Osprey Observer Bloomingdale/FishHawk December 2023

Bloomingdale/FishHawk

38

December 2023

Volume 22, Issue 12

Ph: 813-657-2418

On Page 4

See Our Ad

CELEBRATING 21 YEARS OF PUBLISHING P OSITIVE COMMUNIT Y NEWS

VETERAN RALPH ABENANTE, 95, STARTS EVERYDAY WITH PICKLEBALL IN THE PARK

BOARD HONORS BLOOMINGDALE MUSIC EDUCATOR WITH FORMAL NAMING OF

By Jane Owen

SUTHERLAND HALL FOR PERFORMING ARTS

Osprey Observer 2109 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. Valrico, FL 33596

Special Offers Postal Customer

ECRWSS EDDM

PRSTD STD U.S. POSTAGE PAID TAMPA, FL PERMIT #2118

Ralph Abenante will tell He skirted death more you over and over again than a few times in the that he has had a wonmilitary. He served in the derful life.

Korean War and VietBorn in 1928, Abenante nam war. He was in the learned the value of hard 2 percent of the Navy sework early in life. His lected to be an explosive school days included a beordnance disposal (EOD) fore-school job peddling officer. With his EOD dibread and an after-school vision, he traveled all over job as a clerk at a soda the eastern hemisphere fountain. Abenante enlistdetecting, disarming and ed in the Navy at 18. disposing of explosive “When I die tomorrow threats. He was on the or the day after, I have Ralph Abenante, explosive ord- diving team that salvaged nance disposal officer, 1961. no regrets whatsoever. artifacts from Modern At 95, I don’t have a pain Greece, a screw steamin my body, I’m healthy, I ship used during the Civil can do everything I want War. He was on the recovto do. I have a good family,” ery team after the Ohio RivAbenante said. er Silver Bridge collapse.

At 95 years young, Abenante wrapped up Abenante plays pickleball his Navy career assigned every morning at Bloomingas Secret Service for Presidale East Park and then dent Richard Nixon. He was works out at the Campo awarded the United States Family YMCA. His day beSecret Service Director’s gins with coffee and exer- Ralph Abnante, age 95, plays Honor Award, the highest cise, stretching and lifting pickleball at Bloomingdale award given to a Secret weights at home for half Service member, for savEast Park daily. an hour. He’ll listen to the ing the lives of 11 Secret news, have breakfast and Service members who were work on a crossword puzzle trapped in a crashed helicopbefore heading to the courts. ter.

“The thing is, if there is Abenante described himsomething that is why I am self as an adventurous type why I am, it is because I exand said he has been very Ralph Abenante earned ercise every single day. I have the United States Secret lucky. He strongly believes never ever stopped. I love it,” Service Director’s Honor that family and relationships Abenante said. are important and being in Award in 1973.

Exercise has been part of Abenante’s the present moment is the best way to entire life. He started playing tennis when live. he was young and didn’t stop until he was “If you live in the past, you will never 90. He was champion in the over-40 divi- make it in the present,” Abenante said. “I sion in the Navy. In his 70s, he was the No. am not the originator of that, but it is very 2 ranked tennis player in Florida. true. People have a tendency to say I wish Abenante served 30 years in the Navy, it was this way or that way. If you live retiring as a chief warrant officer in 1975. that way, you’re not going to make it.”

REMEMBER TO SHOP LOCAL SUPPORT OUR SMALL BUSINESSES

Welcome to our annual holiday edition. This year, more than ever, our locally owned small businesses need our support. Throughout this edition, our advertisers have been getting into the holiday spirit, and we are launching our annual Shop Local Holiday Sweepstakes! Enter online at www.ospreyobserver. com or mail in the entry form on page 7. Early-bird prizes include gorgeous jewelry from McAuley Fine Jewelry, a set of four tires from Express Oil & Tire Engineers of Riverview and a fishing charter from True Lies Fishing Charters.

By Jane Owen and their well-being, well beyond the walls of our music department,” Sever said.

Andrea Lange, Bloomingdale High Schools’ fine arts department head, and school board member Patti Rendon also spoke at the meetSupporters of the naming of Bloomingdale Senior High School’s Suther- ing about the impact land Hall for the Performing Arts after the Hillsborough County School Sutherland had.

Board voted on November 14.

Sue Burkett, HillsOn November 14, the Hillsborough County chief of borough County School Board schools, first met Sutherunanimously approved the land when she was the naming of Bloomingdale Senior assistant principal of High School’s auditorium to the curriculum at Blooming‘Sutherland Hall for Performing dale High School. BurArts’ in memory of Beverly ‘Bev’ kett took a position at Sutherland. another school and then Sutherland was a teacher of returned to Bloomingdamusic education in Hillsborough County for le as principal while Sutherland was there. almost 40 years. She made Bloomingdale “Every student, every parent, every colher home, serving at Bloomingdale for 20 of league became better just by our interacthose years in various roles in the music detions with Bev Sutherland. She taught me partment, including choir director, assistant how to be a better principal, and I am confiband director, orchestra teacher and Crimdent everyone who knew Bev became better son Guard flag corps assistant. somehow, someway by their mere relationPrincipal Dr. Marcos Rodriguez requestship with her. To say she left her mark on our ed the naming of the auditorium. He shared community, our children and our school is an that the four best words to describe Sutherunderstatement. There is no better way, no land are: motivation, dedication, love and better space to honor the service, dedication inspiration. and impact of Bev than to memorialize her “She truly was an inspiration, so much so at the Bloomingdale High School Sutherland that we had over 1,600 signatures on our Hall for the Performing Arts,” Burkett said. petition within the first 48 hours,” RodriUpgrades are underway at Bloomingdaguez said. “As the choir director, Bev’s prole’s auditorium. Once they are completed grams at Bloomingdale were massive and (projected summer of 2024), a formal second to none. She taught with ‘tough love,’ dedication and ribbon-cutting for Sutherand her personality and dedication to music land Hall for the Performing Arts will take education was infectious to anyone that she place in the fall. encountered.”

Jon Sever, supervisor of secondary music for Hillsborough County and former Bloomingdale High School director of bands, thanked the board for their support.

“Bev was a fantastic musician. She was a clarinet major, but she ended up being one of the most amazing choral people I have ever met. And she cared about the entire student

Have A Safe & Happy Holiday From Our Family To Yours!

Not to be combined with any other offer.

Only valid at Riverview, FL - Boyette location.

12/31/2023

$40 OFF BRAKES Includes Free Brake Inspection Not to be combined with any other offer.

Only valid at Riverview, FL - Boyette location.

12/31/2023

Page 2

Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition

Volume 22, Issue 12

Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition

December 2023

BIKES FOR CHRIST

STRUGGLING TO KEEP UP WITH THE DEMAND IN MULTIPLE WAYS Staff Report Many individuals have At this time, Bikes For suffered this past year, Christ is asking the public finding themselves in sitfor donations of good, used uations they never could bicycles in ‘adult’ sizes. have imagined. Loss of a Simmons said 85 percent job, loss of affordable livof its partner organizaing — times are hard for tions’ orders are for men’s many right now. But a bibicycles, which are always cycle can be life-changing the most needed. Bikes do in many ways, so Bikes not have to be perfect but For Christ needs your help should be as close to ridethis Christmas season to able condition as possible continue to help those less Bikes For Christ was contacted by so repairs can be done McDonald Elementary School in quicker and the bikes can fortunate.

Bikes For Christ current- Seffner about a mother and her be in the hands and feet son who recently came from Cuba. ly partners with over 100 of those who need them She had no transportation and organizations in Tampa sooner. The other issue was surprised with sheer joy on Bay by supplying bicycles her face as she was presented with hampering productivity is as transportation to the the lack of a much larger a bike at her home. clients with whom these agencies work. Its facility. main focus is veterans trying to overcome “We have been working out of a 12x30 hardships, underprivileged children and any- metal building for the past five years and one in need and trying to climb out of the outgrew it four years ago,” Simmons stated. grips of poverty or the situation they are Bikes For Christ has plans for a new facilin. Along with every bike it gives out, it also ity that will be almost 10 times as large but provides a Gospel of John, as it wants peo- is waiting on the funding to do so. ple to know that Christ cares for and loves Just this year alone, Bikes For Christ has them. received several accolades, including the folFounder Pat Simmons stated, “Christmas lowing: is always the time of year when we reach • Community Service Award — Plant City out to the community for that extra bit of Chamber of Commerce. help we need. Plus, we always try to do • Honored as one of only five nonprofits in something special as well. The past three the region for their work with children and years, we have had the opportunity to send families by Casey DeSantis and presented bicycles to children in Africa by partnering with a $10,000 check from the Hope Florwith The Tampa Bay Area Liberian Commu- ida Fund. nity Association, and we have close to 25 • Nonprofit of the Year — The Community more on their way there this year. However, Roundtable of Brandon. the need continues to be great here at home For more information or to make monein our own community, so we are reaching tary or bicycle donations, visit www.bikeout to ask for more assistance.” s4christ.com.

Owned Family ted a & Oper

Page 3

OSPREY OBSERVER EDITOR NOW ON MENU WITH SPECIAL BURGER AT FORD’S GARAGE BRANDON

Staff Report

Community leaders and local chambers gather for the launch of the Marie Gilmore, Osprey Observer Editor - BBQ Brisket Burger at Ford’s Garage Brandon.

Ford’s Garage, an all-American, service-station-inspired gastro pub has a new burger on its menu named for Marie Gilmore, editor and publisher of the Osprey Observer Newspapers.

The BBQ brisket burger is now a member of the Burgers of Fame menu which names burgers after community leaders, including Tampa Sheriff Chad Chronister, Mayor Jane Castor and more.

Gilmore was honored with the naming, which includes her name on the Burgers of Fame menu boards throughout the restaurant and on every menu.

“This is such a huge honor,” said Gilmore during a launch event at the restaurant with local chambers of commerce, honorary mayors and dignitaries. “I am so proud to have been considered for such a distinct honor and to join the ranks of some amazing community leaders.”

General manager Bryan Saunders, who has been a reader of the Osprey Observerfor more than 18 years, said, “When Osprey team member Kerrie Hoening brought up the idea of Marie as a Burger of Fame member, we thought it was a great idea. This pro-

gram is our opportunity to honor community leaders.”

Founded in 2012, the original Ford’s Garage opened in Fort Myers, less than a mile from Henry Ford’s winter home. Today, as an official licensee of the Ford Motor Company, the restaurant pays tribute to America’s most iconic automobile brand by offering a truly historic dining experience — right down to nostalgic auto shop uniforms and the hand-hammered copper bar top at each of its locations.

The Marie Gilmore, Osprey Observer Editor - BBQ Briskey Burger is a Black Angus burger with Tillamook® aged sharp cheddar cheese, bourbon barbecue sauce, hickory smoked brisket, applewood smoked bacon, red onions and crispy onion straws on a brioche bun.

Based in Tampa, Ford’s Garage currently has locations in Florida, Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Ohio and Texas.

Ford’s Garage’s sister restaurants include Yeoman’s Topgolf Swing Suite, Tiki Docks, Don the Beachcomber, The Firestone, Capone’s Coal Fired Pizza, Cabos Cantina, The Lodge, the Boathouse Tiki Bar & Grill, Downtown Social House, Izzy’s Fish & Oyster, all located in Florida.

Ford’s Garage Brandon is located in the Lake Brandon Plaza at 11105 Causeway Blvd. in Brandon. For more information, visit https://fordsgarageusa.com/ or www.23restaurants.com/company.

> edwardjones.com | Member SIPC

Sign up for and ELEVATING THE Weekly STANDARDService OF POOL CARE Receive ONE FREE VISIT!

813-230-2838 *New Customers Only

3 Easy and Convenient Ways to

3 Easy and Convenient Ways to Receive Your FREE Estimate TODAY! Receive Your FREE Estimate TODAY! • EMAIL: EdgePoolService@gmail.com

• EMAIL: EdgePoolService@gmail.com • TEXT or CALL: 813-230-2838

• ONLINE: • ONLINE:edgepoolsfl.com edgepoolsfl.com

ELEVATING THE STANDARD OF POOL CARE Now Offering Resurfacing!

Let’s schedule your year-end review.

On your corner, in your corner.

Come say hello.

Joanna Springstead, CFP® Financial Advisor

BEFORE

BEFORE

AFTER

AFTER

Call Today for Our CHEMICALS • CLEANING REPAIR • EQUIPMENT • RESURFACING Cleaning & Repair Services!

Lic#: CPC1459497

Sponsor of Water Smart Tots

13459 Fishhawk Blvd Lithia, FL 33547 813-657-2078 MKT-5894M-A-A1 AECSPAD 20538241

Page 4

Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition

Volume 22, Issue 12

BLOOMINGDALE HIGH SCHOOL VOLLEYBALL FISHHAWK MOMBIES RAISE MORE THAN COACH LEADS TEAM TO STATE TOURNAMENT $7,000 FOR BREAST CANCER RESEARCH

By Kayleigh Jones MONTHS AFTER HEART ATTACK Staff Report

Anyone who atAfter the surgery, tends a girls’ volleyball Rovnanik’s wife, Lezgame at Bloomingdale lie, checked his phone Senior High School and was shocked to (BSHS) will comment find he had over 500 on the power of the text messages from game and the roar the community wishof the crowd. On the ing him well. sidelines, helping to During the next drive this dynamfew weeks, students ic team is assistant dropped off hunCoach Tim Rovnanik is grateful to be back with the Bloomingdale Senior High dreds of handwritten coach Tim Rovnanik.

