Osprey Observer 2017-2 Bloomingdale/FishHawk by Osprey Observer

Bloomingdale/FishHawk See O u Ad O n r Page 21

FEBRUARY 2017 Volume 16, Issue 2 Ph: 657-2418 C E L E B R A T I N G

1 5

Y E A R S

O F

P U B L I S H I N G

P O S I T I V E

See Ad On Page 9

C O M M U N I T Y

N E W S

Bloomingdale Welcomes Brodie As New Full Time Community Resource Deputy

100 Camp Out To Welcome New Valrico Chick-fil-A Location

The first order allows our of business for the resource deputies new year at the to focus on their Hillsborough own communities,” County Sheriff’s Bullara said. Office Brodie joined Bloomingdale HCSO as a U.S. Community Navy veteran in Substation’s 1994, and has monthly meeting served in a numwas something ber of positions area residents within the departhave been anticiment, which pating since last included a sevensummer. assignyear-long Photo By Billy Hightower While ment as resource Newly selected HCSO Bloomingdale Community Resource Deputy, James Brodie, deputy at addressing a front left, is joined by District 4 Major Robert number of Bullara, HCSO Detective James Howell, County Eisenhower changes for the Code Enforcement officer Christine McCombs Middle School in and Gibsonton Community Resource Deputy Apollo Beach. coming year, the Luke Hussey. small group of “I am a peoregular attendees gathered last month at ple person,” Brodie said. “It is great to be the station, 3622 Erindale Dr., in Valrico, back into this phase of law enforcement also welcomed HCSO Deputy James and to work closely with residents in the Brodie as the community’s new full time community again.” resource deputy. “I am honored and feel privileged to A graduate of Armwood High School, have been chosen as the Bloomingdale Brodie, 47, a local resident and a 23-year Community Resource Deputy,” he said. “I veteran with the Sheriff’s Office, is ready couldn't have asked for a better introducto take on his new role in place of Deputy tion. I am very impressed with the memLuke Hussey, who accepted the position bers of this community, their involvement in August of 2016 following the retirement and their passion to ensure the safety of Master Deputy Curtis Warren. and the security of their community and Warren served the Bloomingdale neighborhood.” community as CRD since 2010, following Brodie wants to focus on local projthe retirement of Pete Maurer, who ects such as neighborhood clean ups and served the station for 12 years. the annual drug take back event, while Hussey, was also serving as the promoting vigilance on the part of each Gibsonton CRD and was chosen to fill in member of the community. for Warren, on a potentially permanent “One of the biggest issues we have basis, until HCSO’s District 4 Major to deal with is crime of opportunity,” he Robert Bullara decided to let Brodie take said. To contact the Sheriff’s Office, the helm in Bloomingdale. Bloomingdale Community Substation, “This was a sensible decision and please call 242-5501.

Filled with occasion. “It’s a variety of totally worth it,” festive and he added. “It’s charitable camping, it’s events includfun, it’s suping awarding porting the the first 100 community customers and, of course, with a year free food. That supply of about sums it Chick-fil-A up for me.” meals, Owned Valrico’s first and operated stand-alone by Paul and 5,300-square- A large group of Chick-fil-A fans who were among the Tammy first 100 adults that won a one-year supply of free foot Chick-filHolmberg, the Chick-fil-A meals, at Valrico’s first Chick-fil-A restaurant, A restaurant new restaurant are enjoying a drumming session directed by Drum Circle Facilitator Jana Broder, owner of Drum Magic. is located at opened on time and as 2010 scheduled last month. Bloomingdale Ave. in Valrico, and is a Appropriately called, First 100, much-welcomed addition to the recently Chick-fil-A’s signature event, which dates opened Crest Pointe Towne Plaza, back to 2003, makes room for the first anchored by the new Walmart 100 local customers to camp out on Supercenter. restaurant’s parking lot for 24 hours leadTo keep the diehard Chick-fil-A fans ing up to grand opening. and campers occupied during the day, The new restaurant brings close to restaurant owners arranged for a 30100 jobs to the community and becomes minute Zumba Class as well as a drumthe 22nd Chick-fil-A location within a 25ming to the beat session courtesy of mile radius of Valrico. Drum Magic, which supplied each particiChick-fil-A opened its first Florida Continued on Page 8 restaurant in 1971 at Cordova Mall in Pensacola. For days leading up to the ribbon In This cutting ceremony on Thursday morning, Issue January 26, 2017, restaurant management and experienced staff from near and far welcomed hundreds of local resiHOA HOT TOPICS ...............................PG 7 dents and guests, to take part in the traFUNDRAISER FOR STUDENT...............PG 9 ditional opening festivities. Thanks to the helping hands of the HURRICANE SAFETY .........................PG 18 fist 100 customers who have camped out MOTORING ......................................PG 27 overnight awaiting their reward, events included the preparing food to treat the SPORTS CONNECTION...............PGS 32‐33 needy at local charities with Chick-fil-A CHALKLINES .....................................PG 37 meals as well as putting together 10,000 meals for the Feed Children Everywhere ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT................PG 42 organization. EYE ON BUSINESS...........................PGS 45 “This is my third Chick-fil-A , First 100 campout,” said USF student, READ MORE LOCAL NEWS ONLINE Jonathan Valentine, who showed with a group of his friends to support the festive www.ospreyobserver.com

By Tamas Mondovics

Osprey Observer 918 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. Brandon, FL 33511-6121

Postal Customer

ECRWSS EDDM

PRSTD STD U.S. POSTAGE PAID TAMPA, FL PERMIT #2397

By Tamas Mondovics

Photo By Tamas Mondovics

Randall Middle School Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) student Natalie Santiago, 12, right, smiles for the camera, while classmate Andrew Caceres, 13, helps Stella Mann of Valrico learn how to use her iPad during the school’s annual MLK Service Day. The technology tutoring session was just one of many community outreach events held at the school and throughout surrounding area. Read more on the Randall MLK Service Day in this edition.

Serving Our Customers in 4 Locations: Lithia • Big Bend, Riverview • 301, Riverview • Sun City Center

Page 2

Volume 16, Issue 2

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Specializing in Bank Owned Properites, Short Sales, and Luxury Properties.

813.760.7190

G IN D EN

RIVERVIEW

APOLLO BEACH

GIBSONTON

APOLLO BEACH

3/2/2 with 1,497 sq feet. Summerfield home with new paint and carpet. Large Rooms, great master, great neighborhood. Offered @ $167,400

Short Sale. Lender Approved. 2/2/1199 sq. feet. Great corner lot. Homes needs a little TLC but has 18' tile, cabinet space, pantry, sliding doors, screened in patio and more! Offered @ $100,000.00

Short Sale. Lender Approved. 4/2.5/2 with about 2,164 sq feet. Located on Conservation lot, large family room/dining room combo, spacious kitchen with stainless steel appliances, and large master. Offered @ $320,000

Beautiful Townhome 2 bedrooms 2.5 Baths and 1,360 sq feet of living space . Brand new carpet and wood floors. This gated neighborhood offers a beautiful pool, dog run, maintenance free grounds, WATER and landscaping. Offered @ $100,000

Mirabay Villa with 3 bedrooms 2 baths and 1750 sq feet. Maintenance free, hardwood floors, neutral carpets, title, stainless steel appliances, quartz counter tops, and so much more. Offered @ $225,000

REUNION

Ground floor resort style villas. 3 bedrooms 3 bathrooms 1630 sq feet. This neighborhood offers 12 different pools with lazy rivers and water slides, ground free maintenance, cable, pest control and so much more!!

WIMAUMA

APOLLO BEACH

RUSKIN

SUN CITY CENTER

RIVERVIEW

Banked Owned with Repairs on LAKE. 4/3/3 with 3,692 sq feet. Features are Large Kitchen, Volume ceilings, garden tub, Awesome back yard. New carpet, paint, a/c and so much more. Offered @ $349,900.

Model perfect and includes one of the best lots in Waterset with deep conservation in back and no neighbor to the left of the home. 5 bedrooms, 5.5 bathrooms, 3 car tandem garage with approx. 3400 sq ft. This home is a custom built Endeavor II floor plan with many great modifications. Offered at $400k

Short Sale - Beautiful corner lot with 3 bedrooms, 2 baths and 1951 sq. feet. SS appliances, corian counter tops, espresso cabinetry, large living space, Huge master, dual sinks, and walk in closet. Offered @ $200,000

Corner Lot 2 bedrooms 1 Full bath 1,149 sq feet. Large Living, Dining and family room, air conditioned back patio. Great Community center. Offered @ $109,900

CALLING all investors for this home with 4 bedrooms 2 bathrooms and approx. 1,686 sq. feet. This Home has a full kitchen with all nice appliances, a Screened in back porch, and a fenced in backyard. This Bank Owned will need a little paint and few minor touch ups and should be good to go. Offered @ $166,500.

WOW!! Great Starter Home with 3/2/2 with 1,355 sq. feet. Features Include Open Floor plan, Private back yard, Granite Counter Tops and white appliances!!! Not to mention great amenities. Offered @ $ 159,900

AS LE

L SO APOLLO BEACH

RENTER OR BUYER!! Lagoon front Home with 4/3 and 3,699 sq feet. Features include Gourmet kitchen, granite countertops, Walk in pantry, bonus room and a Personal Dock with a wonderful view. Offered @ $3,500 Rent Monthly or $600,000 Buy

Discover the Team Brumbach Difference!

RUSKIN Amazing Hawks Point home. 3/2/2 with 2,051 sq. feet. So many great features, Large living/dining combo, 42in staggered cabinets, crown molding, stainless/black combo appliances, raised breakfast bar, huge master, French doors, granite counters, garden tub and so much more. Offered @ $215,000.

• Full Ser vice Proper ty Management • Shor t Sale Exper ts • Global Exposure on 450 Websites • Regional Exposure in 7 print publications • Professional V-Tours & Photos • Regional & Inter national Adver tising • Wor ld Class Staff Devoted to your Satisfaction • Exper t Negotiations • Extensive Experience with 1031 Exchanges • Relocation Cer tified & Trained

AS LE APOLLO BEACH

5/4/300 sq feet 3 car garage. Upgraded kitchen, built in appliances, dining and eat in kitchen, over garage apartment, large patio and a small pool for relaxing. MUST SEE HOME!! Offered @ $379,999

APOLLO BEACH

PRE-CONSTRUCTION

Beautiful Custom Built waterfront Home. 4/4/3 with 3,395 sq. feet. Features include, workshop, elevators, chiefs delight kitchen, media room, balcony with amazing view, huge showers and dual sinks, observation deck, Dock with boat slip and so much more. Offered @ $695,000.

To be built. 3 bedrooms + 2 Full Baths & 2 Half Baths with approx. 2763 S.F. + 2 Car Secured Parking. Brisa del Mar is a Mediterranean-styled Townhome Community in the heart of Apollo Beach and steps from a Marina, Beach, and Boating.

Starting at $349,900

L SO

RIVERVIEW

SUN CITY CENTER

Bank owned! Huge 5 bedroom plus media room, 3.5 bathroom and approx 4,432 square foot home. Hardwood floors. Formal dining/living room. large living room with vaulted ceilings, built in wall settings. Private pool and patio Offered at $319,900

Custom built, 4/3/3 with Pool/spa + Out door kitchen + break taking conversation home site + electrical upgrades + formal/ dining/ and family room. This house has so much to offer!! Offered @ $400,000

L SO APOLLO BEACH

Beautiful water front home RENTAL . 4/3.5 with approx. 3,500 sq. feet. Features Include Dining/Family room combo, Breakfast bar, huge picture windows, garden rub, dual sinks and a personal dock. Offered @ $3,200 Monthly

APOLLO BEACH

Lovely 4/2.5/3 with approx. 2,519 sq. feet. This private pool on a pond home is amazing. Features include Community dock, waterfront pond, tile roof, paver driveway, interior spnaish tile, whole house water system, chiefs kitchen with upgrades, extensive landscaping and more. Offered @ $490,000.

Starting at $349,900

February 2017

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

T Marie’s Sunday Market Offers Locals A Unique And Fun Way To Spend The Afternoon

By Kathy L. Collins

local artisans, artists and food vendors. There are 60 booth spaces available for each market and are available for just $30. The vendors, artists and artisans change each week so there is always variety at the market. In addition to the booths, local businesses such as AJ's Fine Wine and Liquors have embraced the market and open their businesses to the attendees. "You can get some delicious food from one of our vendors and then enjoy a glass of wine T Marie Benchley and Kirk Gladwyn (shown on AJ's outdoor patio," said here with Paisley), owners of T Marie’s Fashion Benchley. & Gift Boutique started T Marie’s Valrico Benchley and Gladwyn are longSunday Market to offer families a fun activity every Sunday with 60 artists, artisans and time residents of Valrico. They are vendors selling one of a kind items. both civic minded and want to give If you are looking for a fun, family back to the community. "The market is and pet friendly activity on a Sunday that our way of giving local artists, artisans is close to home, try attending the weekly and food vendors an opportunity sell their Valrico Sunday Markets hosted by T goods," said Benchley. Marie's Fashion & Gifts Boutique, located T Marie's opened two years ago. It is at 3407 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. In Varico. T a lovely space that offers unique clothes, Marie's Valrico Sunday Market takes accessories and gifts. "This store is for all place weekly (weather permitting) from 10 women. I want them to feel beautiful and a.m. to 3 p.m. every Sunday now through offer an escape," said Benchley. "Anytime the end of May. The markets will pick you combine puppies, champagne and back up in October. chocolate, you cannot lose," added T Marie's owners, T Marie Benchley Benchley. and Kirk Gladwyn, started the Sunday The setting is just lovely for a Sunday Markets so that families could have a fun Market. The majestic oaks offer shade activity that also helps local vendors, artiand tranquility. sans and artists. "We wanted to give famThere are some spaces available, ilies something to do locally every but given the success of the market thus Sunday," explained Benchley. The far, vendor spaces will go fast. If you are Sunday Markets started on January 15, interested in becoming involved as an and since then, over 500 people have artist, artisan or food vendor, contact T gone to each market. Marie at 530-0922. Applications can be The Sunday Market is composed of picked up in the store.

Marital and Family Law WENDY K. MCGINNIS, ESQUIRE ATTORNEY-AT-LAW & CERTIFIED FAMILY MEDIATOR

You put your family first. So do we. DIVORCE, PARENTING PLANS & TIME-SHARING, CHILD SUPPORT & ALIMONY, PATERNITY, ADOPTIONS, RELOCATIONS, MODIFICATIONS, DOMESTIC VIOLENCE, NAME CHANGES, MEDIATION

FREE INITIAL CONSULTATION

Practicing marital and family law exclusively since 2001

(813) 235-4650

410 S. WARE BLVD., SUITE 402, TAMPA (NEAR U.S. 301 AND HWY 60)

WWW.BRANDONDIVORCE.COM The hiring of a lawyer is an important decision that should not be based solely upon advertisements. Before you decide, ask the lawyer to send you free written information about her qualifications and experience.

Page 3

Senior Residents Get Tech Support With Randall Community Outreach

By Tamas Mondovics

Senior resglad she did. idents who “This was very struggle with or productive and I have difficulty am glad I came using their cell today,” Mann said. phone, iPad, “The kids were laptop, or other very helpful and I devices got a learned a lot chance to including how to brush up on use my thumbprint their skills last to turn my phone month, thanks on and how to to a handful of send emails.” Randall Middle School Business Technology tech savvy stuMann’s positeacher Tanya Delgado, left, is joined by dents at tive reaction was a members of the school’s Future Business Randall Middle much welcomed Leaders of America (FBLA) class, Natalie Santiago, 12, Caroline Feldkirchner, 13, Andrew response as the School. Caceres, 13, Anika Shah, 13 and Elia Lazar, 14, As part of students, including during the school’s annual MLK Service Day. the school’s Andrew Caceres, annual Martin Luther King Jr. Service was happy to share his expertise. Day, local seniors were invited to visit the “The best part was to see their reacschool and participate in a technology tion when they saw how much their tutoring session appropriately named, phones and other devices can do; espeTechnology for the Young-at-Heart. cially how to use social media.” Under the supervision of Randall Fellow student 13-year-old Natalie technology teacher Tanya Delgado, the Santiago agreed and said, “This was a young students—all members of the great experience. I am glad I was able to school’s Future Business Leaders of support the community.” America (FBLA)—patiently took turns The session was just one of a numhelping the handful of seniors that ber of community support events school responded to the invitation. officials scheduled for throughout the day. “We had a nice group of residents The school also hosted a Heart that responded,” Delgado said emphasiz- Health Awareness Fair which allowed ing the success of the project, adding, sixth grade P.E. students to share the “Our students did a great job demonstrat- Hands On CPR method and valuable ing basic mobile and social media techinformation about heart health with the niques.” community. Upon hearing of the event, Valrico For more information about Randall resident Stella Mann wasted no time to Middle School, please visit make plans to attend and said she was www.sdhc.k12.fl.us.

Volume 16, Issue 2

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

FishHawk Wolves To Host Fourth Annual Golf Classic Fundraising Tournament

By Tamas Mondovics players, which gives them full access to professional training by former professional players. This extensive training opportunity is one of the key differences between Wolves/OBA teams and other travel baseball organizations. “We would like to provide more resources

12U Wolves Travel Baseball Team. Some have played with the Wolves Program since 8U. Others have joined the Wolves/OBA program from Riverview, Valrico and Sebring to be part of a top travel baseball program.

By Tamas Mondovics

Hillsborough tion and expansion County has temhas been on the porarily closed County’s Community and began a two Project roster for month long renosome time, and vation project of when complete, the one the largest new playground will and most heavily sport engineered used parks in wood Brandon. fiber in an The improved makeover at Paul Paul Sanders Park is getting a playfacelift and is scheduled to be Sanders Park, ground temporarily closed until the end of March. 602 W. surfacing Bloomingdale Ave. in Brandon, named system, which they say is designed to after long time Brandon resident Paul be enjoyed by children of all abilities. Sanders three years before his death in “The new equipment includes traditional 1991—is promising to upgrade as well as swings and slides along with a next-genexpand the park, while virtually replacing eration playground equipment that all of the playground equipment and encourages children to climb, run, and adding additional play structures, county play,” said County spokesperson Todd officials said. Pratt. Famous for its mature oak trees that The $315,000 project covered by provide shade by means of a natural the County Parks and Recreation canopy, the park has been the favorite department's budget for Capital hangout for the thousands of visitors it Improvement Projects also includes rensees annually. Picnic tables throughout ovating the restrooms, repaving the the park have been used for birthday par- parking lot, adding sidewalks, and creatties and family gatherings. ing an additional entrance on the northThe facelift is a much welcomed and west side of the park to improve traffic anticipated project for many of its regular flow, which will come in handy. guests including Lithia resident Jinifer Hillsborough County Parks Services Leichner who said, “I love this park. I manager, Kyla Booher confirmed that have great memories growing up as a the park will be closed to the public durteenager visiting this park and as an adult ing the duration of the project from bringing my children here. It is a beautiful Wednesday, February 1, to Friday, park and I am glad the county is putting March 31. the effort into making sure it stays that For information about community way.” projects in Hillsborough County, visit County officials said that the renovawww.hillsboroughcounty.org.

AJ’s Fine Wines & Liquor B We

The FishHawk The FishHawk Baseball Club Wolves and Ostingers Baseball Academy, a nationally recognized travel Baseball Club (FBC) baseball program located in Lithia, is seeking support for Wolves and Ostingers its 4th Annual Golf Classic. The event is scheduled for Baseball Academy (OBA) Friday, March 10 and helps support the organization with its various expenses. now gearing up to host its annual Wolves Golf Classic tournament. For the fourth time since the founding of the FishHawk Wolves in 2011, the Golf tourney, is scheduled for Friday, March 10 at the Bloomingdale Golfer’s Club in Valrico and is geared toward raising Hole Sponsors for Wolves Golf Tournament money to cover the expenses for the Wolves. to players that wish to develop into elite FBC Wolves is a Florida recognized athletes,” Harman said, adding that travel baseball program located in Lithia, these would include additional time with which sports seven teams competing at professional baseball instructors, the 8U-14U age levels. This year they strength and conditioning coaches and have teamed up with nationally recogsports nutrition. nized OBA, which is headed by their Harman is confident that support of Director of Baseball Coach Jimmy Osting. local community fundraising events like “We are seeking support and hoping the upcoming Golf Classic will continue for a sizable turnout for the event,” said to make the FishHawk Wolves and Coach Chuck Harman who is in his fifth OBA teams a travel baseball program season at the club.” The Wolves Golf that the community will be proud of. Classic is an event to raise money that Registration for the four man best will be invested back into the developball scramble format tournament is ment of Wolves players to assist their scheduled for 10 a.m., followed by growth.” lunch at 11 a.m., Shotgun Start at 12 Harman emphasized that to help its Noon. talented players continue to compete at The day is scheduled to include a the elite level, the Board of Directors iden- closest to the pin, longest drive, hole-intified a few areas, such as facilities, travel one, and a putting contest, along with expenses and instruction that requires live auction and door prizes. A banquet both short and long term support. dinner will immediately follow play. Seeking participation for the tourney To register for the tourney or for and community support, the program more information about the FishHawk pointed to the continued training at the Wolves Travel Baseball program, OBA facility, located in Lithia. The acadeplease visit www.fhwolvesgolf.com. or my is an indoor facility for Wolves/OBA www.fhwolves.com.

County Closes Paul Sanders ‘Tree’ Park To Begin Two Month Park Renovation Project

rin g

Life

Page 4

ur Spirits In Yo

Craft Beers

3443 Lithia Pinecrest Road

at the corner of Lithia-Pinecrest & Bloomingdale in the Publix Plaza

813-654-6488

BUY HERE / SMOKE HERE

Neighborhood Liquor Store with Cigars

HAVE A DRINK ON OUR PATIO BAR

FINE WINES Plumpjack Cakebread Cade Nickel & Nickel and MORE!

• Self-serve Bar • Walk-in Humidor • Walk-in Beer Cooler • Craft Beers • Gluten Free Beers • Organic Beers • Variety of IPA’s • Stouts • Non-alcholic Beers Available • Specializing in Fine Wines • Special Orders Upon Request • Call About Delivery

Thank You

for your business the past 13 years & look forward to your continued support of our small business.

3830 Sun City Center Blvd., Ruskin

OPEN 7 DAYS PER WEEK 11AM - 9PM

813-633-3331 | WWW.OLDCASTLERESTAURANT.COM |

Hours: Mon. - Thurs. 10am - 10pm Fri. - Sat. 10am - 11pm Sun. 11am - 8pm

February 2017

Page 5

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Florida State Fair Captures Memories

W W W

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

Staff Report

The 113th dients used to Florida State make their Fair is schedfavorite treats uled for from a “farm to February 9 fork” perspective through 20 at and get schooled the Florida State in the nuts and Fairgrounds, bolts of the conlocated at I-4 fection-making and US Hwy process, while 301 in Tampa. hearing fascinatThis year’s The 113th Annual Florida State Fair will take ing stories of place February 9-20. theme, “Picture famous candy Yourself at the Fair,” emphasizes all of makers and chocolatiers. The Sweets the unforgettable moments waiting to exhibit is free with the price of admisbe captured on camera. One of the sion. new featured attractions promises to “We want both loyal patrons and make patrons of all ages as happy as those who have not yet visited the kids in a candy store as they learn Fair to join us in making memories about the history of confections. The that will last a lifetime,” said Cheryl Sweets exhibit, along with rides, Flood, executive director of the Florida shows, concerts, shopping, food and State Fair Authority. “The Sweets amazing animals and livestock, as exhibit in particular will provide a fun well as Mildred W. and Doyle E. and educational experience for all Carlton Jr. Cracker Country and other ages.” exciting entertainment, promise nonIn addition to thrilling rides, it stop fun – all at an excellent value wouldn’t be the Florida State Fair and always with free parking. without educational and entertaining New at the Florida State Fair in attractions and performers. Where, for 2017 is Sweets: A Tasty Journey, an the price of a movie ticket, can you interactive exhibit that utilizes a blend see a Sea Lion, a spectacular Big Top of traditional and modern educational Circus, cheer on your favorite porker techniques to explore candy’s history at the pig races, feed a giraffe from and role in popular culture. There also your own hand, enjoy acts from TV is a giant Candy Land game perfect shows like America’s Got Talent, for fun photo ops, a “beanboozled” watch an amazing bear show, and be taste test challenge (grass flavored thrilled by the dogs of K-9s in Flight? jelly beans anyone?) and candyDiscounted admission and arminspired art, including amazing repliband tickets are available at cas of famous paintings like the Mona www.FloridaStateFair.com. Tickets Lisa, created with jellybeans. also can be purchased at Florida Visitors also learn about the ingre- Walgreens through February 8.

C O M

MANAGING EDITOR

CRIME/SAFETY & NEWS REPORTER

Marie Gilmore

Tamas Mondovics

editor@ospreyobserver.com

Tamas@ospreyobserver.com

ASSIGNMENT EDITOR

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT EDITOR

657-2418

Michelle Colesanti

Kathy Collins

michelle@ospreyobserver.com

kcollins@ospreyobserver.com

LAYOUT EDITOR

MULTIMEDIA NEWS EDITOR

657-2418

Kathi Hayes

Cyndi Cisneros

khayes@ospreyobserver.com

ccisneros@ospreyobserver.com

BILLING MANAGER

GRAPHICS MANAGER

657-2418

Terry Vassalotti

Denise Graf

terry@ospreyobserver.com

denise@ospreyobserver.com

657-2418

NEWS REPORTER

DELIVERY MANAGER

Chuck Hoening

Kate Quesada

chuck@ospreyobserver.com

kquesada@ospreyobserver.com

657-2418

POSITIVE COMMUNITY NEWS THROUGHOUT BLOOMINGDALE/FISHHAWK, RIVERVIEW, APOLLO BEACH, BRANDON, AND VALRICO DIRECTOR OF MARKETING

RIVERVIEW ADVERTISING

Patricia Tracy

Carole Fluhart

ptracy@ospreyobserver.com

carole@ospreyobserver.com

FISHHAWK & APOLLO BEACH ADVERTISING

CHRISTIAN VOICE ADVERTISING

657-2418

720-810-7843

Kerrie Hoening

Trisha Becker

625-1527

919-8888

kerrie@ospreyobserver.com

tbecker@ospreyobserver.com

APOLLO BEACH SOUTHSHORE ADVERTISING

Melissa Hartmann

Supporting Local Business Owners

Join Us & Bring Plenty of Business Cards!

833-7470

mhartmann@ospreyobserver.com

If interested in advertising in our Brandon or Valrico editions, please contact us at 813-657-2418. CHRISTIAN VOICE EDITOR

Amanda Boston

ASSOCIATED WITH OSPREY OBSERVER

February General Assembly Meeting

813-777-9824

aboston@ospreyobserver.com

If you have an

Tuesday, February 14th at 9:00am

Ad, Story or Press Release

Sponsored By:

that you would like in the next

at River Hills Country Club, 3943 New River Hills Pkwy, Valrico

Bloomingdale/FishHawk edition

please contact Osprey Observer 657-2418.

Deadline for next BL/FishHawk edition is 10th of month.

Business After Hours

Thursday, February 23rd at 9:00am at The Landing • 4351 Lynx Paw Trail, Valrico Sponsored By:

A C OUNTRY C AT H OUSE Your Kitty Will Vacation in

Purradise! Make Your

Spring Reservations NOW!

JB Vacation Pros Weekly Networking - Open Seating 7:30am Mondays at Campo YMCA 11:00am Wednesdays at Beef O’ Brady’s on Bell Shoals

654-2287 • 654-CATS 15501 BOYETTE RD. • RIVERVIEW

For more information, please visit:

Many Day Activities Included

WWW.VALRICOFISHHAWK.ORG or call:

813-438-4123

• Large, Custom Cat Condos • Villas & T.V. Suites • 3-Level Townhouses • Private Aquarium Views • Huge Windows Overlooking Tropical Gardens with Fountains & Koi Fish Ponds (for lizard & bird watching)

WE GROOM CATS!

04018449

www.ACountryCatHouseTampa.com

Page 6

Volume 16, Issue 2

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Wish Farms Hosts Fourth Annual Strawberry Picking Challenge To Benefit RCMA

Developer Plans For Assisted Living And Retirement Residency On Lithia Pinecrest Rd. In Valrico By Tamas Mondovics

By Tamas Mondovics

ne Pi

tR es

Hawthorn Retirement Group, an independent and assisted living management company has turned its attention to a nearly 10-acre site in the heart of Valrico to build a brand new senior citizen retirement residence. In hopes of expanding its senior citizen facilities in Florida, the Vancouver, WA.-based company is planning to build the new Valrico residence, which would add to its list of 56 retirement, personal care, assisted living and memory care communities it manages throughout the United States and Canada. As the developer, Hawthorn Retirement Group, represented by Todd Pressman, with Pressman & Associates, Inc., applied for rezoning (17-0166) last November, requesting to change the nearly 400,000 sq. ft. parcel located on the west side of the intersection of Lithia Pinecrest and Valrico Rd., from R (residential) to a PD (Planned Development). The 53,000 sq. ft. facility located across from a pond and lift station, presently under construction on the east

hia

An artist rendition gives a picture of a 50,000 sq. ft., senior citizen retirement facility planned in Valrico.

