of two new attractions way in 2022,” said next year. Neal Thurman, park Adventure Island, voted one of the counpresident of Busch try’s top 10 waterparks by USA Today, is Gardens and Adventure Island. “With recentracing into 2022 with two new thrills and ly announced year-round operations, it’s goyear-round operation. Opening just in time for ing to be a momentous year for water park spring break, Rapids Racer and Wahoo Remix fans, as our guests can now splash in the sun will make a splash at Adventure Island next and take on thrills from January to DecemMarch. With new heaters and comfortable ber.” water temperatures, guests can now enjoy Refresh and Recharge the endless summer vibe and thrilling attracRounding out Adventure Island’s revamp is tions all year long. the recently opened Hang Ten Tiki Bar. CenOn Rapids Racer, riders grab a two-person trally located between Rapids Racer and Waraft before racing through nearly 600 feet of hoo Remix, the park’s first full-service bar is slide, complete with low walls to encounter the prime spot to grab a drink and recharge. your opponents throughout this side-by-side With handcrafted signature cocktails, fan-faexperience. The thrill of the chase is amplified vorite local brews and a regional and interas guests swirl through the world’s first duel- national rum selection, Hang Ten serves reing saucers in this exhilarating journey full of freshing concoctions that can be found only high-speed tunnels, turns and more. at Adventure Island. Visitors can enjoy this On Wahoo Remix, riders will enjoy waves new tropical oasis as they sip and savor small of water and sound as they splash to the beat seasonal bites to fuel up for all-day fun. of a remixed favorite attraction. Formerly Located right across the street from Busch Wahoo Run, Wahoo Remix will be Adventure Gardens® Tampa Bay, Adventure Island® feaIsland’s first waterslide to feature synchro- tures a combination of exhilarating water nized light and sound elements, delivering an rides and tropical, tranquil surroundings. all-new, high-energy, family raft ride experi- For more information, visit adventureisland. ence with ultimate party vibes. Enclosed tun- com for more information.
Valrico Edition
December 2021
HOME MAKERS OF HOPE HELPS FAMILIES IN NEED MAKE THEIR HOUSES INTO HOMES
By Makenzie Atkins
unteers always pray to ask for blessings on the family and the home. The volunteers at Home Makers of Hope live by the verse, “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me,” (Philippians 4:13). “Since everyone is 100 percent volunHome Makers of Hope has furnished over 1,000 homes with donations teer, Home Makers of Hope is the perfrom generous members in the community. A local nonprofit organization, Home fect ministry to doMakers of Hope, works with families and nate to if you want all of the money to go individuals who are struggling with pov- directly towards helping families,” said erty and cannot afford to furnish their Pam McMenamy Stamey, founder of homes. Home Makers of Hope. Home Makers of Hope provides for The organization is always accepting those in need by supplying linens and donations but is actively looking for dobeds, stocking kitchens and decorating nors to sponsor the purchases of matliving areas. After picking up furniture tresses, blankets and sheets. and other household items from donors Stamey first began helping furnish or purchasing items with money dona- homes in 2008. Originally being asked to tions, volunteers sort and organize it all help find more beds for a family of five, in the warehouse. Stamey quickly realized the family was A volunteer will then visit a home to in need of more than just beds. One week find out what is needed and go back to later, Stamey and some friends were the warehouse to select items to deliv- able to collect donations to provide beds, er to the home. Volunteers try to find a living room sofa, an entertainment cenpieces in the warehouse that represent ter, a television, a kitchen table and a the family’s style, picking superheroes, fully stocked kitchen and bathroom. dinosaurs or princesses for children in Now, Home Makers of Hope has helped the home. furnish over 1,000 homes in need. Once the volunteers get all of the For more information, please contact items to the house, the fun begins. The Stamey at pamstamey1@gmail.com or volunteers set up curtains, hang photos visit the website at www.homemakerand decorate. Most importantly, the vol- sofhope.com/.