School volleyball team after a recent After a recent heart notes to the BSHS heart attack. attack, Rovnanik feels office, delivered to grateful to be courtRovnanik’s home by side. “I wasn’t going to miss Principal Marcos Rodriguez. it. I’m here for the girls,” he Head coach Damian Goderich said. mowed Rovnanik’s lawn and Prior to his heart attack, checked in regularly. ‘Coach “life was pretty normal,” said Tim Strong’ T-shirts sold out Rovnanik. He was raising his quickly. A student-teacher grandchildren, substitute volleyball game and GoFundteaching and coaching at Me raised over $20,000.

BSHS. “I watched the GoFundAfter he arrived at HCA Florida Bran- Me account go up and up. I watched as don Hospital ER, cardiac surgeon Dr. students gave $2 and $5 donations and I Bradley Bufkin understood the immediate wanted to share how much it meant to us. need for Rovnanik to have open-heart sur- It really made such a big impact on our gery. lives,” said Lezlie.

Twenty-four hours after being admitRovnanik teaches his players how to ted, Rovnanik was wheeled into surgery. overcome adversity, and now he has had He couldn’t resist coaching the cardiac to push himself. He was supported by the care team and said they “have good cohe- Brandon Hospital care team, his BSHS sion as a team.” community and his family. Now, he is back “We did a coronary artery bypass sur- courtside, doing what he does best: coach. gery. We ended up doing four bypasses, Rovnanik and the Bloomingdale Bulls and then after that he went to our inten- made it all the way to the state volleyball sive care unit and recovered well,” said tournament. They lost in the state semiBufkin. “We are an ‘unending’ team within final in three sets to St. Thomas Aquinas Brandon Hospital. We identify the health but the girls “played their hearts out” for concern and transition excellent care from Rovnanik, and the team of caregivers at surgery to ICU to postoperative care.”

Brandon Hospital cheered them along too.

The holiday seaevent. son presents many The formation wonderful experiof the group aidences, like attending ed in many new celebrations that the connections for entire family may both the mothenjoy. This year’s ers and their Halloween activichildren who ties at Park Square all interacted were one such event. in these pracOn October 29, the tices.

Young Fishhawk Mombies, a group attributes the group’s of 23 mothers, performed at success to the united the event dressed as zombies efforts of all the womwhile dancing the night away en, their families and to Michael Jackson’s “Thrillher own family. er,” and they raised $7,118.30 “The most heartfor breast cancer research warming is the overand treatment. whelming support Andrea Young, founder of from the community,” Fishhawk Mombies, was insaid Young. spired to start her own group Participating in this after seeing a viral video on group was intimate Instagram posted by the origfor some involved, ininal Mombies, who are based cluding Young and felThe Fishhawk Mombies in front of low mombie Michele in Fairfield, Connecticut.

“When I saw that video, Amici’s Pizza & Pasta, where their Jones, who both share it was like a lightbulb,” said upcoming holiday show is sched- a connection to this uled to take place in December.

Young. cause: Young’s lifelong Young began establishing her group after friend is currently battling breast cancer reaching out to the Fairfield Mombies found- and Jones is a survivor of breast cancer. er, Terry Davis, and receiving permission.

All donations are gifted to The Cancer She commenced her efforts on the 19th to Couch Foundation, and 100 percent of dorecruit members, but the number of partici- nations are matched by anonymous donors pants soared once she posted the invitation and used to fund research at leading cancer to join online. Many people replied, asking centers Dana-Farber Cancer Institute and her how to participate or donate. Young Memorial Sloan Kettering. began scheduling practices at her residence For more information, contact Fishhawk with only nine days till the event. Thanks to Mombies at fishhawkmombies@gmail.com. her history in competitive dance, she rec- With the handles @FishhawkMombies and ognized that six practices from October 22 @fishawk_mombies, one may also search to October 27 were optimal for familiariz- for the group via Facebook, YouTube and ing everyone with the dance preceding the Instagram.

NBLF OFX NFNPSJFT FWFSZ OJHIU BU CVTDI HBSEFOT DISJTUNBT UPXOǢ Ű TUPSZUJNF XJUI NST DMBVT Ű NJMMJPOT PG UXJOLMJOH MJHIUT Ű DISJTUNBT PO JDF TIPX Ű TJOH B MPOH USBJO Ű TBOUBũT OPSUI QPMF FYQFSJFODF QSFTFOUFE CZ DPDB DPMB

CVTDIHBSEFOTUBNQB DPN

Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition

December 2023

2109 Lithia Pinecrest Rd., Valrico 33596 (fax) 813-657-4469 ' $ ' ! #$' ' " ' ' • (office) '&' 813-657-2418 ' • ' &' % '

' ! " " " " "

" "

!

! !

! & $ '

!

!

& $ '

" " " "

!

! !

! & $ '

& $ '

" "

" "

! !

! !

# & $ '

!

& $ '

" "

" "

! !

Publishing Positive News

!

Since 2001

!% $ '

!" & $ '

ADVERTISING REPRESENTATIVES FISHHAWK/BLOOMINGDALE & VALRICO ADVERTISING

RIVERVIEW/APOLLO BEACH & SOUTHSHORE ADVERTISING

813-625-1527

813-833-7470

khoening@ospreyobserver.com

mhartmann@ospreyobserver.com

BRANDON & WINTHROP ADVERTISING

BRANDON ADVERTISING

813-300-5152

813-310-4434

mgershkoff@ospreyobserver.com

belkins@ospreyobserver.com

Kerrie Hoening

Melissa Hartmann

Brooke Elkins

Melody Gershkoff

PUBLISHING POSITIVE COMMUNTIY NEWS THROUGHOUT

BLOOMINGDALE/FISHHAWK • RIVERVIEW APOLLO BEACH • BRANDON • VALRICO ©Copyright 2020 - Osprey Observer, Inc. No reproduction without written permission.

Page 5

nitishrele@gmail.com

2023 FORD MAVERICK PICKUP IS A RENEGADE OF SORTS! By Nitish Rele Last year, ish LED headlights the then-newflanking a black ly launched Ford mesh grille with Maverick sold dark surround/ 74,370 units in gray bars, door the United States. and tailgate hanAnd in 2023, the dles — and yes, compact pickup, boxlike windows also offered in hyfor excellent outbrid, has already ward vision. Ten MAVERICK XLT (FWD, 4X2) surpassed that figure and tie-down hooks in the Tires: P225/60R18 could well approach close to 4.5-foot-long bed can be Wheelbase: 121.1 inches Length: 199.7 inches 100,000 sales. useful. The 8-inch touch Width: 72.6 inches Of course, this should infotainment screen sits Height: 68.7 inches come as no surprise since atop the dashboard with Weight: 3,674 pounds most vehicles (pickups for simple knobs, cleverly Fuel capacity: 13.8 gallons sure) on the road cannot separated from temp City: 42 mpg beat the Maverick in value, controls by AC vents.

Highway: 33 mpg price and fuel economy. The A huge bin under the Base price: $24,170 first full-hybrid compact flip-up rear bench is a Website: www.ford.com pickup in the United States wise use of space. Other starts around $23K, seats five comfortably standard amenities include single-way AC, in a spacious cabin and, best of all, touts 42 manual tilt/telescopic steering wheel, sixmpg in city. The only problem? Well, Ford way manual driver and four-way front-pascannot produce enough Mavericks since senger cloth seats, cruise control, Apple the demand, understandably so, is relent- CarPlay, Android Auto and a rotary dial. less.

Standard safety features include dual The hybrid version is equipped with a front and side airbags, side curtain airbag, 2.5-liter Atkinson-cycle four-cylinder en- driver knee airbag, electronic stability and gine that puts out 162 horsepower at AdvanceTrac controls, regenerative brak5,600 rpm and 155 pounds-feet of torque ing, tire pressure monitoring system and at 4,000 rpm. Add a 94-kW electric mo- daytime running lights. Opt for the Co-Pilot tor to the mix for a boost in hp by 29. The 360 package, which will fetch you pre-colimpressive pickup is coupled with an im- lision assist with auto emergency brakes, a maculate electronic continuously variable blind-spot monitor with cross-traffic alert, transmission. An independent MacPherson lane keep assist, a rearview camera and strut front and a twist-beam rear suspen- auto high-beam headlamps. sion isolates occupants from road noise and Slotted under the Ranger, the Maverick rough bumps. The electric power steering is amazing value for the money. With gas is razor sharp with a consistent on-center prices still hovering over $3, it will lighten feel. You can effectively go well over 500 the burden on your wallet. And for a hybrid, miles in the Maverick, which offers normal, the truck moves quickly and quietly down eco, sport, slippery and tow/haul modes. the road with excellent ride and adequate Its tow capacity is good at 2,000 miles handling. with a standard payload of 1,500 pounds, So, the next time you are at the Ford affording 37 bags of 40-pound mulch. dealership and happen to come across this Boxy appears to be the theme with squar- renegade, snap it ASAP.

Garage Door Service, Repair & Installation • Residential Garage Doors • Garage Door Openers • Broken Springs Estimates • Cables on New Garage Door • Rollers Installs • Doors off Track

FREE

steve@mastergaragedoor.com

mastergaragedoor.com

Celebrating 25 Years of Serving Our Community!

Time to review your plan!

Lost Medicaid Coverage - Call me for Help Medicare: Supplement/Medigap Prescription Part D Medicare Advantage

Term Life Insurance

ACA Under 65 Health Insurance

Michele L. Bartock

Independent 2-15 Agent AHIP & ACA Certified mlbartock@gmail.com

Not Affiliated with any Federal Agency

We do not offer every plan available in your area. Currently we represent 11 organizations which offer over 60 plans in your area. Please contact Medicare.gov or 1–800–MEDICARE, or your local State Health Insurance Program to get information on all your options.

www.medicareofflorida.com 813.767.2878 | 656.202.0602 No Cost! Paid By Insurance!

CUSTOM HAIR HAIR CUSTOM For the hair you’ve always wanted!

For the hair you’ve always wanted!

Thin Hair?

Thin Hair?

Thin Hair?

Since 1969 Since 1969

EUROPEAN HUMAN HAIR WIGS AND TOPPERS

• EUROPEAN HUMAN HAIR WIGS AND TOPPERS • Finest Human Hair and Synthetic Blended Wigs • Largest In-Stock Selection in Tampa Bay • Chemotherapy and Alopecia Specialists • Sales and Service of Men’s Hair Systems

CLEARWATER MALL

BRANDON

Lori • Owner & Client 051823

Medicare Questions? Need Help?

TAMPA

2643 Gulf to Bay, Ste. 1530

117 N. Kings Ave.

1425 Busch Blvd.

727-725-1052

813-651-9484

813-932-5327

CustomHairTampaBay.com

051823

25 years serving the community with only the highest quality parts and service.

Page 6

Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition

BOARD APPOINTS VAN AYRES AS SUPERINTENDENT OF COUNTY SCHOOLS

Staff Report

In a unanimous vote, the school board appointed Van Ayres as Hillsborough County Public Schools superintendent.

Ayres’ contract is for a fouryear period, providing stability and clarity for the district’s leadership into the future.

Ayres’ priorities for the school district include early childhood and literacy, graduation rates, strong organizational culture and fiscal and operational responsibility.

Since taking over the helm as interim superintendent just four months ago, Ayres has focused on creating a supportive organizational culture. He also oversaw the successful opening of the 2023-24 school year with great enthusiasm and excitement from staff, students, parents and community partners.

In addition, Ayres championed efforts to negotiate salary increases and employee contracts much sooner than in years past for teachers, education support professionals, administrators and all support staff in the areas of transportation, school security, student nutrition, maintenance and custodial services.

He coordinated the opening of 10 schools as storm shelters with Hillsborough County Emergency Management officials to help community members evacuate from the potential impact of Hurricane Idalia.

Upon his appointment as interim superintendent, Ayres selected the most culturally diverse executive team in district history — individuals who have a track record for student succes..

“I am honored to be named superintendent of Hillsborough County Public Schools.

I look back fondly on my days in West Tampa as a Little League baseball player;

Expires 12/31/2023

Expires 12/31/2023

up through my time at Jefferson High School, both as a student and the principal; and now as the leader of this great school district.

Today’s appointment is not just about me; it is about the 24,000 employees in this district who come to work every day with one goal in mind — to give our students every educational opportunity to succeed in school and ultimately in life,” said Ayres.

Ayres was born and raised in Tampa. He graduated from Jefferson High School in 1992. After receiving his bachelor’s degree in chemistry from the University of Tampa, he began teaching science at Blake High School in 1997.

In 2003, Ayres was selected to become assistant principal for student affairs and later assistant principal of curriculum at Blake High School.

In 2012, Ayres returned to his alma mater and was appointed principal at Jefferson High School. Three years later, he was promoted to deputy superintendent where he spearheaded the work to improve the district’s graduation rate — which increased 12.2 points over a five-year period.

Ayres credits his parents for his love of education. His father and mother were both teachers in Hillsborough County Public Schools. His father, Van, taught at Leto High School for 33 years. His mother, Nuri Ayres, spent 35 years in Hillsborough County Public Schools as a math teacher at Webb Middle School and Jefferson High School and then a principal at both King and Sickles high schools. Ayres’ two children both graduated from Hillsborough County Public Schools, from Blake and Robinson high schools.