Lit

Wish Farms, number of particione of the largest pating teams as growers and shipthey compete in a pers of strawberries relay-style berry in Florida, is hostpicking race is now ing its Fourth scheduled for Annual Strawberry Saturday, February Picking Challenge. 11 at Futch Farms, The competi3536 Futch Loop in tion is presented Plant City. by the Florida Maloney Photo Courtesy of Wish Farms explained that the Strawberry Local growers, farmers and residents pick day will have Growers strawberries during third Annual Strawberry Association something for Picking Challenge, hosted last spring by Wish Farms. (FSGA) supporting everyone as it feaRCMA, a non-profit tures events such organization, founded in 1965, which now as strawberry picking for children, a baloperates child-care centers and charter loon artist, a face painter, games as well schools for Florida’s rural poor, particular- as live music. ly farm workers’ children RCMA operates Aside from the money it raises, Wish 70 child-care centers and three charter Farms owner, Gary Wishnatzki, put the schools, throughout the state including 18 family-friendly event’s purpose in perin the Tampa Bay area. spective when he said, “By bringing this According to event organizer, Amber event to the farm, we hope to bring Maloney, being active in the community awareness and education to the hard has always been a focus of Wish Farms work of our farm workers.” and the Wishnatzki family. As a year round supplier of strawberThe first Annual Strawberry Picking ries and blueberries and seasonal in Challenge was presented by Bright select vegetables, Wish Farms utilizes House Networks in February 2014, and How’s My Picking? a patented tool for has raised $75,000 for RCMA. traceability to ensure quality by tying con“Last year our event donated sumer feedback to the harvest time, field $78,000 to RCMA, and we are confident location as well as the picker. that this year will be just as successful,” Organizers emphasize that sponsorMaloney said. ship opportunities at various levels are In the last three years the charity still available. For details please contact challenge has raised more than $228,000 Wish Farms Director of Marketing Amber for the children of RCMA. Maloney, 758-9027 or amber@wishThis year’s event, which brings locals farms.com. For information, visit growers and the public together, sports a www.wishfarms.com.

side of Lithia Pinecrest Rd., will have 100 parking places, spread all around the three story building, with room for 145 suites. Based on its conceptual design and artists rendition, the entire facility is promising to be surrounded by mature trees and landscaping. Valrico Rd. Addressing the concern of increased traffic at the facility’s planned entrance on Lithia Pinecrest Rd. just north of the Lithia Pinecrest Rd., and Valrico Rd, intersection, Pressman said the impact to the already busy roadway will be minimal. “Just to be sure, this is a senior citizen residency, which means its residents will generate very limited traffic,” Pressman said. “The facility will have very low impact on the roadway.” The first Hillsborough County Zoning Hearing Master meeting for the Valrico Retirement Residence development is scheduled for Monday, February 20, at 6 p.m. at the 2nd floor Board Room at County Center, located at 601 E. Kennedy Blvd in downtown Tampa. A public hearing in front of the Hillsborough County Board of County Commissioners is also scheduled for Tuesday, May 9. For more information, contact www.hillsboroughcounty.org. or call 2725600.

Hunter Douglas offers a wide variety of window fashions in an With 27 years of experience, Kim can help you make array of fabrics, textures and colors. Contact us today. We’re the choices that work within your budget to create a timeless Hunter Douglas experts, guiding you in the selections that’ll style for your home. make your home even more beautiful - whatever your style. Dove Interiors Carpet One 2305 E College Ave M-F: 9:00 am - 5:00 pm Sat: 10:00 am - 2:00 pm Sun: Closed 813-645-8660 www.doveinteriorsgallery.com

February 2017

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Page 7

Riverview Medical Offers Regenerative Stem Cell Treatment For Pain Relief By Michelle Caceres By Kate Quesada

Sunday Market And Prizes Will Be Awarded For Community Chili Cook-Off Check Out the FishHawk Market

This month’s FishHawk Market is taking place on Sunday, February 5, from 9 a.m.-2 p.m. at Park Square. There are at least 40 vendors scheduled to attend this monthly event selling items such as fresh vegetables, fruits, domestic and imported cheeses, breads, baked goods, jams, jellies, herbs, honey, jewelry, home decor and more. The market The annual FishHawk Ranch Chili Cook-Off will take takes place the first place on Saturday, February 25 from 12 Noon-2 p.m. Sunday of every month nity. Three prizes will be awarded in from October-May from 9 a.m.-2 p.m. each of the two categories, Judges’ For more information, contact the Choice and People’s Choice. Resident Services Office at 657-6629. Individuals, teams and business owners are welcome to participate. Registration Open for FishHawk For a $5 fee, residents receive a Ranch Chili Cook-Off spoon, tasting cup and one vote to Who doesn’t love garden-fresh, determine the chili champs. homemade, mouth-watering chili? Chili cooks will start serving at 12 Whether you love to cook it or love to Noon and voting will end at 1:30 p.m. eat it, there are two ways to play at the The award ceremony will take place at 11th Annual FishHawk Ranch Chili 1:45 p.m. Cook-Off taking place Saturday, For details or to register as a cook, February 25 from 12 Noon-2 p.m. There contact Susan Parvin at 657-6629, is no fee to enter chili which will be tastemail sparvin@fhrhoa.com or visit ed by fans from throughout the commuwww.fishhawkconnect.com.

FishHawk Ranch

Market Day Sunday, February 5 Market Hours: 9 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Park Square @ FishHawk Ranch (16144 Churchview Dr. Lithia)

FREE

for Spectators and Shoppers!

40 + unique vendors

MARKET RUNS THE THE FIRST SUNDAY OF EVERY MONTH THROUGH MAY.

For more information, call 813-657-6629.

Riverview ing process and Medical owner and improving joint, tenchiropractor Dr. don and ligament Steven J. Minafri, functions. who has been “It’s your body treating patients growing new cartilage for more than 15 and this helps to relieve pain and years, is pleased regain better mobility to add stem-cell in your joints,” said regenerative mediMinafri. cine to his pracThe simple intice. office procedure, A medical which lasts between advancement that 10–15 minutes, is helps speed up Riverview Medical owner and chiropractor performed by injecthe healing Dr. Steven J. Minafri now offers stem-cell tion into the affected process and regenerative treatments in addition to area. improve patients’ chiropractic adjustments, injury rehabilitation and massage therapy. In addition to the overall wellness, new treatment, Riverview Medical, forstem-cell regenerative medicine uses the merly Riverview Chiropractic Center, conpower of stem cells to promote natural tinues to offer comprehensive chiropractic healing. Regenerative treatments are aimed at reducing pain by producing new adjustments, injury rehabilitation after automobile accidents or sports injuries cartilage in areas of the body where the and massage therapy, including light, ravages of time have caused degeneradeep tissue and sports massage. tion of tissue. “This is one-stop shopping for all This cost-effective treatment is an healthcare needs from your neck and alternative to traditional orthopedic surback to joint pain and rehabilitative servicgery that include long recuperation and es,” said Minafri. rehabilitation periods. It is an excellent Riverview Medical office hours are alternative for conditions ranging from soft Monday, Wednesday and Friday 8:30 tissue injuries to various joint affliction, such as a torn meniscus or arthritis of the a.m.–7 p.m. and Tuesday and Thursday 8:30 a.m. – 12 Noon. The practice joint. accepts some insurance providers and Minafri has performed this procedure offer cash programs and financing for on patients’ knees and hips and found it patients without insurance. For informato be successful. Potential benefits tion on Riverview Medical, visit include promoting and releasing natural www.riverviewchiropracticcenter.com. To regenerative growth factors, ant-inflamschedule a consultation, call 677-2700. matory agents to aid and speed the heal-

Page 8

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Tampa Bay Startup Week Is Looking For Local Entrepreneurs

By Libby Hopkins

Walt Disney will take place once said, “If you February 13-17 can dream it, you and will be held can do it.” Many at the Rialto local entrepreneurs Theatre in Tampa agree with Mr. MondayDisney, so much Wednesday and that they have creatat Station House ed entrepreneurial in St. Petersburg pop-up events in the from ThursdayTampa Bay area Friday. “At called Tampa Bay Startup Week we Start Up Week. have local busiTampa Bay Startup Week wants local “Startup Weekend entrepreneurs to join their entrepreneurial ness leaders as movement from February 13-17. Tampa Bay was both speakers founded by a couple of individuals many and mentors,” Stemmer said. “The event years ago including Ryan Sullivan and itself is also attended by local business the late Susie Steiner, who was a major people to learn something that interests community influencer and played a large them, or how to start that side project part in the early stages of the Tampa they’ve been waiting to do, or just to Bay startup ecosystem,” said President connected with other community leaders of Tampa Startup Week, Gracie and entrepreneurs.” Stemmer. “As individuals over the years Ultimately, Stemmer and her colwe’ve traveled to other Startup leagues want to connect and empower Weekends, Startup Weeks, and entrepeople to bring their ideas to life, to test preneurial summits and conferences to assumptions, and not be scared to fail. learn how to add value to our events “Bringing an idea to life can mean startand ultimately to our community here. In ing your own business as an entrepre2014 we were chosen as one of seven neur or creating a solution to a problem cities to pilot the Chase funded Startup in your community or at your day job,” Week program. We will now be hosting Stemmer said. year three of Tampa Bay Startup week “Whether your idea is a business, and are still amongst the group of six an app, an event, or a movement we flagship cities powered by Chase. Now provide the resources you need to get to we’ve grown so much as an organizing grow that idea, pivot, or disprove it.” team and have expanded our number of If you would like to learn more about events every year and reach that we’ve Tampa Bay Startup Week or if you started our own local non-profit to run would like to get involved with the orgathe events, STARTUP TAMPA BAY, Inc.” nization’s events, visit This year, Tampa Bay Startup Week https://tampabay.startupweek.com.

Seville 275 CLEANERS Same Day Service

TWO CONVENIENT LOCATIONS!

(dry clean only)

1929 W. Brandon Blvd., Brandon

In By 9am - Out by 4pm

Any Garment

(60 and Providence) in Providence Square

813.662.2250

$2.50

3237 Lithia Pinecrest, Valrico

Expires 2/28/2017

Hours: Mon - Sat 7am - 7pm

Pre-Paid - No Limit Seville Cleaners

(@ Miller Rd., North of Bloomingdale)

813.661.5494

All Items Prepaid - No Leather/Formals

Quality Service at a Great Price - No Extra Charges Ever!

Volume 16, Issue 2

Chick-fil -A Grand Opening...Continued From Page 1

By Tamas Mondovics

pant with their own that the grand opendrums. ing was a way to The new 130 continue their comseat restaurant is mitment to the comjust one of dozens of munity, including the privately owned and collecting of chiloperated Chick-fil-A dren's books to suprestaurants to open port the Campo this month, featuring YMCA literacy program that Tammy a double drive thru, helped to get startserving guests 6 ed. a.m-10 p.m, Monday “My team memthru Saturday. The Chick-fil-A Diehard Chick-fil-A fans and participants of bers and I can’t wait an overnight campout, Marlee Wlakup, South Brandon will right, Lacy Prine and Peggy Overstreet, to welcome guests sit by their tents patiently awaiting the to our Valrico restautraditionally remain opening of the brand new Chick-fil-A. rant,” Paul said. closed on Sundays “We’re not just in the chicken business the same as all other Chick-fil-A restau— we’re in the people business. Our rants now numbering more than 2,000 goal is to provide a remarkable experiacross the nation. ence for every customer, every time, by With attention to detail while promisserving food our guests can truly feel ing the best service possible, the good about eating and providing sincere Holmbergs are confident of the successhospitality.” ful launch and operation of their new Of course, the Holmbergs’ success restaurant which is not their first location. is only a continuation of what was started In fact, Chick-fil-A South Brandon will be by Chick-fil-A founder, Truett Cathy, who the Holmbergs’ third restaurant in the opened his first restaurant in Hapeville, area and, the fourth, counting the one Georgia in 1946. Cathy founded the they had owned and operated at Atlanta-based Chick-fil-A, Inc. in 1967. Regency Mall in Racine, WI, in 1992. More familiar to most, however, is “In 1998, we relocated and transthe picture of the now famous renegade ferred ownership and opened the Chickcow, caught in the act in1995 with a fil-A at Lake Brandon Village, which we paintbrush in mouth, painting the three currently own and operate,” Tammy, also the current Honorary Mayor of Riverview, words "EAT MOR CHIKIN" on a Texas billboard. proudly said, adding that in 2013 the two Chick-fil-A's family owned and pritook over ownership and operations at vately held restaurant company system the Westfield Mall Brandon, until sales exceeded $6 billion in 2015, which December 2016. marks 48 consecutive years of sales The Holmbergs are involved in supporting many organizations, charities and growth. For more, please visit www.chick-fil-a.com/Legal#first_100. schools, impacting thousands and said

February 2017

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Page 9

Food Trucks And More To Raise Funds For Local Middle School Student In Coma

Cardinal Roofing Seeks Teams For Its Fourth Vets Sporting Clays Event

vendor fair, food Residents trucks and superthroughout the area heroes from the are invited to help a MUCH family in need this Foundation, there month. Alex will be a DJ, a Hutchings, 14, was bounce house, a diagnosed with an professional phoinoperable brain tographer who will tumor in late take pictures and December and donate the money friends are hoping to the family, fishto raise money for ing games and his family with food arts and crafts. trucks, super “There have heroes, a vendor been so many fair, silent auction friends, family, and more on businesses and Sunday, February community mem19. bers who have According to An event to raise funds for Barrington Middle chipped in to family friend and School student Alex Hutchings is scheduled make this a sucevent co-organizer for Sunday, February 19 from 12 Noon-3 p.m. in Panther Trace. cessful event,” Michelle Speiss, Hutchings, who attends Barrington Middle said Speiss, who explained that there will School and loves fishing and playing bas- not be an entrance fee but money for the activities throughout the event will go to ketball, was diagnosed with a Grade 3 the family. “The money will go to their Astrocytoma brain tumor after being hoshospital bills and every day bills since pitalized for the flu. He received multiple surgeries in early January and is currently both of Alex’s parents are small business owners who cannot work much at the in a coma. moment as they are spending time at the “Alex is the sweetest, most loving, hospital.” funniest and smartest 14 year old young The Panther Trace Multi-purpose man you could ever meet,” said Speiss. Field is located at 12514 Bramfield Dr. in “The next step for treatment is six weeks Riverview. Visit www.facebook.com and of radiation. Alex still hasn’t woken up search “Alex’s Benefit Event” for more from his coma, but doctors are confident information. To help the family without that he will.” Alex’s Benefit Event will take place at attending the event, visit www.giveforward.com and search for “Alex the Panther Trace Multi-purpose Field Hutchings.” from 12 Noon-3 p.m. In addition to the

All money raised at the event will benefit Honor Flight, a nonprofit organization that has been funding trips to the memorials in Washington D.C. for veterans since 2005. According to the group’s Website, more than 20,000 veterans flew with the program in 2015 and there are Thanks to a generous matching donation from SEMCO, last now more than 21,000 year’s Cardinal Roofing Sporting Clays Charity Shoot raised veterans on the waitlist $28,000. This year’s event will take place on Friday, February 10. to fly. Bridget Jenkins Wilson, president of “My father and I went on a flight as Cardinal Roofing, wants residents to guardians together and we were “Shoot for those who shot for U.S.” at hooked,” said Wilson. “It was one of the the fourth annual Cardinal Roofing best days and it inspired us to raise Sporting Clays Charity Shoot to raise money to be able to give the experience funds for Honor Flight on Friday, to as many World War II and war era February 10. veterans as we could.” The event, which takes place at Sign in for the event will take place FishHawk Sporting Clays, raised at 11:30 a.m. FishHawk Sporting Clays $28,000 in 2016 and Wilson is hoping in located at 13505 Hobson Simmons this year will be a success too. Rd. in Lithia. “The facility is beautiful and many “You don’t have to be a good shootclay enthusiasts love to have the oppor- er to come,” said Wilson. “This is a tunity to shoot there while benefiting our great day to participate in if you are local war era veterans,” said Wilson. “It intimidated by other events. This is fun, is a win-win situation.” laid back shoot for a great cause.” Tickets to the event are $150 for an Sponsorship opportunities are still individual and $500 for a four-person available and donations for goody bags team and will include snacks from and auctions are needed. For more Chick-fil-A, 50 clays, a goody bag, information or to make a donation, conshells, golf cart use and a full BBQ tact Wilson at 478-ROOF. To sign up for lunch with beer. There will also be a raf- the event, visit www.girlroofer.com. For fle and auction with more than $1,000 more information on Honor Flight, visit worth of prizes. www.honorflight.org.

By Kate Quesada

Page 10

Volume 16, Issue 2

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Randall Students Volunteer To Target Invasive Caesar Weed At FishHawk Preserve

By Tamas Mondovics

Randall Middle School students Madison Hurst, left, and Shaw Bouleg, are removing Caeser weed an invasive plant now grows rapidly at FishHawk Preserve in Lithia Springs Park. The girls were part of large group that participated in the project as part of the school’s annual Martin Luther King Jr. Service Day.

Andy Fairbanks with the Hillsborough County Lands Management, (left) talks to Randall Middle School students just moments before the group commenced to remove the invasive plant Caesar weed from parts of the FishHawk Preserve located inside the boarders of Lithia Springs Park in Lithia. The community project was part of the schools annual Martin Luther King Jr. Service Day.

As part of an annual community service project, close to 30 Randall Middle School students volunteered last month to lend a hand and help protect the environment. The project organized by the Randall Area Youth Service Council (R.A.Y.S.), sent the young volunteers, to FishHawk Preserve, located just north of the school within the County’s Lithia Springs Park. The service-learning event, now known as the Martin Luther King, Jr. Day of Service, which took place on Friday, January 13, has engaged the students in the removal of the invasive Urena lobata, or commonly called Caesar weed, which according

and a great community to park officials is a Randall Middle School student Maren Ping, 11, is service plant species that is hard at work at the FishHawk Preserve in Lithia activity for during the school’s annual Martin Luther King Jr. overtaking the these stuService Day. Ping took part in the removal of native landscape. Caesar weed, a fast growing invasive plant. dents,” “Caesar weed is Fairbanks said. considered an invasive species in the Randall Middle School Service state of Florida as it grows as an Learning Coordinator and Social annual weed in most parts except for Studies Teacher, Kristy Verdi, who the southern region, where it may live served as event organizer said that perennially,” said Andy Fairbanks with the project is a great way for students the Hillsborough County Lands to understand the true meaning of Management. service and to get involved to support On hand to guide the students a community need. Fairbanks emphasized that in Florida, “Our students have a strong the plant grows rapidly, in some sense of community need and these cases up six feet tall by the end of its projects connect them to the commufirst year of growth. nity, while teaching them about civic “This project is both educational responsibility, not to mention helping

them figure out what they may want to do in the future.” Sixth grade students, Shaw Bouleg, and her friend Madison Hurst, who have worked as a pair during the cleanup, agreed. “I like helping the community,” Bouleg said, while Hurts added, “This is a good way to support the community and help protect our parks and environment.” The students spend the morning at the park as part of attending to a list of projects scheduled for the day including mangrove clean up at McKay Bay in Tampa followed by a visit to a local recycling center. For more info about the R.A.Y.S., please contact Kristy Verdi at kristy.verdi@sdhc.k12.fl.us

NOW OPEN South Brandon 2010 Bloomingdale Ave Hours: 6am-10pm

Big Sale! Many Items

$14.99

We are a FULL SERVICE Aesthetic Facility.

813-540-5110

16144 Churchview Drive, Bldg A, Ste 109, Lithia (Located in the Park Square in FishHawk Ranch, next to Cherry’s)

Please visit our website to see a full listing of our services:

www.SunshineStateFamilyCare.com Wed. - 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. | Fri. - noon - 5 p.m.

Call Today

and below! Expires February 28, 2017

Receive a FREE Gift with any product purchase of $100 or more

for a complimentary customized skin evaluation and anti-skin aging tips.

February 2017

Page 11

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Happy

Troop 61 Eagle Scout Does Exceptional Garden Project At Lopez Elementary

Valentine’s Day!

By Kate Quesada

Bloomingdale High School student Christopher Hackbardt has found a way to help others while achieving one of the greatest honors of the Boy Scout organization, the rank of Eagle Scout. Hackbardt, a member of Boy Scout Troop 61 with the Presbyterian Church of Bloomingdale, built a raisedbed garden for students at the Lopez Exceptional Center in Bloomingdale High School Student Christopher Seffner, where his sister teach- Hackbardt with Lopez Exceptional Principal Amanda Keel and Teacher Melanie Younglove. es children with special needs, grow.” as his Eagle Scout project. The garden took approximately two To become an Eagle Scout, students need to come up with and execute a proj- months from the start of the proposal to the completion of the project and ect that helps a group outside of the Boy Christopher, who is 15 years old, credits Scout organization. They are responsible his success to “having a good plan and for planning and following through with following it.” the project, including coordinating volunChristopher developed the plan for teers if necessary. the garden, figured out what was needed When researching his Eagle Scout for its construction, how the volunteers project, Christopher spoke to his sister who suggested he build a raised bed gar- would be used and tracked the costs against his budget. den for the students at her school. He Other requirements for scouts to wanted a project that would be lasting reach the Eagle rank include being active and helpful to people and felt that this in their troop and serving in a position of garden met his requirements. responsibility for at least six months, com“One of the goals of the Lopez Exceptional Center is to help the students pleting at least 21 merit badges and being less than 18 years old. learn life skills,” said Eileen Hackbardt, Lopez Exceptional School is located Christopher’s mother. “As part of the sciat 315 W. Old Hillsborough Ave. in ence lessons they wanted to have a garSeffner and can be reached at 744-8008. den for the students to learn to plant, For more information on Troop 61 which grow, harvest and possibly sell their meets Monday evenings from 7:30-9 p.m. crops. Providing a garden for the school at 710 Bloomingdale Ave. E. in Valrico, would last for many classes of students visit www.bstroop61.com. and give them the skills to help them

Stanley A. Castor, M.D., FACS Board Certi!ied Plastic Surgeon Certi!ied American Board of Plastic Surgery

813.971.2000 www.DrCastor.com

Internationally Trained Staff Color Specialists Straightening Systems Complete Nail & Pedicure Services (Including Shellac) Advanced Skin Care (Micro-derm, Peels, 4 Layer Facelift) Body Waxing Massage Therapy Permanent Make-up Farm House Fresh Bath and Body Products Boutique Items

Gift Cards Available

Boulevard 813.571.5800 210 E. Brandon Blvd., Brandon

SALON

www.BoulevardSalon.biz #MM27421 / #MA29471

Experience the Difference! Follow us on Instagram boulevardsalon210

Page 12

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Lithia Author Tells Her Story In Chicken Soup for the Soul: Curvy & Confident

By Amanda Boston

Does the clay say to the potter, “what are you making me?” In this allegory, God represents the potter while the clay symbolizes humans. The Bible often uses symbolism to reinforce God’s message. Have you ever looked up to God and said, “Why did you make me like this?” The December release of Chicken Soup for the Soul: Curvy & Confident shares 101 inspirational stories about loving yourself and your body. Emme, the first plus-size supermodel is one of the co-authors. In the book’s introduction she wrote, “Each story is unique, but we learn this universal lesson from all of them: We are all perfectly imperfect. And to strive to attain someone’s narrow idea of perfection sets us up for failure and a lifetime of unhappiness.” Wendy Keppley, a Lithia resident is one of the writers contributing to the 101 stories. With a career in counseling and instruction from the Florida Writer’s Association, Keppley was primed to tell her story. She said,

Co-author and plus-size supermodel, Emme graces the cover of Chicken Soup for the Soul’s newest book Curvy & Confident.

the negative ones, really happens, although you may not realize it for decades.” In the book, Keppley recounts her bouts of insecurity over her towering height and broad shoulders. Over the years, she recognized and asserted, “What is most important is how a person chooses to believe and live, no matter what.” With the desire to inspire, Keppley will continue to use her counseling experience to compose additional short stories focusing on the joy of living and the importance of one’s beliefs. As we approach this Valentine’s Day and celebrate love, remember to love yourself for who you are and how the Wendy Keppley of Lithia shares her experi- Potter made you. For more information, ences in the latest Chicken Soup for the visit the Chicken Soup for the Soul Soul: Curvy & Confident. Website at chickensoup.com. Chicken “I always learn from my own writing as Soup for the Soul: Curvy & Confident is well as the writing of others. I learned available for purchase from Amazon, that growing from our experiences, even Barnes & Nobles and Indie Bound.

10% OFF

Volume 16, Issue 2

Food Trucks And More Planned For Sports Complex Youth Baseball Kickoff

By Kate Quesada

community to Families all know that we over the FishHawk are here and area are gearing up for the spring would love to show them season with what we are all FishHawk Youth about and how Baseball (FHYB) much of a famiand this year the ly FYHB actuallgroup is offering ly is. It's a great residents a night to treasure for our look forward to community. The even without a ball FHYB is hosting an opening night for the commu- more, the merriplayer in the nity on February 24 at the FH Sports Complex. er.” household. The group is working hard this year Opening Night, which will take place on to make the baseball fields a destination Friday, February 24 at 6 p.m. at the for families no matter what sports they FishHawk Sports Complex, will now be a enjoy. community event with something, from “The love and support that came games to food trucks, for everyone to from Heart Health Day has been moving enjoy. According to Stephanie Andre, FHYB and the idea of opening the fields out to the community and sharing such a woncommunications chair, the night will derful space is our goal,” said Stefanie include bounce houses, music, face Goodwin, FHYB fundraising chair. “We painting, a super slide and games for the are hoping for the possibly of introducing whole family including an adult home run the fields as a free-time get-a-way to derby and pitching contest. There will watch a game and grab a bite to eat.” also be food trucks including Taco Bus, The spring season’s games begin at Bay Street Burgers, EmpaMammas, 9 a.m. the next day, Saturday, February Engine 53 Pizza and a Greek food truck, 25, with the national anthem and first all of which will give 15 percent of their pitch. sales back to FHYB. Sponsorship opportunities are still “We decided to add an Opening Night because we really wanted this to be available for the event and season. According to Goodwin, sponsors will be a celebration of our league and a great kickoff to an amazing spring season. It's a able to attend opening night and set up a tent so that they can have the opportunity thank you to our families and volunteers to interact with families. The FishHawk who spend so much time at FHYB,” said Sports Complex is located at 16120 Andre, who recently coordinated a very FishHawk Blvd. in Lithia. Visit www.fishsuccessful Heart Heath Day and walk hawkyouthbaseball.org. with the organization. “We also want the

License CGC#1513613

SPRING SPECIAL

FREE

entire purchase S u n fl o w e r Ca fe

3452 Lithia Pinecrest Rd., Va l r i c o 813 -65 -SUSHI

Pressure Washing

Only valid with regular menu.

With this coupon. Must present before submitting payment. Before tax. One coupon per visit. Not valid with other offers Offer expires 2/28/17

of Walkway & Driveway *Certain Restrictions Apply

3452 Lithia Pinecrest Rd, Valrico (Located in the SteinMart Plaza)

813-65-SUSHI

Mon - Fri 11:30-2:30 & 5-9 | Sat 12-9 Sundays 12-8:30 (Serving lunch until 3 p.m.)

February 2017

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Page 13

Equip Your Budding Athletes At LocallyOwned FishHawk Sporting Goods

Brandon Rotary Builds Event Center On S. Kings Ave. To Continue Support

Bruce and “Because we Dantys Bohan buy some equipwant to be the ment used, we first people you are able to offer think of when things at a lower your little ball price point,” said player needs a Dantys. “We have new mitt or a had a lot of famibigger pair of lies in here soccer cleats. already who are Bruce and Dantys Bohan and their twin The FishHawk grateful for the daughters Miranda and Bridget, recently Trails residents opportunity to be opened FishHawk Sporting Goods on FishHawk Blvd. recently opened able to budget FishHawk Sporting Goods and are their money as well as their time.” working hard to make it the area’s first The Bohans are throwing themstop for new and gently used equipselves into the community in an effort ment from soccer and basketballs to to differentiate their store from other hockey pucks and baseball knickers. larger ones in the area and find out Located in the RiverSprings Plaza what kind of sporting goods the comat the corner of FishHawk Blvd. and munity most needs. Not only have Bell Shoals Rd., proximity is one of the they sponsored many FishHawk area many reasons the Bohan’s believe the baseball teams, they also work with area needed this store. Newsome High School’s hockey team “The idea for a sporting goods and sponsored the Turkey Trot that store was solidified for us when our took place at Park Square over twin girls started playing t-ball,” said Thanksgiving. In addition, they have Dantys. “Kids on their team were conset up areas where kids can play while stantly losing their mitts or complaining their parents shop and encourage custhat their cleats were too small and we tomers to try out equipment in the thought, how can there not be somestore before they buy it. where closer than Brandon to buy FishHawk Sporting Goods is hostsports equipment quickly when there ing a grand opening event on are so many players in our area?” Saturday, February 11 from 9 a.m.-5 According to Dantys, approximate- p.m. with treats, snacks, specials and ly 80 percent of the merchandise in discounts and a drawing for two tickets the store is new, but they also buy to a Tampa Bay Lightning hockey select gently used equipment from game. The store is located at 13446 customers if they believe it is someBoyette Rd. For information, visit thing the neighborhood would like to www.fishhawksportinggoods.com or purchase. call 324-9161.

Rotary Club is excited about hava group of coming a permanent munity leaders home. “We believe that come together the center will build to exchange ideas better relationships and put them into within the club action to make a through our social lasting difference events and that it in the Brandon will be beneficial in community and the community beyond. They learning about have served the rotary and what our Brandon commuclub does in the Brandon Rotary has been a part of the com- community,” nity for over 54 munity for more than 54 years, and hosts the years and have 41-year-old event, Wild Game Night raising McGuire said. “The raised more than center will be a money for many local Brandon charities. $1.6 million in spotlight on rotary charity support, have done countless within Tampa Bay area as a place where service projects impacting individuals, the local rotary clubs can come together.” companies and organizations all while The Rotary has also been hosting creating a positive change in the commu- their Wild Game Night for more than 41 nity. The Rotary is currently working on years. “Wild Game Night takes place building a rotary event center. “The at Lupton’s Boggy Bottom Ranch,” Rotary event center is going to hopefully McGuire said. “All proceeds from Wild open mid-February and it is located at Game Night are donated to local chari3007 S. Kings Avenue in Brandon,” said ties. In past years, the event has raised Chris McGuire, the Rotary’s public rela$40,000 to $60,000 per year for local tions director. “The center idea came charities.” Wild Game Night will be held about because of the headaches the on Friday, March 3 from 6 to 10 p.m. and rotary club dealt with in finding a home to will feature an open bar, wild game dinner host weekly meetings that could accomwith complimentary beverages, door modate 60 people per week. The center prizes and raffle. Regular admission tickis going to be used as a permanent ets are $100 and $150 for VIP Tickets. home and gathering space for the Sponsorships are available as well and Brandon Rotary Club to host regular those levels are the Big Boar for $1200, weekly meetings and host social gatherthe Boar Hog $700 and the Wild Turkey ings.” The center will also be available for $400. To learn more about the Brandon the community and community organizaRotary or to attend Wild Game Night or tions to rent to events. sponsor the event, visit www.brandonroThe Brandon Rotary Club is most tary.org or call McGuire at 468-6889.