813-689-8131 3159 E. State Road 60 - Valrico
Page 29
COUNTY SEEKS VOLUNTEERS FOR DIVERSITY ADVISORY COUNCIL
By Brad Stager
Hillsborough According to County has been Hillsborough attracting people County’s webfrom all over the site, requireworld ever since ments include Spanish explorer residency and Ponce de Leon paid voter registraa visit to the Tampa tion in HillsBay area in 1513. borough CounThe global appeal ty. An essay of the region has reof 200-500 sulted in one of the words “highmost diverse populighting what lations in the Unityour goals ed States and the The Hillsborough County Commission is seeking volunteers to would be as a serve on its Diversity Advisory Council. Hillsborough Counmember of the ty Diversity Advisory Council (DAC) was Diversity Advisory Council, and state why created as a way of recognizing that and you are most suited to carry forth those ensuring different perspectives are part goals,” is also required, as are completof the county’s governmental operations. ed Questionnaire for Diversity Advisory The Hillsborough County Commission is Council and Standards of Conduct forms, seeking volunteers to serve on the DAC. which are available on the county’s webMembers are appointed by the Board site. The forms must be filled out comof County Commissioners, and there are pletely and signed. They can be emailed, currently 13 openings on the 22-member faxed or mailed to the county. council. Members serve two-year terms Applications are due by close of busiand represent one of 11 diverse commu- ness on Thursday, December 16. They can nities the commission has identified as be mailed to: P. O. Box 1110, Tampa, FL, residing in the county. 33601; faxed to 239-3916; emailed to The openings are as follows: African finleyl@hillsboroughcounty.org; or delivAmerican (2); Far East Asian (1); Gay, ered to county offices on the second floor Lesbian, Bisexual and Transgender (1); of 601 E. Kennedy Blvd. in Tampa. Hispanic/Latino (1); Indian Asian (2); Luann Finley is the county’s director of Middle Eastern (1); Native American (2); board services and records, and she enNorthern and Southern European (1); courages residents to consider applying People with Disabilities (1); and At-Large to the DAC. (1)—whereby identification with a spe“One of the most valuable resources of cific category is not required. any government is the citizen who gets In addition to the above categories, involved and works to help solve probthere are two positions not needing ap- lems.” plications at this time for representation To access forms or learn more about from Caribbean residents. the DAC and other volunteer opportuniThe volunteer positions are unpaid. ties, visit hcflgov.net online.
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Valrico Edition
Volume 18, Issue 12
S. BRANDON LITTLE LEAGUE UNDEFEATED 1972 PEPSI TEAM CELEBRATES 50TH ANNIVERSARY In 1968, after graduating from The Uniwas a questionable versity of Tampa, Dom Cassano moved to call by the umBrandon from Long Island, New York. Caspires, one may be sano was a baseball fanatic and an avid foloverzealous to the lower of the Brooklyn Dodgers in the 1950s. point of getting He had the urge to start a baseball team at asked to watch the the local South Brandon Little League, but game from outside he needed help. He walked over to introduce the fence. When himself to his new next-door neighbor, Gene that happened, the Hink, to ask him to join him in his efforts. A other would make friendship of 50 years and a baseball bond sure he did not also for several years ensued, culminating in a Cassano and Hink had a strong team for several years, but their best club get ejected, beby far was the ’72 Pepsi-sponsored team that went undefeated and won cause they wanted District 13 championship. the District 13 title. to be sure that one Together, in 1970, they formed a team of them would alsponsored by Pepsi and built a dynasty that the draft taking place the following Monday evening in the league press box. Players ways be with the kids in the dugout.” reached its pinnacle in 1972 with an undeselected by each coach were then called at John said that Hink was loved by his playfeated team that won the District 13 title as home the following evening and advised of ers. He recalls Hink seemingly having the an underdog against powerhouse West Tamtheir selection. only swimming pool in Brandon at the time pa. Cassano, the coach, together with Hink, “I loved hearing the stories of my father and would always invite the players over for the manager and ‘master of pre-game funand Gene sitting side by side in that draft go,’ put together a core group of talent that room and licking their chops at the talent pizza and a swim after a game. “My dad and Mr. Cassano were very suhas gone unmatched since. still available to them after each coach’s se- perstitious about baseball, and they had fun Cassano’s two sons, John and Paul, were lection,” said John. “They both grew up with with the kids,” said Darrell. “My dad had an bat boys for the team. “I can remember at and truly loved the game and had a keen eye old pair of socks he would wear at the games the age of 7, along with my brother, Paul, for talent.” and told the kids they were for good luck. watching in astonishment as Gene gave preCassano and Hink would find any place to After he told them that, they would always game fungo warm-ups to the players,” said practice at least twice a week, whether it make sure he was wearing them at the game. John. “It was legendary, as coaches, players was an empty pasture, a vacant church lot For that season, maybe it helped—that and a and parents from other local little leagues or someone’s backyard, as long as the fun- team full of talented ball players.” would come out just to watch the precision damentals and players stayed sharp every John said that his father was hard on his of this team warming up.” week. players, and he demanded respect for the “Both were very passionate about the game, respect for teammates and commitTryouts for all players were always on a Saturday morning in early February, with game,” said Hink’s son, Darrell. “When there ment to hard work. He can recall players
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coming up to him years later and telling him what an impact the two coaches had on their baseball careers. Cassano and Hink had a strong team for several years, but their best club by far was the ’72 Pepsi-sponsored team that went undefeated and won the District 13 title. “I distinctly recall driving home after the championship game in West Tampa with cars loaded with players, parents and coaches; banners waving; and kids screaming, only for the celebration to end when the car horns went dead,” said John. “It was a unique time to grow up in Brandon with a special group of players, parents and coaches.” Cassano was not only a pillar in the community as a baseball coach, but he was also the retail advertising manager for The Tampa Tribune for 25-plus years. He made an impact on many young lives, but his son, John, was his biggest fan of all. “There was a sign in front of the little league complex that commemorated the ’72 team with all the players’ and coaches’ names that stood for 30 years that is now gone,” said John. “It broke my heart when I moved back from New York to see it removed, as I drove by it 20 times a day always glancing over and smiling.” Cassano passed away in December 2019 and Hink recently passed away last month; however, their legacy will live on. February 2022 will mark the 50-year anniversary of the team.