Volume 22, Issue 12

THE FLORIDA ORCHESTRA PACKS DECEMBER WITH HOLIDAY MUSIC: THE GRINCH FILM, HOLIDAY POPS, MESSIAH AND HOLIDAY BRASS Staff Report The Florida Orton Pops. Featuring chestra (TFO) is Tampa Oratorio bringing a sleigh Singers and Lumina load of holiday perYouth Choirs. formances in DeFriday, December cember for very 15, 8 p.m., Straz merry music at its Center, Coral MorThe Florida Orchestra is bringing a sleigh load of very best. Famisani Hall. Saturday, holiday performances in December for the ly-friendly experiDecember 16, 2 whole family. ences include Dr. p.m. and 8 p.m., MaSeuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas film haffey Theater — matinee. Sunday, Decemwith live orchestra; its most popular con- ber 17, 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m., Ruth Eckerd cert of the year, Holiday Pops; the grand Hall — matinee. tradition of Handel’s Messiah, conducted by Tickets: $28, $40, $65 and $80; all fees inmusic director Michael Francis; and TFO’s cluded. $20 children’s ticket available in adfestive Holiday Brass. Tickets are available vance; restrictions apply. Visit https://floridnow at https://floridaorchestra.org/, 727- aorchestra.org/event/2324-pops4-holiday/.

892-3337 and TFO’s ticket center.

SPECIAL: Handel’s Messiah FILM WITH LIVE ORCHESTRA: Francis conducts the ultimate celebration Dr. Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christ- of holiday joy with its divine “Hallelujah” mas chorus, a tradition for nearly 300 years.

Cindy Lou Who takes matters into her Featuring The Master Chorale of Tampa own hands and turns both Whoville and Bay. the Grinch’s worlds upside down, inside out Friday, December 8, 8 p.m., Straz Center, and funny side up in her search for the true Moraine. Saturday, December 9, 8 p.m., Mameaning of Christmas. The Florida Orches- haffey Theater. Tickets: $25, $35, $55 and tra will perform the score live to picture. $65; all fees included.

Starring Jim Carrey, directed by Ron How- TFO CHAMBER CONCERT: Holiard. © 2023 Universal Studios. All Rights day Brass Reserved.

Feel the power of TFO’s unparalleled Saturday, December 2, 2 p.m. and 7:30 brass section as they perform a festive mix p.m., Mahaffey Theater — matinee added. of classical and popular holiday favorites in Tickets: $25, $35, $45 and $55; all fees intimate venues. Daniel Black conducts. included. Visit https://floridaorchestra.org/ Thursday, December 7, 7:30 p.m., Church event/2324-spc4-grinch/. of the Ascension. Saturday, December 9, 8 RAYMOND JAMES Holiday Pops p.m., Tampa Theatre. Sunday, December 10, TFO’s most popular concert of the year. 2 p.m., Palladium Theater.

It’s an annual tradition filled with family Tickets: $25 for general admission. and friends, featuring favorites that range TFO will perform more than 100 concerts from Sleigh Ride to The Nutcracker with this season in venues throughout Tampa a holiday sing-along. Conducted by Bruce Bay. For tickets and more information, visit Hangen, former guest conductor of the Bos- https://floridaorchestra.org/.

December 2023

Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition

VOTE HILLSBOROUGH HOSTS ART CONTEST FOR ‘I VOTED’ STICKER AND REGISTRATION DRIVE FOR STUDENTS

Staff Report

The Hillsborough Artwork subCounty supervisor of missions must be elections is challengtwo-dimensional, 6 ing students once in. by 6 in. and round. again to design a new Keep in mind that ‘I Voted’ sticker for the winning artwork Hillsborough County must remain clear voters. and impactful when Finalists will be reduced to a 2 in. by recognized at a 2 in. size for stickschool board meeter printing. The art ing and receive prizmust be nonpartisan es from the contest and may not promote sponsors: the Tampa any party, candidate Bay Lightning, Tampa or issue. Do not use Supervisor of Elections Craig Latimer and Bay Buccaneers and only red or only blue his office are seeking submissions for the Busch Gardens. The annual student ‘I Voted’ sticker contest for in the design. All artart will also be feaworks must be origHillsborough County voters. tured on social media inal and not contain channels, in displays any copyrighted imat offices and in other ages. Hard copy or outreach efforts conhigh-resolution PDFs ducted by the Hillsborare accepted. ough County Supervisor Visit www.voteof Elections Office. hillsborough.gov/vhcontests to read all “Our voters LOVE getting their ‘I Vot- of the details as well as download and ed’ sticker and I know they’ll be espe- complete the required entry packet. The cially excited to get a unique sticker de- contest deadline is March 8, 2024. Subsigned by one of our talented high school missions can be mailed, emailed or destudents,” said Supervisor of Elections livered in person to any of the five elecCraig Latimer. tions offices.

The first-place winning design will be Also of note, during the fall and spring reproduced as 2 in. by 2 in. round stick- semesters, the Hillsborough County Suers and given to voters who vote early or pervisor of Elections Office will conduct drop off their mail ballot during the two voter registration drives in high schools weeks leading up to Election Day for the across the county. The three schools 2024 primary and general elections. with the most successful voter registraThree finalists will be selected, and tion drives (based on the percentage of one will be named the grand prize win- senior class) will receive a plaque and be ner. All of the finalists will be recognized recognized in front of the school board. at a school board meeting and receive Winners of both contests will be anprizes from the contest sponsors. nounced in mid-April 2024.

Page 7

ENTER TO WIN Winners will receive gifts selected from ‘A Few of Our Favorite Things’!

In 200 words or less, please tell us why you or someone you know deserves to win ‘A Few of Our Favorite Things’ with gifts valued from $25 to $1000, and a grand prize valued at $2500.

Enter to win online at ospreyobserver.com or mail to ‘A Few of Our Favorite Things’ at 2109 Lithia Pinecrest Road, Valrico. FL 33596.

Entry Name: ____________________________________________________ Address: _______________________________________________________ Phone: __________________________/ Email: ________________________

2109 Lithia Pinecrest Road Valrico, FL 33596 813.657.2418

Shop Local

Please remember to shop our local retailers this holiday.

Tell them the Osprey Observer sent you!

www.ospreyobserver.com

Water Softener Alternative

Purifier Anti-Scale L09000082276

Page 8

Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition

WE ARE HILLSBOROUGH STRONG

By Superintendent Van Ayres I am grateful that last our district’s strategic plan. month the school board A high school diploma opens unanimously approved my so many doors for students appointment as Superintenin life. Our graduation rate dent of Hillsborough County has steadily increased over Public Schools. I apprecithe past six years, and I am ate their confidence, and I committed to not just mainlook forward to continuing taining that trend but also to work with the amazing increasing it. team of educators we have It is also my job to overhere in Hillsborough County. see the fiscal and operationMy heart is, and always al responsibilities of the

has been, in Hillsborough district. Our budget is near County. This school district ly $4 billion, and we are the

is my second home. I grew largest employer in Hills6 !YRE up in Tampa and graduated borough County. I hold our from Jefferson High School. It was there staff accountable for every dollar spent I discovered my love for learning and to make the best use of our budget. I am science. In fact, when I graduated from proud of the recent negotiations with our the University of teachers and staff Tampa, I became a and ensuring they chemistry teacher. receive their raisMy parents, who es as early in the were both educayear as possible. tors in our district, Lastly, you may instilled my love have heard our for education. district motto this Now, to my priyear, which is Hillorities for this dissborough Strong. I trict, and for your am a big believer children. My priorities run the spectrum in culture. Strong culture, good teamwork from early childhood learning and litera- and a happy workplace are very importcy to graduation rates. Ensuring students ant to me. We have outstanding princiare in front of a high-quality teacher at a pals and administrators in our schools very young age is so important to their who make sure culture among staff is a education. Learning their letters and pho- top priority. I appreciate them for keepnics will get them ready for kindergarten ing culture at the forefront of their deciand put them on a path where they will sion-making. have the skills they need to be proficient We are Hillsborough Strong in this disby third grade. After third grade is when trict. Everybody matters, and every day kids go from ‘learning to read’ to ‘reading matters. And that is how we are going to to learn.’ keep moving Hillsborough County Public Raising the graduation rate is also a Schools in the right direction as one of priority for my team and is a large part of the best school districts in this country.

“Learning To Read” to “Reading To Learn”

Volume 22, Issue 12

TAMPA BECOMES A WINTER WONDERLAND, COMPLETE WITH ICE SKATING, WINTER VILLAGE, SILENT DISCO & MORE

By Kathy L. Collins

Celebrate the park where riders holiday season this can enjoy the sights, year by visiting the lights and sounds of Winter Village and the Winter Village. its outdoor ice-skatBack this year is ing rink. It is a great the popular Winholiday activity for ter Village Express. the whole family.

The family-friendly The Winter Village excursion takes you is in Curtis Hixon A visit to the Winter Village, located along the from Whiting StaWaterfront Park, lo- beautiful Tampa Riverwalk at the Curtis Hixon tion in downtown to Waterfront Park, will surely get you into the cated at 600 N. AshYbor City and back holiday spirit. You can enjoy holidays sights ley Dr. in downtown on the TECO Line and sounds, ice skating, Silent Disco Fridays Tampa. The Winter Streetcar. The oneand a 360-degree light show this year Village is open now hour trip features a through January 1, holiday sing-along, 2024. holiday trivia, milk Located along and cookies and addthe Tampa Rivered surprises along walk, Curtis Hixon the way.

Waterfront Park is Also back this transformed each year is curling, year with the sights, which is available sounds and activiWednesday through ties of the holidays, Sunday on a firstwhich is great for come, first-serve children and adults alike. basis. Equipment will be Each year, a giant available in exchange for ice-skating rink is erected ID. Play is limited to 45 on the perimeter of the minutes. park. You must purchase There are several new and reserve tickets for ice and exciting additions to skating in advance. Tickets the Winter Village this are $17; the cost includes year. Silent Disco will be skate rentals. All hours are subject to offered every Friday from 7-9 p.m. Headweather and rink conditions. phones are available on a first-come, In addition to the 5,000-square-foot first-serve basis. Also, you can experience ice-skating rink, the Winter Village fea- a 360-degree light show powered by tures random Santa sightings, the Curtis TECO. The shows will take place nightly Hixon Choo Choo, shopping and snack and at 7, 8, 9 and 10 p.m. beverage options. The Curtis Hixon Choo For more information, please visit Choo offers a five-minute ride through the https://wintervillagetampa.com/.

s Ask U t Abouod o Firew

JW Tree Service, LLC jwtreeserviceflorida.com

*

813-974-7889

813-601-7091 Bobcat Work Tree Removals • Tree Trimming Licensed & Insured 1050 Jameson Road • Lithia

We Go Out On a Limb For You!

Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition

December 2023

Page 9

NEWSOME HIGH SCHOOL HOSTS CHRISTMAS TOWN AT BUSCH GARDENS: FIRST ANNUAL BANANA BALL VS. THE BIGGEST AND BRIGHTEST HOLIDAY CELEBRATION IN TAMPA BAY BREAST CANCER GAMES Staff Report

By Lily Belcher

Newsome High School faced East Bay High School in the first Banana Ball vs. Breast Cancer charity game in November.

Newsome High School head baseball coach Richard Rohrberg found out his wife, Anna, had breast cancer in July.

While meeting with other baseball teams, he was discussing the diagnosis with his fellow coaches and contemplated creating a tournament to raise money for breast cancer awareness.

Rohrberg and his team are fans of the Savannah Bananas, an exhibition baseball team with a focus on entertainment, fans and comedy from Georgia. Newsome’s coach turned to ‘Banana Ball’ for his fundraiser.

On November 11, Newsome High School hosted the first annual Banana Ball vs.

Breast Cancer games. East Bay, Durant and Sumner high schools participated in the Saturday morning charity event to support Rohrberg and his wife.

The event was especially important for Rohrberg’s wife, who was in attendance, because she was not able to see the team for two months after receiving her diagnosis.

“She’s going through radiation right now. She’s tired. … But she’s fighting through it. I try to do a lot of stuff to make her laugh,” Rohrberg said.

The Banana Ball games certainly gave

her something to laugh about. The teams participated in mid-inning dance battles, costumes and skits to bring a lighthearted and fun perspective on raising awareness.

“It was fun. … The idea was to make it fan-friendly,” Rohrberg said. “… This was good. It got people involved, dancing and singing, so it was fun.”

Rohrberg also said prompting the group of high school boys to talk about breast cancer and raise awareness was a successful part of the event.

Newsome infielder Leonardo Astacio, a cancer survivor, said the cause is especially important to him.

“It feels great to see cancer awareness being supported. It’s very important to me and my family,” he said. “And I was very proud of my team.”

Newsome helped Rohrberg raise around $2,500 for the donation through admissions costs, donations and the 50/50 raffle for fans. The proceeds benefited the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation and the University of Miami’s Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, where Anna is being treated.

Rohrberg also said he plans to make the charity Banana Ball game an annual event.

Champion Wellness Chiropractic Certificate

$25

(Includes consultation, examination, all medically

necessary X-rays, and first treatment.)

Dr. Kyle Mullan

813-409-3304 • 4341 Lynx Paw Trail, Valrico

championwellnessvalrico.com THE PATIENT AND ANY OTHER PERSON RESPONSIBLE FOR PAYMENT HAS THE RIGHT TO REFUSE TO PAY, CANCEL PAYMENT, OR BE REIMBURSED FOR PAYMENT FOR ANY OTHER SERVICES, EXAMINATIONS, OR TREATMENTS WHICH ARE PERFORMED AS A RESULT OF AND WITHIN 72 HOURS OF THIS ADVERTISEMENT.