By Kate Quesada

By Libby Hopkins

Page 14

Volume 16, Issue 2

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

“45 to Thrive” Seeks To Raise Funds For A Kid’s Place Of Tampa Bay

Newsome Sports Success At 2nd Annual Bass Pro Shops Marksmanship Classic

Suncoast that finanCredit Union cial gap and “45 to through Thrive”, a fundraisers local volunand chariteer group, table donadeveloped a tions. fundraiser “Each event called gift of $45 Twist for assures Kids, which that one the proceeds day of care will go direct- A display of this red wagon can be seen on the grounds for one ly towards A child at A of A Kid’s Place of Tampa Bay. Kid’s Place Kid’s of Tampa Bay. Newsome High School Place of Tampa Bay gets fully fundin Lithia will host this event on March ed,” Development Director Deborah 25 at 11 a.m. The high school will Thielen from A Kid’s Place of Tampa transform their football field into the Bay said. world’s largest Twister board game Planning began in 2016 and this competition in the Tampa Bay area. would be the first major event for the This will include more than 1,200 “45 to Thrive” group. Children and boards to ensure that the Guinness adults can participate. The $45 mat World Record becomes broken. includes: two-four players and a comA Kid’s Place of Tampa Bay can pany or individual name on one mat. be described as a unique non-profit The event still needs color sponsors organization in Lithia that provides and that would be $1500 for each foster care and a loving home for color. Sponsors for this category will abused, neglected or abandoned chil- include: Ten players, signage identifydren, newborns through the age of 18 ing sponsorship for individual circles with its 60-bed facility. The primary of red, blue, yellow or green and supfocus of A Kid’s Place of Tampa Bay ports 22 children. For more details, aims to keep sibling groups together visit their Facebook page and search in a safe and stable surrounding until AKP45tothrive. a more permanent placement can be “We hope this event will bring the administered. The organization community together and awareness receives funds from a local governabout A Kid’s Place of Tampa Bay,” ment agency, but need an additional Carries Laird said. $45-a-day per child to care for the To learn more, visit www.akidchildren. “45 to Thrive” seeks to meet splacetb.org.

Close to 150 the Air Force high school JROTC team from JROTC students Sickles High from 26 high School had enthuschools near and siastically traveled far took aim at to Bass Pro Shops targets last month in Leeds, Alabama competing for troto participate in a phies and similar tournament, medals, not to utilizing the Civilian Members of the Newsome High School mention the bragMarksmanship JROTC team Darian Shelow, Hunter Dymond, ging rights, during Emma Custis and Michael Portugue, proudly Program (CMP) the 2nd Annual pose with their second place trophy during the Mobile Range set 2nd Annual Bass Pro Shops Marksmanship up in the Tracker Bass Pro Shops Classic of West Central Florida. Portugue and Marksmanship Custis also won first and third place individual boat showroom. Classic of West Last year, events respectively. Central Florida. however, the host team worked with local Competing teams included students Bass Pro Shops General Manager, from Bloomingdale and Newsome High Ronnie Cheeks, to host the inaugural Schools and teams from as far away as event, which saw 25 JROTC teams from Niceville, in Florida’s panhandle. high schools across the area competing Newsome walked away with a secin the tournament. ond place team win, behind Oviedo High “This year the event has grown to School, while host team, Sickles High 36 teams traveling to participate,” won 3rd place overall. Sarasota Military Kehrmeyer said.The recently opened Academy, won 1st place in the precision Bass Pro Shops store is located at rifle category. 10501 Palm River Rd. in Riverview. Newsome’s team success was couThe tourney debuted the new pled with impressive individual results OptiScore Target System Range from including the Emma Custis’ third place the Civilian Marksmanship Program win and Michael Portugue’s prone posi(CMP), which utilizes cameras to caption first place win. Portugue also placed ture the actual pellet as it passes fifth overall. through the target instead of the “The activity and excitement in our sound as it passes through a paper boat showroom proved to be a great roll in an acoustical target. Shooters event for students to participate in and for and the audience members were able our customers to watch,” said Bass Pro to view the results of each shot on Shops Community Relations Manager, monitors. Cheryl Kehrmeyer. For information about Bass Pro Kehrmeyer said that in years past, Shops, please visit www.basspro.com.

By Tatiana Ortiz

By Tamas Mondovics

FREE

MULCH

FREE

FIREWOOD

Dr. Branning Hollis, O.D. Dr. Mona Kardani, O.D. FAAO

Owner, Troy Alexander with daughter, Emily

JW Tree Service, LLC RD EST ECR PIN HIA LIT

MIL S. LER RD

Tree & Stump Removal Services

BLOOMINGDALE AVE

We accept VSP, Eyemed, Cigna, Aetna, Tricare, United Healthcare, Davis Vision, and more. *see store for details

813-654-0220

3307 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. Valrico (Corner of Lithia Pinecrest and S. Miller Rd)

www.myfloridaeyecare.com HOURS

T U E S - F R I 9 A M - 6 P M , S AT 9 A M - 2 P M

Crane & Bobcat Work • Land Clearing Tree Removals • Tree Trimming Licensed & Insured

1050 Jameson Road • Lithia We Specialize In Large & Dangerous Removals

February 2017

Page 15

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

New Mobile Dodgeball Brings The Arena And The Fun To Your Party Staff Report

Thinking of something different to do for your child’s next birthday or family event? Dodgem Dodgeball, a mobile dodgeball arena will bring the fun to you. All you need is a 28'x48' area available. Both children and adults love to play. All levels of play are encouraged and it’s managed during the games in a unique way so it’s fun and safe for all. Owner Bob Bacon said, “For mixed levels we have the older kids and adults throw and catch with their non dominant hand and playing on their knees with the really little kids that want to play as well.” Mobile Dodgeball specializes in birthday parties, school functions, churches, colleges, block parties, corporate functions, festivals, leagues and tournaments. It is a very unique business that uses light weight foam balls with a soft coating that eliminates the chance of injury along with a flexible arena. According to Bacon, “It has been a great thing to do with my family, teaching work values, communications, and ethics to my boys while they also earn some extra money.” He works with together with the family enjoying the communication during these events, developing their relationship further – “Something I will cherish forever.” The boys have a lot of fun coordinating the games and even playing at times when the other kids want

PERSONAL INJURY

FAMILY LAW

Dodgem Dodgeball will bring dodgeball arena fun to your party or event.

them to play. The arenas take approximately 15-20 minutes to set up either outdoors and indoors. Either way, it creates a fun atmosphere to play the popular game without the risks that are normally associated with it. This game can be played on grass, in a gym, large room, or even on concrete. Mobile Dodgeball will take care of the setup, including equipment and referee, who will keep things moving. The system features continuous play so people can drop out and jump in as they like. At pay-for-play events, a participant can play as much as they like, with prices ranging from $10 to $50 such as festivals and fundraising events. Events typically run $200 to $300 depending on the length of the event, number of arenas, and the season. Dodgem Dodgeball hosts a program called Dodge Bullying within the schools, where anti-bullying lessons are taught as well as discussing sportsmanship and invites the children to play dodgeball in a new way. For information call 240-6690 or visit www.dodgemdodgeball.com.

Allen S. Carman FORMER ATTORNEY FOR A MAJOR AUTO INSURANCE COMPANY

Vanessa A. Bevington

Michael J. Finegan

MEMBER OF THE FLORIDA, HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY, AND BRANDON BAR ASSOCIATIONS

MEMBER OF THE FLORIDA, AND HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY BAR ASSOCIATIONS

FREE CONSULTATION PERSONAL INJURY

FAMILY LAW

- CAR ACCIDENTS

- DIVORCE/PATERNITY

- TRUCK ACCIDENTS

- ALIMONY AND CHILD SUPPORT

- MOTORCYCLE ACCIDENTS

- PARENTING PLANS AND TIME-SHARING

- WRONGFUL DEATH ACCIDENTS

- PRE-NUPTIAL AGREEMENTS

- PEDESTRIAN/BICYCLE ACCIDENTS - DOMESTIC VIOLENCE INJUNCTIONS

NO FEES UNLESS WE WIN!

WWW.BRANDONLEGAL.COM

(813) 654-3444 223 LITHIA PINECREST RD., BRANDON THE HIRING OF A LAWYER IS AN IMPORTANT DECISION THAT MUST NOT BE BASED ON ADVERTISEMENT, YOU MAY REQUEST INFORMATION CONCERNING LAWYER’S CREDENTIALS FROM THIS FIRM

Page 16

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Volume 16, Issue 2

Dr. Wayne Lee: Plastic Surgery As An Art

USAmeriBank Connects Women Entrepreneurs

One can mention plastic surgery and conjure an image of Hollywood starlets and politicians who never seem to age. Yet, a far larger percentage of average Americans turn to plastic surgery for both cosmetic and reconstructive procedures. Dr. Wayne Lee and his hand-selected staff do not consider themselves just a plastic surgery center. People come to him for many reasons that make them feel less than whole. Dr. Lee’s philosophy seeks “to help people transform themselves, so that the image they have…in their minds’ eyes match the ones in the mirror.” Double-Board Certified, Dr. Lee is an expert in his field who knows that quality of life can depend on a healthy self-image. Per the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, breast augmentation continues to top the list of procedures people seek. Apart from cosmetic augmentation, breast lifts, and breast reductions, many patients do not know where to turn after mastectomies, lumpectomies, and radiation. Dr. Lee prides himself on reconstructive surgery and his ability to restore form for patients ravaged by breast cancer, and this translates into his skill in performing cosmetic breast augmentations. He provides patients with a variety of implant options, but he also stays abreast of the latest tech-

Female busigiven by CNN ness women from Commentator all over the Kayleigh Tampa Bay area McEnany. gathered last “We had such month for the a great response launch of to our event that USAmeriBank’s we are looking fornew program ward to hosting intended to help something similar them network every quarter,” and grow. said Gibertini, who USAmeriBank recently Women launched its WE pro- mentioned that the gram with an event at group is also planEntrepreneurs the Tampa Yacht Club. Attendees included Matt (WE), the proSpruill, SVP/Marketing Director, Shelby Jones, ning social events gram is including hockey WE Coordinator, Cami Gibertini, SVP/Retail Market Manager and Director of Women USAmeriBank’s games and charity Entrepreneurs, Joe Chillura, EVP/CEO, and way of reaching runs, in addition to Amanda Stephens, EVP/CFO. out to its female other fundraisers customers and community offering them and networking meetings. hand-crafted banking solutions and netBrandon resident and group memworking and educational opportunities. ber Kelly McKnight, owner of Brandon resident and USAmeriBank Automated Petroleum, attended the Senior Vice President Cami Gibertini is opening and plans to join the group for director of the program and a member of future events. the 12-person panel responsible for “I appreciate the opportunity to organizing the group. “Our bank is fortumeet ambitious and intelligent women nate to have a group of really strong who share the business side of life and female leaders and while we have been took the risk and gained the satisfacout there for years working with women tion that came along with it to achieve business owners, we now have an official success,” said McKnight. way to help,” said Gibertini, who added The group also has a strong social that members range from small business media presence and is hoping to use owners to attorneys. “We want to enrich its Facebook page, which can be found our members in both their personal and by searching USABWE, to help conprofessional lives,” said Gibertini. nect members. USAmeriBank offers The November launch attracted personal and business banking with more than 250 local business people to locations in Florida and Alabama, the Tampa Yacht Club for networking and including 13 offices in the Tampa Bay education on topics ranging from small area. For information, visit business loans to upcoming changes in www.usameribank.com or contact the economy. The key note speech was Gibertini at 315-3122.

By Amy Schechter

nologies, such as biologic mesh, cellular dermis, and fat transfer processes to customize his procedure to the needs of the individual. He is practiced in the art of tattooing, so that he can recreate the pigmentation of the nipple to give people a desired appearance. Dr. Lee wants “to create a personal plan, so patients can lead more youthful, confident, active lives.” To that end, he offers other services on site such as tummy tucks, cellulite removal using Cellulaze, precision laser neck lifts, face lifts, and eyelid surgeries. His full-service surgery office/center in Brandon provides a welcoming, private place for the comfort of his patients where he can perform surgery on site with the assistance of IV sedation and general anesthesia. The 7,000 sq. ft. facility also boasts a Medi Spa where patients can freeze fat away with CoolSculpting and Smart Lipo, aesthetic services such as Botox and Zo Skin Health by Obagi. He also consults with patients in his Tampa office located near Florida Hospital. Dr. Lee has privileges at seven local hospitals. To check out monthly specials, visit www.wayneleemd.com. Call 5793369 to schedule a consultation. Brandon office is located at 1020 E. Brandon Blvd. Ste. 101 in Brandon. Tampa office is located at 3000 Medical Park Dr. Ste. 140.

By Kate Quesada

We Buy C ins We also buy Stamp Collections, Proof Sets, Postcards, and Foreign Coins

Angeloni Tax Advisory Group

Buy • Sell • Estimates • Appraisals

CORBIN’S Stamp & Coin

LIFE IS A JOURNEY THAT STARTS AND ENDS WITH FAMILY

209 N. Kings Ave. • Brandon, Florida 33510

813-651-3266 corbincoin@verizon.net Mon-Fri 9am - 4pm Sat 9am - 1pm

Build a detailed estate plan for peace of mind and provide for your future generations.

Asset Protection and Legacy Planning Call 813-513-0382 to arrange an appointment with Howie Angeloni, President.

Angeloni Tax Advisory Group 813-513-0382 | 11932 Balm Riverview Road | Riverview, FL 33569 Howie Angeloni, President & 21yrs Retired Military

February 2017

Page 17

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Who Was Saint Valentine? History of Romance Valentine’s Day – it’s a time for showing love and appreciation to your significant others. But when did it begin and why? It’s not just a ‘Hallmark’ holiday. Its roots go way back. Just who was Saint Valentine? Officially known as Saint Valentine of Rome, he was a third-century Roman priest. At the time, the Emperor, Claudius II, decided that single men made better soldiers than those who had wives and families, so he banned marriage for young men. Valentine defied Claudius by continuing to perform marriages for young lovers in secret. When this was discovered, Claudius ordered that Valentine be put to death. Not much is reliably known, but most agree that St. Valentine was martyred and then buried on the Via Flaminia to the north of Rome. It’s also believed that Valentine’s Day has origins in the Roman holiday Lupercalia, a pagan fertility festival dedicated to Faunus, the Roman god of agriculture, as well as to the Roman founders Romulus and Remus. According to another legend, an imprisoned Valentine actually sent the first “valentine” greeting after he fell in love with a young girl, possibly his jailor’s daughter. It is alleged that he wrote her a letter signed “From your Valentine,” an expression that is still in use today. At the end of the fifth century, Pope

FINANCIAL FOCUS

By Michelle Colesanti

Gelasius declared February 14 as St. Valentine’s Day. It was not until much later, however, that the day became definitively associated with love. Valentine greetings were popular as far back as the middle ages. The oldest known valentine still in existence today was a poem written in 1415 by Charles, Duke of Orleans, to his wife while he was imprisoned in the Tower of London following his capture at the Battle of Agincourt. It is now part of the manuscript collection of the British Library in London, England. Exchanging hand-made valentines in the Americas probably began in the early 1700s. Esther A. Howland began selling the first mass-produced valentines in America in the 1840’s. She was known as the “Mother of the Valentine,” and made elaborate creations with real lace, ribbons and colorful pictures known as “scrap.” Today, an estimated one billion Valentine’s Day cards are sent each year, We may never know the true story, but Valentine’s Day continues to be one of the most popular of our annual holidays, which only reminds us of how important our loved ones are; something we should carry forward the rest of the year too.

Melissa L Haskins

When Do You Need a Financial Advisor?

Financial Advisor

Are you a “do-it-yourselfer”? If you can take care of home repairs, lawn work and other types of maintenance by yourself, you’ll save money and probably gain satisfaction. But you will almost certainly need some help in other areas of your life – one of which may be investing. In fact, you could benefit from the services of a professional financial advisor at several points in your life: • When you’re starting out in your career – When you land your first “career-type” job, you will have some financial decisions to make: Should I participate in my employer’s 401(k) or other retirement plan? (Hint: Yes!) If so, how much should I contribute? How can I juggle saving for retirement with paying off student loans? These are the types of questions you can answer with the help of a financial advisor. • When you’re saving for important goals – Whether you’re saving for a down payment on your first home, or for your children’s college education, or for your own comfortable retirement, you’ll face many choices. A financial advisor – someone with experience in helping people work toward these goals – can assist you in making the choices most appropriate for your individual situation. • When you’re experiencing a personal “milestone” – Like everyone, you’ll go through many major life events. Some will be joyful, such as marriage and the arrival of children, while others may be unpleasant or sad, such as divorce or the death of a loved one. But virtually all these events carry with them some type of financial component – establishing new investment accounts, purchasing sufficient insurance, naming and changing of beneficiaries, and so on. A financial advisor who truly understands you and your needs can help you make appropriate moves for all your milestones.

• When you’re close to retirement – As you near retirement, you’ll have several issues to consider: About how much income will you need each year? When should you start taking Social Security? How much can you afford to withdraw annually from your IRA and 401(k)? A financial advisor has the tools, training and experience to explore alternatives and suggest suitable moves for you. • When you’re retired – Even after you retire, you’ve got plenty to think about, in terms of financial moves. For one thing, you need to ensure that your investment portfolio provides you with both sufficient income for your desired lifestyle and adequate growth potential to help you stay ahead of inflation. What’s the correct balance of investments for your needs? Are there investments that can provide you with rising income without exposing you to undue risk? Once you’re retired, you just won’t get a lot of “do-overs,” so getting the right help is important. If you’re a do-it-yourselfer, you may not get it right each and every time. But you won’t pay much of a price (except, perhaps in embarrassment) if that chair you built collapses under a stack of newspapers. However, you also know when it’s time to call in a professional – and that’s whom you need when it comes to building your financial future. So, get the assistance you need, when you need it, from a financial advisor. This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor. Edward Jones, its employees and financial advisors are not estate planners and cannot provide tax or legal advice. You should consult your estate-planning or qualified tax advisor regarding your situation.

Melissa L Haskins, Financial Advisor

Plaza Bella @ 1068 Bloomingdale Avenue, Valrico 33596 813-685-5294

WE WANT TO SERVE LUNCH TO YOUR CREW! VISIT FIREWOODBBQ.COM OR LIKE US ON FACEBOOK! SANDWICHES PLATTERS PARTY MENU All side orders are homemade with top grade ingredients

813-438-8710 From our Kitchen... To Your Table! TAKE OUT is What’s For Dinner!

$5 OFF $20

$10 OFF $50 LOCATED AT: 7013 LITHIA PINECREST RD.

$20 OFF $100

JUST 2 MILES EAST OF FISHHAWK, ACROSS FROM THE FIRE STATION

Page 18

Volume 16, Issue 2

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

By Tamas Mondovics

County Promotes Year-Round Vigilance During Severe Weather Awareness Week winds, lightning, hail and a few strong, long-track tornadoes left at least 20 people dead in three states, not to

A satellite image shown by the National Weather Service (NWS) of an organized and powerful squall line, which in some areas produced winds of 60-80 mph along with isolated tornadoes, hail and heavy rain made its way across the southeast U.S. ahead of a cold front last month, reminded residents of the importance to be prepared yearround.

Hurricane season may be over, but an organized and powerful squall line, which in some areas produced winds of 60-80 mph made its way across the southeast U.S. ahead of a cold front last month, causing a severe weather outbreak. According to emergency management officials, on its way to the Tampa Bay region the storm produced hazardous conditions thanks to strong

mention the high cost of property damage. Interestingly, the weather event, which quickly reminded residents of the need to be prepared at all times, came just in time for the annual Severe Weather Awareness Week, January 23-27. Hillsborough County has joined state emergency officials in promoting and calling attention to the importance of being prepared year-round.

“It’s easy to forget that we get our fair share of hazardous conditions year-round,” said Hillsborough County Emergency Management Director Preston Cook. Cook emphasized that while a great effort is put into promoting hurricane awareness, many end up focusing their preparedness efforts only on the hurricane season. “Other types of severe weather can be just as devastating,” he said. To change such outlook County officials hope that promoting Severe Weather Awareness Week, which calls attention to potential hazards, how to prepare, and how to survive, will help widen residents’ weather outlook. The lineup for the week included a few tips which are listed below: Lightning - If you hear thunder, go indoors. Stay inside for at least 30 minutes after thunder stops. If you are outside in a storm, do not use trees for cover. Marine Hazards and Rip Currents. - Before boating, check forecasts well ahead of time. Be sure everyone is wearing a life jacket, and have a VHF marine band radio on board. Never swim against a rip current. To escape

the current, swim parallel to the shoreline. When out of the current, swim at an angle toward the shore. Tornadoes and Thunderstorms Have a family emergency plan that includes where to go if a tornado threatens. During a tornado, go to an interior room without windows, and if possible, on the lowest floor of the building. Never stay in an automobile. Hurricanes and Flooding Have a family emergency kit, and a plan that includes where you will go if you evacuate. If a flood occurs, move to higher ground immediately. Stay away from flooded roads. Turn around; don’t drown. Temperature Extremes and Wildfires - in hot weather, wear lightweight, light-colored clothing, and drink plenty of water. In cold weather, protect people, pets, plants, and pipes. When wildfire conditions exist, take steps to minimize potential damage to your home, such as removing pine needles and dry leaves within five ft. of the structure. For more information, including the County’s Disaster Planning Guide, please visit www.HCFLGov.net/StaySafe. Hillsborough County’s official notification system for emergency messages and urgent information is HCFL Alert. Residents are urged to sign up to receive messages by email, phone, and text, at HCFLGov.net/HCFLAlert, or call 272-6602.

Get It Listed! Get It SOLD!

Call “The Tracy Team” PATRICIA TRACY Realtor

(813) 748-9364

Where your experience is our priority!

PRICED TO SELL!

10%

Military Discount

Specializing in:

• NATURAL MIGRAINE RELIEF • STRESS MANAGEMENT • WEIGHT MANAGEMENT • HEALTHY LIFESTYLE FREE 30 minute consultation call when you mention this ad

HOLISTIC HEALTH & WELLNESS, LLC Lynne Wadsworth

Board Certified Holistic Health Coach (AADP)

813-340-1368 www.holistic-healthandwellness.com

This home is ideal for a large family, 5 bdrms & 2 baths on over 1/4 lot with no HOA! Updated kitchen w/beautiful wood cabinets in kitchen, Lovely wood floors & staircase, terrazzo, tile and vinyl. Downstairs has bedroom, family room & bathroom, three bedrooms an a shared bathroom upstairs, fifth bedroom could be an office w/a separate entrance off carport. Large backyard could be a gardeners paradise with lush Florida foliage. $199,900

NEW LISTING!

Welcoming entry w/formal living room & dining room! Split floor plan w/ 4 bedrooms & 2 Baths. Generous size kitchen w/dinette, inside laundry room. High ceilings w/plant shelves. Two car garage w/door opener, covered patio. Neutral colors throughout this lovely home. This community has easy access to I-4 for commute to Tampa or Orlando! Come and see this lovely home. $224,900

FREE Home Value Estimates!

Selling the Neighborhood We Live, Work & Play Over 15 years Experience

February 2017

Page 19

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Pepin Academies Charter Opens New Area School To Serve More Students

By Tamas Mondovics

Pepin learning and learnAcademies, the ing-related disabilinon-profit charter ties. school for stuWithin its camdents with learnpuses, Pepin curing and learningrently serves more related disabilithan 700 students ties received the from third to twelfth green light last grade and young month to comadults 18 to 22. The pletely vacate its school’s temporary temporary camRiverview campus Pepin officials are proud to open a new permanent campus in Riverview this month at 10530 Lake St pus in Riverview offering classes from grades three to 12. and move its Charles Blvd. has operation into a newly purchased and been serving nearly 200 students since renovated building nearby. 2013. The new facility will see a total of School officials were pleased to 275 students with capacity for 325 stureceive a Certificate of Occupancy for the dents including this year’s ninth and tenth school’s new 16,000 sq. ft. campus, locat- graders. ed at 9304 Camden Field in Riverview, Aside from the space for more stuwhich they said allows room for more students, the new campus includes a dents to be served by the tuition-free, library, an indoor space for physical public charter school, following the winter education, and an outdoor play area, break. The official opening date for the which the temporary building did not new Riverview campus is Monday, have. January 9. “We are thrilled to have this oppor“The new school was designed with tunity to help even more students in the the students we serve in mind, offering a Riverview community receive the spemulti-sensory environment center and cialized instruction Pepin Academies is skills lab, in addition to the nurturing known and recognized for,” Butz said. ‘whole’ child atmosphere our staff proButz spoke highly of the local comvides,” said Pepin Academies executive munity support when he said, “The dedidirector and school principal, Dr. Craig cated support from our community leadButz. ers, contractor Batson-Cook and parPepin Academies has been serving ents allowed our footprint to expand students for nearly two decades, in three through this exciting project and give schools – two in Hillsborough County and even more students with learning disone in Pasco County and are the only abilities the opportunity to be successful full-time exceptional student education in our unique learning environment.” (ESE) day schools in Florida that offer a Call 677-6700 or complete an applistandard diploma option for children with cation at www.pepinacademies.com.

$5 OFF $20 $10 OFF $50

S A V E

$20 OFF $100

Firewood Bar B.Q. 7013 Lithia Pinecrest Rd, Lithia 813-438-8710

$5 OFF ANY

50% OFF ENTREE

PURCHASE

with the purchase of a second entree of equal or lesser value

Allegria Italiana

518 Oakfield Dr., Brandon • 813-651-1166 Not valid with any other offer. Valid Mon-Thur Only. Expires 2/28/17

New Price Fix Menu 3:30-6:00pm Mondays-Fridays

$30

EARLY BIRD DINNER FOR 2

Creative Classes

for both Adults & Children Call for details.

25% OFF CATERING ORDER*

ENTIRE PURCHASE

WOW That’s Fresh 1426 W. Brandon Blvd. 813-864-8808

Sunflower Cafe - Valrico 813-65-SUSHI

*minimum $100 order

Mention this coupon when ordering. Not valid with any other offer. Limit 1 per visit. Valid at WOW! Brandon only. Not valid Super Sunday, 2/5/17. Expires 2/28/17

$5 OFF ANY

with purchase of $25 or more

(You Pick): SIRLOIN (4oz), CHICKEN (4oz), or SHRIMP (6pc) 5PM-7PM EVERYDAY

with purchase of $20 or more

Pho Viet - Brandon 1202 W. Brandon Blvd. 813-643-8888

Ryuu Japanese Steakhouse at Brandon Mall 813-438-5934

Old Castle Restaurant Ruskin Authentic German Cuisine 813-633-3331

PURCHASE

1 redemption per table. Not good with any other coupons or offers. Expires 2/28/17

This offer may not be combined with coupons. Expires 2/28/17

10% OFF

PURCHASE

One coupon per person per visit. Not to be combined with other offers. Expires 2/28/17

Only valid with regular menu. With this coupon. Must present before submitting payment. Before tax. One coupon per visit. Not valid with other offers. Offer expires Expires 2/28/17

ONE FREE *

CUPCAKE with every hot beverage purchase

Petite Madelyn’s - Valrico (813) 681-CAKE (2253)

* Limited to selection/variety available at time of purchase. May not be combined with any other discount. Expires 2/28/17

Page 20

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Children With Autism Rock The Spectrum

By Matt Boniface

According to the from the movie CDC, 1 in 68 children Frozen. are on the autism Kapusta spectrum. This is up expressed how from 1 in 150 in the she'd recently year 2000 hosted a birth(www.cdc.gov/ncbdday party for a dd/autism/data.html). 9 year old boy The prevalence of this who'd never experienced disorder has affected one before millions of households because he'd and parents are lookWe Rock the Spectrum, a gym that offers safe ing for safe environenvironments for children on the autism spec- been asked to trum. leave from ments for their chilother, more structured facilities. “If they dren. An independently owned and operdon't want structure they shouldn't be ated gym called We Rock the Spectrum forced into it,” she explained. Kids Gym has been established in the It offers many reasonable admission local area by Michelle Kapusta, “After seeing We Rock the Spectrum in Largo, I options for families. They offer “Open Play” daily for $12/child + $10/sibling with knew Tampa needed one.” no specific time limit. Daily passes and In addition to direct experience with memberships are also available. children on the autism spectrum, the Insurance may only cover an hour each cooperation trains Kapusta and her employees. These trainings are designed week of occupational therapy so they by Occupational Therapists specifically for team up with a non-profit, My Brother Rocks the Spectrum, part of the corporachildren on the spectrum. tion, which grants families assistance for Catering mainly to children from additional time otherwise not covered. infant to 13 years, they still welcome They are also a huge sponsor for “Autism teens and young adults interested in Speaks” and are looking to partner with coming to play and can find a time bestlocal schools for field trips and as a gensuited for them by calling in advance. eral resource. Kapusta would like to Children not on the spectrum are also extend her thanks to the support from Ed welcomed to attend and play. Kapusta Buckley and her husband Phil who have noted, “We are a full inclusion, sensory helped her bring this dream to fruition. gym for children of all abilities.” They do For information visit require that a parent or guardian remains WeRockTheSpectrumTampa.com or call on site at all times as they are not a 571-1600. The Gym is open 7 days a licensed daycare. Their grand opening, on January 7 of week: Monday - Friday, 10 a.m.-7 p.m., Saturday, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. and Sunday, 12 this year, was filled with wonder as chilNoon-5 p.m. located at 1076 E. Brandon dren were greeted with storm troopers Blvd., Ste. 102. from Tampa's 501st Legion and Anna

HAS YOUR PET GONE HOLISTIC?