Valrico Edition
December 2021
Page 31
A KID’S PLACE HOUSE PARENT WINS $50,000 LIGHTNING HERO GRANT By Tatiana Ortiz a positive difference in the lives of the children with his efforts, such as gaining their trust and building relationships. Norm mentioned that since his arrival at A Kid’s Place of Tampa Bay, he tries to think outside the box and develop tools to work with the kids, which includes music. “I have put on at least 50 dances as well as play music all over campus and do house dance parties,” Norm said. Norm Cookson holding the $50,000 check which he received on Elizabeth Frazier, seOctober 19 for being a Lightning Community Hero. nior vice president and Norm Cookson had a humbling philanthropy and commuexperience during the first period nity initiatives executive of the Tampa Bay Lightning game director of the Lightning against the Florida Panthers on OcFoundation, shared how tober 19. Jabil presented a $50,000 Norm got selected. grant to Norm through the Light“The committee rening Foundation and the Lightning viewed hundreds of appliCommunity Heroes Program. The grant will cations; Norm’s stood out as a finalist for the benefit A Kid’s Place of Tampa Bay. Lightning Community Hero through his dedA Kid’s Place of Tampa Bay opened in ication to the kids at A Kid’s Place of Tampa 2009 with a mission to provide a safe, lov- Bay,” Frazier said. ing and nurturing home for foster children Jeff Vinik and his wife, Penny Vinik, estabranging from newborns through the age of lished the Lightning Community Hero Pro18. This unique, state-of-the-art, 60-bed fa- gram in 2011 to honor deserving heroes and cility for abused, neglected or abandoned funding to nonprofits within the Tampa Bay children has provided a home to more than community. The Viniks pledged another $10 1,500 children and has assisted more than million dollars for the next five years to this 675 families. program over the summer of this year. Since 2012, Norm and his wife, Heidi The deadline to apply for a grant is Friday, Cookson, both have worked at A Kid’s Place February 11, 2022. of Tampa Bay as House Parents. Norm, who Visit www.nhl.com/lightning/community/ was once a foster care child himself, had a community-heroes. For A Kid’s Place of Tamdesire to work with them. Norm has made pa Bay, visit https://akidsplacetb.org.
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Valrico Edition
Volume 18, Issue 12
Valrico Edition
December 2021
Page 33
A RECORD FIVE BLOOMINGDALE BASEBALL PLAYERS SIGN TO PLAY COLLEGE BASEBALL
Chase Chappell signed with Santa Fe College.
The defending 6A state champion Bloomingdale Bulls have stayed busy this off-season with a record five players signing to play at the next level. On May 11, the program made history, winning its first state title. The Bulls defeated Fleming Island High School 5-1 in the FHSAA Class 6A State Championship at Hammond Stadium in Fort Myers. Now, they set a different record in terms of number of signees in a class. Shortstop Colby Shelton signed with the University of Alabama. He was a key player during the Bulls’ championship run, as the team’s best hitter in a stacked lineup, batting in the middle of the order. He led Bloomingdale with a .405 batting average, five home runs and 24 runs batted in. He plans on majoring in business. Shelton might have a tough decision to make if he gets selected in the upcoming MLB draft over the summer. “It’s a dream come true, just all the hard work that pays off over the long 12-year journey that it is when you start playing T-ball as a kid,” said Shelton. “It’s really exciting that I achieved my goal and I’m moving on to another chapter in life after high school.” The Bulls’ ace pitcher, Jack Owens, signed to play at Stetson University. Ow-
Drake Harman signed with Santa Fe College.