It’s that time of the to a soundtrack of year for thrills and holiclassic holiday tunes day cheer at Busch Garwill take place on the dens Christmas Town, Festival Field on select the biggest and brightevent nights. est holiday celebration Christmas Town ofin the Tampa Bay area. fers an abundance of Now through January festive flavors to sat7, 2024, the park transisfy the holiday cravBusch Gardens Christmas Town returns forms into a bright winings on your visit. In with all-new displays and returning fater wonderland of sea- vorites like Santas North Pole Experience, addition to traditional sonal entertainment, hot cocoa, which will presented by Coca-Cola, now through unique and up-close enhave a dedicated cabin January 7, 2024. counters with animals, with options to choose culinary masterpieces from, guests can imas well as attractions merse themselves in like Serengeti Flyer and a seasonal culinary the award-winning hyjourney throughout the brid coaster Iron Gwapark, including dishes zi. Iconic and beloved such as chicken coqentertainment options au-vin served with red will take over the entire bliss mashed potatoes; park and be available The jolliest and brightest train around, the holiday poutine, served through the 58 consec- Holly Jolly Express, will transport guests with gravy, cheese into the celebration as it loops around utive days of the event, curds and cranberall included with regu- the park with passengers singing along to ry relish and smoked their favorite songs of the season. lar park admission. turkey with stuffing, All-new this year, cranberry relish, gravy guests can celebrate and Texas toast; and the season with light the festive cheese and displays that will berries, a brie tart with take over the Jungala blackberry jam and area, extending all the sliced almonds. way though Pantopia There will be signafeaturing a light-up ture Christmas Town walkthrough dragon. cocktails to sample Located in the Bird Gar- Guests will experience a marvelous light as well, including the dens area of the park, mistletoe margarita, tunnel, presented by Coca-Cola and guests are sure to step composed of thousands of glimmering ginger snap mule and into wonder through a LED lights seamlessly synchronized to candy cane lane, which holiday tunes. marvelous light tunnel, consists of vodka, Mopresented by Coca-Cola and composed of nin peppermint, grenadine and a splash of thousands of glimmering LED lights seam- lime. lessly synchronized to a symphony of holiday Guests looking for an extra dose of holiday tunes. Also, a brand-new 40-foot pixelated cheer can opt to enhance their Christmas tree will deck the halls at Cheetah Plaza.

Town experience by selecting from a nice list Celebrating the holidays for more than a of jolly upgrades. For Santa’s North Pole Exdecade, Christmas Town returns with some perience, presented by Coca-Cola, and meet of the fan-favorites that guests hold near and greets with Rudolph and Friends, a Sanand dear, such as Santa’s North Pole Expe- ta/Rudolph Priority Access Line is available rience, presented by Coca-Cola. Also return- for purchase. And for a merry memorable exing is Storytime with Mrs. Claus and Ru- perience, guests can book a Christmas Town dolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer and Friends VIP Tour, which will include front-of-the-line at Rudolph’s Winter Wonderland, where access to Santa’s House and Rudolph’s Winguests get to meet and greet the most fa- ter Wonderland, a complimentary souvenir mous reindeer of all. mug, reserved seating to the Christmas on Other returning entertainment options Ice show, an opportunity to feed flamingos are Christmas on Ice at the Moroccan Pal- and more. A Christmas Town Elite Tour is ace Theater, Elmo’s Christmas Wish, Three also available, including everything the VIP Kings Journey and the Holly Jolly Express. tour offers plus a meet and greet with Santa The evening sky comes to life with ‘Holiday and reserved seating for the fireworks show. in the Sky, a Nighttime Spectacular,’ preTo be the first to know about event desented by Bad Boy Mowers. This colorful tails and special offers, visit www.christdisplay of festive fireworks choreographed mastown.com.

Page 10

Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition

Volume 22, Issue 12

Your Well-Being Is Our Top Priority We understand the importance of swift medical care when you’re injured. Whether it’s a pickleball mishap or any other injury, the dedicated team at the ER at Sun City, an extension of Manatee Memorial Hospital, can provide assistance 24/7.

In an emergency — we are here for you.

ER at Sun City Center features:

ER at Sun City Center, an extension of Manatee Memorial Hospital, is a full-service emergency department that provides care to those in need 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

•

Care for all ages

•

Access 24/7

•

On-site physician 24/7

We are located at 16504 S. U.S. 301 in Wimauma, adjacent to Walmart®.

•

Ten treatment areas, including seven exam rooms and three rapid medical exam spaces

•

Full-service laboratory and imaging services (X-ray, CT and ultrasound)

•

10,884 square feet

16504 US 301, Wimauma, FL 33598 813-642-1000 In an emergency, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room.

This emergency department is part of Manatee Memorial Hospital. This is not an urgent care center. Its services and care are billed at hospital emergency department rates. Physicians are on the medical staff of Manatee Memorial Hospital, but, with limited exceptions, are independent practitioners who are not employees or agents of Manatee Memorial Hospital. The hospital shall not be liable for actions or treatments provided by physicians. For language assistance, disability accommodations and the nondiscrimination notice, visit our website. 231298165-1377918 11/23

December 2023

Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition

Page 11

KINGS AVENUE BAPTIST HOLIDAY FUN ON A BUDGET WITH CONTINUES WALK THRU BETHLEHEM TRADITION

By Kelly Wise Valdes Kings Avenue Baptist to the time of Jesus and Church welcomes the comgetting to be a part of the munity to experience the story — getting to know true meaning of Christmas what it was like to grow up at its 37th annual Walk back then and to see what Thru Bethlehem (WTB) all Jesus went through for event. The awe-inspiring us.” production brings the city As you can imagine, a of Bethlehem alive during production of this size and this free event that has on multiple days requires The community is invited to register brought this Christmas many hands. Kings Avenue to attend Kings Avenue Baptist tradition to the community Church’s 37th annual Walk Thru Baptist Church is grateful since 1986.

Bethlehem event. New director Aus- for the over 350 volunThis family-friendly, im- tin Brown was baby Jesus during teers from various churchthe production 26 years ago (as mersive holiday experience es and organizations that pictured in the manger). transports guests back to help make this event a Bethlehem during the time of Jesus’ birth. success every year. With more than 20,000 Visitors will feel the sense of time travel square feet of this recreated holy city, volfrom the realism of the scenery, authentically unteers and donations are always welcome. dressed townspeople, Roman guards, Tem- WTB is always in search of more volunteers. ple scribes, inn keepers, shepherds and live The Durant High School JROTC and Amerianimals. During the 45-minute guided tour, can Heritage Girls have been a huge help with guests will be moved by the sights, sounds setting up, acting and cleaning up after the and smells of ancient Bethlehem. The tour event. Volunteers come from across Florida concludes at the Holy Manger with Mary, Jo- as well as other states to help share the story seph and baby Jesus. of the birth of Jesus.

Nicole Johnson is a guide director for WTB Last year, more than 3,500 visitors attendand is excited to volunteer again. She loves ed WTB, and the reservation system helped being a part of giving families a memorable to streamline the tours. Reservations can be event that makes them want to keep coming made by visiting https://walkthrubethlehem. back each year. com/. Walk-up spots are available on Friday “People come to you wanting to hear about and Saturday only.

Jesus,” said Johnson. “It’s a generational Walk Thru Bethlehem takes place on Thursevent.” day, December 7 from 6:30-9:30 p.m.; Friday, WTB director Austin Brown has a particu- December 8 from 6:30-9:30 p.m.; Saturday, lar fondness for WTB. December 9 from 4-9:30 p.m.; and Sunday, “I grew up being a part of this event, as I December 10 from 4-9:30 p.m. For more inplayed baby Jesus 26 years ago,” said Brown. formation, call 813-684-1484. There will be “So, it’s always been an important tradition to live entertainment this year on Friday and me and my family. I love seeing all the people Saturday night. Kings Avenue Baptist Church come through every year, being taken back is located at 2602 S Kings Ave. in Brandon.

BAKING, SKATING & MORE

By Ashley Abene Prices have skythey can be cost-efrocketed for everyfective. Some ideas day items, so finding are baking a favorite affordable gifts and sweet, making perfood for the holidays sonalized ornaments can feel like an imor crocheting a baby possible task. Howhat. ever, there are plenty Next, buy useful of easy ways to save stocking stuffers.

Every year, the Burton family of Valrico money this holiday Rather than purchasputs on a magnificent light show. season. ing expensive items First, set a spending as stocking stuffers, goal for the season. buy necessities inWhether budgeting stead. Some examfor gifts or hosting a ples of necessary dinner, planning a set stocking stuffers are amount to spend can socks, toothbrushes, help with meeting fideodorant or crayons nancial holiday goals. for the kids.

Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park is transTurn that holiday Look for sales on formed into the Winter Village from now meal into a potluck. gifts and food. Many until January 1, 2024.

Every family member stores offer holiday or friend can bring a main dish and side. sales and incentives to entice people This way, the full cost of the meal isn’t the through the doors. Also, grocery rebate sole responsibility of the host. applications (Ibotta or Fetch) can help Limit gifts to four or less for immedi- with the cost of food since the user gets ate family. Budgeting for Christmas with cash back to favorite stores. children is difficult, but following the Finally, check out local holiday events ‘four-gift rule’ can help. The ‘four-gift rule’ that are free to the community rather is buying something wanted, something than taking an expensive trip out of town. needed, something to wear and some- One event is the Winter Village at Curtis thing to read.

Hixon Waterfront Park in Tampa, which Implementing Secret Santa with ex- features light shows, ice skating, pretend tended family can help ease the burden on snow and Christmas festivities. Visit the that pocketbook. With the Secret Santa Winter Village website for more informaapproach to gift-giving, instead of buying tion at https://wintervillagetampa.com. gifts for 20 people, every person choosFor a light show in the Valrico area, the es a special gift for one person within a Burton family puts on quite a display and specified price limit. are even contenders in the 2023 Great Handmade gifts from the heart can be Christmas Light Fight. Find out more deworth more than store-bought gifts. An tails about this show at www.facebook. added benefit to handmade gifts is that com/burtonfamilylightshow.

Page 12

Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition

MOTHER-DAUGHTER DUO TEACH AND INSPIRE AT NEWSOME HIGH SCHOOL

By Jane Owen

A happy workNatalie said she place can be debenefits from seescribed as one big ing the energy and family. Education passion Sarah has is often lauded in the classroom. and encouraged to “Teaching with be a family affair.

Sarah has been At Newsome High fantastic.

She School, you will helps me gain a find both an atmobetter perspective sphere with deep of ways to inspire family-like connecstudents because tions and family it wasn’t that long members teaching ago that she was side by side. in the classroom Natalie and Sar- Sarah Tabet with her mom, Natalie Tabet, at as a student,” Naah Tabet are moth- her graduation from Newsome High School in talie said. er and daughter, as 2019. Sarah and Natalie both teach English at The two have a Newsome High School this year. well as colleagues supportive relain the English department at Newsome tionship and collaborate often. Sarah High School. said she is well aware of how much the Principal Katie Rocha speaks highly relationship benefits her as a first-year of the way the mother-daughter duo teacher. works together.

“I have the best possible built-in re“This dynamic duo exemplifies the source I could possibly ask for, who is power of shared passions and mutual always willing to share lesson plans or understanding. With their love for lit- advice,” Sarah said. erature and language, they complement Natalie admitted that the biggest each other’s strengths, inspiring and challenge of being colleagues is that guiding students to reach their fullest they both have strong personalities. potential. Their harmonious collabora- Sarah said the biggest challenge can be tion creates an atmosphere of creativ- separating their professional life from ity, growth and unwavering support their personal one. within the English department,” Rocha According to Rocha, the personal said. bond between the mother-daughter duo Natalie and Sarah have been at New- is special and exemplifies the strong some together before — the first was nurturing environment of Newsome. when Sarah was a senior herself in Without a doubt, the impact on their 2019 and the second is this year work- students is exceptional. ing together as English teachers. Sarah “We constantly remind one another returned to Newsome after graduating that when classroom activities are mofrom FSU in 2022, earning her degree tivating and rigorous, students excel in in just 3 years. ways we never imagined,” Natalie said.

Volume 22, Issue 12

MUSIC SHOWCASE AND FAOPA’S

HOLIDAY OFFERINGS GIVE THE GIFT OF MUSIC TO THE COMMUNITY

By Lily Belcher Music Showactivities while case is hosting parents get the its annual holiday night off. programs and “With it being Parent’s Night Santa’s WorkOut ahead of the shop, we normalholidays. ly pick out some This year’s gifts that the shows by the kids get to make Florida Academy themselves and of the Performwe package them Photo courtesy of Paul Storm Photography. ing Arts (FAOup, wrap them up Music Showcase and the Florida Academy of the PA), located at Performing Arts host shows for students and adults and then they Music Showcase, get to give those of all ages. include The Music gifts to whomevMan from Friday to er they want to for Sunday, December Christmas,” San8-10 and 15-17. FAchez said.

OPA’s Spotlight! program, which features Tickets will cost $30 for children not performers of all ages, will participate in currently enrolled in a FAOPA program, the performances. Matinee shows will be $25 for those who are enrolled and $15 hosted on Saturdays and Sundays in addi- for siblings. tion to evening performances.

FAOPA’s Amplify student group will Each show will be unique with different sing at a number of Christmas events in performers rotating roles based on avail- the community to show off their skills and ability among the student and adult cast bring their Christmas spirit to areas outmembers. side of Music Showcase.

“We actually double and triple-cast roles Music Showcase has offered instruso that way it gives a variety of different ments, accessories and printed music ages and people to have an opportunity to since it opened its doors in 1995. The be leads,” director Danielle Sanchez said. business hosts lessons, camps and perforTickets to see The Music Man are on mances for all ages. The partnership with sale for $15 for standard seating or $20 FAOPA allows Music Showcase to host for VIP seating. musical theater performances and classes The family-owned business will also for students and adults. host a Parent’s Night Out Polar Express To purchase tickets for this year’s Parand Santa’s Workshop on Friday, Decem- ent’s Night Out, visit https://faopa.org/ ber 1 from 5:30 p.m. until 10 p.m. Children parents-night-out/. ages 5-12 will have the opportunity to parTo purchase tickets for The Music Man, ticipate in crafts, games, music, a Christ- visit https://faopa.org/product-category/ mas pajama contest and more engaging purchase-tickets/.