New store NOW OPEN at Big Bend and 301

Bring in this ad for 10% off any one item. Over 25 Brands of Natural/Holistic Dog & Cat Foods Frozen Raw Diets, Natural Treats & Chews Holistic Homeopathic Remedies & Supplements Huge Selection of Dog/Cat Supplies Custom Pet Tags Engraved in Minutes Friendly & Knowledgeable - Come In and Talk To Us! Mon - Fri 10am - 7pm / Sat 10am - 6:00pm

5620 FishHawk Crossing Blvd., Lithia

FishHawk Ranch Publix Shopping Center

813.651.0842

13131 US 301 S., Riverview New Location!

Next to Wendy’s

813.374.4743

Now Open!

www.doggoneholistic.biz

Adam L. Bantner, II

Board Cer!fied Criminal Trial A"orney

DUI, Criminal Defense and Juvenile Delinquency

813.397.3965 www.TampaCrimeAttorneys.com Office in Lithia and Available by Appointment in Tampa

Volume 16, Issue 2

Live A Happier, Healthier Life With Holistic Health And Wellness

By Amy Schechter

Anyone who and healthy suffers from reocrecipes. curring migraines Wadsworth knows the world is offering the folmay consist of lowing classes in dealing with the new year, each heavily disacute pain and counted at up to waiting for the 50 percent off next time it will their original interrupt your life. prices: a free These debilitating Healthy Habits 7headaches are Day Challenge often accompabeginning nied by light senJanuary 16; a sitivity, Healthy Eating 5nausea/vomiting, Day Jumpstart and disorientafor those who tion. Some of us Lynne Wadsworth Certified Holistic Health Coach suffer migraines are lucky to never experience that kind of suffering, beginning January 23 for $3.97; a 4but millions are plagued by stress, obe- week Jump Start program with a Facebook support group and selfsity, and loss of energy. Thankfully, paced weekly emails beginning there are steps you can take right now January 30 for $29.97; a 4-week to reduce all of these problems. Lynne Natural Migraine Relief Program Wadsworth, owner of Holistic Health beginning February 6 which is $247 and Wellness and Board Certified for a group session and $297 for indiHolistic Health Coach, knows firsthand vidualized support, and in conjunction the benefits of a natural approach to pain relief. Having experienced chronic with the University of South Florida, she is teaching a 4-week Healthy migraines after the birth of her first Living Class for seniors February 10. child, at one time she believed her life would always require prescription med- She also became a certified wellness cooking instructor and offers healthy ication to reach normalcy. Wadsworth cooking classes and seminars on eatexplains that medication simply wasn’t the route she wanted, “I began my own ing healthy while on a budget. Wadsworth is confident in these promore natural and holistic search.” grams: “I don’t put people through Her journey took her from selfthings I don’t do myself. People constudy to the Institute for Integrative nect to lose weight and have a Nutrition where she learned just how healthier lifestyle, and in learning important the food we eat can be to what I have learned you get the our overall health. “It’s the body-mindadded benefit of relieving migraines spirit. It’s not going on a diet. It’s a and other pain/inflammation, stress lifestyle change that bring about relief, better sleep, and overall better changes,” Wadsworth shares. The quality of life.” changes she made not only reduced For information on classes startthe frequency and severity of her migraines, but they helped her achieve ing in 2017, read the books and literature she has authored, and reach healthy weight loss, increased her out for immediate wellness coaching, energy, and reduced her stress levels. contact Wadsworth at 340-1368 or by She knew she had to share what she email at lwadsworth@verizon.net. Infound with others, especially those person meetings from her home in struggling to wean themselves off of Valrico, a local neutral location, or medications who need the type of through teleconferencing are availextended support beyond hospital able by request Monday-Thursday rehabilitation programs: “I don’t do this from 5:30PM-8PM and weekends by for the dollar sign. I know it can work appointment. More information, sesand that people can reach what I have sions, and pricing are also available reached.” She offers individual and on her website, holisticgroup sessions tailored to help you healthandwellness.com/ and on facewalk your individual path with health book.com/holistichealthandwellnesswhich include live support sessions, llc/. email support and weekly newsletters,

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

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

February 2017

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Page 21

Page 22

Volume 16, Issue 2

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Bloomingdale Rajun’ Bull Band Auction Returns

Staff Report

What could the live auction be better than begins. Items spending time in this category on a Saturday will have a getting to shop value of $500 for gift certifior more. The cates, gift basauction will end kets, useful at 8 p.m. items and Refreshments maybe find that and desserts special item will be availyou just need able throughAn Auction will be held to benefit Bloomingdale’s Rajun’ Bull Band on Saturday, March 4 from 4 to 8 out the to have? p.m. at Bloomingdale High School. Where can you evening. do this and not feel bad about spending All proceeds from the auction go the money because you know that all the directly back to the Bloomingdale Rajun’ monies raised through your purchases Bull Band and Crimson Guard so they will benefit a worthy organization? can continue the excellent work they The Bloomingdale High School have been doing for the past 30 years. Rajun’ Bull Band Auction is making comMaintaining an organization of over 250 ing back. After taking a hiatus for a few students takes considerable commityears, it makes its return on Saturday, ments of time and money. Monies March 4 from 4 to 8 p.m. at raised help pay for upcoming trips and Bloomingdale Senior High School, 1700 maintenance of uniforms and instruE. Bloomingdale Ave. in Valrico. ments. “The Rajun’ Bull Band decided to If anyone or business would like to bring back the spring auction because of make a donation for the auction, please its popularity with our band family and contact Dann Berkowitz at bdalebandfriends, as well as the community,” boosters@gmail.com. Some items of remarked Suzanne Jones, Band Booster interest are event tickets, electronics, gift President. “The auction also provides cards/gift certificates, home services, exciting ways for the students to get vacation items, relaxation and self care involved, both in gathering donations and packages, and family activities. The on the day of the event. It promises to be Bloomingdale Band Boosters is a tax a fun event for anyone attending.” exempt organization and your donation Multiple raffles will take place during will be tax deductible. the entire event. A silent auction will be Everyone is welcome to attend. held from 4 to 6 p.m. with many themed There will be something for everyone baskets to bid on along with items such including great gift ideas that you can as entertainment, sports, dinner/restaupurchase to use throughout the year. rants, home services, and much more. For information, email bdalebandAt 6 p.m. when the silent auction ends, boosters@gmail.com.

Singing, Acting, Photography And More Are Offered At Music Showcase In Brandon

By Kathy L. Collins

Music Showcase February 20 and and the Florida running through Academy of the April. Performing Arts offer Performances will area residents the be held on April 21, 22, and 23. Cost is chance to experience $200. some fun and unique JR Showcase classes, workshops Players, for stuand dents ages nine musiand up, will meet cal and If you have wanted theatre to try your hand at on Thursdays from 6-8 p.m. beginning groups. photography, singing or on February 16. All decorating, Music classes take place at Showcase and the Florida Academy of This will run through April with Music Showcase locatthe Performing Arts have something! performances on April 28, 29 and 30. ed at 402 Oakfield Dr. in Brandon. Cost is $200. Do It Yourself Interior Decorating is Showcase Players, for middle and led by Interior Design Specialist, Charlena high school students, meet on Saturdays Beacom. Classes will be held on either from 3-6 p.m. beginning on February 18 Mondays from 7-9 p.m. or Wednesdays and run through May with performances from 9:30-11:30 a.m. Monday classes on May 19, 20 and 21. Cost is $150. begin on February 13, March 20, April 10 All Musical Theatre classes are and May 1. Wednesday classes begin on directed by Miguel Oquendo. February 15, March 22, April 12 and May For students ages seven and up who 3. Cost for the three weeks is $90. like to sing, they should try Show Choir. Next, Beacom will lead a Digital Photography Class. Classes are on either This group combines music from all Tuesday morning from 9:30-11:30 a.m. or genre and decades with choreography. Rehearsals start on February 21, and Thursday evening class from 6:30-8:30 p.m. Session one begins February 7 or 9, meets for eight weeks from 5-6:30 p.m. session two April 4 or 6 and session three Performance will be held on April 18. Cost is $150. May 2 or 4. The cost is $120 per fourFor children ages four to 10, Music week session. Beacom said, “Photography creates a memory and tells Makers is a free workshop offered for mini musicians on the second Saturday of a story.” each month through May from 9:30-11 Musical Theatre is offered for stua.m. To register for any of the above, dents in varying age levels. For students please call 490-2787 or visit ages five to nine, Acting Up! meets on www.faopa.org. Mondays from 5:30-7 p.m. beginning on

Our Residents Are Always On The Move!

CHAIR DANCING • CHAIR YOGA • BEAN BAG TOSS • WII BOWLING CRAFTS • GAME SHOW • HAPPY HOUR • COFFEE CLUB • CHORUS BELL CHOIR • KARAOKE • WALKING CLUB • MUSICAL ENTERTAINMENT

Come See Our 2 Bedroom/2 Bath Apartments with over 700 sq.ft. of living space!

AWARDED GRCC 2015 BUSINESS OF THE YEAR

HOURS: Monday-Saturday 10am-7pm | Sunday 12pm-5pm

813-530-0922

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

Lic # AL11670

813.413.8900

www.bridgesretirement.com

February 2017

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Page 23

Page 24

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Volume 16, Issue 2

See Inside For More News Section 2 of 3 February 2017

Volume 16, Issue 2

Bloomingdale/FishHawk

www.ospreyobserver.com

Start The Year Right With Bodyworks Health & WellnessBy Center Amy Schehchter Everyone hits a point in their lives where they feel stuck and ready for a positive change. That moment came for Pearl Chiarenza a little over 10 years ago when she moved to Florida from Virginia. Recovering from a medical procedure, looking for employment, and helping her family adjust to the move was difficult. She looked in the mirror and realized she had gained weight and lost a bit of the person she was. That’s when she decided to do something about it and took her life back losing 57 pounds between Labor Day and the end of October through healthy eating and living habits. She wanted to share this discovery with others out there who had reached the same low point and were not sure how to fit healthy habits into their busy lives. Chiarenza founded her Lakeland location of Bodyworks Health & Wellness Center in 2011 followed by the Valrico location and since then, the clinic has helped the community lose over ten-thousand pounds. Through oneon-one coaching and a diet plan called It’s The Greatest Diet (ITG), clients will reset their pancreas through a ketonic diet and then learn how to integrate fats, fruits, and carbohydrates back into their diets for sustainable weight loss. Chiarenza candidly reminds clients, “It’s easy to lose weight. Maintenance is the hard part,” but she knows that the

goal is to teach healthy habits that allow for lifestyle changes. Bodyworks Health & Wellness Center tailors a program to your personal needs taking your family life, work life, and medical

history into account. They offer different programs, simple to pro-plans, with varying levels of support to clients “as young as 12 to 13 to people as young as 80,” Chiarenza said with a smile. In fact, she relays the story of a 13-year-old who lost sixtyone pounds over the last year gaining confidence and habits that will take her into a healthy adult life. The different programs offer one-on-one coaching sessions at least monthly, but based entirely on individual needs. They offer over 60 foods from which to choose from in-house, so clients can choose three meals a day from an approved grocery list and are taught how to shop for remaining meals on their own. Some programs even offer grocery shopping outings and healthy cooking classes. Chiarenza also knows the importance of giving back to the community. She is very involved with the Sylvia Thomas Center, a nonprofit that assists adoptive and foster families in the local area. She also coordinates events through Women’s Successful Living, an organization designed to help women who have

experienced financial and personal problems to set goals that help them lead positive, happy lives. She takes the same attitude with her clients because she truly wants everyone to find the work-life balance where there is always a focus being a healthy individual, mind and body. It’s easy to see why they were voted Best of Brandon and Best of Southshore and why Chiarenza was recently honored as Woman of the Month by Successful Women Aligning Together (SWAT). With a new year can come a new you. Bodyworks Health & Wellness Center is currently offering $150 off the normal introductory price to get starting which includes food and coaching. For a $20 entry fee, current clients can participate in a weight loss challenge where the first prize is a three-day cruise for two, second prize is $300 cash, and third prize is one week of free food. Free seminars are offered twice monthly. For information on pricing or questions, visit bodyworkshwc.com/ or facebook.com/BodyworksHWC/. Contact Bodyworks Health & Wellness Center at 324-8988 (Valrico), 324-8988 (Lakeland), or 449-3308.The Valrico office is located in the Salons by JC Building at 3448 Lithia Pinecrest Rd., Ste. 29 inValrico. For more information on Women’s Successful Living, visit womenssuccessfulliving.com/ or facebook.com/womenssuccessfulliving/.

Page 26

Volume 16, Issue 2

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Business Sponsors Sought For The 2017 Florida Strawberry Festival Fine Art Show

By Kathy L. Collins

The East self-esteem, Hillsborough motivation, Art Guild aesthetic (EHAG) is awareness, seeking local cultural expobusinesses to sure, creativity, participate in and improved the Business emotional Leader’s expression.” Choice Crumley Awards for added, "The the 2017 Florida Florida Strawberry Strawberry Join businesses such as the Osprey Observer to support Festival Fine Festival Fine Art Show in the arts and local artists by becoming a Business Leader's Choice Award Sponsor for the 2017 Florida Art Show, Plant City is a Strawberry Festival Fine Art Show. which will run perfect venue from Thursday, March 2 to Sunday, for professional artists. It is an equally March 12 at the Florida Strawberry good venue for amateur artists as well as Festival Grounds in Plant City. they gain the experience of presenting The Business Leader’s Choice their work in a competitive show.” Award is just $75. Businesses are invited Crumley said, “This art show offers the to the show and have the unique opportu- additional benefit of thousands of festival nity to act as a judge and select an entry attendees who will see what great local to win the award. The winning artist is artists we have to offer. Last year, over given a Golden Rosette Ribbon with the 500,000 visited the Florida Strawberry sponsor’s name on the back as well as Festival.” $50 is prize money. The remaining $25 is The Osprey Observer, thanks to the donated in the business’ name to the generosity of publisher, Marie Gilmore, EHAG Grant Fund for continued educahas been a Business Leader’s Choice tion in visual arts. Award Sponsor since 2012. Karen Crumley, Chairperson of the At that time, there were only a few 2017 Florida Strawberry Festival Fine Art sponsors. Today, this has become a sigShow said, "It is important to keep the nificant and prestigious aspect of the arts thriving in our community. This awards given at the Florida Strawberry defines our society. In part, the arts are Festival Fine Art Show. the basic cultural heritage of every To become a Business Leader’s American.” Crumley added, “Everyone Choice Award Sponsor for 2017, please has an imagination. Through art, children call 924-3829. For information, visit and adults can create visual manifestawww.flostrawberryfestival.com or tions of abstract ideas thus promoting www.EHAGfinearts.com.

JW Tree Service Goes Out On A Limb For Its Tree Customers By Nick Nahas

Troy that are licensed and Alexander had insured. “Our goals some good forare to be safe and tune come his do a good job,” he way about a year said. and a half ago There are many when he purthings to understand chased JW Tree for the safe removal Service, LLC, of trees, Alexander from Tim said, including Bracewell. He physics, biology, cuthad spent 13 ting techniques, years building experience and the the company into importance of propPhoto By Troy Alexander a respected Troy Alexander and his team at work safely erly maintained tools. removing tree limbs with JW Tree Service. leader in the tree He encourages peotrimming industry ple to plan ahead for in Hillsborough County, even winning the dangerous tree removal. “Don’t let a tree Best of Florida Award in 2012, and needfall unexpectedly,” he said. ed someone to take the reins. If you do experience an unexpected The company specializes in tree and tree falling, JW Tree Service also offers stump removal services, as well as crane emergency tree removal service, as well and bobcat work, land clearing and tree as hurricane and disaster clean up. trimming. “I just love it. I love the outdoors Sometimes the devastation caused by a and making people happy,” said storm can be overwhelming for a homeAlexander. “Coming to people’s houses owner and Alexander and his company and making them happy about the new can help ease that burden. “We go out on look of their home, that’s the excitement I a limb to serve you!” is their company sloget from this job.” gan. Alexander has lived in the Fishhawk Alexander said most of his business area for 16 years. He came from comes from referrals because making Wisconsin where he owned a large busisure his customers are happy is a top pri- ness that he sold for a profit before movority. “If you have an unhappy customer, ing to Florida and working for a car body you’re only as good as your last job,” he shop, Dent Houdini, which was later said. He said trimming and pruning are taken over by his son. Family plays an always done properly to enhance the important role in Alexander’s life. In the ad beauty of the trees and to maintain stabili- picture for the company, it shows him with ty, ensuring their future health. He adds his two dogs and his daughter, Emily. that dangerous limbs or trees are Free estimate at www.jwtreeserviceremoved safely by experienced crews florida.com or call 601-7091. Natalie Carr Bustillo

TAKE A TIP FROM THE FASHION WORLD AND DRESS YOUR WINDOWS IN LAYERS.

DDS, MS

Se Habla Espanol

30% OFF

Select Signature Series® Blinds, Shades and Inspired Drapery Panels*

Call TODAY for your FREE in-home design consultation! 10437 Gibsonton Drive, Riverview, FL 33578

813-445-7121

www.budgetblinds.com/brandon Showroom Hours: Mon. - Fri. 10:00 - 5:00 | Sat. 10:00 - 3:00

*Offer good on selected Signature Series® window treatments and Inspired Drapes® sold exclusively through Budget Blinds®. Excludes shutters where everyday low price applies. Drapery hardware and installation not included. At participating franchises only. Valid at time of initial estimate. Not valid with any other offers, discounts or coupons. Some restrictions may apply. Ask for details. Expires 2/28/17 ©2016 Budget Blinds, Inc. All Rights Reserved. Budget Blinds and Inspired Drapes are trademarks of Budget Blinds, Inc. and Home Franchise Concepts Brands. Each franchise independently owned and operated. Franchise opportunities available.

February 2017

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

GET THE DIRT

WITH FLORIDA YARD EXPERT Lynn Barber, Hillsborough County Extension How To Care For Your Holiday Plants Poinsettia is a “short day” plant, meaning it blooms when days are short and nights are long. Blooming requires an extended period of darkness. If planted near artificial light, such as a street light or exterior house lighting after October 1, there will be a delay in flowering. Temperatures in the area of 75-80 degrees during the day and 65 degrees at night are needed. Indoors, don’t fertilize or overwater. Give it a drink only when the soil is dry. Plant Poinsettia outside after the last chance of frost has passed, which for us, usually means after mid-February. Outdoors, it should be located in the sun and away from artificial light. Prune to 4-6 inches of stem on each branch and then fertilize monthly with a balanced fertilizer from March to October. Christmas cactus is also a short-day plant. For this plant to bloom during the holidays, move it to a dark area from 5 p.m. to 8 a.m. daily for six weeks. After blooming has ended, place your Christmas cactus in bright light where it will thrive. If indoors, place the plant within six feet of a window. Light exposure in a north window is not effective, so use south, east and west windows. It prefers well drained soil. Propagation is from cuttings. Amaryllis is a bulb that needs welldrained soil, has medium drought and

low to no salt tolerance. Plant Amaryllis between September and January. It performs best in partial shade and well in sun. Propagation is from seeds, cuttings and smaller bulbs that are attached to the “mother” bulbs. You can leave bulbs in the ground for years or dig them up and replant them during September and October. If you dig up the bulbs instead of leaving them in the ground, remove the foliage and store them in an area that is dry and shaded for a period of 6-8 weeks before replanting. For information about these holiday gems, please see the University of Florida publications, “Poinsettias at a Glance” by Sydney Park Brown, http://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/ep349, “Amaryllis” by Sydney Park Brown and Robert J. Black, and “Colorful Christmas Cactus Care” by Dan Culbert at: okeechobee.ifas.ufl.edu/News%20colu mns/Christmas%20Cactus.htm from which information contained in this article was adapted. For information about the nine principles of the Florida-Friendly LandscapingTM Program or for assistance with gardening-related questions, contact the UF/IFAS Extension Hillsborough County at 813-744-5519, visit our website at: http://hillsborough.ifas.ufl.edu for upcoming workshops.

Page 27 By NITISH S. RELE nitishrele@gmail.com

NISSAN REVAMPS PATHFINDER FOR 2017 Competitors are aplenty in the large rails, chrome door handles and badging, seven-passenger SUV segment but the and body side molding are fresh. The Pathfinder surely takes the lead, in our new and larger 8.0-inch (up from 7) eyes. For 2017, touch screen interNissan has totally face is easy to conoverhauled the trol via a knob. fifth-gen ride with a Also, there is more revised 3.5-liter V-6 infotain and driver engine, which now assist display readblasts off 284 ing between the horsepower (up by round speedometer 24) @ 6400 rpm and tachometer PATHFINDER (PLATINUM 4WD) gauges. Cubby space and 259 pounds-feet of Tires: P235/55R20 torque (increase of 19) is abundant with a Wheelbase: 114.2 inches @ 4800 rpm. The potent huge center console Length: 198.5 inches engine enables the and a storage bin Weight: 4,660 pounds rugged SUV to effectively under the cargo floor. Fuel capacity: 19.5 gallons and equally traverse There are 10 cup and Highway: 26 mpg rugged terrain as well as six bottle holders City: 19 mpg tackle peak-hour traffic throughout the cabin. Base price: $43,560 on city roads. The 60/40 second-row Coupled with a continuous variable seat tilts and glides to enable two pastransmission, its unibody structure is sengers to duck into the third-row 50/50 equipped with an all-mode four-wheel seat, which splits and folds flats. Other drive, which distributes torque evenly to goodies are eight-way driver and fourthe wheels irrespective of road condiway passenger power seats, tri-zone tions. The retuned suspension is hanauto a/c control, Bose sound system dled via an independent strut front and with 13 speakers, and dual power multilink rear to result in a well-damped panoramic moon roof. ride. The hydraulic electric speed-sensiThe much-improved Pathfinder tive steering gives the SUV a curb-toshould appeal to SUV buyers, especialcurb turning circle of more than 38.7 ly those who want a dominant engine feet. Maximum capacity for towing is a under the hood. With refreshing exterior respectable 6,000 pounds (up by and interior styling cues, Nissan has 1,000). made the path to your destination more Up front, the V-Motion chrome grille fun than ever before. is flanked by the familiar boomerang Test-drive the Nissan Pathfinder at headlights with LED daytime running AutoNation Nissan Brandon, 9920 lights. However, the hood, bumper, Adamo Dr. in Tampa. Visit www.autonarecessed windshield wipers, silver roof tionnissanbrandon.net.

Page 28

Volume 16, Issue 2

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Organization Announces Application Dates For 2017 Charlie Hounchell Art Stars Scholarships

Edible Arrangements Launches New Edible To Go Smoothie Service

Tampa Bay TBBCA has awardBusinesses for ed 55 scholarships Culture and the to area students. Arts (TBBCA) Past winners have has issued a “A attended prestigious Call for institutions including Applicants” for its The Juilliard School, 2017 Charlie New York Hounchell Art University’s Tisch Stars School of the Arts, Scholarships Savannah College of Program. The Art and Design, The program proUniversity of South Lillian Kraack of Lithia ( Rt) received the vides financial and The Florida TBBCA 2016 Charlie Hounchell Art Stars support to stuUniversity of Tampa. Scholarship for Vocal Music.She is standing dents who live in with TBBCA Board Treasurer, Stephen Gay Last year, two and 2016 Vocal Music Judge, Dawne Hillsborough, local students were Eubanks. Pinellas and awarded scholarPasco Counties to help them pursue ships. Lillian Kraack of Lithia, graduated higher education in the arts. from Newsome High School. Kraack won Each year, $15,000 is awarded to for Vocal Music and now attends juniors and seniors in the above-referOklahoma City University where she is enced counties. The scholarships are majoring in musical theatre and vocal perawarded based on merit and artistic abiliformance. In addition to Kraack, Sabrina ty in the fields of instrumental music, Downing of Valrico received a scholarship vocal music, theatre, dance, visual arts for dance. She is a graduate of Howard and literary arts. Qualified students may W. Blake High School and is now pursuapply in one, more or all disciplines via ing a Bachelor of Fine Arts in dance and separate applications. a Bachelor of Science in interdisciplinary Guidelines and the application for the natural sciences at the University of 2017 Charlie Hounchel Art Stars South Florida. Scholarship Program can be found at TBBCA is a non-profit 501(c )(3). For www.tbbca.org/programs-events/art-stars- over 27 years, TBBCA has united busischolarships. There is no fee to apply. nesses in support of arts education, and Completed application are due by culture and the arts in our community. Monday, February 20, 2017 and can be The organization is based on the philosomailed to TBBCA at P.O. Box 559, phy that “the arts are good for business, Tampa, FL 33601. The winners will be and business is good for the arts.” announced in April. The TBBCA program For information, contact TBBCA is named in honor of TBBCA Past Executive Director, Susana Weymouth at President, Charlie Hounchell. Since 2007, susanaweymouth@tbbca.org.

Edible blends and bringing back Arrangements is their fruit salads. They widely known for its even offer frozen hot unique fresh fruit chocolate smoothies for displays that have customers to indulge in made eating fruit so on days that healthy just much more fun. won’t cut it. From the Edible To Now, Edible Go menu the two most Arrangements popular smoothies are launched its new the Liquid Sunshine that Edible To Go servoffers a tasty blend of ice. It allows customers to drop by and choose a smoothie from their menu or customize your own smoothie. Luckily, Edible Edible Arrangements new Edible to Go service features a variety Arrangements is of fresh fruit smoothies and other healthy treats for customers to here at 3455 Lithia choose from. Pinecrest Rd. in Valrico. What makes Edible To Go strawberry, banana, and pineapples and unique for customers is it uses fresh the Night at the RoxBerry which contains fruits like banana, cantaloupe, blueberry, strawberry and blueberry fruits and strawberry, honeydew, and pineapple yogurt, according to Seal. that are cut fresh every day. Besides the Seal said she originally loved being pure fruit smoothies Edible To Go also an Edible Arrangements owner for the offers a wide variety of ingredients like happiness her business brought to the whey protein, yogurt, flax seed, and oats community and her passion is still presto name a few. ent today with the Edible To Go service. “I like bringing happiness and smiles “This is a great start to a healthy new to faces,” Seal said. “People love our year,” Cathy Seal the owner of the combination of healthy treats.” Valrico Edible Arrangements said of the To find an Edible To Go menu and new service. The service all about the customer more information you can visit ediand finding the healthy treat they prefer, blearrangements.com. Edible according to Seal. The service even Arrangements in Valrico is open from 8 goes beyond smoothies and offering difa.m.-7p.m. Monday-Friday, 8 a.m.-5 p.m. ferent treats like fresh fruit parfaits, on Saturday and 10 a.m.-3 p.m. on chocolate dipped fruit cones, froyo fruit Sunday.

By Kathy L. Collins

SHIRTS

O nly

$1.89

with coupon

Apollo Beach Bloomingdale Bloomingdale Bloomingdale Brandon Brandon FishHawk Riverview Riverview Seffner Valrico Valrico

15% OFF

Entire Order Dry Cleaning

Majik Touch Cleaners Valid on Incoming Orders only, no exceptions. Not valid with other coupons or promotions. Expires 2/28/2017 OO-F

By Katelyn Massarelli

220 Apollo Beach Blvd. (South Shore Shopping Ctr.) 3248 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. (Royal Oaks Shopping Ctr.) 3425 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. (Shoppes of Lithia) 1025 E. Bloomingdale Ave. (Shoppes at Bloomingdale) 913 Brandon Blvd. (Brandon Mall) 1836 W. Lumsden Rd. 16739 FishHawk Blvd. (FishHawk Shopping Ctr.) 13196 US Hwy 301 S. (Summerfield Crossing) 11697 Boyette Rd. (Goolsby Point) 1515 N. Parsons Ave. (N. Grove Plaza) 1999 S.R. 60 E. (Valrico Commons) 2511 S.R. 60 E (Shoppes Brandon Farms)

SHIRTS

$189

Ea. Laundered Only

645-1499 654-8113 643-0922 654-9292 684-4499 643-6944 654-7991 671-4156 672-1832 684-5897 654-2324 643-4825

20% OFF 20% OFF Entire Order

Comforters & Blankets

Majik Touch Cleaners

Valid on Incoming Orders only, no exceptions. Not valid with other coupons or promotions. Expires 2/28/2017 OO-F

Wedding Gowns Alterations Drapes Majik Touch Cleaners

Valid on Incoming Orders only, no exceptions. Not valid with other coupons or promotions. Expires 2/28/2017 OO-F

February 2017

Others r o t n e M Train To onal Finance, rs About Pe alk & More… ’s W helle Colesanti, n o s n i k r a ic P ed by M om Compil server.c spreyob o @ e ll e mich

Moving Day Tampa Bay, A Walk for Parkinson's The National Parkinson Foundation's Moving Day Tampa Bay, A Walk for Parkinson's is a chance for the Tampa Bay Community to join together and bring awareness and support for those affected by Parkinson's Disease. This is not just a 1K/5K Walk, this event features movement activities such as free yoga classes, line dancing, tai chi and even Rock Steady Boxing. Proceeds from this event will provide local services and programs right here in Tampa Bay for Parkinson's patients and their caregivers. Let's MOVE IT and form a team, join a team or just make a donation. Visit www.movingdaytampabay.org for more information.