Jack Owens signed with Stetson University
ens led his team to a win in the state semifinal against Dwyer High School to reach the state championship. He led the Bulls with an 8-2 record and a 1.04 ERA. Owens liked Stetson because it’s a smaller school where he felt he could adapt better. He is undecided on his major as of right now. “It’s a huge feeling honestly. I didn’t really think I was really good at baseball probably until I was a freshman in high school—so at that stage, it’s kind of like ‘let’s get to work,’” said Owens. “It was a lot of hours, a lot of days at practice, and for me to just get to this place makes me really happy. It’s not just for me, but for the other four guys up on that stage that really worked hard.” Outfielder Drake Harman signed with Santa Fe College. He was a key cog in the
Colby Shelton signed with the University of Alabama.
lineup for the Bulls last season batting leadoff and playing great defense. He batted .402 with 37 hits, 12 runs batted in and a home run, with a .966 fielding percentage. He wants to major in sports management. It hasn’t always been easy for the senior outfielder. “It’s been an up-and-down road that started off a little rough,” said Harman. “I didn’t know where baseball was going to take me at first. I stuck to the sport, even through ups and downs, and it took me to where I am today. Just getting the relief off of my shoulders by signing to Santa Fe is amazing. My teammates and coaches always believed in me and helped me get to where I am today.” Plant transfer pitcher Stephen Montgomery signed with Iowa Western. He
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Stephen Montgomery signed with Iowa Western University.
hopes to bring a boost to the Bulls’ pitching staff that lost a couple of key players due to graduation. He will not only pitch but also play right field and bat in the lineup as well. He plans on majoring either in sports management or sports marketing. His ultimate goal is to get drafted by a major league team. “Ever since my freshman year when I saw the seniors sign, it felt like it was such a long time away; within a blink of an eye, I’m here signing and it’s a great feeling.” Pitcher Chase Chappell signed to play at Santa Fe College. Chappell was one of many heroes in the 5-1 state championship win over Fleming Island High School. He was called upon in relief of senior Florida International University signee David Eckaus in the fourth inning, where he promptly got out of a jam with runners on first and second with no outs and an inherited 2-0 count. He recorded the last 12 outs to preserve his team’s victory. He plans on majoring in criminal justice, and he is happy to join fellow Bull Drake Harman at Santa Fe. “It’s really eye-opening, because I see all of our teammates, especially the five of us and everybody at Bloomingdale, put in all the hard work in everything that we do here to accomplish getting to that next level,” said Chappell.
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Valrico Edition
Volume 18, Issue 12
MOSAIC AND CENTER PLACE PARTNER FOR ART THERAPY PROGRAM FOR VETS By Libby Hopkins ment of the communities where it operates. “The Veterans’ Art Therapy program is a great opportunity to provide a safe space for veterans in our community to gather, fellowship and share their experiences,” Johnson said. “Community programs such as these are Center Place Fine Arts & Civic Association and Mosaic have partnered very important since on an art therapy program that will be free for all local veterans. The they provide another Veterans’ Art Therapy program began on November 3 of this year. It’s valuable resource for offered at Center Place on Wednesdays from 10:30 a.m.-12 Noon. veterans in our comMosaic and Center Place Fine Arts munity. Mosaic & Civic Association have partnered employs many on an art therapy program that will veterans, and we be free for all local veterans. honor all of those “Mosaic seeks to make meaningwho have served ful investments that enhance our our country.” communities and positively impact Center Place people’s lives,” said Mosaic’s senior and Mosaic hope social responsibility specialist, Christo- local veterans will be a part of this new pher Johnson. “Our sponsorship of the art therapy program designed especially Veterans’ Art Therapy program provides for them. a great opportunity to support a resource “Our hope is that the veterans who parin our community that will benefit veter- ticipate in this new program will be able ans who have experienced trauma.” to express their feelings, move past their It is open to all veterans, and they don’t personal struggles and improve their abilneed to have any artistic skills. ity to communicate through art therapy,” “No cost to the veterans who attend- Johnson said. “Additionally, we hope to ed, no hidden agenda,” said art instructor provide the necessary support for Center Phyllis Alexandroff. “Vets could come in, Place to successfully host the Veterans’ check it out and do some art.” Art Therapy program for the next year.” Mosaic strives to be a thoughtful and If you would like to learn more about engaged neighbor, investing carefully and the Veterans’ Art Therapy program at generously as it seeks long-term partner- Center Place or if you’d like to attend, ships with organizations that are making you can visit Center Place’s new website a difference. Mosaic is dedicated to ad- at www.centerplacebrandon.com or call vancing the many ways that its business 685-8888. contributes to the sustainable develop-