December 2023

Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition

Page 13

Sign Up to WIN $1,000 in prizes!

We will have FIVE winners of $200 Gift Cards.

Online Only -- Tony Baroni.com/Contest Nov 13th - Dec 19th • Winners will be announced 12/20

Every Entry Counts!

The Tony Baroni Team will make a $2 donation for every entry to ECHO’s mission is to assist residents of Eastern Hillsborough County in crisis with emergency food and clothing, offering lifestabilizing programs and resources.

Gift cards will be Amazon, Target, Lowes, Darden Restaurant, Nordstrom

267

HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS! WELCOME HOME TO THE 267 AND COUNTING... FAMILIES WE HAVE WORKED WITH IN 2023.

WHEN YOU ARE LOOKING TO MAKE A MOVE, GIVE US A CALL - YOU DESERVE A FIVE STAR EXPERIENCE.

2,700+ Homes Sold |

Page 14

Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition

Volume 22, Issue 12

HOLIDAY MARKETS, FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS AND MORE Staff Report

Jingle Bell Bazaar In Ybor City

Come and enjoy a free, fun, festive holiday event in Tampa’s historic Ybor City at the annual Jingle Bell Bazaar.

The Jingle Bell Bazaar is Ybor City’s largest family holiday festival with live music bands, entertainment performances, food trucks, face painting, balloon artists as well as holiday-themed shopping. Santa will be there, and children can get free photographs with him. The event takes place on Sunday, December 10 from 12-6 p.m. at Centennial Park, located at 1800 E. 8th Ave. in Tampa. Additional information can be found at its website, www.jinglebellbazaar.com.

S’mores & Stores Event In Rivercrest Community

The Rivercrest community in Riverview is hosting its annual S’mores & Stores event on Sunday, December 10 from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Come and shop from a wide variety of local vendors while enjoying fresh food from food trucks and holiday music. Two special surprise guests will also be making an appearance; can you guess who? The event is being held at 11560 Ramble Creek Dr. in Riverview. Proceeds from the event go to West Florida Foster Care Services.

Tampa’s Holiday Market

Shop with local small businesses, artisans and crafters at the Tampa Holiday Market on Sunday, December 3 from 11 a.m.-5 p.m. The event is being held at Water Works Park, located at 1701 N. Highland Ave. in Tampa. Parents can shop, and there will also

be food trucks and holiday entertainment while you shop. Plus, children can visit Santa and have cookies and milk with Mrs. Claus.

C.A.R.E. Gift And Wine Fair

The Critter Adoption and Rescue Effort (C.A.R.E.) Gift and Wine Fair is back again this year on Saturday, December 2 from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. at Southshore Falls, located at 5831 Cascade Falls Ln. in Apollo Beach.

Along with a wide selection of vendors that will help you to meet your holiday shopping needs, there will also be fabulous items available in the silent auctions and raffle baskets. Plus, there will be free wine tasting. Tickets are $10, with proceeds going to C.A.R.E., which includes a free raffle ticket. For more information, visit its website at www. careshelter.org.

Fairgrounds at 303 Berryfest Place in Plant City. Additional information can be found on its website at https://christmaslane.com/.

Enchant At Tropicana Field

Let Enchant light up your holiday season. Bring your friends and family for a magical evening with over 4 million sparkling lights, its story-themed walkthrough light maze, ice skating and so much more. General admission includes access to the complete event, including the maze, Santa, Village shops and games. Ice skating though is an additional price. Enchant will be at Tropicana Field at 1 Tropicana Dr. in St. Petersburg and runs from now through Sunday, DeTampa Bay Festival Of Lights cember 31. For additional information The Hillsborough County Fairgrounds and to purchase tickets, visit its website is presenting its upgraded holiday light at https://enchantchristmas.com/. spectacular at Tampa Bay’s Festival of Lights and Santa’s Village, which is running through Sunday, December 31. This year’s event features a nearly 2-mile drive-through of continuous light features, followed by a festive walking visit to Santa’s Village. Enjoy a s ± ± ± visit with Santa’s favorite animals, camel rides, face k1 ? kc OI c A IO} painting, holiday movies and Ŭ ů ů Ŷ s Ų ŵ Ų Ÿ Ū ū Ų Ÿ ű ŷ Ť Ŭ ŵ 4 Ŧ Ų Ű holiday treats. The Hillsborough County Fairgrounds is located at 215 Sydney Washer Rd. Paloma Glade Christmas Lights in Dover.

OCMP

Evening Market

Very

Merry

Water Street in Tampa is hosting the Very Merry Market on Thursday, December 7 from 5-9 p.m. Take a stroll through the seasonal market and shop local vendors as you enjoy season-

And Music Show

Christmas Lane Returns To This year, Paloma Glade in FishHawk Ranch has almost 50 homes joining its Plant City

Christmas Lane is returning to Plant City. Over 2,000 volunteer hours have prepared this winter wonderland full of the magic of Christmas at every turn.

With more than 1.5 million lights adorning over 200 Christmas trees ranging from 4-40 feet tall, the displays are sure to delight. Make sure that you visit and write your letters to Santa, as well as decorate ornaments and have your face painted. There is also live entertainment al activities and performances, all under on select nights. Christmas Lane is open the picture-perfect backdrop of the holi6-10 p.m. from now through Sunday, Deday decor. cember 24 at the Strawberry Festival

Christmas lights and music show. The thing that really makes Paloma Glade’s display special is how you can tune in with your car radio and have the display synchronized to the music. The display began on Thanksgiving, November 23, and will continue nightly until New Year’s Eve. Teenagers in the neighborhood will also be collecting nonperishable food items for local charity Seeds of Hope, such as boxed potatoes, canned veggies, desserts, pasta and mac and cheese, so please bring an item to add to the collection.

Locally Owned and Operated. Servicing Pinellas, Pasco, and Hillsborough Counties KEEPING BAY AREA PROPERTIES BUG FREE SINCE 1998.

Request your free inspection or a quote for our services.

service@repcopest.com (813) 854-5412 Licensed & Certified Technicians

“A Delicious Way To Show You Care”

We Ship Nationwide!

Call 813.651.0045 Text 813.748.7041 Order Online!

www.LeAnnesCookies.com

December 2023

Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition

Page 15

CHRISTMAS TOWN, SANTA FEST, HOLIDAY PARADE & MORE Staff Report

Busch Gardens Christmas Town old-fashioned holiday with its Victori-

an Christmas Stroll. Allowing visitors a glimpse into the magic of Christmas past, this holiday experience is a wonderful way to celebrate all the season has to offer with a variety of delightful themes and displays in each exhibit room. Decorations include visitor favorites from past years as well as new marvels that are sure to amaze.

The Victorian Christmas Stroll will be available at the Henry B. Plant Museum, located at 401 W. Kennedy Blvd. in Tampa, from now through Sunday, December 31, 10 a.m.-8 p.m. daily. Its website, www.plantmuseum.com, has more information.

The holidays come to life at Busch Gardens Christmas Town, the park’s award-winning holiday event. Celebrate the year with holiday cheer and create merry memories for the whole family during this seasonal event which is included with park admission. Guests can enjoy holiday traditions with a twist, from millions of sparkling lights throughout the park to holiday shows and visits with Santa and Rudolph the RedNosed Reindeer.

Busch Gardens Christmas Town Santa Fest Christmas Paruns daily now rade And Tree Lighting through January Be part of Tampa’s holiday 7, 2024. Visit its tradition when Santa Fest rewebsite, www. turns to Curtis Hixon Waterfront buschgardens.com, for more information. Park again this year. It will open on Saturday, December 2, following the popular Church Street Christmas parade through downtown Tampa. The Come celebrate the spirit of Christmas parade route steps off at 1:30 p.m. and and enjoy the sights and sounds of this begins at Morgan Street, magical season. All are invited to experi- travels west on Madison ence this free annual holiday event along Street to Ashley Drive, Dade City’s historic Church Avenue, where turns north and ends at carolers, choirs, dancers and musicians Ashley Drive and Cass perform along luminary-lit sidewalks and Street. After the parade, brilliantly decorated homes. The street enjoy the activities and closes to vehicular traffic from Thursday entertainment in Curtis through Saturday, December 21-23, 7-9 Hixon Waterfront Park p.m. For more information, visit its web- and stay for the tree lighting at 6 p.m., site at www.churchstreetchristmas.org. followed by a screening of Frozen to end the day.

Christmas In The Wild At ZooTampa

It’s the most wonderful time of the year at ZooTampa with the return of Christmas in the Wild, featuring one of Tampa Bay’s largest light displays, delectable holiday treats, amazing wildlife and new festive adventures.

This year is bigger, better and brighter than ever with entertainment that the whole family can enjoy, including festive realms, holiday shows and a visit with Santa. Christmas in the Wild runs on selective nights throughout December. Visit www.zootampa.org for more information.

A Victorian Christmas Stroll

The Henry B. Plant Museum in Tampa celebrates the warmth and spirit of an

9 and 16. Visit https://sparkmanwharf. com/ for additional information.

Country Christmas At Cracker Country

Bring the family for a great day of experiencing the sights, sounds and smells of an old-fashioned country Christmas on Saturday, December 9 at Cracker Country. Learn how the traditions of the 19th century differ from those of the 21st parade will take place on the Saturday through hands-on crafts, holiday activibefore Christmas, December 23, along the ties, historical interpretations, carols, decHillsborough River in downtown Tampa. orations and more as you stroll through The parade begins at the southern tip of Davis Island, travels through the convention center basin and up to the Heights, where the boats will turn around and head to Sparkman Wharf. Public viewing locations include Armature Works, Water Works Park and Channel Drive.

The annual Apollo Beach Lighted Boat Parade takes place on Saturday, December 9. It will leave the south channel at 6 p.m. and proceed toward Lands End Marina the site and visit the 13 original buildings. before winding around Lake Sunrise BaCracker Country is located at the Florida sin, back out around Bal Harbor, then up State Fairgrounds at 4800 U.S. Hwy. 301 Flamingo Canal before returning and goN. Visit its website for more information ing around Dolphin House and to purchase tickets at www.crackerat the end of Gran Kaymen country.org/events/christmas. Advanced Way and finally going up ticket purchase is required. the canal leading to Symphony Isles. Come Dancing For and meet the memA Difference bers of the Tampa Sailing Squadron Performs The before the parade Nutcracker at its clubhouse, located at 1250 Dancing for a Apollo Beach Blvd. in Apollo Beach.

Difference will The Alafia Lighted Boat Parade be performing is always very popular with local The Nutcracker residents. It will take place along on Saturday, DeLakeland Christmas Parade the Alafia River from the Riverview cember 16. Join Hosted by the Junior League of Great- Civic Center to River’s Edge Bar Clara and her er Lakeland and the City of Lakeland, the and Grill on Saturday, December 2, friends at her holiday party and through Lakeland Christmas Parade will be held on departing at 5 p.m. the land of sweets where she will meet Thursday, December 7 starting at 7 p.m. friends from all over the world and the Participants step off from the RP FundWinter Wonder Wharf At Chan- Sugar Plum Fairy. The dancers performing Center to begin the ing are of all ages and abilities, includ1.25-mile course wind- nelside ing those with disabilities. Dancing for a Sparkman Wharf in the Channelside ing through the city’s Difference is located at 1076 E. Brandon District of Tampa will be celebrating with streets, around Lake Blvd., Ste. 109 in Brandon. Tickets can the Winter Wonder Wharf, an extravMirror and back down be purchased at https://dancestudio-pro. aganza of lights, Lemon Street. com/tickets/d4d. music and decoraThe floats are tions.

This year will decked out include a 35-foot to reflect this Christmas tree and year’s theme of a colorful forest on ‘Christmas in Candy Land.’ The the lawn with opbest, of course, is saved for last, portunities for phoas the parade wraps up with a tographs throughvisit from Santa and Mrs. Claus. out the area.

Holiday-themed Tampa-area Lighted Holiperformances will day Boat Parades take place on SatTampa’s largest lighted boat urday, December 2,

Page 16

Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition

COUNTY COOKING OIL, FAT & GREASE COLLECTION STATIONS SAVE DRAINS

Staff Report

It’s the end of the the holidays. year, and the holiday There are steps to season is upon us. Famtake to properly colilies will come together lect the cooking oil to to celebrate and spend be recycled. Carefully time together. They’ll expour cooled cooking change gifts and share in oil into a large, sturdy delicious meals, includplastic or glass fooding fried turkeys. grade container with But once the festivities a lid. Do not use conare done, what do you do tainers that have held with the used cooking petroleum products, oil, fat or grease? such as motor oil. If Don’t pour the cooking the container is not full, oil, fat or grease down close the container and the drain, even if you store in a cool, safe loadd hot water or soap. cation. Don’t mix the oil Pouring these down with any other liquids or the drain can cause products. Once the cona serious problem for tainer is full, bring it to Hillsborough County has numerous home plumbing and convenient sites where used cooking oil a Hillsborough County Hillsborough County’s can be dropped off to be recycled. Visit Cooking Oil Recycling wastewater collection Effort (CORE) station or www.hcflgov.net/core for locations. system. Cooking oil, fat or grease that is to a household hazardous waste collecpoured down the drain gels and solidifies tion center. inside pipes, sewage lines and sewage lift Along with not pouring cooking oil, stations, constricting water flow. It can fat or grease down the drain, don’t flush back up home plumbing and cause equip- cooking oil or grease down the toilet, ment to malfunction, leading to sewage don’t put greasy foods down the garbage spills, overflows onto streets and foul disposal and don’t place used cooking oil odors in homes and neighborhoods. in the recycling cart.