Celebrating everyBODY: A Walk For Eating Disorders Awareness

Page 29

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

The Alliance for Eating Disorders Awareness (The Alliance) will hold its first community awareness walk in Tampa on Sunday, March 5. Held at the Raymond James Stadium, registration for “celebrating everyBODY” will begin at 9 a.m. Guest speaker, McCall Dempsey, will share her story of hope and healing from a 15-year battle with an eating disorder. The Alliance is expecting more than 300 walkers and community resource exhibitors to be participating. In addition there will be live music, free snacks/drinks, and an arts & crafts area. The Alliance is proud to partner with the Tampa Bay chapter of the International Association of Eating Disorders Professionals to help spread the word about this important cause and make this walk a huge success.

The Alliance for Eating Disorders Awareness is a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing programs and activities aimed at outreach, education, political advocacy, and early intervention for all eating disorders. Since its establishment in 2000, the Alliance has offered presentations on eating disorders, positive body image, and self esteem to more than 250,000 individuals throughout Florida & nationwide. One of the most important missions of The Alliance for Eating Disorders Awareness is connecting those seeking help with resources and information to assist them in their recovery. Each year this organization publishes a comprehensive referral guide of U.S. treatment programs and regional eating disorders specialists. This invaluable resource will be distributed to Tampaarea middle & high schools, colleges, social service agencies, doctors offices, and made available online. Monies generated through this event will also be used to establish a free support group in Tampa for those who struggle with this deadly disorder. Visit www.allianceforeatingdisorders.com for more information or to register online.

some at-home study. Early Bird registration -register before January 13- is $18. Regular registration cost is $25.00 and registration deadline is January 26. No previous financial education or background in financial services is required to be a Florida Master Money Mentor. Training topics include effective communication strategies, cash flow management, credit, debt management, and saving and investing for future goals. Mentors are asked to commit to volunteering at least three hours per

week, and follow guidelines in regards to reporting, client confidentiality, and providing research-based unbiased information. Individuals who promote, sell, or endorse financial products or services are not eligible to be volunteers. But they can attend the training to increase their personal financial knowledge. Register online at https://2017fmmm.eventbrite.com . Seating is limited so register early to reserve a spot. For more information, contact Lisa Leslie, Hillsborough County Extension Services at 744-5519 ext. 54143 or lesliel@hillsboroughcounty.or g. The University of Florida Extension provides the infrastructure for this program throughout the state of Florida, thanks to a gift from Bank of America.

Offering personalized, professional, full-service & comprehensive eye care to patients of all ages. Personalized Eyecare • Stylish Eyewear • Contact Lens Fitting & Evaluations

Dr. Mary S. Lilly Board Certified Optometrist 5458 Lithia Pinecrest Rd, Lithia

813-689-2020

NOW ACCEPTING Care Credit & Most Insurances

www.FishHawkFamilyEyeCare.com

Mon 10 a.m. - 7 p.m. | Tues - Thurs 9 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. | Fri - 9 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.

Become A Florida Master Money Mentor and Help Others

UF/IFAS Hillsborough County Extension is offering training to those interested in becoming a Florida Master Money Mentor volunteer. The program is an opportunity for participants to learn more about personal finance and then share that knowledge with others. The four-week training is scheduled February 2, 9, 16 and 23 from 9:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the County Extension office, 5339 County Road 579 in Seffner. Participants must attend all four classes and complete

OUR BAGELS ARE BOILED & BAKED FRESH EVERY DAY

YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD BAGEL SHOP NOW OFFERING STRAWBERRY CRANBERRY BAGELS Fast & Easy Drive Thru & Carry Out

661-2878

13435 FishHawk Blvd

(at the corner of Boyette & Bell Shoals,facing FishHawk Blvd) HOURS: Mon-Fri 5am-3pm, Sat 6am-3pm, Sun 6am-2pm

for supporting our Local Businesses! They are the reason we can provide you with Positive, Local News each month!

Page 30

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

ale, S e g a m m u Plant & R arkinson’s Bingo, P roup & Support Ge… Mor olesanti, helle C d by Mic m Compile preyobserver.co s o @ e michell

Doors open at the Brandon Moose Lodge North Hall at 5:30 p.m. First number is called at 6:30 p.m. sharp. The cost is $10 and food is available for Riverview Garden Club Plant & Rummage Sale. sale before pational therapists will disthe games start, coffee and popcorn all cuss treatment for issues night. Every week there are over 20 related to balance, swallowgames and depending ing, talking and other skills on how many players that can be affected by there are, $700 to Parkinson’s Disease. $1,000 is given out The Parkinson’s Disease weekly. support group is free and The Brandon open to those who have Moose Lodge is locatbeen diagnosed with the dised at 804 S Miller Rd. ease, family members, carein Valrico.

Allen’s Cracker House and Cracker Church

Volume 16, Issue 2

SWAT Membership Open To All Woman

Volunteering for an organization can be very rewarding. That is why the volunteer Directors of SWAT Networking are all staying for another year. “2016 was an amazing year for us,” stated Executive Director, Deb Gerard with First Impressions, the women of “S.W.A.T.” (Successful Women Aligning Together) feel a bond that does not exist in other groups. “We are a sisterhood,” states Gerard. The organization provides a place for women in business to gather and

50 Shades Darker Girl's Night Out

Allen’s Cracker House And Church

Recently Allen’s Cracker House and Cracker Church hosted Hawthorne Village and the Palms Nursing Homes. They were entertained by Ronnie Smothers (Guitar) and Moses Vaurnum. Allen’s Cracker House is located at 19007 Dorman Rd. in Lithia. Call 758-4570 to schedule weddings, tours, family reunions, church functions & more.

Hawthorne Hosts Parkinson’s Disease Support Group

Hawthorne Health & Rehabilitation Center hosts a monthly support group for those who are diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease and caregivers. The next meetings will take place on Wednesday, February 15 and Friday, March 17. Physical, speech and occu-

Cleaning Services

givers and anyone with an interest in learning more about Parkinson’s. For more information or specific directions, call 661-8998 ext 204. Hawthorne Health & Rehabilitation Center, located at 851 West Lumsden Rd. in Brandon, is a skilled nursing facility with inpatient and outpatient rehabilitation programs including speech, physical and occupational therapies.

Tuesday Night Bingo Open To The Public

Tuesday night Bingo is open to both members and non-members of the Brandon Moose Lodge #1880.

by Bay Area Clean Team

• Commercial/Residential Services • Free Estimates • Family Owned & Operated • Licensed, Bonded & Insured

Serving: Brandon, Lithia, Fish-Hawk, Seffner, Riverview and surrounding areas

“Cleaning the world one Location at a time”

(813) 263-6643

On Tuesday, February 21, the GFWC Brandon Junior Woman's Club presents a fun filled evening to include popcorn, drinks, dinner and viewing of the movie 50 Shades Darker at AMC Regency 20 in Brandon. This event costs $25.Tickets are advanced sales only. Wear a dark tie in support of the evening's theme. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. Email BJWC.FL@gmail.com or phone 644-3134 for tickets and any additional information.

Riverview Garden Club Plant & Rummage Sale

On Saturday, February 25, the Riverview Garden Club will hold its annual Plant & Rummage sale from 8 a.m.-2 p.m. or until sold out. Cash only. Clothing, toys jewelry, household items, baked goods and half priced plants will be available. Admission and parking are free. It is located at 11020 Park Dr. in Riverview.

The Directors of SWAT Networking groups throughout the area.

support each other. With seven chapters to choose from, the group has a Director for each chapter and each chapter has a “team” of volunteers. The Directors all have their own businesses to promote and have busy lives, but all enjoy giving of their time for their “SWAT Sisters”. Membership is open to all women. As a member, you would be able to bring business cards, brochures, and flyers to any of the chapter luncheons to put on a “Members Only” table, as well as promote your business by doing a “30second commercial” and of course, guests are always welcome to attend as often and as many meetings as they wish. For more information, visit www.swatnetworking.com.

Legal Notice Notice Under Fictitious Name Law Pursuant to Section 865.09, Florida Statutes NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned, desiring to engage in business under the fictitious name of HYDRONAMIX located at , in Hillsborough County, in the City of 4430 Lithia Springs Rd. Lithia, Florida 33547 intends to register the said name with the Division of Corporations of the Florida Department of State, Tallahassee, Florida. Dated at Brandon, Florida, this 11th day of January, 2017. Jason Hebbard LLC

February 2017

Page 31

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Family Promise Graduations Help Keep Homeless Families Together Two weeks before Christmas, DyAnn Dalton, a mother of three was down-andout with no place to go. She explained, “I had a really hard time finding help. Family Promise was the first place that got me the practical help I needed, and it was quick.” In Hillsborough County, 18 percent of the homeless are families. Family Promise of Greater Brandon is a non-profit public charity partnering with local churches and resource centers to help homeless families attain perJohn Hamman, a single father of manent sustainable two daughters graduated from the Family Promise program in housing. The 90-day November 2016. program is not a shortdesigned to term fix. It equips families with a plan to keep the famibecome self-sufficient through its handsly together, on training in financial literacy and caseespecially for by-case management of resources and single dads. Keeping the family together services. increases stability for the children.” A vast majority of homeless shelters In pursuit of a potential job, Shaun separate families based on gender and and Althea Weller along with their three age. However, Family Promise furnishes children packed up and relocated from room and board for the entire family in Mobile, Alabama to the Tampa Bay area. temporary spaces offered by local conUnfortunately, the anticipated employgregations. John Hamman, a single ment was delayed for a few weeks. With father of two daughters encountered no cash flow, the family stayed at a local countless closed doors until he knocked campground and waited for the work to on Family Promises’ door. Edwina begin. But misfortune struck again—this Reddick, the director of Family Promise time in the form of a storm. explained, “There are not many programs

By Amanda Boston

to different shelters, but Family Promise was the only place where we could all stay together,” said Mr. Weller. In September 2016, Shaun and Althea Weller graduated from the program. Today, the dual-income family resides in regular rent housing as opposed to low-income housing. “God answered our prayers. We learned how to budget and won’t end up in the same place again,” affirmed Shaun. Family Promise of Greater Brandon operates with minimal In September 2016, Shaun and staffing. The driving force Althea Weller with their chil- behind the organization is its dren, Joshua, Kaleb and Naomi kindhearted volunteers, concelebrated their graduation and gregations and donors. The move into an apartment. organization is locally funded “A terrible through donations, grants and fundraising storm destroyed Without volunteers and donors, events. the campsite and Family Promise would cease to exist. To all of our things. In find out more how you can donate or volthe parking lot, we unteer, visit FamilyPromiseBrandon.org started praying. or call 681-6170. We called around

NOTICE OF NONDISCRIMINATORY POLICY AS TO STUDENTS Foundation Christian Academy admits students of any race, color, national and ethnic origin to all rights, privileges, programs, and activities generally accorded or made available to students at the school. It does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national and ethnic origin in administration of its educational policies, admissions policies, scholarship and loan programs, and athletic and other school-administered programs.

Happy Valentine’s Day from

e Lov n I l Fal ith W air rH You ain! Ag

Full Service Hair Salon for Men, Women & Children Also Specializing in:

Hormonal Hair Loss, Medication Hair Loss and Hereditary Baldness

NON-SURGICAL TREATMENT SKIN CANCER

Most Insurances Accepted

Dr. Robert Norman Dr. William Eng Dr. Charles Dewberry Holly Pohler, ARNP Clarissa Gabriel, ARNP

Diagnosis & Treatment of Skin Cancer & Diseases of the Skin, Hair & Nails Radiation & Laser Treatment for Skin Conditions Treatments for Spider Veins & Rosacea Cryotherapy for Pre-Cancers Botox, Restylane, Juvederm & Other Fillers Dermatological Products Available In-Office: Clairsonic, Bleaching Cream, Image, Mederma, Retin-A, and More

$195 SHINGLES VACCINES (LESS if you have insurance!)

10422 U.S. Hwy 301, Riverview

Call Today! 813-880-7546

We have non-surgical permanent hair solutions for you! Call for a FREE Consultation Laura Craig – Owner/Operator- 25+ years experience

WIGS FOR SALE AND MUCH MUCH MORE 146 W. Robertson Street • Brandon, FL 33511 813-990-9234 • laura@lgchairrestoration.com Follow me on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lgchairrestoration

AWARDS WON:

2016 TOP 25 TRAVEL AGENT

Page 32

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

P R E SS

Authorized:

Reporter

Tamas

Mondovics tamas@ ver.com ospreyobser

Rd. Pinecrest11 918 Lithia n, FL 335 Brando -24 18 657 bserver.com www.ospreyo

Volume 16, Issue 2

Sports Connection 657-2418 www.ospreyobserver.com

Dynamic Duo Bethoney & Lewis Shatters Bulls Basketball Records

By Nick Nahas

Nick Lewis and Drew Bethoney then I would not have have been a dynamic duo since they nearly as many assists joined forces at Burns Middle School as I do now.” in the 6th grade. The two friends have Drew has had simibeen attached at the hip since then, lar success, crushing leading Bloomingdale High School to its first district championship in 20 years last season. They now head into their senior seasons as co-captains of their team, with a chance Nick Lewis (left) and Drew Bethoney to set a win(right) with their mothers, Susan Bethoney and Tracy Lewis, after a game. ning standard at Drew Bethoney (right) and his older brother Ryan Bloomingdale Bethoney (left) when they were younger. and establish a legacy for years to come. the school records for The boys were competitors long most 3-point field before they stepped on the court at goals in a game with Bloomingdale. They went head-to10, most 3-point field head as 7-year-olds in YMCA recregoals in a season ational leagues. Both players were so with 96, and he has skilled at a young age, that they were recently eclipsed the able to play basketball with kids older career 3-point field than them. Because of their talent, the goal record of 213, other players in the league did not previously held by want to play against them if they were Callum Townsend on the same team; therefore they (Univ. of Tampa), Drew Bethoney (left) and Nick Lewis (right) talking strategy never played alongside each other one of the best after a timeout. until middle school. wings to ever play in The Lewis and Bethoney family The sharpshooters took their Hillsborough county. Drew is indisBloomingdale basketball legacy began game to the next level, while doing it putably the best shooter that before Nick and Drew suited up for in style. Both players have been outBloomingdale has had in its 30-year the Bulls. Ryan Bethoney (2012) and standing during their high school history. On January 13 against Spencer Lewis (2014) were both very careers, breaking longstanding school Durant, he surpassed 1,000 career good players in their own right, laying records that many thought would points; a feat that only a handful of the foundation for their younger brothnever be broken. Nick Lewis shatplayers at Bloomingdale have accomers. Ryan played four years of college tered Vic Rook’s record for most plished. The last player to reach that basketball at Montreat College in assists (295) in a career at mark was Drew’s brother, Ryan North Carolina before rejoining the Bloomingdale on January 10 against Bethoney (Bloomingdale, 2012). “It Bulls as an assistant coach this seaTampa Bay Tech. “It means a lot. I feels awesome. It's a great memory son. Both older brothers have made a know that I wouldn't have been able that I will never forget,” said Drew. ”It huge impact on their younger brothto achieve it without my teammates,” feels great to have all these accomer’s lives. “Drew likes to joke around a said Lewis. “Coach Willis is the masplishments in my life. These individual lot, but at the same time he knows ter behind all of the plays that set up achievements are like team achievewhen to stop and take things seriousmy teammates. If it wasn't for him, ments as well.”

ly,” said Ryan. “As his big brother, I'd like to think that I've played a pretty big role in his life. He grew up watching me play ball and saw how I acted both on and off the court. I would like to think that I was somewhat of a role model for him.” Nick and his older brother, Spencer, being only a couple of years apart, are very close.

On January 13th against Durant, Drew Bethoney surpassed 1,000 career points.

Spencer helped fuel Nick’s competitive fire. “Ever since Nick was a little kid, he always had that competitiveness and self motivation to be the best at whatever he was doing,” said Spencer. “Whether it was school or sports, he always wanted to be great.” The young protégés both have the opportunity to play basketball at the next level in college. The pair has received Division III offers and might also gain some Division II offers after the season. As for now, they want to finish their high school careers on a good note. “Nick and Drew will leave a legacy of success and hard work,” said Joe Willis, head coach of the Bloomingdale basketball team. “Their commitment to Bloomingdale and their teammates has been unmatched in the eight years I have been at Bloomingdale.”

February 2017

Page 33

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Sports

Connection Newsome Claims Class 5A-6 District Title, With 4-1 Win Against Riverview Story by Tamas Mondovics

Photo By Tamas Mondovics

Newsome junior Jenna Oldham, (3) takes a shot at the Riverview goal during the Class 5A District 6 final game. Oldham’s skills proved to be a major part of Newsome’s 4-1 victory against Riverview, the program’s fourth consecutive district title and its undefeated (18-0-3) regular season record ahead of the region playoffs.

Coaches and fans representing Newsome (5A-6) and Bloomingdale (4A-9) High School girls soccer programs had plenty to celebrate last month after the two teams claimed their respective district championships. For the fourth year in a row, Newsome claimed the district trophy, after defeating Riverview, 4-1, and advancing to the much tougher round of regional playoffs. As district champs, boasting an 18-0-3 undefeated regular season, Newsome’s win came in the wake of a near miss just two days prior during the Class 5A, District 6 semifinal, serving as a wakeup call and a reminder

that they are indeed a state-title contender. Newsome did not disappoint the parents and fans who came to show their unconditional support, despite Riverview (9-6-1) scoring the first goal of the night in the 14th minute. Newsome regrouped and never looked back, proving to the district that they are a top high school soccer team in Hillsborough County. The scoring began just two minutes later when Newsome sophomore Sophie Shrader skillfully kicked the ball into the back of the net to tie the game 1-1. Scoreless for the remainder of the

Bloomingdale High School Girls soccer team celebrate their Class 4A District 9 Championship victory. The Lady Bulls posted a 6-0 district record to advance to the region playoffs.

first half, Newsome’s onslaught of shots were blocked by Riverview’s very talented goal keeper Summer Simpson. Newsome Coach, Kelly Townsend, assisted by John Evensen, put things in perspective at half time. Townsend motivated the girls just moments before the second half by saying, “We got this!” The tie was eventually broken in the 61st minute, when Newsome senior, Lauren Evans, assisted by Jenna Oldham changed the score to 2-1. Emma Milligan added one more goal to make it 3-1 followed by senior captain Addison Ura’s goal that sealed Newsome’s fourth straight district tile victory.

Confident of the team’s future, Kelly confirmed that her girls are in position to do more than just coming close to the state title when she told reporters, “I think this group can do it, they just might have what it takes.” The Bloomingdale Lady Bulls, coached by Heather Iverson, have also managed to post a 10-1-1 overall record, while maintaining an outstanding undefeated 6-0 district run. While a cause for celebration, both Newsome and Bloomingdale are yet to win their first state title. For more information visit, Florida High School Athletic Association (FHSAA) region and state playoffs please visit www.fhsaa.org.

Specialty Sweets for Every Occasion Custom Cakes, Desserts, Pastries & Breads

GLUTEN FREE OFFERINGS AVAILABLE WITH ADVANCE NOTICE. 1017 E. Bloomingdale Avenue (next to Firehouse Subs)

Order TODAY!

(813) 681-CAKE (2253) • www.petitemadelynsbakery.com petitemadelynsbakery@gmail.com Hours of Operation: Tue-Fri: 10-7 pm | Sat: 10-5 pm | Sun-Mon: Closed

Page 34

Volume 16, Issue 2

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

The Brenda Wade Team Loves Your Signature Realty Associates Top Producer 2002 - 2016

SOL

103 Laurel Tree Way

D SOL

617 Rooks Rd

SOL

104 Locust Dr

105 4th Ave NE #217

D SOL

638 Marphil Loop

#1 AGENT in Lithia, Valrico and Brandon

704 Sand Ridge Dr

SOL

105 W Chelsea St

D SOL

808 Hillside Ter

D SOL

1501 W Horatio St #102

1501 W Horatio St #120

D SOL

D SO L

D SOL

1934 Old Sawmill Rd

2004 Wexford Green Dr

2012 Golf Manor Blvd

2103 Ramblewood Ln

D SOL

2538 Laurelwood Ln

D SOL

3008 W Leila Ave

D SOL

2601 Pankaw Ln

1504 Uncle Buds Ln

2606 Queen Alberta Dr

D SOL

3014 Ridgevale Cir

D SOL

4404 Merrick Run Ln

4405 Merrick Run Ln

D SOL

3021 Colonial Ridge Dr

D SOL

D SO L

1508 Windy Gap Pl

2610 Red Fern Dr

D SOL

3033 Starmount Dr

9807 Palazzo St

D SOL

11504 Balintore Dr

D SOL

14410 Edinburgh Moor Dr

5922 Flatwoods Manor Cir

6744 Eagle Feather Dr

9902 Springway Dr

D SOL

11505 Blue Crane St

11520 Blue Crane St

SOL

14844 Heronglen Dr

14849 Heronglen Dr

D SOL

16039 Cape Coral Dr

2136 River Turia Cir

16206 Bayberry View Dr

5928 Jaegerglen Dr

D SO L

6910 Crown Lake Dr

D SOL

10307 St. Francis Ter

D SOL

11705 Lincoln St

SOL

14902NorthwoodVillageLn

226 Bryan Oak Ave

D SOL

1007 Crystal Carbon Way

D SOL

1639 Ledgestone Dr

D SOL

2202 Longmore Cir

D SOL

236 Mystic Falls Dr

D SOL

1008 Cicero Ln

D SOL

1639 Open Field Loop

D SO L

2202 Woodberry Rd

D SO L

D SOL

2634 Valencia Grove Dr

2707 Golf Heights Cir

2717 Fairway View Dr

2805 Durant Trails Blvd

D SO L

D SOL

D SO L

3108 Clovewood Pl

3111 Magnolia Meadows Dr

5321 Alafia Falls Dr

5403 Match Point Pl

3309 Eastmonte Dr

D SOL

4514 Glassyrock Dr

D SOL

5413 Fishhawk Ridge Dr

D SOL

6007 Caldera Ridge Dr

6021 Hammock Hill Ave

6021 Palomaglade Dr

D SOL

6913 Potts Rd

D SOL

10443 Flagstaff Falls Ave

D SOL

6941 Surrey Oak Dr

7011 Lithia Woods Ct

3316 W San Miguel St N

D SOL

4518 Glassyrock Dr

D SO L

5504 Branch Oak Pl

D SOL

6106 Audubon Manor Blvd

D SOL

7114 Bowspirit Pl

D SOL

D SO L

10448 Ashley Oaks Dr

10501 Lithia Estates Dr

D SOL

D SO L

D SOL

10812 Brickside Ct

11831 Frost Aster Dr

12010 Grand Kempston Dr

D SOL

14937 Dead River Rd

15104 Kestrelglen Way

15202 Fishhawk Preserve Dr

11732 Albatross Ln

11811 Twilight Darner Pl

D SOL

SOL

16225 Bridgepark Dr

16301 Bridgeglade Ln

16309 Dunlindale Dr

17429 Chelsea Downs Cir

D SOL

D S OL

SOL

D SOL

D SO L

D SOL

9812 Palazzo St

D SO L

4490 Fairway Oaks Dr

D SO L

D SOL

2111 River Turia Cir

1624 Emerald Hill Way

D SOL

D SO L

4430 Merrick Run Ln

D SOL

6701 N 13th St

1522 Booth Dr

1002 Giggleswick Ln

D SOL

6613 Dolphin Cove Dr

D SOL

4426 Winding River Dr

D SO L

839 Ashton Oaks Cir

208 Valencia Ct N

D SOL

4415 Cooper Rd

5317 Sanderling Ridge Dr

D SOL

5307 Green Oasis Dr

5916 Tulip Flower Dr

116 Brookover Ln

D SOL

D SO L

5302 Alafia Falls Dr

OLD

D SOL

5220 Bannister Park Ln

5908 Cherry Oak Dr

Signs!

With 321 Sales in 2016!

SOL

SOLD

D SOL

17839 Mission Oak Dr

17840 Mission Oak Dr

SOL

307 Summer Clouds Pl

D SOL

1009 Emerald Creek Dr

D SOL

1725 S Kings Ave

D SOL

2208 Arbor Oaks Dr

D SO L

2807 Colewood Ln

D SOL

3522 Cordgrass Dr

D SOL

4524 Oak River Cir

D SOL

SOL

314 Lake Parsons Grn #108

SOL

1024 Jameson Rd

SOL

1775 S Kings Ave

D SO L

2218 Glen Mist Dr

D SOL

2810 Mossy Timber Trl

D SO L

3539 Shadowood Dr

D SOL

4551 Limerick Dr

D SOL

5628 Pine St

5611 Lark Meadow Pl

D SOL

6107 Ibispark Dr

D SOL

7205 Hourglass Dr

D SOL

6108 Audubon Manor Blvd

D SOL

7209 Hourglass Dr

D SO L

10838 Charmwood Dr

10923 Brooksnest Ct

D SOL

12202 Stonelake Ranch Blvd 12206 Creek Preserve Dr

SOL

15210 Kestrelrise Dr

15305 Long Cypress Dr

D SOL

SO L

16311 Dunlindale Dr

16322 Palmettoglen Ct

16415 Bridgelawn Ave

D SOL

17920 Burnt Oak Ln

BRENDA (813) 924-8677 â&#x20AC;¢ OFFICE (813) 655-5333

SOL

15430 Osprey Glen Dr

February 2017

Page 35

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Our Goal Is To Make Your Dreams Come True! We Take Great Care Of Our Customers! You Are Always Our NUMBER ONE! D SO L

330 Cedar Falls Dr

D SOL

1107 Savannah Landings Ave

D SOL

1804 Flat Branch Ct

D SOL

2251 Eagle Bluff Dr

D SOL

2810 Springdell Cir

D SOL

404 Apache Ln

D SOL

1110 Fredrick Ln

D SOL

1806 Via Palermo St

D SOL

504 Centerbrook Dr

D SOL

1220 Tuxford Dr

D SOL

1816 Holloway Rd

D SOL

2258 Kings Palace Dr #2258 2260 Kings Palace Dr #102

D SOL

2815 Laurel Leaf Dr

SOL

D SOL

2821 Holly Bluff Ct

SOL

3705 Wicket Field Rd

3802 Hollow Wood Dr

D SOL

4603 Somerset Hill Ln

4603 W Sunset Blvd

4606 River Close Blvd

D SOL

5717 Tanagerside Rd

5806 Peach Heather Trl

D SOL

3701 Redwood Dr

5713 Ternwater Pl

D SOL

6110 Osprey Lake Cir

D SOL

7419 Valrie Ln

6111 Audubon Manor Blvd

D SOL

8020 Alamosa Wood Ave

6111 Kestrelridge Dr

D SO L

8118 Camella Ln

505 Apache Ln

1304 Sugar Maple Ln

1819 Streetman Dr

2304 Oakhurst Ct

2853 Conch Hollow Dr

3814 Polumbo Dr

D SOL

4701 Lina Ct

D SOL

5806 Phoebenest Dr

2320 Kenwick Dr

2902 Red Coat Cir

3818 Turkey Oak Dr

6113 Audubon Manor Blvd

D SOL

1824 S Ridge Dr

1904 River Crossing Dr

D SOL

2331 Valrico Forest Dr

2403 Stonehill Ave

D SOL

2908 Mossy Timber Trl

2911 Hansen Manor Ln

D SOL

3820 Buckingham Loop Dr

3939 Appletree Dr

12329 Juniper Field Ct

12359 Silton Peace Dr

2408 Clareside Dr

D SOL

3003 Waylon Ln

SOL

4101 W Bank Ave

5121 Rolling Fairway Dr

D SOL

5806 Terncrest Dr

5807 Water Color Dr

D SOL

6116 Kestrelridge Dr

6123 Charolais Dr

D SOL

5808 Wire Grass Trl

11229Wembley Landing Dr

12930 Rain Forest St

D SOL

D SO L

D SOL

15512 Avocetview Ct

15516 Avocetview Ct

15521 Starling Crossing Dr

15529 Martinmeadow Dr

15607 Sunset Run Ln

D SOL

D SO L

16419 Dunlindale Dr

16427 Chapman Crossing Dr

16436 Kingletridge Ave

16439 Bridgewalk Dr

11307 Tralee Dr

D SOL

6124 Audubon Manor Blvd

6321 Osprey Lake Cir

D SO L

D SOL

11407 Dutch Iris Dr

D SOL

13016 Waterford Run Dr

13249Wellington Hills Dr

D SOL

15649 Starling Water Dr

15660 Starling Water Dr

D SOL

D SO L

17108CarringtonParkDr#710

D SOL

D SO L

19407 Sandy Springs Cir

19604 Eagle Crest Dr

5830 Village Center Dr

D SOL

12505 30th St Cir E

D SOL

5112 Rolling Fairway Dr

D SO L

D SOL

1906 Canterbury Ln #L15

4920 Pointe O Woods Dr

D SOL

4905 Breyer Wood Ct

8811 Stillwaters Landing Dr 8912 Aberdeen Creek Cir 8914 Aberdeen Creek Cir

D SOL

1425 W New Hampshire St

D SOL

8324 Manor Club Cir Unit #4

D SOL

11015Wembley Landing Dr 11110 Foster Carriage Rd 11110Wembley Landing Dr

604 Apache Ln

D SOL

11008 Stone Branch Dr

D SO L

D SOL

1417 Clarion Dr

1324 Lorea Ln

D SOL

D SO L

12230 Stonelake Ranch Blvd

1822 Citrus Orchard Way

557 Vista Ridge Dr

D SOL

D S OL

D SOL

1308 E Frierson Ave

D SOL

525 Kensington Lake Cir

D SOL

SOL

517 Sand Ridge Dr

D SOL

17207 Keely Dr

9214 Meadow Lane Ct

SOL

611 Marcum Rd

D SOL

1430 Monte Lake Dr

D SO L

1912 Horseshoe Dr

D SOL

2437 Bucknell Dr

SOL

613 Citrus Wood Ln

D SOL

1443 Scotch Pine Dr

D SOL

1932 Old Sawmill Rd

D SOL

2515 Magnolia Leaf Ln

D SOL

3005 Minuteman Ln

3007 Minuteman Ln

SOL

4308 Kipling Ave

D SOL

5202 Rosefinch Pl

D SOL

5839 Esker Falls Ln

D S OL

6418 Bridgecrest Dr

SOL

4312 Faircourt Dr

SOL

5211 Sand Trap Pl

D SOL

5905 Jaegerglen Dr

D S OL

6536 Carrington Sky Dr

D SOL

9341 Hidden Water Cir

9714 Laurel Ledge Dr

D SOL

SOL

11412 Newgate Crest Dr

11417 Coventry Grove Cir

11424 Smokethorn Dr

D SOL

13445 Graham Yarden Dr 13911 Goldfinch Glade Ln

D SO L

15827 StarlingWater Dr

D SOL

17337 Chelsea Downs Cir

D SO L

16005 Courtside View Dr

14024 Aldford Dr

SOL

16013 Courtside View Dr

D SOL

17418 New Cross Cir

D SO L

Walter Hunter Rd

BRENDA@BRENDAWADE.COM â&#x20AC;¢ WWW.BRENDAWADE.COM

Page 36

Volume 16, Issue 2

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Have Happy Hour With The Florida Orchestra By Kelly Smith

Are you tired of Light snacks will rush hour traffic in be included for Tampa? Then let the free. Radio station music move you 93.3 WFLZ is a media sponsor of instead. In February, this series. The Florida Orchestra debuts a Happy Hour The Happy Concert series on Hour Concerts Thursdays after work are: at the Straz Center in A Toast to the Tampa. It’s a spirited Classics – mix of live symphonic Thursday, music, free drinks and February 2, a meet-and-greet with Ferguson Hall at TFO musicians. Meet the three main conductors, each the Straz - A light of whom will conduct one Happy Hour and lively night, The three conconcert: Stuart Malina, left, Michael certs are a whole new with Bernstein’s Francis, center, and Jeff Tyzik, right. way to experience, Candide Overture, and get to know, the orchestra in a Brahms’ Academic Festival Overture casual atmosphere. Doors and lobby and Prokofiev’s Summer Day. Stuart bars will open at 5:30 p.m. and an Malina conducts hour-long concert with no intermission American Spirit[s] – Thursday, begins at 6:30 p.m. Patrons are welFebruary 23, Ferguson Hall at the come to linger in the lobby afterward Straz - Music made in the USA, includto sip and mingle with Florida ing a Duke Ellington Portrait, Orchestra musicians. Each concert Gershwin’s An American in Paris, and features one of TFO’s premier conduc- a real treat: Jeff Tyzik conducting his tors: Music Director Michael Francis, own work, New York Cityscape. Principal Pops Conductor Jeff Tyzik Scheherazade: A Fantasy in Music and Principal Guest Conductor Stuart – Thursday, March 23, Morsani Hall at the Straz - Love. Murder. Deceit. Malina. Rimsky-Korsakov’s haunting music The concerts are presented by weaves the classic tale of Smith & Associates Real Estate, and Scheherazade, with Michael Francis all tickets are $35 general admission as your guide. Tickets may be purseating. Drinks from sponsors will be chased online at floridaorchestra.org, complimentary, including Stella Artois by phone at 727-892-3337 and 1-800beer and Tito’s Handmade Vodka. 662-7286, and at the Florida Orchestra Other drinks, including soda and box office. water, will be available for purchase.