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December 2021
Valrico Edition
VISIT THE SALUTE TO VETERANS EXHIBIT AT THE PLANT CITY PHOTO ARCHIVES & HISTORY CENTER The exhibition consists of eight 10-foot illustrated banners, over 30 photo enlargements and 800 photos of Plant City veterans. In addition, there are essays written by area school children and a slide show which runs continuously during business hours. Visitors can enjoy the wonderful exhibit and Among the many preserved photos you can see at the annual Salute to are even treated to cofVeterans exhibition at the Plant City Photo Archives and History Center is fee, water and cookies this photo of Craig Mills (left) with his tank crew on the day he received the at no charge. Distinguished Service Cross (May 13, 1945). The 2021-2022 SaThe Plant City Photo Archives and Hislute to Veterans is in tory Center has opened its 2021-2022 Sa- its 16th year. Over the years, it has been lute to Veterans exhibition. The exhibit is viewed by over 6,000 visitors. The Plant on view for the public to see now through City Photo Archives and History Center Monday, January 3, 2022. The Plant City invites veterans to bring in their photos Photo Archives and History Center is lo- for scanning and inclusion in the growing cated at 106 S. Evers St. in historic down- collection of veterans’ photographs. town Plant City. The Salute to Veterans exhibition can Veterans Day 2021 was celebrated be viewed at any time Monday through widely across the United States in small Thursday from 10:15 a.m.-7 p.m. Admistowns and big cities this year. Both citi- sion to the Plant City Photo Archives and zens and veterans saluted the thousands History Center is free of charge. It is a of men and women who served in the wonderful organization that has strived United States armed forces. to capture and preserve the history of “Veterans Day at the Plant City Photo Plant City and its residents. Archives and History Center begins our For more information on the 2021annual Salute to Veterans exhibition. We 2022 Salute to Veterans exhibition or extend our veterans exhibition over the on any other exhibits or questions about holidays because many families return to preserving history, please call the Plant visit in Plant City,” said Samantha Poiri- City Photo Archives and History Center at er, Plant City Photo Archives and History 754-1578. Center executive director.
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CITY OF PLANT CITY UNVEILS NEW MURAL AND DEDICATES NEW POCKET PARK On November about.” 16, a large crowd Unity in consisting of lothe Commucal residents, dignity Park is a nitaries and city pocket park. officials gathered It is named in Plant City to after Unity in unveil and cut the Communithe ribbon on the ty, which is a new Reflections nonprofit that of Plant City muraises funds ral and the Unity to help benefit in the Communithose in need ty Park. Both are On November 16, the new Reflections of Plant City Mural was in the commulocated at 102 S. unveiled and the new pocket park, Unity in the Community, nity, including was dedicated. Collins St. in hisother nonprofit toric downtown Plant City. organizations, such as Meals on Wheels, the The mural was painted by artist Keith Plant City Railroad Museum and more. The Goodson, who is a resident of Lake Alfred. organization is run completely with volunThe mural is located on a wall owned by the teers, and they have given back hundreds of Whistle Stop Cafe. The cost of the mural thousands of dollars raised throughout the was sponsored by Plant City’s newest large years. employer, City Furniture. Bill McDaniel, city manager for Plant City, Mayor Rick Lott said, “This mural, Reflec- said, “Unity in the Community does a tretions of Plant City, takes you back to your mendous amount of work in the community. childhood. A lot of memories are featured That is why the park was named for them.” on this mural.” Lott added, “City Furniture Each section of the Reflections of Plant is making its largest investment since its City mural reflects the important history of inception in Plant City with a large facility Plant City. These include, but are not limitthat features a 250,000-square-foot show ed to, Henry B. Plant, for whom the city is room.” named; the 1917 Fire Engine that has been Goodson said, “It is such an honor to be in continuous service since that year; the here.” He explained that he was a part of former McCrory’s Department Store; the the Lake Placid Mural Society, which helped Strawberry Festival; the Bing House; and transform Lake Placid and now brings mil- the four longest-serving mayors. lions of visitors to see its murals. “For me, Stop by and enjoy both the beautiful muI put my heart and soul into this project. I ral and the pocket park, Unity in the Comhad no problems, and I hope I have given munity, located at 102 S. Collins St. in Plant a visual synopsis of what Plant City is all City.
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Valrico Edition
Volume 18, Issue 12