The used oil can be collected and Additional steps that residents can take brought to a number of county collection to avoid clogging the pipes: stations to be recycled into renewable • Scrape leftover food into the trash beresources and environmentally friendly fore washing pots, pans and dishes. alternatives used in various industries.

• Use a fine-mesh strainer in the sink to There are 24 locations throughout the prevent debris from going down the drain.

County, including libraries, several county • Clean out leftover foods from the sink parks and recreation centers, solid waste and put it in the trash. transfer stations and a public utility serTo learn more about Cooking Oil Recyvice center. Used cooking oil, fat and cling Effort, visit www.hcflgov.net/core, grease are collected all year long at these email gotgrease@hcflgov.net or call 813locations. The program is not solely for 272-5977, ext. 43515.

Volume 22, Issue 12

ALAFIA ELEMENTARY SHOWCASES TALENT WITH NEW DRUM ENSEMBLE

By Jane Owen utes long as they cycle through different parts. Maybe it goes on longer, or more students solo or even stop playing and chant the words to the rhythms. The challenging part is to keep their part going while the other parts come in. Teamwork is a must where the students have to look and communicate while playThe Alafia Drum Ensemble performed with the Alafia Gator ing to keep their part going,” Choir at the Alafia Elementary Veterans Day celebration on Hemphill November 9. said.

On NoAlafia Elementavember 9, ry School is showAlafia Elcasing talent with a ementary new drum ensemble hosted a this school year. The school Vetnew Alafia Drum erans Day Ensemble meets celebration. twice a week afThe Alafia ter school and feaDrum Entures 28 fifth grade students who auditioned to be part of the semble opened with “Wavin’ Flag.” They also group. Through practices and performanc- performed “Don’t Give Up On Me,” which es, they have drummed up both school and featured the new Gator Choir.

Hemphill said he created the choir to give community spirit.

The ensemble’s first performance was on more Alafia kids an opportunity to perform.

October 21 at the Winthrop Pop Up Market. In total, there were around 50 kids performFamily, friends and market attendees were ing songs for the school and veterans in atdrawn to their performance. They played tendance.

Alafia Principal Lisa Jackson is grateful two pieces: “Palo Palo,” a Hispanic heritage piece in honor of Hispanic Heritage month, for the benefits the ensemble provides the fifth graders. and “Wavin’ Flag.”

“I am so proud of our Alafia Drum EnsemAlafia music teacher James Hemphill said he created the ensemble to give students a ble. These fifth graders are extremely talentchance for expression through performance ed. We at Alafia are grateful to Mr. Hemphill as our music teacher for starting the drum and an outlet to build confidence.

Ensemble students play one of four types ensemble and giving our students this opof Tubano drums, and the rhythms are a portunity. It has been beautiful to see our combination of high and low sounds as well students celebrate one another, celebrate as claps, taps and movements. “The kids are and honor our diverse cultures and backhard workers and songs can last up to 12 min- grounds,” Jackson said.

Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition

December 2023

WATER LAWNS LESS IN COOLER MONTHS AND ONLY ON YOUR DESIGNATED DAYS AND HOURS

Staff Report

Hillsborough Coungion, but the prety Water Resources is cautionary alert was asking residents and caused by the rainfall property owners to be deficit exceeding 5 mindful of their lawn inches in a 12-month watering days and rolling average. hours, as well as their All properties in unWith a higher-than-average rainfall water usage, especial- deficit, Hillsborough County Water Re- incorporated Hillsborly outdoors. sources is reminding residents to follow ough County follow Currently, there’s a designated lawn watering days and to year-round watering monitor water usage. rainfall deficit impactdays and hours. It’s ing Hillsborough County. While there are important to know your lawn watering no changes to the watering rules at this days and hours to avoid getting a fine. time and there isn’t a water supply issue These restrictions apply to most water yet, knowing your watering days, hours sources, including private wells, ponds or and rules is important to save money and lakes used as alternate irrigation supplies. to help conserve the region’s limited wa- Go to www.hcflgov.net/waterrestrictions ter supply. for additional information.

With a deficit of more than 8.3 inches in Watering days and hours in unincorpothe region’s rainfall as of September, res- rated Hillsborough County: idents can reduce their consumption and • Street addresses ending in 0, 1, 2 or 3 be a part of the water shortage solution. can water on Mondays and/or Thursdays.

As of September, average annual water • Street addresses ending in 4, 5 or 6 supply demands in Hillsborough County can water on Tuesdays and/or Fridays. have increased by up to 6 million gallons • Street addresses ending in 7, 8 or 9 per day when compared to the same time can water on Wednesdays and/or Saturlast year. Some homes use up to 70 per- days. cent of their water to irrigate their lawns Common areas with or without street and landscapes. During the fall and winter addresses, locations with no address and months, lawns go semidormant, and it is locations with mixed addresses (such as recommended that they be watered only office complexes and shopping centers) once every 10-14 days from now until can water on Wednesdays and/or SaturMarch, as grass needs less water during days. cooler months.

All watering must be done either beTampa Bay Water recently declared a tween 12 Midnight and 8 a.m. or between Stage 1 water shortage under its Water 6 p.m. and 12 Midnight, and only once on Shortage Mitigation Plan. The plan works your designated days. to prevent water supply shortages driven Learn more about watering rules for by prolonged, below-normal water con- reclaimed water, new sod, landscaping, ditions. Tampa Bay Water has sufficient car washing and more by visiting www. drinking water supplies to serve the re- hcflgov.net/water.

WELCOME TO OUR NEWEST CHAMBER MEMBERS: MERAKI SOLAR CARRION HEALTH GROUP GRACE MANOR AT HUNTERS CREEK LAW OFFICE OF SAMUEL C HIGGINBOTTOM DRIP INFRARED SAUNA STUDIO LLCPLLC CHAMPAGNE AESTHETICS TIDAL WAVE MORTGAGE LOANS LLC MOONLIGHT ELLIE MENTAL HEALTHSOLUTIONS SEXTON & COMPANY MARKETING BROOK HOLIDAY LIGHTING MORTON LAW FIRM LLC AFTER GLOW AESTHETICS & WELLNESS WEICHERT, REALTORS NEXON BE WELL COMMERCIAL CLEANING LAURA’S ELDERBERRY LLC THE BOHEMIAN BARNYARD CURRENT CHIROPRACTIC PRICE, WRIGHT, & DUNN, INC. MADISON OUR DREAMPATRON KITCHEN BAYFIRST FINANCIAL CORNERSTONE FINANCIAL COACHING 1776 MARKETING SOLUTIONS CROSSTOWN BELLEVIDA ADVERTISING NETWORK, LLC DESIGN A BIG THANK YOU TOTITLE ALL LLC WHO WELCOME HOME DON’T MISS! MUSIC GROUP BINGOINC AT NORGARD INSURANCE PARTICIPATED IN THE SUCCESS OF BULLFROG CREEK BREWERY TO BUBBA’S 33 MUSIC BINGO!OF JACKSON MANAGEMENT SOLUTIONS BENEFIT THE CHARITY CHOICE, BEAUTIFUL BODIES, LLC MARK YOUR CALENDARS FOR FACES OF COURAGE ONTHE FERMAN MAZDA NOVEMBER 16THON VFCC ANNUAL DINNER HUTH & BOOTH PHOTOGRAPHY DOORS OPEN AT 6 PM JANUARY 2024 THE RENEW23, INSTITUTE MUSIC BINGO: 7:00-9:00 STONE MORTGAGE GROUPPM

www.valricofishhawk.org

Page 17

HARVEST AWARDS RECOGNIZE HILLSBOROUGH AGRICULTURE GIANTS WITH DEEP ROOTS

By Linda Chion

‘Rooted in Tradivalues of hard work, tion’ is the theme service and caring this year for the that has been a staHillsborough County ple in Hillsborough Fair, which is an apt County’s agriculturdescriptor as well al community.” for the prestigious Posthumous MeHarvest Awards anmorial Award renounced before the cipients this year annual fair opens. are Timothy Cribbs, This year’s seven On the left are Joseph ‘Joe’ Sumner III, with his a 39-year agriculwife, Nikki, owners of Sumner Land Manhonorees were set ture teacher who agement and Cattle Company, with their to be recognized on children, Kayleigh Sumner and Joe Sumner was department November 2 during IV, and their kids’ maternal grandmother, Eva head at Durant High a 12 Noon luncheon in Plant City, and Listro. With them, on the right, are relatives at the Hillsborough Lance Philmon and his sons, Levi and Luke Clyde Dixon Sr. of Philmon.

County Fairgrounds Plant City, a World in Dover, three hours War II veteran who before the grand openretired from careers in ing of the 11-day counconstruction and crop ty fair. insurance.

Count among them The 2023 Harvest Joseph ‘Joe’ Sumner Award for Outstanding III, a seventh-generWomen in Agriculture ation cattle rancher recognizes Dee Dee whose family settled in Grooms of Plant City, Southern Hillsborough the matriarch of Fancy County in 1909, where Farms, founded in 1974.

Sumner continues to Fred Williams reoperate a cow calf opceives the Outstanding eration with his wife, Public and CommuniMark Proctor, left, with D.A. ‘Doug’ Nikki, and children, ty Service Award, in Holmberg, this year’s Harvest Award Kayleigh Sumner and part for his service on Lifetime Achievement honoree.

Joe Sumner IV. Joseph the Florida FFA Founreceived this year’s Harvest dation Board and his role as Award for Outstanding Farmco-founder of the Greater e r/ Ra n c h e r/ N u r s e r y m a n .

Plant City Chamber of ComHis great-grandfather is the merce Pig Jam — set for its namesake of Jule F. Sumner 20th year on Friday and SatHigh School in the Balm/Rivurday, November 17-18 — at erview area.

1401 Gordon Food Service Dr. Hailing from Lithia is D.A. in Plant City.

‘Doug’ Holmberg, this year’s The annual awards ceremoLifetime Achievement Award ny recognizes Friends of the recipient. Described as an Fair honorees as well. This “educator, agricultural innovator, hor- year’s list of 21 recipients is as follows: ticultural leader and creative thinker,” American Show Camels, ACME BarriHolmberg owns and operates Holmberg cades, Astin Farms, Bill Bartlett, HillsFarms, which produces citrus, tropical borough County Sheriff’s Mounted Posse, fruits and woody ornaments. He is a past Hillsborough County Cattlewomen, Hillpresident of the Hillsborough and state ag sborough County Commissioner Michael teacher associations and the Hillsborough Owen, Central Maintenance and Welding, County Farm Bureau. He taught at Horace iHeartMedia, In The Field magazine, Ed Mann Middle School in Brandon. and Terri Kelly, McCullagh & Scott, OdiDeeply rooted in tradition as well are orne Insurance, Pipe Pros, Stepp’s Towmembers of the Winfred Harrell family, ing, the Tampa Bay Times, TECO Peoples recipients of the 2023 Harvest Award for Gas, Tew Electric, United Rentals and, Farm Family of the Year. The family since posthumously, Robert McElheny.

1960 has owned and operated Harrell’s The Hillsborough County Fair runs Liner Farm in Plant City, while Harrell’s Nov. 2-12 at the Hillsborough County Nursery reportedly has grown to a major Fairgrounds in Dover, at 215 Sydney operation with more than 145 employees. Washer Road. For more information, visAs duly noted in the awards announce- it https://hillsboroughcountyfair.com or ment, “the Harrell family exemplifies the call 813-737-3247.

CELEBRATING SIX YEARS IN BUSINESS!

3513 Bell Shoals Rd, Valrico, FL, United States, Florida Ha Pham, Owner

N E W! DING R MIC OBLADING A H AND S SERVICES

(813) 643-0335

lotusnailsandspabiz@gmail.com Open Mon-Fri 10 a.m.-7 p.m. | Sat 9 a.m.-6 p.m. | Closed Sunday

www.lotusnailsandspa.biz

Page 18

Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition

ROTARY SPOTLIGHT: ACTIVITIES, MEETINGS & MORE

Staff Report

Brandon The Rotary Club of Brandon celebrated Veterans Day with a special salute to the club’s eight military veterans.

It honored each of them by showing a slideshow with pictures of their early military careers. The members had a lot of fun trying to guess which picture belonged to which veteran. Some of the pictures were over 60 years old, so it was indeed challenging. Each veteran was then presented with a special Rotary Armed Forces Veteran Lapel Pin and was given a standing ovation in appreciation for their service to our country. The Rotary Club of Brandon is thankful for all who have served and is happy to be able to honor and celebrate its veterans.

The Rotary Club of Brandon is collecting new stuffed teddy bears for the Rough Riders to distribute to Bay-area children who are in the hospital. Collection boxes are located at the Rivard-Simmons Rotary Event Center, Reed & Reed, Integrity First Title, the HCA Florida Brandon Hospital gift shop and Kings Avenue Beef ’O’ Brady’s (stuffed bears only).

Interact Club of Tampa Bay All area high schoolers interested in service, leadership, food and fun are invited to the December meeting of the Interact Club of Tampa Bay on Monday, December 4 from 6-8 p.m. at the Rivard-Simmons Rotary Event Center in Brandon. The Interact Club is sponsored

by the Brandon ’86 Rotary Club. For more information, visit its Facebook page or contact Chad Norgard at chad@norgardinsgrp.com.

Brandon Global Eco Interested in protecting the environment? Join Brandon Global Eco Rotary via Zoom on the second and fourth Mondays of each month at 6 p.m.

For more information, contact Bruno Kazenas at bkazenas@ comcast.net.

FishHawk-Riverview Join the Rotary Club of FishHawk-Riverview for its December guest speakers.