Hidden Valley Fried Chicken Over 60 years ago, a Nebraska-born entrepreneur cowboy dreamed of striking it rich. Like so many young men before him, Steve Henson headed west with his high school sweetheart, Gayle. Nestled in the mountains, he stumbled upon 120 acres of sprawling land filled with streams, waterfalls and picturesque views outside Santa Barbara, California. It was there that Hidden Valley Ranch was born. The family bought the land in 1954 and ran Hidden Valley Ranch, offering hiking tours, horseback riding and fishing during the day. At night, folks would enjoy a homecooked meal before gathering around the campfire to listen to stories. Guests came to enjoy the great outdoors and wholesome meals, but it was something else that made them come back: the delicious, homemade buttermilk salad dressing with a special blend of herbs and spices lovingly prepared by the proprietor, what we know today as the original Ranch dressing. Who knew that Hidden Valley Ranch dressing, a mix of herbs, spices and buttermilk whipped up back in the ‘50s, would grow to sell throughout the United States and eventually in more than 30 countries. In 1972 the brand was bought by Clorox for $8 million.

Ingredients & Directions 6-8 pieces of frying chicken 1 quart buttermilk 1 packet of Hidden Valley Original Ranch salad dressing mix 4 eggs, beaten with 1/2 cup of water

3 cups of self-rising flour 4 Tablespoons salt 2 Tablespoons pepper 2 Tablespoons sweet paprika 2 Tablespoons garlic powder 2 Tablespoons onion powder

Mix packet of Hidden Valley mix with buttermilk. Place chicken in shallow pan and cover with buttermilk mixture. Marinate overnight. Beat eggs with water and place in bowl. Mix all dry ingredients together in separate bowl. Dip marinated chicken in egg wash and then in flour mixture. Fry in cast iron or heavy skillet not over half full of peanut oil at 350 degrees F. Place dark meat in center of pan and white meat on the sides. Fry until brown and crispy, (about 10 to 14 minutes). Drain on wire rack, not on paper towel. White meat will cook faster than dark.

Lithia / FishHawk • 813-655-3700 • www.pinchapenny.com 16715 FishHawk Boulevard (Across from Newsome High School) Lic # CPC 1458117

February 2017

Page 37

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Photos and story by Tamas Mondovics

New School-Warren Hope Dawson Named, Kindergarten Roundup & More

Hillsborough County Public Schools Hold a Kindergarten Round Up Period For 2017-2018 School Year

Families interested in enrolling their child in their assigned, attendance area school should attend the Kindergarten Round Up event scheduled for that school. Area schools hosting the event in February and March includes Lithia Springs Elementary on Thursday, February 9 from 5:30-7 p.m., Stowers Elementary on Thursday, February 16 from 6-7:30 p.m. and Bevis Elementary

Instructional Support Employee of the Year Finalists • Nancy Alexander, Wimauma Elementary School • Terranique Ragins, Franklin Boys Preparatory School • Roma Soogrim-EsteMcDonald, Muller Elementary Magnet School Ida S. Baker Diversity Educator of the Year Finalists • Olivia Williams Holcombe, Colson Elementary • Aaron Lee Berry, Alonso High School • Pedro Castrejon, Jefferson High School Teacher of the Year Finalists • Carrie D. Donatelli, Turner Bartels K- 8 • Katerina M. Pawloski, Tinker K-8 • Lauren Schnebly Hackworth, Mitchell Elementary School • Maria Torres-Crosby, Memorial Middle School • Elizabeth Walker, Spoto High School • Cathelyn Gregoire, Armwood High School

on Wednesday, March 8 from 5:30-7 p.m. Parents who attend are encouraged to bring their child’s birth certificate, health and home address documentation to register their child for kindergarten. Parents unable to attend the Round Up are encouraged to enroll their child in to school by the end of June. Families can apply directly online for School Choice and magnet options by visiting www.sdhc.k12.fl.us and searching “Go Choice.” For a detailed list of Kindergarten Round Ups and a list of accepted documentation for enrollment, parents should visit the district website at www.sdhc.k12.fl.us and see the “Kindergarten Round Up” information on the home page. For more information, contact Terrie DodsonCaldevilla at 272-4048.

District Announces 2017 Excellence in Education Awards Finalists

Hillsborough County Public Schools officials were pleased to post the names of twelve finalists of the 2017 Excellence in Education Awards. District officials explained that each year, all area schools nominate the top candidates for three categories, including, the Ida S. baker Diversity Educator of the Year, Instructional Support Employee of the year and Teacher of the Year. The finalists were notified of the news in surprise visits earlier this month at their school and were joined by Superintendent Eakins, School

Board members, Hillsborough Education Foundation, sponsors and school district staff. The winners will be announced at the Awards ceremony planned for Tuesday, February 28 at the David A. Straz Jr. Center for the Performing Arts.

HCPS Schools Recognized as Five Star Schools

Hillsborough County Public Schools officials were pleased to announce that more than 90 of the schools within the district have earned the Five Star School Award for the

P.O. Box 6099 • Brandon, FL 33508

888-466-8055

2015-16 school year by the Florida Department of Education. Statewide nearly 700 schools were recognized. Some of the local elementary schools recognized included Bevis, FishHawk Creek, Cimino, Lithia Springs, Pinecrest, Stowers, along with Randall Middle and Newsome High, just to name a few. Florida’s Education Commissioner, Pam Stewart, said that the involvement of the community and family are critical to the success of students. “I am grateful for the parents, caregivers and community members who invest their time in our state’s schools,” Stewart said. To gain the Five-Star School recognition, a school must show achievement in all of benchmark areas as well as in five specific categories, including volunteerism and family involvement. The school must also receive a grade of a “C” or better, or a satisfactory improvement rating for the year being recognized. Click below for the list of schools in Hillsborough County that received the honor. http://www.fldoe.org/newsroom/latest-news/tampa-bay-area-schools-recognized-as-five-star-schools.stml.

• Water, Fire, Smoke & Mold Remediation and Restoration • Residential & Commercial Buildings • 24/7 Emergency Service • Licensed and Insured • Trained and Certified Technicians • Customer Satisfaction Guaranteed • Locally Owned & Operated

www.Restoration1.com/Tampa-Bay State Licenses: CGC 1514699 (General)• MRSR 2642 (Mold Remediator)

Welcome to Our Family Owned & Operated

FREE

Full Service Car Wash with Oil Change.

5 OFF

$ 00

Includes Filter & 5 qts Oil*

Brushless Car Wash, Lube & Detail Center

Everyday Low Price: $34.95 Expires 2/28/2017

Hole In One

Expires 2/28/2017

657-6500 • 3618 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. Hours: 8am - 5pm Monday - Saturday Visa • MasterCard • American Express • Discover

Do you suffer from low sex drive, chronic fatigue, unresolved back or joint pain, or concerned about lyme disease or autism? If you answered “YES” to any of these questions, then our clinicians CAN HELP with our non-traditional, integrative approach to medicine. Doctors have been successfully treating patients with low sex drive, chronic pain, sports injuries and more. • PRP for Chronic Pain and Muscle Injuries • Hyperbaric Chamber for Stroke and Autism • UVB for Immune Disorders and more

Wendy’s

W Morgan St HOLISTIC MEDICAL

N Parsons Ave

Hillsborough County School Board Members recently voted to name the new elementary school, slated to open in August 2017, for Warren Hope Dawson. Warren Hope Dawson is an attorney specializing in matters involving civil rights and labor relations, and is a community leader. Dawson was instrumental in the desegregation of Hillsborough County Public Schools beginning in 1974. He is a graduate of FAMU and is active in the NAACP. He has spent years working for educational and leadership opportunities for area youth. Principal Derrick McLaughlin, who was appointed in December, will lead the new Warren Hope Dawson Elementary School. The school, scheduled to open in the 2017-2018 school year, will be located in the Triple Creek Subdivision south of Big Bend Road and East of Balm Riverview Road. The new school is built to serve approximately 952 students from pre-kindergarten to fifth grade in 48 classrooms. The new school will pull students from Summerfield Elementary, Stowers Elementary, Collins Elementary, Sessums Elementary and Boyette Springs Elementary. The construction process is fully underway at the school site. The next seven to eight months will consist of strategic planning with operations, the community and district offices to prepare for a successful opening in August.

Finalists For Excellence In Education Awards:

N Moon Ave

New Elementary School Named for Warren Hope Dawson

W Brandon Blvd

HOLISTIC MEDICAL CARE CLINIC LLC 205 W Morgan St, Brandon, FL 33510 813-398-0470 | www.HolisticMedicalCare.net

Page 38

Volume 16, Issue 2

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

HO C E , a e T Valentines Hours To Extend g, Golf Evenin & More… ent Tourmnpilaedmby MichelleeCr.coolemsanti, Co serv spreyob o @ e ll e mich

any questions and to RSVP. Childcare is not available for this event. Torah and Tea will take place at Beit Shuvat Zion / For Zion’s Sake Ministry, located at 1010 John Moore Rd. in Brandon.

ECHO Will Open Its Doors Tuesday Nights

Emergency Care Help Organization (ECHO) of Brandon is excited to announce that for the first time in 30 years, it will have night time hours. Along with the regular hours of Monday-Friday, 8:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m., ECHO will also be open every night from 5-7 p.m. Clients will be able to receive the

Brandon Christian Women’s Connection Valentine Tea

The Brandon Christian Women’s Connection welcomes all ladies to their annual Valentine Tea, Tea for Two, with ballroom dancing by Kelly Chandler on Monday February 13 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. It will take place in Bell Shoals Baptist Church Special Event Center, 2102 Bell Shoals Rd. in Brandon. A full high tea/lunch with entertainment is $15. First time guests pay $10. No membership is required, but a reservation due to limited seating is requested by Friday, February 3. Please call Lillie at 740-0098 for reservation.

Charity Golf Tournament For Foundation That Mentors Teens Aging From Foster System

Torah And Tea: Understanding The Jewish Roots Of The Christian Faith

Join in for tea and cookies on the second Monday of every month beginning Monday, February 13 from 10 a.m.-12 Noon to learn about the restoration of, and our connection to, the Promised Land, the people of God, and the scriptures of Israel. Call Beth at 857-7818 if you have

same services offered during the day. This includes, shopping for food and clothing. ECHO will also be offering a night time GED class. “We estimate seeing an additional 500 families a year, simply by keeping our lights on, one night a week” says

Grow Into You Foundation Inc., a local non-profit, recently started by certified Life Coach, Erin NeSmith CPC, ELI-MP, will be hosting a golf tournament fundraiser on Saturday, March 18. Grow Into You Foundation Inc., is a 501(c)(3), aimed at providing coaching and mentoring to teens currently in the foster care system about to age out, or have recently aged out of the system. Most

of the teens aging out of the foster care system have little to no support, and at the age of 18 find themselves struggling to figure out their next steps. The foundation provides coaching to three foster care group homes in the Tampa Bay area, as well as working with several individual teens aged out or soon to age out. To expand, the foundation is looking to partner with local businesses, individuals and organizations to financially support these coaching services. The golf tournament will be held at River Hills Country Club at 1 p.m. to raise funds to provide services to more teens. Local businesses are being sought to provide donation items or items to be used for a silent auction. To donate or to register for the event or for more information, Erin NeSmith at erin@growintoyoufoundation.org or call 966-4582 or visit www.growintoyou.org/golf.

Life Story Of Martin Luther, Portrayal

Experience the Life Story of Martin Luther on Wednesday, February 8 at Immanuel Lutheran Church, located at 2913 John Moore Rd. in Brandon. The Reverend Gary Schuschke will portray Martin Luther at 2 p.m. at the school's chapel service, and 7:30 p.m. at the church. For more information, call 6540264.

aj westfall

rt the dai tors inn is Cool! te.wrhem re Clea

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

www.BackyardBirdseed.com

BackyardBirdseed@gmail.com

813-816-BIRD (2473)

Executive Director, Eleanor Saunders. ECHO’s new night time hours will allow the organization to help those families who work during the day but still need services. ECHO provides food and clothing for residents of Eastern Hillsborough County who have experienced a recent emergency. Since its inception in 1987, ECHO has served more than 180,000 Brandon area residents. Along with immediate resources, ECHO also provides an array of educational classes and basic social services. For more information contact ECHO at 685-0935 ext. 8000.

Full Service Cleaning & Building Maintenance Company Residential Commercial

Backyard Birdseed

Blended for birds in our area.” Premium Birdseed “B Live Mealworms Bird Feeders, Houses and Baths Hummingbird Feeders Patio and Garden Décor

FREE 2lbs of Premium Birdseed w/ purchase of feeder

M - F 10am to 5pm | Sat 10am to 4pm | Sun (closed)

Company

In Business Over 20 Years

$25 off for first time customers

now hiring!

813.477.1196

www.ajwestfallco.com licensed bonded insured

CUSTOM HAIR For the hair you’ve always wanted!

Thin Hair?

NEW INVENTION

Newly Patented Product Invented by a Local Resident! Say good bye to the aggravation and frustration that comes with putting on your jewelry! To learn more about this product, email mgibbs19@verizon.net www.cinchclasp.com

TAKES AWAY ALL YOUR JEWELRY FRUSTRATION

• Human Hair & Synthetic Hair Wigs • Permanent, Non-Surgical Options • Chemotherapy & Alopecia Specialist • Largest selection in Tampa Bay • We also service Men’s Hair Systems 117 N. Kings Ave • Brandon • (813) 651-9484

www.CustomHairTampaBay.com

February 2017

Page 39

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Young Artists Adorn The Walls Of Hospital’s Newly Refurbished Pediatric Center Unit

Faith In Community Restored By Local Resoration 1 Business Owner

In Brandon December for a speRegional cial signing event. The Hospital’s newly young artists were refurbished asked to personalize Pediatric Center their artwork with their Unit, the original autographs. The artartwork of 15 work will now become young area artists a permanent installaadorn the walls. tion on the Pediatric The artwork was Center Unit. submitted during In commenting on Area children who participated in the hospital’s first the event, Jenny Brandon Regional Hospital’s art contest Bregman, Child Life ever Easter Egg for the newly refurbished Pediatric Hunt back in Center Unit were asked to personalize Specialist said, “We March. Over 300 their winning artwork with their signature. know that the patients submissions came in from children in the pediatric unit will be excited to from Brandon, Valrico, Riverview, see that kids, just like them in the comFishHawk, Wimauma and Dover. The munity, created the artwork on their young artists ranged in age from four walls.” to 13 years old. Brandon Regional Hospital is a Children were encouraged to paint member of HCA West Florida Division. something and participate in the conBrandon Regional Hospital is a 422 test. The children were given a prompt bed acute facility that offers a number to paint something that makes them of specialty services including The happy, and of the 300 submissions, 15 Pediatric Center. The Pediatric Center were selected. Artwork was selected includes a dedicated Emergency based on originality, creativity and Room, a 15 bed inpatient unit, an eight artistic ability. Winners received an bed Intensive Care Unit and a Level III award and recognition at a dessert Neonatal Intensive Care Unit. reception. The hospital also offers the latest The artwork was judged by memadvancements in cardiovascular surbers of the hospital’s Pediatric Patient gery and minimally invasive techniques and Family Advisory Board. This board performed at the Heart and Vascular is composed of a group of former pedi- Center. The Women’s Center, which atric patients and their families who includes Baby Suites, is a state of the collaborate with clinicians and hospital art unit. staff on policy and program decisions Brandon Regional Hospital is related to the Pediatric Center Unit. located at 119 Oakfield Dr. in Brandon. The winners were also asked to For more information, please visit return to the hospital this past www.brandonregionalhospital.com.

Many people to St. Augustine to help have dreams and with flood damage from aspirations of ownHurricane Matthew. “It ing their own comwas devastating to see pany. Dave Adams house after house, and has fulfilled those street after street of peodreams and has ple’s personal possesthrived along the sions set out to the curb way. Restoration 1 for the county to take to of Tampa Bay is a the landfill,” said Adams. locally owned and “Not just furniture and operated small carpets, but clothing, business with roots pictures, books, etc. — in the Southeast things that could never Hillsborough area. be replaced. It was just The company heartbreaking. To get a specializes in the heartfelt thank you and Photo By Dave Adams Dave Adams purchased the Restoration even hugs from my remediation and restoration of resi- 1 of Tampa Bay franchise in July of 2016 clients as we worked on dential and comand completed their mercial properties for damage caused homes was one of the most gratifying by water, fire, smoke or mold. According experiences of my professional career.” to Adams, the company works directly The experiences that Adams had with the customer’s insurance company have given him invaluable knowledge so that the customer can focus on getabout how to handle these disasters ting their home back to its original state. properly. He emphasizes that insurance “Our goal is to help homeowners that companies want people to act as quickly may not know where to turn when disas- as possible to save further damage to ter strikes,” said Adams. their homes. Restoration 1 of Tampa Family and community are a major Bay documents the damages with picemphasis of Adams’ motivations. He has tures and records the moisture readings worked for both small businesses and of the building materials so the remedialarge corporations in the same field tion and dry-out can begin immediately, before taking a chance of owning and reducing the amount of damage, saving operating his own business after his both the homeowner and insurance youngest son left for college at the company time and money. “Do not wait, University of Florida. Adams has been act,” he said. married to his wife, Heidi, for 25 years, Adams has lofty goals and expectaand they have lived in the Valrico area tions for the future of his company. “I with their two sons, Zach and Sam, for would like to grow the business and 22 years. Adams and his wife spent a lot become the predominate restoration of their free time watching their sons’ company in the Brandon area,” he said. travel soccer games and high school “The goal is to be successful enough band performances, and they currently that I have free time to spend with my attend every Florida Gator home game family and friends. so that they can enjoy listening to the I look forward to one day having “Pride of the Sunshine” Gator Marching enough extra time and money that we Band. can give back to the community through Adams' sense of giving back to the volunteer activities and donations.” For community extends past the local cominformation, you can visit www.restoramunity. Some of his team recently went tion1.com/tampa-bay/.

By Kathy L. Collins

SWALLOWING AND SPEECH THERAPY CORNER by Dustie Lynch, M.B.A., M.S., CCC/SLP

I've been constantly clearing my throat lately and it’s effecting my voice quite a bit. I suck on mints which seems to help, and though I've been tracking all the food I eat, I can’t isolate what’s causing the problem. Help!

It sounds like you may have laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR) which can be confirmed by a visit to an Ear Nose & Throat specialist (ENT). LPR is a condition that occurs in a person who may also have gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), or “heartburn” as it’s more commonly known. Depending on the state of the upper esophageal sphincter (UES) and lower esophageal sphincter (LES), either backflow from the esophagus or acid from the stomach can travel back up the esophagus. When backflow or stomach acid gets to the throat, it is called laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR). This can affect vocal health, decreasing volume and causing a hoarse quality. Symptoms of LPR include the sensation of something in the throat, hoarseness caused by continual throat clearing, sore throat, and sometimes swallowing difficulty. Interestingly, sucking on mints, which may provide immediate relief due to the fact that you’re constantly swallowing, are a major cause of LPR! According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, “mints can actually relax the sphincter muscle which closes off the stomach from the esophagus (Jan 20, 2015).”

By Nick Nahas

ALLEN’S CRACKER HOUSE & CRACKER CHURCH

Historical Layout! Call us to schedule your event today! WEDDINGS • TOURS • FAMILY REUNIONS CHURCH • SCOUTS • AND MORE!

(813) 758-4570

19007 Dorman Rd. Lithia, FL 33547

So ditch the mints, which includes peppermint, spearmint, mint ice cream, mint chewing gum! you get the point. Other foods which can contribute to LPR are coffee, alcohol, chocolate (bummer!), carbonated beverages, citrus juices, tomato products and high-fat foods. And if modifying your diet doesn’t solve the problem, it’s time to visit your ENT.

Deep Tissue, Neuromuscular, Pre-natal and Sports Massage

Dustie Lynch is a speech and language pathologist working at Hawthorne Health & Rehab Center in Brandon, and specializes in swallowing, speech and cognitive impairments for both inpatient and outpatient adults.

Convenient, Mobile Massage with Flexible Scheduling

Other potential Q&A’s could include simple strategies to mitigate swallowing problems, short term memory tips, information on how speech therapy can help people Parkinson’s improve their vocal volume, how to help those with hearing loss understand others better, dealing with GERD issues, methods to help maintain cognitive skills, dealing with insomnia, etc.

851 W. Lumsden Rd. Brandon, FL 33511

(813)661-8998 WWW.HAWTHORNEVILLAGEOFBRANDON.COM INDEPENDENT LIVING • ASSISTED LIVING • HEALTH & REHABILITATION

Professional, Licensed Massage Therapist with 12 years of experience and a background in Physical Therapy

GIFT CERTIFICATES AVAILABLE Schedule Your Appointment Today!

(813) 323-4901

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

Couples Massage $120 (one hour each, back to back)

License #39122

Page 40

Volume 16, Issue 2

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

s At e s s a l C e e Fr ary, r b i L e l a d Blooming test & More… n Photo Co lesanti,

S. Moon Ave., Ste. 260 in Brandon; Tuesday, January 31 and February 28 from 5:30-7:30 p.m. at Bloomingdale Regional Library, 1906 Bloomingdale Ave. in Valrico. Pre-registration is required by calling 974-7889. For additional classes, visit www.ahectobacco.com.

lle Co y Miche r.com b d e il p Com observe @osprey e ll e h ic m

Randall Middle School PTSA Photo Contest

Free Life Story Class Based on Poem Where I’m From At Bloomingdale Library

Art instructor, Joley Billa, will teach a class based on the poem, Where I'm From by George Ella Lyon, using the participants' own life story lyrics at the Bloomingdale Library, 1906 Bloomingdale Ave. in Valrico, on Saturday, March 4 from 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. in Room 8. Attendees will construct an 11" by 14" canvas board illustrating their life journey. Supplies will be provided for this free class, which is open to the public. Students may also bring photos or other personal mementos to enhance their art journey board. Please register for this class at the Bloomingdale Library's Help Desk. There is a 12 person limit.

Win up to $100 in Randall Middle School’s PTSA Photo Contest. The photo must be taken and edited by student Randall Middle School students and faculty enjoy this free style entering contest. The photo Photography Contest PTSA Program. must be 5x5 or 5x7 and must be labeled. There are Judge's Choice winners and People's Choice winners Sponsors Sought so two chances to win. For Special Entries are due by Friday, Orchestra Program March 24 with signed form. At Barrington Come out and vote for Middle School the People's Choice The mission of awards 2pm - 5pm on April the Barrington 8th at the Randall Relay for Orchestra program Life booth held at Bloomingdale Library hosts a Create Workshop. is to foster life-long Newsome High School Bloomingdale Library Art Event appreciation of music, and promote a Categories are tradition of excellence that will enrich Come join a Create Workshop Landscape/Nature, Alafia Elementary School’s 4th grade math bowl team recently on Saturday, February 4, from 10:30 the lives of the students. In April, it is Wildlife/Pets, Close Up, won 2nd place. hosting a program called "Electrify a.m.-12:30 p.m., in Room 8 at the and Circular Shape(s). offers free tools and services to help you Bloomingdale Regional Library, located at Your Strings”(EYS). The presenter is Photos will be displayed at the get started. Free Community worksite Mark Wood, a Julliard School of Music 1906 Bloomingdale Ave. in Valrico. Local Randall Relay Booth at Newsome High and clinic groups will be offered, with prograduate. Bonnie Phillips, will demonstrate to artist, School on Saturday, April 8 from 2–5 p.m. grams covering all forms of tobacco. Free Sponsors are being sought to help attendees how to use watercolor and colFor more information, please email Nicotine replacement patches, gum and offset the cost of bringing EYS to our ored pencils to illustrate their written stoBonnyGrouse@yahoo.com. lozenges will be available, while supplies area. For information or to helping ries and journal writing. Art supplies will last and if medically appropriate. Locally, sponsor this event, please contact the be provided. There is a twelve person Help For Quitting Tobacco classes will be available: Monday, Barrington Middle School Orchestra limit for the workshop. Register for this Quitting tobacco isn't easy. Finding January 23 and February 20 from 5:30Director, SuLing Caballero, at free event at the library's "Ask Desk". help should be. Tobacco Free Florida 7:30 p.m. at Oakfield Medical Plaza, 276 Continued on Next Page

“FramingYour Windows in Time”

Our prices are already affordable! No 50% Coupons Needed! 6128 Winthrop Town Center Ave. up Frame e Riverview, FL 33578 t i r avo your f as a (813) 655-6400 photo t a e r g fastframe328@hotmail.com tine Valen gift!

Oil Paint Stretches Shadow Boxes Needle Points Restoration & Repairs Corporate Art 15 Years In The Area

Paint and Auto Body Repair

Proudly serving the local community for over 10 years

• Collision Repair • Insurance Claims accepted CALL OR TEXT FOR A

FREE

ESTIMATE

• Minor Dings and Dents • Scratch Repair • Headlight Restoration

February 2017

Page 41

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

tion, a c u d E s c i Narcot ght, Prenatal i Casino N & More Yoga ti, lesan helle Co ic M y b d m Compile preyobserver.co s o @ e ll miche

NOPE of Hillsborough will inform you about the reality our community faces regarding substance abuse and overdose death & will provide you with parenting strategies and suggestions to combat this issue. NOPE is doing programs geared for students throughout the county during school hours. This is a special parent presentation to compliment the student one.

Community Invited to Parent Focused Presentation About Drug Prevention

Barrington Middle School at suling.caballero@sdhc.k12.fl.us. The orchestra is a registered 501 (c)(3) nonprofit.

Newsome High School PTSA has invited NOPE (Narcotics, Overdose,

BSAC’s Casino Night

Brandon Sports & Aquatic Center (BSAC) will hold its annual BSAC Casino Night on Friday, February 17 from 7-11 p.m. at The Regent, 6437 Watson Rd. in Riverview. Whether you are a seasoned poker player or just want to have a fun night, this is the place to be. Enjoy games of roulette, craps, and black jack. There will be silent & vertical auctions. Admission is $50 a ticket with open bar. To purchase tickets, visit www.mybsac.org. For more information, contact Curt Lorden at 394-1876 or CLorden@LincLoan.com.

Prevention and Education) to present a parent-focused presentation open to the community. It will be held Thursday, March 2 at 6:30 p.m. in the Newsome High School Auditorium, 16550 Fishhawk Blvd. in Lithia. Drug prevention is a community issue. This 50 minute program by

PRESSURE WASH ALTERATIONS SCREEN REPAIRS

LE OY B

• Houses • Pool Screens • Driveways • Sidewalks • Decks • Gutter Cleaning • & More

FREE ESTIMATES

813-892-6734 Licensed & Insured

PAINTING

Inna’s

Prenatal Yoga Classes Available At Karma Yoga

Stephanie Martin, BS, AADP, NTC, RYT, RCYT, Balanced Nutritioand Wellness Consulting, LLC, Is now offering Prenatal Yoga. It is the only regularly scheduled prenatal yoga class in the

PAINTER

WINDOW WASH LANDSCAPING FREE ESTIMATES

10% OFF all work over $100

area that is open to women and their partners. Benefits include calming the mind and reducing stress, relieving muscular tension, increasing stamina and strength, while helping you find balance, both physically and emotionally. It gives you time to connect with your body and your baby. Classes take place Wednesday’s at 9 a.m. or Thursday’s at 6 p.m. The cost is $78 for a six week course, but walk-ins are welcome anytime. Classes take place at Karma Yoga, located at 4363 Lynx Paw Trail in Valrico. You can register online at www.karmayogafitness.com. For more information, contact Martin at 789-8302 or travelinsteph@aol.com. Visit www.balancednutritionandwellness.com.

le Flexibrs Hou

BIG SALE 20% OFF Homecoming, Prom & Evening Dresses 50% OFF Clothing

813-936-4025

Bloomingdale Professional Center

1548 Bloomingdale Ave E. Valrico

877-283-6363 TOLL FREE L ICENSED , B ONDED , & I NSURED

(near Bloomingdale High School)

(813) 651-4416

WWW.N O S TREAKING W INDOW WASHING . COM

• INTERIOR • EXTERIOR • PRESSURE WASHING • RESIDENTIAL • COMMERCIAL

(813)654-5646 Cell:

(813)966-3601

Free Estimates Experienced & Reliable

TOD HOWARD

ACCOUNTANT

GARY D. MEYER

YOUR TERMITE AND PEST SOLUTION FROM YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD PROFESSIONAL

RESIDENTIAL . COMMERCIAL FREE ESTIMATES CALL OUR TRAINED EXPERTS 24 HOURS A DAY

Lawn Maintenance Landscaping • Irrigation • Sod

813-523-9204 RAY BURKE

813-915-4080

RESIDENTIAL & COMMERCIAL LICENSED & INSURED

4306 NORTH 56 STREET • TAMPA, FL 33610

PAINTING Spruce Up for Spring...

Warner’s Landscape Nursery 10706 Bloomingdale

813-689-5081 (cell) 813-817-6826

(office)

Lic# RX0058177

• Complete Home Renovation Services • Specializing in Kitchen & Bath Remodeling • All types of flooring services & Installation • Window & Door Installation or Replacement

813-391-9644

License # CRC 1331258 | Licensed & Insured

Cleaning Service

• Compiled Financial Statement Presentations

Residential Specialist offering weekly, bi-weekly and monthly service.

• Tax Return Preparation for Individuals, Corporations, LLC’s and Partnerships

FREE ESTIMATES

• Consulting for New Business Startups

Ken Mason

• Financial & Estate Planning

Come home to perfection

(813) 600-7900

813-971- 4067

PIANO & VOICE LESSONS Tracey Magruder tracey.magruder@gmail.com

traceymagruderstudio.com

CONSTRUCTION

Susie’s

Go BottleLESS!

• Accounting & Bookkeeping

Serving the Tampa Bay Area Since 1980

Pablo Laise Residential Contractor

WATER SYSTEM CLEANING SVC

CERTIFIED PUBLIC ACCOUNTANT

gmeyer4@tampabay.rr.com

Repairs & Installation. Trees & Landscaping. Lawn Care. Best Prices.

PEST CONTROL LANDSCAPING CONTRACTOR MUSIC LESSONS

BLOOMINGDALE PAINTING

“A Brush of Quality”

A U T O M AT I C S P R I N K L E R

aquachill@aol.com

Mention this ad and get 2 free months when converting your business bottled water drinking system.

813-817-7721

smier@tampabay.rr.com

RESIDENTIAL & COMMERCIAL

Home Remodel Work Professional Paint Services. 813.863.5500 Certified Building Contractor | #CBC1259921 FULL SERVICE CONSTRUCTION COMPANY

HELP WANTED MUSIC LESSONS ADVERTISING PRESSURE WASH PEST CONTROL

HELP WANTED Warner’s Nursery Weeding Only Part Time

Call 813-689-5081

ADVERTISE with US for

$50 $200

JUST

AS LOW AS

per ad per month*

*INCLUDES ALL 5 EDITIONS PER MONTH

(813) 657-2418

www.OspreyObserver.com

DRIVEWAYS POOL DECKS SIDING FENCING 10% Discount Seniors & Veterans HOA Notice? - 20% Discount 1st Visit Only!

813-707-4466

Call or text for appointment Licensed/Insured

Bugs on the loose?

Call Cruce

Pest Control and Termite Protection

Woman Business Owner with 18 Years Experience Locally Owned and Operated.

(813) 915-5973

Page 42

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Volume 16, Issue 2

With Arts & Entertainment Editor Kathy L. Collins

The Florida Wind Band Continues The Touring Tradition

Patsy Cline Tribute Show Returns To Plant City

The Florida likely enjoy Wind Band, under hearing wind the direction of Dr. band music John C. played at the highest Carmichael, is one level, but of two civilian proany person fessional wind who enjoys bands in the hearing music United States. The or artistic value other is located in would value the Texas. The Florida Wind Band provides audiences with a live opportunity to The Florida music experience utilizing a repertoire that stretches hear the Florida Wind Band was from the "Golden Age" of the touring band to recent masterworks by contemporary composers. a Wind Band established in play." 2008 by Dr. Carmichael who is the The Florida Wind Band has several Director of Bands at the University of upcoming performances. The next one is South Florida. The Florida Wind Band, on Sunday, March 5 and will feature which performs at USF, is a 501 (c)(3) chamber music classics. The concert on non-profit whose mission is to provide a Sunday, May 7 will feature movie soundunique, live music experience to music tracks, and the concert on Sunday, July 2 lovers of all ages, to enhance the education programs of public school bands and will feature music that pays tribute to servicemen and women. All concerts are it provide a professional caliber performheld in the USF School of Music Concert ance opportunity for the many talented Hall located at 4202 E. Fowler Ave. in musicians in the Tampa area who continTampa. Concerts begin at 7:30 p.m. ue to perform. Tickets are available through The band strives to make the public Ticketmaster and will be available on the aware of the great music that has been day of the concert at the USF School of written for the wind band. Music Box Office. General admission tickDr. Carmichael said, "The Florida Wind Band was formed to provide profes- ets are $15 and tickets for students and seniors are $10. sional level performance of a musical There are sponsorship opportunities repertoire that is becoming deeper, richer for individuals and businesses to support and more artistic with each passing year. the Florida Wind Band. For more inforThere are thousands of people in the mation, please visit www.floridawindTampa Bay region who have had some band.org. kind of band experience who would very

On Saturday, her a star even today. My February 11, the career as a performer is douFlorida Opry will ble that of Patsy’s short six present an encore year career, but her songs live on,” added Van Eycken. performance of A Over 50 years after Patsy Tribute To Patsy Cline's untimely death, this Cline starring musical tribute is an ode to Barbara VanEycken. the pioneering queen of counAdvance tickets for try music who was one of the the event are just $15 first female cross-over artists. for adults and $8 for The show traces her life and students. The show career from honky-tonk perbegins at 7 p.m. former to country music starTickets can be Barbara VanEycken will perform her dom to cross-over pop artist obtained by calling 757-9226. This show wonderful Tribute To Patsy Cline on to her death at age 30. Saturday, February 11 at The Florida VanEycken comes from has sold out in the Opry located in the historic Plant City past, so get your tick- High School Community Center in a New York musical family. downtown Plant City. Both her father and grandets now. If any tickets mother were professional singers in New remain, they will be sold at the door on York. VanEycken began her musical the day of the performance for $18. The Florida Opry shows take place in career in community theatre in New York and appeared off-Broadway. the historic 1914 Plant City High School “I created my one -woman tribute to Community Center located at 605 N. Patsy Cline and have toured the southCollins St. in Plant City. The Plant City east United States since 2002. It has High School Community Center is on the been a dream come true to be able to National Register For Historic Places. share the life of Patsy with thousands of This show is sponsored by the East happy audience members," said Hillsborough Historical Society. VanEycken. The Florida Opry has been in VanEycken has received rave reviews for her show. “I created this show existence for over 20 years. It provides outstanding family entertainment includafter seeing a national tour tribute show. I ing a variety of live country music, footbecame impressed and inspired by stomping bluegrass music, gospel music Patsy’s pioneering spirit at a time when and more. the country music world was primarily all For information visit www.thefloridaomale,” said VanEycken. “In my opinion, pry.com or call 757-9226. her voice and her songs are what keep

SAVE $5.00*

Code: FLOS0217 | Expires 02/28/17

Shoppes at Lithia 3455 Lithia Pinecrest Rd • Valrico • 813-571-7200 Bell Plaza 10273 Big Bend Rd • Riverview • 813-672-6111

February 2017

Page 43

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

DK’s Outlet In FH Winn Dixie Plaza Wows With Designer Styles By Michelle Caceres

experience. “You’re not buying these brands at these prices anywhere,” said Carrillo. Customers visiting the store in January could have scored a Michael Kors wristlet, an infant christening gown with lace detailing, shoes by Coach, Dansko and Vince Camuto and men’s Nike basketball shorts. Men’s Bugatchi shirts (normally $149.99) were priced at $29.99. A Pure DKNY women’s shirt that retails for $235 was selling for $29.99. Unlike large department stores, DK’s Outlet has very limited sizes and quantities so don’t put off purchasing a found DK’s Outlet is the perfect shopping destination treasure because it may not be there for new name-brand merchandise at rock bottom prices. on your next visit. Sometimes Carrillo opens a box Savvy shoppers don’t have to drive to find unusual merchandise but that out of FishHawk to find new name-brand doesn’t mean it won’t be somebody’s merchandise at rock bottom prices. treasure. “I once had a customer come in The humble exterior of DK’s Outlet, got really excited about these green who located at 16729 FishHawk Blvd. in the football jerseys, I can’t remember the Winn-Dixie-anchored Shops of team name,” she said. “He bought them FishHawk, belies what the store holds to decorate the walls of his man cave.” inside: an eclectic mix of brand new Carrillo adorns the store’s walls with men’s, women’s and children’s clothing, matching ensembles that look like they shoes and accessories. come from the pages of a fashion have Store manager Kathy Carrillo feels magazine. “I’ve had customers come in like a kid at Christmas when merchanand buy the complete outfit right off the dise shipments come in. “No two shipwall.” ments are the same so I never know DK’s Outlet hours: Mondays – what I’m going to find when I open a Thursday 9:30 a.m. – 6:30 p.m., Friday – box,” she said. “I can find Michael Kors Saturday 9:30 a.m. – 7:30 p.m. and items in the same box as $2.99 kids’ Sunday 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. backpacks.” For more information about DK’s Frequent shipments mean new merOutlet call 409-3521 or visit its Facebook chandise is constantly being added to the or Instagram pages at DK’s Outlet. racks so it’s always a unique shopping

Now Enrolling!

• 6 Weeks Through 12 Years • Full & Part Time Options • Open: M-F 6am to 6:30pm • Creative Curriculum for Infants & Toddlers • ABC Mouse Computer Technology • Brainwaves Curriculum • APPLE Accreditation • STEAM Curriculum • Security Code Access Entry • FREE Internet Viewing of Your Child’s Day • Outdoor Playgrounds with Water Park • Before & After School Care: 6-12 Years Stowers, Valrico Academy, FishHawk Creek, Bevis, Lithia Springs, Alafia, Cimino, and Foundation Christian

• Nutritious Meals & Snacks: Low Salt & Sugar • Spanish & Music Included • Trained Professional Staff, Certified in First Aid & CPR • Extracurricular Programs

Two Great Locations! CIRCA FISHHAWK 813-654-7000

5815 Kids Crossing Drive (Located next to Stowers Elementary and Mosaic)

www.KRKCirca.com

VALRICO 813-657-6200

4321 Lynx Paw Trail (Located across fromLithia Springs Elementary)

www.KRKValrico.com

NOW ENROLLING SUMMER & FALL VPK Voluntary Pre Kindergarten 2017-18

“FREE 3 Hr Program with “Pay for rest of day” Option • Accelerated Pre-K Curriculum with Math, Science, Spanish, Music, Sign Language & More • Preparation for National Kindergarten Standards • Must be 4 years old by September 1, 2017 • Must be Florida resident • Class times 9am-12pm

Page 44

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Volume 16, Issue 2

Bloomingdale/FishHawk

February 2017

Volume 16, Issue 2

Ph: 657-2418

InThis Section

STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL..................PG 48 NEW BIRD STORE OWNERS............PG 49 THE MOUSETRAP PLAY...................PG 50 TOUCH STINGRAYS .........................PG 52 NEW PRODUCT AWARD .................PG 55

Doretha Edgecomb To Be Honored At YMCA Signature Event

ter serve their clients. As a Dream Vacations franchise owner, the Breaux are Former part of the Hillsborough World Travel County Holdings famiSchool Board ly of brands, Member A Country Cat recently earned Jenifer and Barry Breaux recently celebrated Angie’s List Super Service one of the top the first anniversary of Dream Vacations – JB Doretha Award. Vacation Pros in Lithia. Ace Hardware recently had a ribbon cutting to celetravel retail networks in the Edgecomb will brate its recent move to a new location, 505 Cayman, YMCA entitles world with incredible buying power with receive the Tampa Metropolitan Area Bloomingdale Ave. in Brandon. The original location Cozumel, donors to host a every major cruise line and many tour YMCA’s 2017 Community Impact Award was in the Bloomingdale Square shopping plaza. Bahamas, table of eight. To Owner Bruce Korte and his family opened their first operators, resulting in exceptional low on Thursday, February 16 at 6 p.m. The store in Tampa in 1977. Jamaica, make a donaprices and exclusive offers such as Regions Community Impact Dinner will Puerto Rico, and RSVP for the Regions tion upgrades, discounts and more. be emceed by 10 News WTSP News Belize, Canada, Mexico, and Puerto Rico Community Impact Dinner, contact virFor more information or to book a Anchor Reginald Roundtree at the to name just a few. ginia.liddell@tampaymca.org or 224-9622 dream vacation with Dream Vacations, Pepin’s Hospitality Centre at 4121 N. Over the past year, the Breaux have ext. 1281. please call 667-7000 or visit 50th St. in Tampa. Nearly 500 guests will participated in extensive training and certi- www.JBVacationPros.com. enjoy dinner, awards presentations and fication programs so they can better Dream Vacations Travel Franchise In videos showcasing the Tampa YMCA’s serve their customers. Both Jenifer and Lithia Celebrates First Anniversary A Country Cat House Earns Esteemed real impact on community members. Barry have completed their Special Dream Vacations – JB Vacation Pros 2016 Angie’s List Super Service Award Also during the event, Tampa Y Needs Certification, Group Travel in Lithia, which is owned by Jenifer and Governance Board Vice-Chair Jennifer A Country Cat House has earned the Certification, and Royal Caribbean Cruise Barry Breaux recently celebrated its first Murphy will receive the Red Triangle home service industry’s coveted Angie’s Line’s Autism Program training. Jenifer Award, given to volunteers whose leader- anniversary in January. Retiring after List Super Service Award, reflecting an has also completed Royal Caribbean each having served 29 years in the Army, ship, dedicated service and devotion to exemplary year of customer service to Cruise Line’s Expert Level training as well and because they love to travel, they the mission have made significant and members of the local services marketas receiving her Five Star Academy decided to open up a travel franchise. lasting impact on the Tampa Y. In addiplace and consumer review site in 2016. Certificate with Celebrity Cruise Lines. In Over the past 25 years, Jenifer and Barry tion, 15 Center Volunteers of the Year will This achievement is particularly sigaddition, they recently attended the have cruised more than eleven times and be recognized. Special dignitaries will be nificant as Angie’s List experienced Dream Vacations National Conference their travels have taken them to China, in attendance, including elected officials unprecedented member growth in 2016. aboard Carnival Vista to become educatSouth Korea, Ghana, Germany, France, from Hillsborough and Pasco counties. More than 1.6 million consumers, many ed on the latest developments in the A gift of $2,500 or more to the Tampa Morocco, Italy, Turkey, Greece, of whom were eager to quickly hire highly cruise and travel industry so they can betLuxembourg, Czech Republic, Grand Continued on next page

Page 46

Business Column Continued................... qualified service pros, joined Angie’s List after the company added a new, free membership tier. Angie’s List Super Service Award 2016 winners have met strict eligibility requirements, which include an “A” rating in overall grade, recent grade, and review period grade. The SSA winners must also be in good standing with Angie’s List, pass a background check and abide by Angie’s List operational guidelines. A Country Cat House is located at 15501 Boyette Rd. in Riverview. Call 6542287 or visit http://acountrycathousetampa.com/index2.html.

Amani Med Spa To Hold Open House For New Service

Come to Amani Med Spa on Thursday, February 2 from 5-7 p.m. to check out the newest service, Vanquish Silhouette, a Permanent Fat Removal Treatment. Please RSVP at 685-6111. Amana is located at 3440 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. in Valrico (in the Steinmart Plaza).

Community Affairs Dinner Hosted by the Community Roundtable

Volume 16, Issue 2

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

By Michelle Colesanti

Maureen Krzanowski Scholarship presented to a graduating high school student dedicated to community service in addition to their academic accomplishments. To RSVP or for more information, please email Roundtable2008@aol.com or call 6614350. Previous Award Banquet winners may be viewed at TheCommunityRoundtable.org.

develop the individual’s potential. For more info, contact David Teeples at 571-217-7730 dateeps@gmail.com or visit www.tampaleadershipinstitute.com.

Holistic Medical Care Clinic Moves To New State of the Art Location in Brandon

Holistic Medical Care Clinic recently moved to a new state of the art location at W. Morgan St. in Brandon.

Holistic Medical Care Clinic LLC now has a new central location Tampa Leadership in Brandon, serving Institute Coaching all of Tampa Bay. Provides Executive Located at 205 Coaching and More W. Morgan St. in Tampa Leadership Brandon, Holistic Institute (TLI) Coaching Medical Care Clinic focuses on where you are, will still offer best of where you want to be, and class, excellent medhow best to get there. TLI ical care utilizing intecoaching will help you be a grative medicine, a better blend of conventionteammate, al/Western medicine a better and complementary Tampa Leadership Institute’s leader, and therapies. It is a David Teeples provides executive a better healing-oriented medcoaching person. icine that considers Tampa Leadership the whole person, Institute Seminars are designed to meet including all aspects of your needs through a small or large lifestyle and emphagroup, and length is determined by your sizes natural healing goals and objectives, and available time methods vs. pharmaon your calendar. They may be designed co/chemical-based, for new employees, established teams of invasive treatment professionals, or even C-level executives. modality. TLI Leadership Alternative natural Seminars will focus on procedures include self-awareness, team hyperbaric oxygen building, developing therapy (HBOT) for trust, communication, wound care after plasvalues and valuetic surgery or C-section

ETC Bara-med XD hyperbaric oxygen chamber which will be on commission by the end of February.” New patients are currently being accepted. Please call 398-0470 or visit http://holisticmedicalcare.net.

Kids Raise $35,000.00 For Schools Nationwide

The Greater Brandon Area students in grades 2 to 5 put their math skills on display, earning money for local schools and winning prizes for themselves in the Mathnasium of Brandon 2016 TriMathlon math competition. By participating in the event, Mathnasium TriMathlon contestants nationwide raised a total of $35,000 to benefit schools across the country. The top three Mathnasium of Brandon winners in each grade were: Grade 5: Jackson Simoneau, Valrico Academy -1st Place; Christian Arango, Boyette Springs Elementary 2nd Place, Meera Nair, Grace Christian School - 3rd Place.

The Community Roundtable announces Jeff Eakins, Superintendent of Hillsborough County Schools, will be the keynote Winners of Mathnasium TriMathlon speaker at its Community Affairs scar recovery or Grade 4: Tyler Weeks, Valrico Dinner, scheduled brain neurogeneAcademy - 1st Place, Arjun for Wednesday, sis; Ramachandran, Pride Elementary February 22 at Prolozone/PRP 2nd Place, Ananda Ravinder, Heritage Photo By Stephen B. Nickerson Center Place. therapy for quick Elementary - 3rd Place. Kavita Marballi accepts the Citizen of the Year Award at last year’s dinner hosted by Seats are back/shoulder or Grade 3: Sebastian Koontz, Valrico the Brandon Roundtable. priced at $45 dolsports injury repair Academy - 1st Place, Nathan lars or a table sponsorship is without the need Simoneau, Valrico Academy Photo By Stephen B. Nickerson for surgery; and based decision available. Cocktails begin at 6 p.m. and 2nd Place, Rohan Dash, Turner Meals on Wheels was last year’s non-profit of the making, and dinner starts promptly at 7 p.m. In addiUltra-violet, intraElementary - 3rd Place. year award winner at the Community Affairs developing othtion to the speaker, a Greater Brandon Dinner hosted by the Brandon Roundtable. venous (UV-IV) Grade 2: Brennen Osterberger, ers around you. area resident, charity, and high school light therapy for Valrico Academy - 1st Place, Jaiden TLI will develop a program of leader senior will each be hard to treat viral/bacterial infections; and Walton, Valrico Academy - 2nd Place, training and education, self-development, honored. Presentations are in three cateVit C IV ozone treatment as a compleChance Fowler, Valrico Academy - 3rd and positional experience evaluations that gories: Alice B. Tompkins Community mentary cancer treatment, among others. Place. will promote growth for each level of Service Award - to a person providing Office Manager Sunny Sia said, For information on Mathnasium of employee. The TLI philosophy asserts exemplary service to the local community; “We’ve been successfully healing patients Brandon, please contact Becky that every individual has leadership Non-Profit of the Year Award - to a for the past three years at our Apollo McDaniels at 655-6284) or potential, and an organization is only as charity having a positive impact in the Beach location and needed a bigger brandon@mathnasium.com. Visit good as the programs they institute to Brandon area during the past year; and space to house our new state of the art www.mathnasium.com/Brandon.

A Charming Victorian Farmhouse Nestled on 8 Acres in Lithia Visiting Relatives Romantic Weekends & Much More!

“Our Guests Are Family” - The Palmers

(813)654-0961 2221 Hinton Ranch Street, Lithia Florida 33547

(behind Fish Hawk Trails)

WWW.PALMER-HOUSE.COM

February 2017

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Page 47

Page 48

Volume 16, Issue 2

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Strawberry Festival Offers More Than Food, Music And Iconic Racing Pigs The Florida Strawberry Festival, with its delicious food and exciting entertainment, has been a local favorite since 1930 and is back this year from March 212, promising to be better than ever. According to festival Public Relations and Media Representative Lauren McNair, the strawberry-centered food at the event is always one of the biggest draws. “We have about 150 food vendors with a wide variety of choices, so there really is something for everyone,” said McNair, who explained that strawberry shortcake is the most popular food item with about 250,000 sold during the 11-day festival last year. McNair added that one of the best ways for strawberry lovers to navigate the event this year is by using the Strawberry Central page on the Website and mobile app. “Visitors can use Strawberry Central to see a complete list of every food item we offer. It is the go-to place for those who come here for all things strawberry,” said McNair. Other popular food items include strawberry milkshakes, corn dogs, Kettle Korn, Amish Doughnuts and chocolate covered bacon. The festival also offers an impressive lineup of musical acts with many free concerts throughout the time and tickets

By Kate Quesada

Strawberry Production Display, which is a great agricultural education experience, and Robinson’s Racing Pigs.” There is also a Youth Strawberry Stemming Contest on Saturday, March 4. The You can enjoy delicious schedule for all of Plant City strawberries in a variety of ways at this these events can year’s Florida Strawberry also be found on Festival. the Website at www.flstrawberryfestival.com. McNair credits the support of the community for the festival’s continued success. The Florida Strawberry Festival will take “The people of Plant City are very place in Plant City March 2-12 this year. proud of our agricultural roots, so the on Friday, March 3 from 10 a.m.-6 p.m., whole area works hard to make sure ROBOCARS “Big Blue” and “Yellow the festival is a success,” said McNair. Jacket,” the Tampa Bay Times Race “We have about 2,500 volunteers from Zone and nightly entertainment in the the community, some of whom even Public Showcase Tent. There are also take vacation time from their jobs so available at an extra cost for headliners magic, circus and milking shows, pig they can volunteer here, who want to including Willie Nelson, 3 Doors Down, races and food contests from corn dog contribute whatever they can to make Little Big Town, The Bellamy Brothers, and strawberry mashed potato pie eating sure visitors to Plant City receive a Elle King and Patti LaBelle. to strawberry stemming. Times for these warm welcome and have a good expe“We sell about 9,000 seats to every events are available on the Website rience here.” show and offer 3,000 free seats on a first under the “Free Entertainment” tab. For more information on the festicome, first seated basis in the Morrow McNair recommends the SunnyBell val, visit www.flstrawberryfestival.com Steel Free Grandstand,” said McNair. Kiddie Korral for families with young chilor call 752-9194. Tickets to the event However, events included in the tickdren. can be purchased at the gate for $10 et price include something for everyone “It is an area separate from the main for adults and $5 for children 6-12. with seven livestock shows, contests, midway that is smaller and offers rides Some Public Supermarket locations sell displays and exhibits. Highlights include just for kids,” said McNair. “Children will discounted tickets. Visit the festival the Cabot Strawberry Smoothie event also want to see the Belmont Festival of Website for a full list of store. The fairwhere Cabot Creamery will be creating Magic, the New Circus Incredible, the grounds are located at 303 N. Lemon the World Record Strawberry Smoothie Florida Strawberry Growers Association St. in Plant City.

Couple’s Paint Night

Saturday, Feb. 11th at 7pm

$25 per single $45 per couple

(813) 643-7173

tificates Gift Cer ble Availa

• Paint a canvas that connects to your partner’s canvase for one unique painting! • Enjoy appetizers from Acropolis • Champagne toast • Live music • Ladies receive a rose and a piece of jewelry • Free raﬄes

PAINT TOGETHER + ENJOY A BEVERAGE = LOVE Classes Available at 7pm Mon. - Sat.

11242 Winthrop Main Street • 8136445954 Schedule your class online at

WWW.SKETCHANDSIP.COM Find out more at our website:

WWW.COGGINSPLUMBING.COM Proudly serving the Tampa Bay area for over 30 years. 24 Hour Emergency Service

10% OFF

$50 OFF

YOUR NEXT SERVICE CALL

NEW WATER HEATER PURCHASE & INSTALLATION

Expires 2/28/17

$200 OFF RESIDENTIAL REPIPE Expires 2/28/17

February 2017

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Family Honors Memory Of Well-Loved Cretes With New Backyard Birdseed Business

By Kate Quesada

Most Florida local birding commuwildlife lovers know nity has been great that feeding birds in and nothing but supyour backyard is not portive.” as easy as just buyBisesto, who ing a feeder and runs the store with some seed. That’s help from his wife where long-time Heather, a first grade Valrico resident and teacher, is a sixth owner of Backyard generation Floridian Birdseed, Brian who grew up across Bisesto can help. the street from the Bisesto, who preValrico residents Brian and Heather new Wal-Mart store in Bisesto own Backyard Birdseed on viously owned a conValrico. “When I was Lithia Pinecrest Rd. struction company, five years old, Mr. started the business last year when the Willy used to cut my hair two doors community lost Rich and Tanya Crete, down from our shop’s current location,” owners of the popular Rich’s Backyard he added. Birds, in a car accident. The store stocks bird and wildlife “After years of being a customer of related items from books and garden Rich’s and sharing birding stories, he decor to quality feeders for every back and his wife were in a horrible car acciyard, in addition to many varieties of bird dent and are no longer with us,” said seed. Current deals include a special Bisesto. “The local birding community where if you buy 10 bags of seed you get was devastated to say the least. We lost the eleventh free and if you buy a feeder, a huge part of our community and two you get two pounds of seed to get you of the nicest people you could ever started. “I think what brought me to ownmeet.” When Crete’s sister closed the ing the store is Rich's smile,” said Bisesto. doors to Rich’s Backyard Birds, Bisesto “As a business owner myself, when I approached her with an idea. asked Rich how business was, all he “I went to her to get her blessing to could do was smile ear to ear. That sight sell seed door to door in our local area,” never left my mind and when the accident said Bisesto. “She gave me her overhappened, I knew it was my job to keep whelming approval, so that evening my the feeders full and begin smiling like wife and I ordered 1,200 pounds of Rich.” seed and started Backyard Birdseed, Backyard Birdseed is located at 3642 LLC. After many deliveries, everyone Lithia Pinecrest Rd. and is open Mondayasked when we were going to open the Friday 10 a.m.- 5 p.m. and Saturday 10 store. One thing led to another and I a.m.- 4 p.m. For information, call 816sold my construction company and BIRD or visit leased the same location Rich had. The www.backyardbirdseed.com.

Page 49

McAuley Fine Jewelry Opens In Brandon

By Michelle Caceres

Martin’s His jourJewelers, the ney to the jewiconic store that elry trade has served the wound through Brandon area for other profes62 years, has sions. shuttered its “I’ve sold doors. Customers things from insurance to looking for the appliances, same level of superior craftsMcAuley Fine Jewelry (formerly Martin’s Jewelers) but was miserowner Ed McAuley is prepared to continue the lega- able because manship will be cy of fine jewelry craftsmanship. these were pleased to learn that McAuley Fine Jewelry will continue in things customers had to buy,” said McAuley. its place, with many of the same staff Lutz resident Michelle Townsend was ready to provide the superior level of referred to McAuley when she was in the service and workmanship that Martin’s market for a piece of custom jewelry. Her customers have come to expect from the mother, who passed away in 2004, had store. These include watch repairman Mike left her several pieces of jewelry and she Martin (Joe’s cousin), who has more than wanted to use them to create a wedding 33 years’ experience, store manager Don ring set for her anniversary. “Ed was able to take the idea that Korte, a local artisan with 46 years’ expewas in my head and construct it into a rience, Rob Comfort, a third generation tangible thing,” she said. master jeweler with more than 37 years’ Townsend was so pleased she’s experience (17 of those at Martin’s already thinking about her next custom Jewelers) that specializes in custom piece. ‘McAuley Fine Jewelry specializes pieces, Seudatt “Deo” Gajadhar, a bench in custom design work and is definitely jeweler with more than 50 years’ experithe store I will be turning to,” she comence (18 with Martin’s) and an accommented. The shop also specializes in jewplished goldsmith, Wayne Simmons, whose 31 years’ experience is reflected in elry repairs. “Martin’s was so successful for so his outstanding work and Pam Simmons long because customers trusted us to (Joe’s daughter), who has been in the take care of their jewelry that same way business for 15 years. McAuley Fine Jewelry, located at 664 we would take care of our mom’s,” said McAuley. McAuley Fine Jewelry is open Oakfield Dr. in the Atlantic Village Tuesday to Friday 10 a.m.-6 p.m. and Shopping Center on the corner of Kings Saturday 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Ave. and Oakfield Dr., is owned by Ed Visit www.mcauleyfinejewelry.com, McAuley, who spent a decade as call 689-8124 or visit its Facebook page Martin’s’ assistant manager before taking at McAuley Fine Jewelry. over the mantle of owner.