On Monday, December 4, Rotarian Bryant Williams will share about the Waterset Oilers Youth Sports program, and on Monday, December 11, Tristan Mohagen, president and executive director of El Ayudante Mission, will share about their ongoing work to transform the lives of impoverished families in Comayagua, Honduras. Both Waterset Oilers and El Ayudante are 2023-24 FishHawk-Riverview Rotary Club Foundation Award recipients.

All are welcome to the club’s meetings on Mondays at 12 Noon at Gasparilla Pizzeria & Growlers, located at 1028 E. Bloomingdale Ave., or on Thursdays from 5-6:30 p.m. at The Shrimp Boat, located at 1020 Bloomingdale Ave. To learn more, visit its social media channels or www.fishhawkriverviewrotary.org.

Volume 22, Issue 12

SCHOOL BOARD APPROVES TEMPORARY STADIUM PARTNERSHIP WITH NEW WOMEN’S PRO SOCCER TEAM Staff Report The Hillsborough County School Board approved a landmark partnership in October with Tampa Bay’s new top-tier women’s pro soccer team. Under the agreement, Super League Tampa Bay (SLTB) will pay the full cost to upgrade and expand the waterfront stadium adjacent to Blake High School in downtown Tampa. Starting in August 2024, the stadium will serve as the temporary home for the team, hosting its games for its first several seasons until it moves to its permanent home.

The team expects to invest more than $4 million in stadium enhancements, with the exact amount determined by the final design. These will be permanent upgrades, at no cost to taxpayers. Discussions are also underway for the team to create new opportunities for Blake students in music, performing arts, TV production as well as math and engineering.

“This is a unique public-private partnership that creates fantastic opportunities for our students and our entire community,” said Van Ayres, interim superintendent for Hillsborough County Public Schools.

“On the field, our athletes will have access to excellent new high-end facilities.

Off the field, we’ll have new opportunities for hands-on learning for all the students at the school,” Ayres said. “Plus, our whole community will see the benefits of investing in our schools to create a stronger future for all of us.”

Transformational enhancements paid for by the team will include expanding the stadium’s capacity from 1,800 to around 5,000, installing new FIFA-approved turf, upgrading locker room facilities, beautification projects on the adjacent Blake campus and more.

“As a fan, this location unlocks an entire evening of fun with so many hubs of activity around Downtown Tampa. You can have dinner with friends, then hop on a water taxi or stroll to the Riverwalk and ‘march to the match’ to cheer for your team,” SLTB President Christina Unkel said.

Along with the potential for an energized atmosphere before, during and after the club’s Saturday night home games, SLTB also looked to the stadium along the Hillsborough River to have a positive impact on children through this partnership, have the field ready for kickoff in August 2024 and allow excellent access for fans.

The team will hold its daily training at its Ybor City Training Facility and collaborate with school administrators to minimize any impact on the neighboring school. A soccer-specific stadium in a yet-to-be-determined location is being planned to serve as the team’s permanent home.

Deposits for season tickets, $24 each for the club’s August 2024 debut, are available now. Visit https://shop.superleaguetampabay.com/products/season-ticket-deposit to sign up.

Office Hours: 8 am - 5 pm M-F

Mention this ad to receive

OUR MISSION: To serve all with integrity while striving for excellence

$30 off a service repair OR $300 off the installation of a new air conditioning unit

Emergency Service Available | Free Estimates on new HVAC systems

SERVICES OFFERED • For both Residential and Commercial • UV Light Installation • Thermostats • A/C & Heating Installation • Air Duct Installation and Repair • A/C & Heating Maintenance • Humidifiers • A/C & Heating Repair • Zoning • Air Cleaners

ASK ABOUT RED’S CLUB Service Areas: Hillsborough, Pasco, Pinellas, Polk

Not to be combined with any other discount.

One time use per address. Expires 12/21/2023

Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition

December 2023

Page 19

FLORIDA MUSEUM OF PHOTOGRAPHIC HOLIDAY WATER CONSERVATION TIPS ARTS FINDS NEW HOME IN YBOR CITY — YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED

By Katherine Munson, Lead Communications Coordinator

By Kathy L. Collins The Florida Museum In the second galof Photographic Arts, lery, FMoPA will host or FMoPA, is a unique its annual Members’ museum founded in Show from Tuesday, 2001 and conveniently December 12 through located in Ybor City. Its January 14, 2024. mission is dedicated to O’Dell said, “Our exhibition of important Members’ Show feaThe Florida Museum of Photographic photographic art as Arts (FMoPA) opened the doors to its new tures photographs by central to contempo- space in Ybor City on September 14. The the very talented phorary life and culture. It newly renovated space is dedicated solely tographers from our collects, preserves and to the exhibition of photographic art and community. All memfeatures exhibits of photos from locally, exhibits historic and bers are encouraged to nationally and internationally renowned contemporary works participate.” photographers. by nationally and interFMoPA’s home in nationally known photographic Ybor City began in September. artists.

It had spent many years in Moreover, it serves the comdowntown Tampa, but the curmunity by operating outreach programs to rent location feels just right. educate children and adults.

O’Dell said, “In our 3,000 square feet of FMoPA is one of a handful of museums newly renovated space, we are busy scheddedicated exclusively to exhibiting photo- uling exhibitions, classes and events that will graphs. engage, entertain and educate our visitors.”

Robin O’Dell, executive curator for FMoO’Dell added, “FMoPA is dedicated to PA, said, “As one of less than 10 museums in being a place of gathering and delight for the entire country dedicated solely to photo- everyone, as well as actively looking for graphic arts, we want our museum to be a ways to engage within the community. We place of inspiration and delight to people of actively go into classrooms, senior centers all ages and backgrounds.” and recreation centers offering ways to O’Dell added, “Our main gallery features learn both about photography and ways to national and internationally prominent explore creativity and self-exploration. We artists and changes every three months. welcome everyone to become a member Our second gallery focuses on artists and and participate in making Tampa a better outreaches reflecting our community and place to live.” changes every month.”

FMoPA is located at 1630 E. 7th Ave. in The next exhibit, which opens on Thurs- Ybor City. It is open Tuesday to Saturday day, December 7 and will run through March from 11 a.m.-7 p.m. and on Sunday from 12 17, 2024, will feature the photographs of Noon-5 p.m. General admission tickets are Carlton Ward and is called Carlton Ward: $12 for people 54 years and younger and The Path of the Panther. Ward is a Nation- $10 for seniors, students and military peral Geographic photographer who chronicles sonnel. the natural habitats of Florida and the wildFor more information, please visit www. life within. fmopa.org.

Southwest Florida experienced its driest summer rainy season in 26 years, so it’s a good time to remember that water conservation is more important than ever during the dry season. Leading into the holiday season, water plays a role in everything from food preparation to the cleanup process.

Q: How can I save water when preparing holiday meals?

A: Defrost frozen foods in the refrigerator or the microwave instead of running hot water over them. Rinse vegetables and fruits in a sink or pan filled with water instead of under running water. This water can then be reused to water houseplants. A running faucet can use approximately 2 gallons of water per minute.

Q: What can I do to reduce water use when cleaning up from holiday gatherings?

A: When washing dishes by hand, fill one sink or basin with soapy water and fill the rinsing sink one-third to one-half full.

Avoid letting the water run continuously in the rinsing sink. Run your dishwasher only when you have a full load. Standard dishwashers can use 5 gallons of water or more per load.

Q: How can I be water conscious while cooking?

A: Select the proper size pans for cooking. Large pans require more cooking water than may be necessary. Scrape food scraps into the garbage can or a composting bin, rather than rinsing them into the sink’s garbage disposal. A garbage disposal uses approximately 2 gallons of water per minute.

Q: How can I prepare my home to use water wisely if I’m away for the holidays?

A: Your home should be using little to no water while you’re traveling for the holidays. Check for indoor and outdoor leaks before you head out. If you have a permanent inground irrigation system, make sure your controller is set to follow local water restrictions or turned to the ‘off’ position if your lawn and landscape are not in need of additional water. Also, confirm that you have a functioning rain shut-off device for your irrigation system to account for natural rainfall that might occur while you’re away.

Q: How can I pass on water savings during the holidays?

A: Water-saving devices are the gifts that keep on giving. Look for WaterSense or ENERGY STAR-labeled products to help friends and family save water and money on utility bills long after the holidays are over. A WaterSense-labeled smart irrigation controller can save an average home up to 15,000 gallons of water a year.

Q: Where can I find more water conservation tips?

A: To find more water conservation tips, visit the district’s website at www.watermatters.org/water101.

As lead communications coordinator, Katherine Munson manages the district’s youth education program and assists in water conservation outreach efforts. Munson holds a bachelor’s degree in environmental studies concentrating in environmental education and communication from Green Mountain College and a master’s degree in global sustainability concentrating on water sustainability from the University of South Florida.

co M m im in o g sa so s on !

s ’ n o s Sea

FRESH. FUN. FLAVORFUL. It’s what we do.

MENTION THIS AD AND RECEIVE A

FREE Regular Pancake with the purchase of a meal M-F until 9am

Open daily 6:30am to 2:15pm 5614 Fishhawk Crossing Blvd Lithia, FL | 10254 Causeway Blvd Tampa, FL www.canopyroadcafe.com Looking for BETTER INTEREST RATES? GUARANTEES? TAX DEFERRED RETURNS? Give us a call!

Christian Beiter, CFP®

Michael Beiter, Sr.

Upcoming Concerts: Brahms’ Symphony No. 1

Holiday Brass

Nov 17 - 19

Handel’s Messiah

Dr. Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas Dec 2

• FINANCIAL PLANNING SERVICES • LIFE INSURANCE / MEDICARE PLANS

813-627-0872

912 Lithia Pinecrest Rd., Brandon, FL 33511

www.Preservation1st.com

Securities offered through J.W. Cole Financial, Inc. (JWC), Member FINRA/SIPC. Advisory services offered through J.W. Cole Advisors, Inc. (JWCA). Preservation 1st Financial Group, LLC and JWC & JWCA are unaffiliated entities.

Non-security products are not offered by J.W. Cole

Dec 7, 9 &10 Dec 8 & 9

Holiday Pops Dec 15 - 17

Support your Florida Orchestra today FloridaOrchestra.org/donate

Making Waves in Tampa Bay FloridaOrchestra.org | 727.892.3337 |

New!

$20 Kid s Tickets

Page 20

Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition

Doc’s Holiday — A Christmas this year, a kids activity zone. Doors open Sunday from dusk to 10 p.m. The Maat 6:30 p.m. and the concert begins at 7 sonic Park and Youth Camp is located Comedy

Art, Musical, Grinchmas, Christmas Comedy & More...

Doc’s house is a special place. But then again, Doc is a special person. He takes great joy from life and makes sure to share this zeal with all who cross his threshold and many nutty and needy people do. Unfortunately, the only one who doesn’t understand this is Doc’s daughter, Charlotte. And she chooses Christmastime, of course, to tell Doc she is moving away. This leaves Doc to decide whether to spend the Yule season with her in a different city or stay at home to help a separated couple get back together. This full-length play for the whole family will help get you into the spirit of Christmas. Doc’s Holiday is being performed at the Grace Baptist Church, located at 114 Kingsway Rd. in Brandon, on Saturday and Sunday, December 9 and 10 at 6:30 p.m. Tickets for the show are $10 and available from www.facebook. com/events/s/870026744510469/.

Compiled by Jenny Bennett jbennett@ospreyobserver.com

Hillsborough County School Board Elects Chair And Vice Chair Hillsborough County School Board recently voted on a new chair and vice chair. Karen Perez was unanimously voted in as school board chair and Jessica Vaughn was unanimously voted in as vice chair. Perez was elected to the school board, representing countywide,

in 2018 and reelected in 2022. She holds a master’s degree in social work and is a licensed clinical social worker. Vaughn was elected to the school board in 2020, representing District 3. She is a graduate of the University of South Florida, where she earned her degree in elementary education.

Hillsborough County Board Of Commissioners Appoint Positions On Boards

The Hillsborough County Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) selected Ken Hagan to remain as chair and Commissioner Michael Owen as vice chair during its annual organizational meeting. After choosing leadership positions, members of the BOCC selected positions on the various boards, committees and councils on which they serve. A complete list was posted at www.hcflgov.net/bocc.

p.m. Please bring a wrapped new toy for at 18050 U.S. 301 S. For more informaentry, as this will benefit Toys for Tots. tion, visit www.masonicparkflorida.com.

Bloomingdale High School is located at 1700 E. Bloomingdale Ave. in Valrico. Nativity Catholic Church

Christmas Concert Grinchmas At Kid’s Community The Plant City Community Chorale, under the direction of artistic director ColeCollege Kid’s Community College South will be enjoying Grinchmas on Saturday, December 16 at 10550 Johanna Ave. in Riverview. Join them to enjoy Grinchthemed crafts and games, snacks and a visit from the Grinch himself. The event will run from 1-3 p.m. To register, visit https://forms.gle/jygrjgqajtsla4vs5.