Page 50

New Citrus Carpet & Tile Cleaning Offers Natural Alternative

By Amy Schechter

Per the Organic ing your situaConsumers tion to when Association in the Citrus Carpet & past, “cleaning prodTile Cleaning ucts were responsiarrive at your ble for nearly 10% of door. His ongoing special of all toxic exposures reported to U.S. three rooms for Poison Control $99 is an excelCenters, accounting lent deal you will for 206,636 calls. Of want to make a Photo By Linda Chion Kenny part of your these, 120,434 expoJim Hirz is the owner of Citrus Carpet & sures involved chilspring cleaning. Tile Cleaning. dren under six…” Although a Recently, individuals and families have relative newcomer, Hirz immediately turned to safer cleaning chemicals, which sought to involve himself in bettering the community. A 16-year member in Atlanta, is why Jim Hirz pursued a natural soluhe now serves as the tion when he expanded president-elect and Citrus Carpet & Tile Cleaning to the Brandon, membership chair of the Lithia, and Valrico area. Kiwanis Club of Great His company proBrandon, who provides vides an invaluable servsupport to 25 local eleice honed over the last mentary schools eight years that brings a encouraging students to citrus-based cleanser using the oils grow their citizenship skills. He is also a derived from the skins of fruit. He deems member of the Fishhawk/Valrico it “nature’s solvent,” and besides a Chamber of Commerce. He says, “My sparkling clean floor, your house is pergoal is to be completely involved in the fumed with a wonderful citrus scent. Hirz community. Immediately, I want to grow has a plan to help get your floors looking roots and connections. Giving back like new all while keeping you, your fami- forms a complete experience to how I ly, and your pets safe. relate to the place I live.” If you are lookMore than that guarantee, Hirz ing for excellence in product and service, prides himself on integrity: “Instead of coupled with integrity, Hirz is your man. For pricing, free estimates, and estimates, I give exact-imates.” Transparency in his pricing is very impor- questions, visit http://citruscleantampa.com/ or call 314tant to him. Prices will not change between the phone conversation describ- 7800.

D O G

Volume 16, Issue 2

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

D A Y C A R E

•

L O D G I N G

•

The Village Players To Perform Agatha Christie’s The Mousetrap This February If you love a good murder mystery, then you will not want to miss the Village Players’ version of Agatha Christie’s The Mousetrap. All shows will be at the historic James McCabe Theatre located at 506 5th St. in Valrico. The actors with The The Village Players are getMousetrap opens ting ready to perform Agatha Christie’s The on Friday, Mousetrap this February. February 3 with the now legendary Village Players’ Opening Night Dinner Theatre. Tickets for opening night are $25. Dinner begins at 7 p.m. and the show will be presented at 8 p.m. All proceeds go towards renovation and maintenance of the historic James McCabe Theatre. Shows will be performed over three weekends in February. Fridays, February 10 and 17 at 8 p.m.; Saturdays, February 4, 11 and 18 at 8 p.m.; and Sundays, February 5 and 12 at 3 p.m. Tickets are $15 for general admission, $13 for seniors, military with ID and students with ID, and $12 for groups of 10 or more (advanced reservations are required). The Mousetrap opened on London’s West End in 1952 and has been running there continuously ever since. The play is known for its twist ending. Audiences are traditionally asked to not reveal the end-

By Kathy L. Collins

ing to anyone. The Mousetrap is set in a boarding house where strangers are stranded during a snow storm. The characters include the newly married couple who run the boarding house, a spinster, an architect, a retired Army major, a strange little man who claims his car overturned in a snow drift, a jurist and a policeman who shows up on skis. Among this group is a murderer. One by one each character reveals their sordid pasts are revealed until the last nerve ending moment, the identity and motive of the murderer is revealed. Gail Pierce, a producer and director with the Village Players said, “I oversee six shows a year and direct one or two of them. I especially enjoy murder mysteries and historical true stories. I prefer to direct these shows because everyone enjoys a good murder mystery.” Pierce added, “We may not be the Straz Center, but I believe we are a good solid community theatre that offers residents not only affordable, quality theatre, but also the chance to be involved in a production. The door is always open for someone who wants to get started working on a show.” Tickets available by visiting www.villageplayersvalrico.com or by calling 480-3147 or 643-8292.

T R A I N I N G

BESTACTIVITIES & SUPERIORCARE

for a HAPPY& HEALTYDog! Come By For A Tour Today!

(813)672-WOOF (9663) www.CanineCabana.BIZ info@caninecabana.biz #CanineCabanaFlorida

CFC037149

813-643-7173 Licensed • Bonded • Insured

(813) 643-7173 Plumbing Repairs Re-pipes Drain stoppages Home Additions Remodels Fixtures & Accessories

Leak repair Water Softener Installation Water Heater Installation New Construction (Residential) New Construction (Commercial)

Find out more at our website:

24/7 Emergency Operations Center Certified & Insured Technicians

WWW.COGGINSPLUMBING.COM

Locksmiths Are Security Professionals

Proudly serving the Tampa Bay area for over 30 years. 24 Hour Emergency Service

Latest Technologies & Security Solutions Family Business Values

“If it’s on a door, we service it!”

We’ve lived and served in this community for over a dozen years! We treat you like family.

156 East Bloomingdale Avenue • Brandon, FL 33511 813.701.3145 (Office) • 954.553.0293 (Cell) https://flyinglocksmiths.com/tampa-south Find us on

Customer Service is Our Priority! You Will Always Be Able To Reach Us!

10% OFF

$50 OFF

YOUR NEXT SERVICE CALL

NEW WATER HEATER PURCHASE & INSTALLATION

Expires 2/28/17

$200 OFF RESIDENTIAL REPIPE Expires 2/28/17

February 2017

Page 51

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

FX Fitness Studio Challenges You To A Healthier And Active Lifestyle

By Michelle Colesanti

Always helping as many inspired by living people as possible the active and live a healthier and healthy lifestyle, more-fit lifestyle. I Drew Preiss and want FX Fitness to wife Ashleigh now be known as a share this fitness place that anyone can come to, journey as the regardless of what owners of the new your current fitness FX Fitness Studio level is, and walk in Brandon. out feeling and The FX Effect looking better”. Training Method is FX Fitness isn’t a cross training just a luxury fitness style of fitness constudio. The cross sisting of group training style of classes, Yoga, workouts will chalboot camps, one Drew Preiss (along with his wife Ashleigh) lenge you and push on one personal are the owners of FX Fitness Studio in training, along with Brandon, which will be holding its Grand your limits in an Opening celebration on Saturday, environment that a monthly 3D body February 11. you feel safe and assessment. comfortable in. “Each member has Back in 2011, Drew, an ISSA their own set of goals to achieve, and Certified Personal Trainer, formerly worked with big box gyms, but decided we are there to guide them to the results they desire,” he said. to start his own business by doing Prices can range from $15 for a boot camps on the side. drop-in class to $149 per month for With the recent soft opening of FX unlimited access to all the classes and Fitness Studio in January, the Preiss’ monthly assessments. look forward to the upcoming grand The facility is 2800 sq. ft. Hours opening celebration which will be held are Monday to Thursday from 5:30 on Saturday, February 11 at 10 a.m. A a.m. to 8 p.m., Friday from 5:30 a.m. free FX Boot Camp class will kick off to 6 p.m. and Saturday from 8 a.m. to the fun at 9 a.m. You are invited to 1 p.m. It is closed on Sunday. come in and try the class and check FX Fitness is located at 932 W. out the Studio. An FX Founders membership special will be available during Lumsden Rd. in Brandon. For more information, call 643-7007 or email the grand opening. fxfitnessstudio@gmail.com. Visit According to Drew, “I want to www.fxfitnessstudio.com. make a big impact on our area by

BRANDON CATARACT CENTER AND EYE CLINIC Auyanna Gilbert Licensed Aesthetician

Specializing in unique facials and chemical peels that cater to every ethnicity. UNIQUE CHALLENGES FOR SKIN OF EVERY COLOR • Caucasian Skin – premature aging, dryness and rosacea.

• Hispanic Skin– hyperpigmentation, scarring, Post In!lammatory Hyperpigmentation (PIH), and uneven skin tone. • Asian Skin – sensitivity, and more prone to acne discoloration.

• African American or Other Ethnicities of Darker Skin – sensitivity to Post In!lammatory Hyperpigmentation (PIH), keloid formation, and pseudofolliculitis barbae (PFB).

Every ancestry has certain skin challenges speci!ic to it. This signi!icantly affects the type of skin care treatment performed. Treatment intensity varies based on the client and their speci!ic skin challenges.

BRANDON CATARACT CENTER AND EYE CLINIC 403 Vonderburg Dr. • Brandon

(813) 681-1122

www.brandoneye.com

Page 52

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Volume 16, Issue 2

New Stingray Touch Experience Opens To The Public At TECO Manatee Viewing Center Staff Report

The Florida Aquarium has collaborated with Tampa Electric Co. (TECO) to open a new stingray touch experience at the Manatee Viewing Center (MVC) in Apollo Beach. “TECO has been a wonderful partner of ours for years, and we’re excited to work together on this new guest experience that will educate and connect people with the natural environment,” said The Florida Aquarium’s President and CEO Thom Stork. “They continue to be a strong community supporter of the Aquarium and our commitment to protect and restore the blue planet starting right here in Tampa Bay.” Through safe interactions, onsite educators, and informative graphics, hundreds of thousands of manatee viewers can enjoy meeting other critical animal species that rely on a healthy Tampa Bay ecosystem. The newly constructed 10,000-gallon stingray exhibit is the new winter home for more than a dozen of the Aquarium’s stingrays, including

toring technology that A new stingray touch experience has recently opened at the Manatee Aquarium Viewing Center in Apollo Beach. biologists cownose and southern species, that can access online at any time, from reside in the outfield touch exhibit at anywhere. They can view current oxythe Tampa Bay Rays’ Tropicana Field gen levels, as well as the system’s in St. Petersburg during summer basepump and filtration status from any ball season. computer or smart phone. “The lifeMoving the rays across the Bay in support system 600-gallon transport comprises carriers complete with more than a life support, required half a mile of two trips, 12 staff pipe,” added members and a veteriTerrell. narian. “The stingrays The arrived safely and are all acclimating Aquarium will provide around-the-clock well to their new home,” reported the care for the animals including a staff Aquarium’s Director of Animal veterinarian and four biologists who Husbandry Mike Terrell. “Thanks to the observe the animals, feed them and elaborate infrastructure TECO providprovide proactive health monitoring. ed, this new habitat is state-of-the-art The rays eat squid, capelin and smelt, and has allowed us to create an enviabout 100 pounds of food a week for ronment that is safe, enriching and all the animals in the habitat. well-suited to stingray behavior.” This new experience comes just in The habitat uses advanced monitime to welcome the five-millionth visi-

tor to the center, which experiences an influx of West Indian manatees that seek out the clean, warm water discharge canal of Tampa Electric’s Big Bend Power Station when the water temperature of Tampa Bay is 68 degrees or colder. The stingray touch experience adds another key element to the Florida Conservation and Technology Center, a conservation and education site shared among The Florida Aquarium, TECO and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC). This interactive, science, technology, engineering and math (STEM)-based living classroom is aimed at educating students and showcasing environmental conservation efforts being spearheaded by all three organizations. TECO’s Manatee Viewing Center is located at 6990 Dickman Rd. in Apollo Beach. It is open through April 15 from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. daily. The observation tower and trails close at 4 p.m.

February 2017

Page 53

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Plant City Entertainment Presents The Strawberry Jubilee Musical

By Kathy L. Collins

Plant City has several Entertainment references (PCE) will and nods present an allto our great new original little town. musical payThe show ing homage to features singing, the classic dancing days of televiand a lot of sion and comedy. As country music it is set as of the 1950’s Plant City Entertainment will present an original musical a live TV with The comedy, just in time for the world to descend on the Strawberry Winter Strawberry Capitol of the World. The Strawberry show, Jubilee is a fun comedy musical great for the whole things start Jubilee. So, if family. to go a lityou are looktle off the tracks. We have several ing for a toe-tapping good old fashion time, come see The Strawberry Jubilee community theatre veterans in the cast along with many first timers,” added beginning on Friday, February 10 at 8 Abbott. p.m. PCE is located at 101 N. Thomas Dodie White, a long-time resident St. in Plant City. of Plant City, is the president of the Performances will be held on Plant City Entertainment’s Board of Friday, February 17, Saturday, Managers. White is proud of what PCE February 11 and 18 at 8 p.m., and on does. “I think we have the finest comSunday, February 12 and 19 at 2 p.m. munity theatre in existence. We have Tickets are $16 for adults and $14 for come a long way from performing seniors and students. The Strawberry Jubilee was written where we could find a venue, to home ownership since 2009. I feel that we and directed by Seffner resident, Terry produce quality, low priced shows, that Abbott. This is the ninth original musithe entire family can enjoy,” said White. cal written and directed by Abbott. PCE is governed by a 14-member “The show is a brand new original board of managers. “We love the themusical comedy based on the classic Grand Ole Opry television shows of the atre and love seeing live-stage productions be a reality in our area,” added 1950’s. We have a cast of 14 men, White. women and children. It is a family For more information on PCE and friendly show with 16 original songs on The Strawberry Jubilee, please visit that were written with a classic country www.pceshows.com or email music feel,” said Abbott. info@pceshows.com. “The show is set in Plant City and

18 MONTHS INTEREST FREE!

FREE! Hearing Evaluation

FREE INSPECTION & WAX REMOVAL WITH HEARING TEST IT COULD JUST BE

WAX!

THE WAIT IS OVER!

$599

100%

Affordable Digital Aids

Call Today!

fits up to 40 db loss

BATTERY COUPON

99 ₵ 4 Pack

Limit 3 packs

FREE REPAIR ALL MAKES ALL MODELS

AS SEEN ON TV

Bring in your damaged hearing aid. If we can fix it in our lab, wewill at NO CHARGE!

Page 54

Volume 16, Issue 2

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

HCPS School Security Services Seek Support For Third Annual Golf Tourney

Armor Guard Painting Offers A High Level Of Protection For Your Home

Hillsborough cal staff hopes to County Public see all who are Schools (HCPS) able and willing to School Security support the event, Services is gearto enjoy a great ing up to host its day of great golf Third Annual and good times at a fantastic golfing Hillsborough HCPS School Security Services is seeking venue. County School players and support for its Third Annual Raffle and Security Golf Hillsborough County School Security Golf Tournament. auction prizes as Tournament. well as contests including the longest According to HCPS School Security drive, closest to the pin, putting and hole officials, the 4-person scramble format in one contests are all on the menu. event now is the department’s way to “Our goal is to establish this golfing bring the community together for a day to play the sport they love, while giving back event as an annual endeavor for years to come,” Newman said, while emphasized to the community by means of raising that all proceeds will go toward the HCPS money for the students they serve. Security Services Sunshine Fund, which “This is our way of giving back to the finances a variety of training needs and community, as we raise money for scholhonor guard ceremonial events not to arships, support our students during the mention the potential scholarship opporholidays and helping them with a wide variety of school supplies including tablets tunities. Registration is from 12 p.m.— 12:45 p.m. as Tee Time is scheduled for and laptop computers,” said HCPS 1 p.m. Shotgun. Abruzzese said the tourSecurity Services Corporal and event ney is limited to the first 144 players to organizer Robert Abruzzese. join the festivities while supporting the The tourney scheduled for Monday, students and department. March 27 at The Claw at USF Golf Club, Tournament entry fees are: $85 per located on 46th St., just north of Fletcher person, 4-some discount price of $300 Ave. raises money for the department’s and includes golf cart, greens fees, bevHonor Guard, which represents the state erages and dinner. Dress code applies and the community. and consists of collared shirts, no denims “The HCPS School Security are or cutoffs, and soft spikes only. committed to providing the best service Checks are payable to Security and security for all students, staff and visiServices and mailed to Bob Abruzzese tors to the nearly 300 campuses,” said C/O Security Services, 2920 North 40th HCPS Security Services Chief, John St. Tampa, FL 33605. For information call Newman. 623-3996 or visit Newman added that department’s officers along with its command and cleri- security.services@sdhc.k12.fl.us.

Owning a home cially designed to is a wonderful thing. ensure that the exteAll homeowners rior of your home is know that their maximally protected homes require a lot against the eleof maintenance to ments. protect their investThe process is ment, and that extensive. First, an includes painting inspection of the both the interior and You can count home is completed. on Armor the exterior of the Then, a three to sixGuard Painting home. inch trench is dug & Coating to provide a high If you could opt around the perimelevel of protection to both the interior and ter of the home to for a method of proexterior of your home thus protecting it tection that is guarprevent ground moisfrom the harsh Florida elements. anteed for a longer ture from seeping period, would you choose it? Armor into the foundation which causes cracks. Guard Painting & Coating offers that Next, the home is pressure washed, extra level of protection. patches and repairs are done and the Armor Guard Painting & Coating is home is masked off. Then, the one of Florida’s largest exterior and interi- primer/sealer is applied. A final coat is or painting and coating companies servthen applied and the trim is done. The ing most of central and southern Florida, crew will then clean up the property, and including right here in the greater a Completion Certificate is completed. Brandon area. In addition to painting and coating the Armor Guard Painting & Coating exterior and interior of your home, Armor offers a variety of options using superior Guard Painting & Coating can also proproducts that extend the longevity of the tect your pool deck and pavers, roof, protection the products give your home. garage floor and windows. They are specially formulated to withArmor Guard Painting & Coating is a stand Florida’s harsh sub-tropical climate. family owned business. Rodney They include the Armor Coat systems Yavorsky, the owner, has more than 20 that provide guaranteed protection for 10 years of experience in the industry. or 20 years. Armor Guard Painting & Yavorsky said, “We have perfected the Coating also offers an exterior standard process of protecting both the interior and coating system that is guaranteed for 10 exterior of your home. Call us today and years and exterior painting systems that we will get you scheduled and your projlast seven, five or three years. ect completed within days.” Regardless of the system you For information, visit choose, you get Armor Guard Painting & www.armorguard.net or call 727-501Coating’s 10 step process. This is spe1264.

By Tamas Mondovics

McAuley Fine Jewelry (Located in the former Martin Jeweler’s)

Same Staff ... Same Location ... Same Trusted Professionals of the former Martin’s Jewelers The staff and jewelers of Martin’s Jewelers will continue to provide you with the same great service and trust in workmanship that you have always enjoyed.

Expires 3/31/2017

Ed McAuley, Owner Served The Martin Family For Over 10 Years Open Tuesday-Friday 10-6 • Saturday 10-5

813-689-8124 • Oakfield Drive, Brandon (Located in the Atlantic Village Plaza, Kings Avenue & Oakfield Drive)

February 2017

Page 55

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

STEVE MORAN P.A. 813-661-2476

Superior Residences Andrew Brings Home International Award For Product Creativity

By Kate Quesada

Do you have a lid to determine how friend or loved one much had been who suffers with consumed, thus agidementia? If so, the tating the patient. product that recently Also, straws can be won Superior a challenge. We Residences of wanted a way to Brandon an award determine the from Promotional amount of consumpProducts Association tion without disturbInternational (PPAI) ing the patient.” might be of interest McNeill found to you. the solution to her Superior problem with a Residences Senior mood bottle providJill Andrew of Superior Residences of Brandon recently won the PPAI Pyramid ed by HIT. The botSolution Expert Jill Award for creative use of a promotional Andrew submitted a tle starts out clear product. water bottle provided white and turns red to her by Jerry McNeill of Vernon when cold or ice liquid is used. MacGraves Promotions, Inc. to the “The white bottle turned red to the PPAI Pyramid Awards which recognize level of the contents so it was easy for creative use of promotional products the caregiver to see from afar how because she noticed it changes the much was consumed,” said Andrew. lives of patients with dementia. Andrew and McNeill’s collaboration “I needed a product that would was enough to impress the judges at ensure that patients with dementia the PPAI Pyramid Awards. They gave were consuming adequate liquids and the use of the bottle first place in their that had ease of use,” said Andrew. award recognizing creative use of a Andrew did some research and promotional product. found a study from a group at Boston “This has turned into tremendous University that determined that somespin-off for both of us,” said McNeill. one with Alzheimers, which is a type of “Jill now uses the bottle for her trade dementia, will eat 25 percent more food show giveaways, her gifts to residents off a red plate. She went further and and caregivers and a show and tell found that a patient with dementia will item during guest lecture events.” drink up to 87 percent more out of a red For more information, contact cup. Andrew at 657-8587. Superior “We originally used a red cup with Residences is located at 1819 a lid and straw,” said Andrew. “The Providence Ridge Blvd. Visit downside was that you had to open the www.superioralf.com.

Whether you choose cremation or burial, we offer a range of products and services designed to accommodate all budgets. Schedule Your Pre-Planning Appointment TODAY.

#1 Individual Keller Williams Agent in Brandon 2004-2016 If you want your home SOLD rather than just Listed, Call the agent who has become a

“HOUSE SOLD” name - STEVE MORAN. WWW.STEVEMORAN.COM

LITHIA

FISHHAWK TRAILS 4 BR, 3BA 3 Car side entry garage Granite countertops in kitchen Pool & Spa 3,152 sq ft

$496,000

VALRICO

4BR, 3BA 3 Car garage Silestone countertops and Crown Moulding Upstairs Loft area Privacy Fenced Back Yard 2,332 sq ft

$265,000

DI N PE

LITHIA

FISHHAWK TRAILS POOL HOME on .60 ACRE LOT

4BR, 3BA, 3 car side entry garage. Loaded with upgrades 3,032 sq ft

$449,500

Conveniently located only 10 minutes away in FishHawk Ranch! Closed Sundays

F $5 OFcut

A Hair

with bined e com y not b 2017 a / M 8 . 2 d / a s2 resent Expire Must p offers. rver other y Obse Ospre

any

$20 Men’s Haircut • $15 Boys 12 & under $18 for Active Military, Fire Dept., & Law Enforcement 16311 Fishhawk Blvd, Lithia, FL 33547 | 813-661-7024

Salt...a relaxing natural, drug-free therapy Salt & "Pamper"

$100 Valentine Special Our Family Caring For Your Family

1 Hr Massage, 45 Minute Salt Session, and 1/2 Hour Sauna Gift Certifi ficcates Available Natural Relief From:

Sinusitis • Allergies • Bronchitis • Congestion & Cough • Asthma • COPD • And Much More!

1026 Bloomingdale Avenue • Valrico (Located in the Plaza Bella)

813-324-8946 • www.TheSaltGrotto.com Debbie@TheSaltGrotto.com

Page 56

Volume 16, Issue 2

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

The Brenda Wade Team

The NUMBER ONE TEAM In Lithia/Valrico 2001-2016! Over 1,500 Homes SOLD In Lithia/Valrico! Make The Wise Choice! Call The Brenda Wade Team To Buy Or Sell!

Signature Realty Associates

Top Producer 2002 - 2016

BRENDA (813) 924-8677 • OFFICE (813) 655-5333 ! G EWN N TI S LI

! EW E N RIC P

CUSTOM HOME ON OVER 6.5 ACRES! 7/7.5/5+ garage + office + bonus + media room + pool/spa + detached 2.5 bed guest home with kitchen! No detail overlooked with wood floors, wide base, crown, plantation shutters, chef's kitchen & more! To truly appreciate this home, take a look at my website! $1,675,000

EXQUISITE HOME IN GATED CHAPMAN CROSSING IN FISHHAWK RANCH! 4/3full/2half/3 + office + bonus + pool/spa home! Elegance abound with all the bells & whistles you would expect from this custom builder! Take a look at my website! $1,099,000

CUSTOM BUILT, DESIGNER HOME IN FISH HAWK TRAILS! 4/3.5/3 + office + bonus + pool home on oversized lot! This home offers many features & would make a great family home! Over 4,300 sq.ft gives you ample room for you & your family! $611,000

**HUGE PRICE REDUCTION**CARDEL "WALDORF" HOME IN THE PRESERVE AT FISHHAWK RANCH! 4/4/2 + office + bonus pool/spa home that is breathtaking! Tuscan elevation & features galore will set this home apart. Take a look at my website! $750,000

PRIVATE 1.28 ACRES IN LITHIA! 3 bedroom, 2 bath + pool home on private lot with pond! Spacious rooms & open floor plan! Kitchen with wood cabinets & black appliances! New roof & A/C in 2013 & windows & slider in 2015! Fully fenced! $217,000

BLOOMINGDALE BEAUTY MINUTES TO ELEMENTARY SCHOOL! 4/2/3 home that offers almost 2,100 sqft with Pergo flooring, combination formals & great paint choices! Screened patio overlooks a fully fenced yard! Perfect! $245,000

CARDEL BEAUTY IN FISHHAWK RANCH! 3/2/2 + bonus home just a short bike ride to Bevis elementary! Freshly painted interior in 2015, new flooring & kitchen with raised panel wood cabinets, island, granite & stainless appliances! Screened patio! $325,000

! G EWN N TI S LI

BLOOMINGDALE BEAUTY! 4/2/2 + pool home that offers fenced yard & is just minutes to Bloomingdale East Park! French doors, wood look tile floors, pool re-marcited in 2016, new A/C & hot water heater in 2014, new pool pump in 2015! Great home! $235,000

! EW E N RIC P

DAVID WEEKLEY "LEEWARD" HOME! 4/2.5/2 + office + bonus in Fishhawk Ranch Garden District! Great floor plan with wood floors, molding, fireplace, French doors & neutral paint! Kitchen with 42" upgraded cabinets & stainless appliances! $358,500

DAVID WEEKLEY "WELTNER" FLOOR PLAN! 4/3.5/2 + office + bonus home directly across from community amenities! Crown, hickory hardwood floors, French doors & kitchen with 42" maple cabinets, granite & stainless appliances! $339,875

WONDERFUL "COVE" LOCATION IN BLOOMINGDALE! Small cul-de-sac street on 0.35 acres lot! 4/3/3 home with wood floors, separate formals, brick fireplace & kitchen with granite counters & stainless appliances! New roof & water heater in 2014! $325,000

OVERSIZED LOT ON 14TH HOLE IN GATED RIVER HILLS! 5/3.5/2 + pool home on cul-de-sac street! Exterior painted in 2013 & side-entry garage! Bruce hardwood floors, crown, plantation shutters & huge kitchen! New A/C in 2011! $375,000

! G EWIN N T S LI

! G EWN N TI S LI

BEAUTIFUL HOME WITH OVER 4,400 SQFT! 6/3.5/3 + bonus + media room Taylor Morrison "Hemingway" home in Channing Park! Wood floors, decorator paint colors, tray ceilings & gourmet kitchen with granite! Large fenced yard! $419,000

! G EWIN N T S LI

OVERSIZED CONSERVATION LOT IN FISHHAWK RANCH! 5/3.5/3 + bonus + 2015 pool home at the end of a cul-de-sac! Wood & travertine floors throughout, French doors, combination formals, split floor plan! Newer A/C units & windows! $439,000 ! EW E N RIC P

STUNNING ARTHUR RUTENBERG "ST AUGUSTINE IV" IN GATED VILLAGE! 4/3/3 + office + bonus + pool home in Fishhawk Ranch! Cul-de-sac location with many upgrades & designer touches! Make this your forever home! $579,000

PARADISE ON 6.48 ACRES! 4/3/2 + office + bonus + pool home! Equestrian's dream with 50ft round pen, barn, stalls, & tack room! Home offers Pergo floors, molding, plantation shutters, wood-burning fireplace, 8 ft doors & more! Perfect! $580,000

HANNAH BARTOLETTA BEAUTY ON GOLF COURSE LOT IN RIVER HILLS! 4/3.5/3 + office + bonus + pool/spa home! Both A/C units replaced in 2014, 2016 exterior & interior paint, resurfaced pool & more! Almost 3,500 sq ft of luxury! Take a look at my website! $525,000 ! EW E N RIC P

ONE OF A KIND CUSTOM HOME IN FISH HAWK TRAILS! 5/4/3 + office + bonus + pool/spa home sitting on 1/2 acre lot with no backdoor neighbors! Coveted in-law suite with kitchenette! Wood floors, fireplace & upgraded kitchen! Fully fenced! $592,500

ARTHUR RUTENBERG "NASSAU V" ON 0.56 ACRE LOT! 4/3/4 + bonus + pool/spa Fish Hawk Trails beauty with crown, wood-burning fireplace & more! Beautiful kitchen with refinished cabinets, new subway tile & new granite counters! Master bath with new granite counters! $519,000 ! G EWIN N T S LI

OVER 12.5 ACRES IN THE HEART OF VALRICO! Zoned for 'A' schools, this is the perfect spot to build your dream home! Private gated entry & long driveway & two ponds! Currently two mobile homes are on the property! $599,000

BRENDA@BRENDAWADE.COM • WWW.BRENDAWADE.COM