Christmas Lights At The Masonic Park

Who doesn’t like to drive about and look at Christmas lights? This year, the Masonic Park and Youth Camp will host its light show until Sunday, December

͝ɉқɴқ ďò Ϩқ͝ ò̲Ͼϖʠ ͵ Ͼΰϖ ΰ̲Ͼϖʠ ̲ɮ òϾ̗ *ʴϖѾ *ȫ̗ϖȫΙͷ ɉ͝ϨʳϋϨɼʳ͝ϹϹқ Ϗ ѭѭѭ;¤Œΰ̲̗ʴǙߌΙˤc˰̲ΙʴȁŒ;Ǚ̲̈

31. Drive through thousands of lights set to music, a snow machine and interactive displays. The park will also have a vendor’s village with local artisans selling their items, food trucks on Fridays and Saturdays and visits from Santa on Friday, Saturday and Sunday nights. A $10 donation or a nonperishable food donation is suggested, which will all go to local charities. Opening hours are Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday from dusk to 9 p.m. and Friday, Saturday and

Holiday Under The Stars Outdoor Concert

Cleaning Services

¤ ò·ªx* ß æ Œ̗ȁ Ł·ďĀp * ¤ß

QŒ¾Ŝ¾ĚűŜ

úææ¾Ŝű ċúæóű ŜóĦƢ ŒĦƆ̱Ô

óŒúŜűĕ Ŝ úĚ űó¾ Q ŒĆ 2?*?¤%?æ ͝ ə Ϩ͝

Ȝ͝қ 2̲̗Œϖʴ̲̗ ̲Ι ª̲̗ʳßȫΙʴΰʠŒǂ˰ȫ c̲​̲ȁ 2̲̗Œϖʴ̲̗ ˱˱ 2̳̘Œϗʵ̳̘α ʃ̳ ϗ̳ ˱̳ǙŒ˱ ǙʡŒΚʵϗʵȬαͿ

ijȫ̗ȁ̲Ιΰ Œ̗ȁ c̲​̲ȁ ̲̗ cΙʴȁŒѾΰ Œ̗ȁ òŒϖϾΙȁŒѾΰɪ ̷​̷​̷​̷ʔȡƮɭȡɭǐ̷ȡ

ĀϿȬαϐĶȬȁϐĀʡϿΚαǺ 2Ͽα˥ ʴ ̤ͱ̉ cΚʵϐòŒϗϐòϿ̘Ǻ 2Ͽα˥ ʴ ͞қͱ̉ ¤̳̘Ǻ *˱̳αȬȁ

2æxij? Āpæď Āp·ďò ª2ò ·c xgpĀò ò?Ā Ā· ¤ďòx*ǻ òª·Ķ ¤ *pxª? ư xªĀ?æ *Āxij? 2xòß Łòɪ

The Bloomingdale High School Music Department invites everyone to its annual Holiday Under the Stars performance and vendor event on Thursday, December 14. Enjoy a selection of festive music performed by its talented young musicians, one-of-a-kind items with local vendors, delicious food from food trucks and, new

Dine L cal With Us!

1/2 10% Off OFF

Appetizer with any dinner entree.

Friday & Saturday 6 PM - Close

Volume 22, Issue 12

One regularly priced menu item.

Cannot be combined with other offers. Limit one coupon per customer.

Complimentary

Specialty Beverage with any purchase House Blend Cold Brew Sweet Cream Vanilla Good Morning Sunrise Strawberry Lemonade Spritzer Blueberry Lemonade Harvest Peach

man Flentge, is excited to present Vivaldi’s “Gloria” in D major. The chorale will be accompanied by local chamber orchestra musicians to make this an extra special performance. The second half of the concert will be filled with familiar Christmas pieces to make you feel the spirit of the season. The performance will be held at Nativity Catholic Church, located at 705 E. Brandon Blvd. in Brandon, on Saturday, December 9 at 7:30 p.m. Please see the flyer for ticket information.

Art On The Farm

The First Ladies Farm & Sanctuary will be hosting its popular Art on th Farm

event on Saturday, December 2 from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. at 13028 Shadow Run Blvd. in Riverview. Get into the festive spirit and show some love for your local artisans and craftspeople. There will be over 60 vendors selling unique art, crafts and gourmet foods; there is something for everyone. There will also be barbecue and jackfruit dinners available, baked treats and even some First Ladies Farm & Sanctuary merchandise. You can also meet adorable, adoptable kittens and cats.

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

www.OspreyObserver.com

CATERING FREE AVAILABLE

SODA with purchase

LUNCH SPECIALS EVERY DAY FAMILY MEAL SPECIALS $39.95

10% OFF

Take Out and Delivery

ENTIRE PURCHASE

La Septima Cafe

Sunflower Cafe

Dine In ONLY Not Available for To Go

Eggs Up Grill Vine Vegan StrandHill Public 10288 Causeway Blvd.

vinevegan.com

2080 Badlands Drive l Brandon Expires Expires 12/31/2023 1 / /2023

813-800-EGGS 3920 US 301 • Riverview (between Falkenburg & 301) Dine In Only. Excludes Mimosas.

Expires 12/31/2023 Expires 1 / /2023

Little Greek Fresh Grill 813.570.8162

RIVERVIEW LOCATION ONLY

10173 Big Bend Rd., Riverview Expires 1 / /2023 Expires 12/31/2023

1916 Iris Pub

906 W Robertson St. Brandon, fl 33511 www.1916irishpub.com

813-65-SUSHI 702 W Lumsden Rd, Brandon Only valid with regular menu. With Not Valid with any other discounts, this coupon. Must present before promotions or coupons. submitting payment. Before tax.

No Cash Value.

One coupon per visit. Not valid Expires 1 / /2023 Expires 12/31/2023 12/31/2023 with Expires Expires 1 / /2023

Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition

December 2023

Page 21

STUDENTS ENGAGE WITH CODING ATTORNEY PUBLISHES HEARTWARMING LAW AND FORTNITE AT LOCAL YMCA MEMOIR, THE OTHER SIDE OF THE

By Kathy L. Collins

By Makenzie Atkins Noel

The North Brancoding class, the Jr. don Family YMCA Developer program, has recently added where students two new events to who have preexits calendar: coding isting knowledge programs and Fortabout coding or nite Fridays. These have taken the beinitiatives offer ginners class at the unique opportuniY are offered more ties for skill develadvanced lessons. opment and peer Kids are loving Fortnite Fridays and parents love The program ofgiving their children a safe place to play with engagement. fers three package their friends and meet new kids.

The YMCA is exoptions: Monday/ cited to support the Thursday, Wednesunderstanding of coding day/Saturday or a twoconcepts at a young age. hour Saturday class.

The coding program The sessions are $150 aims to equip children for YMCA members ages 6-17 with these and $210 for nonmemcrucial skills, providing bers. knowledge that sets While a YMCA memthem apart in a technolbership is not mandatoogy-driven world. ry for enrollment of the “In today’s society, we use technology for coding classes, members do get benefits everything, and for a child to say they know like discounts and access to the rest of the the concepts of coding at a young age is ex- YMCA’s amenities. traordinary,” said Maya Sisarran, associate The second new program, Fortnite Friprogram director. “They can use these skills days, offers a fun and competitive gaming they learned here and apply it to their de- experience for children ages 7-17. Fortnite cision-making of what they would like their Fridays are on the first and third Friday of career to be as well as having knowledge of each month from 6-8 p.m. and give kids something that a lot of people do not know the opportunity to engage in a safe and about.” regulated environment for gaming comThe coding program is facilitated by Es- petitions. Classes cost $20 per night, and ports Players and Coding Club, which has children have the chance to win Fortnite donated the technology to the YMCA for V-Bucks each night. the classes. Using popular software, stuThe North Brandon Family YMCA’s new dents get to be a part of an engaging cur- programs provide a unique avenue for child riculum that utilizes games like Roblox and development, combining education and fun Minecraft. In the class, students will create in an inclusive and supportive environment. their own mini worlds similar to the games For more information, visit www.tampaythey love to play. mca.org/programs/children-teens/computThe YMCA also offers an intermediate er-coding.

Paul Reed is a Branhimself but growing up don attorney who was like everyone else.” born and raised in When asked why Brandon. He has lived Reed wrote the book, an eventful and suche stated, “I always cessful life. He recently wanted to. My plan published a memoir, was to retire one day, co-authored with Crysgo to a quiet little cabin tal Crawford, called The in the woods and write Other Side of the Law, the book. Given the now available on Amaworld as we know it, zon.. retiring to the woods, Reed’s book is an inso to speak, was probLocal attorney Paul Reed has published teresting one. The Othably never going to a book called The Other Side of the Law, er Side of the Law is the happen, so I decided to which is available on outlets such as crazy, true story of how write the book now.”

Amazon. someone became one As to his co-author, of the most successful Reed explained, “Cryslawyers in Tampa. In the tal is a friend of mine who book, you will find stories has prior writing experience. about Reed, including how We started writing the book he got a black eye, was in early 2022 and it was pubtossed from a cab and got lished and ready to go Noa kiss from a stranger all vember 2022. On Fridays at in one night. Per the book, 1:30 p.m., Crystal and I would what happens at Mardi talk via Zoom. I would tell Gras stays at Mardi Gras, her the stories in the book, unless you write a book she would take notes, ask me about it. questions, and that is how it Another time, Reed got went.” chased by cops through Reed added, “I have lived an orange grove. The morhere for 59 years. A lot of al: cop cars do not drive the community knows me well in sand. Reed also lived in a trailer park and can corroborate many of the stories. because as the book points out, it was safer Even though I have been blessed by the Lord than the murder apartment. above, I am the same old kid in the book.

When asked if all of these things really Still down to earth, so to speak.” happened to him, Reed said, “Yes. There are Reed is a partner in Reed & Reed law firm pictures to prove it in the book.” According in Brandon with his son Ryan and daughterto Reed, “The book is simply a tale of one in-law Jacquelyn. Main office is located at boy growing up in a small town with a single 101 East Lumsden Road, Brandon. Visit wwmom, two brothers and making a success of wneedreed.com for an appointment.

HOLIDAY EVENT?

Are you ready for the best skin of your life?

CALL US FOR ALL OF YOUR PARTY RENTAL NEEDS!

Schedule Your Visit Today

BOOK YOUR 2024 GRADUATION PARTY BEFORE DECEMBER 31, 2023, AND GET 25% OFF!

WWW.FLOWERMETAMPA.COM

813.716.9811

@FLOWERMETAMPA

EVENT PLANNING • DECOR AND RENTALS CUSTOM BLOOMBOARDS • FLOWER WALLS

16637 Fishhawk Blvd.

Suite 102 Rm. 2 Lithia, FL 33547

|

214 S. MacDill Ave. Tampa, FL 33609

813-444-2441

www.HydrafacialTampa.com

Page 22

Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition

OUTSTANDING VOLUNTEERS HONORED AT THE TAMPA YMCA COMMUNITY IMPACT CELEBRATION

Staff Report

T h e in our comTa m p a munity.

MetropolG r e g itan Area Dooley YMCA hon— YMCA ored outC a m p standing Cristina . volunteers Dooley has at the AnFaith Burriss — Greg Dooley — YMCA c o a c h e d Andre Steadman nual Comevery sinSpurlino Family Camp Cristina.

— North Brandon munity gle season of soccer since 2021 YMCA. Family YMCA. Impact Celebration. The event, presented for the 5 to 6-year-old age group. He and

by Regions, was held on November 2 at the his family have been immersed in YMCA Tampa Theatre. An estimated 400 guests programs in the Riverview and Brandon enjoyed an evening showcasing the Tampa areas for years. He develops great relaYMCA’s robust impact on the community tionships with this young age group and as videos, testimonials and stories were demonstrates compassion 10-fold. shared. Gary Koch, Al Colby and 11 outThe Tampa YMCA presented Koch with standing Tampa YMCA volunteers received the 2023 Community Impact Award for awards. his dedication and positive impact on the The following local-area YMCA Center youth in the First Tee – Tampa Bay golf Volunteers of the Year were recognized for program. Koch’s list of accomplishments their unwavering commitment to helping is a story unto itself. He is a six-time PGA children, families and seniors reach their Tour winner, former ESPN/NBC Sports golf full potential. commentator and First Tee – Tampa Bay’s Andre Steadman — North Brandon board chair.

Family YMCA. Steadman has worked with Colby, a lawyer, lifelong friend and supthe youth on the wellness floor. He inspires porter of the YMCA, as well as former discipline and commitment and champi- board chair, was presented with the 2023 ons their mental health. An incredible Y Tampa YMCA Red Triangle Award. The ambassador, he consistently shares the Y Red Triangle Award is given to a volunteer message and mission in the community and whose leadership and service reflect the beyond and is always eager to welcome countless lives transformed through their new members. generous contributions.

Faith Burriss — Spurlino Family The Tampa Metropolitan Area YMCA is YMCA. Burriss joined the Spurlino Board a cause-driven, four-star charity that has in 2022 and instantly made an impact by been strengthening the Hillsborough and creating collaborative opportunities in the East Pasco communities for over 130 years community, as well as working hard on the through youth development, healthy living board’s social responsibility committee. She and social responsibility. For information has been critical in helping guide the board on the YMCA and local area centers, visit in tackling some of the biggest social needs www.tampaymca.org.

Volume 22, Issue 12

RIVERVIEW REGENT IS IDEAL VENUE FOR EVERY OCCASION

By Kathy L. Collins

The Regent, confirst quarter of veniently located 2024. This event at 6437 Watson promises to be Rd. in Riverview, is an immersive exa stand-alone venperience for both ue which can host attendees and events from as exhibitors, celesmall as 50 guests brating the rich to extravagant afcultural heritage fairs for up to 800 of quinceañeras in guests. It is a prea grand, elegant miere venue right setting.” here in our comWhile The Remunity. gent provides a Shannon Keil, The Regent, located in Riverview, is a beautiful list of preferred venue that is great for any type of event, from CEO of The Regent, caterers resmall and intimate gatherings to large said, “The Regent nowned for their extravagant affairs. is more than just a exceptional servenue; it is a hub for unforgettable mo- vices, it understands the importance of ments. From elegant weddings to lively accommodating cultural and dietary prefquinceañeras and professional corporate erences. You have the flexibility to choose events, The Regent welcomes every event a caterer of your choice, provided the cawith open arms.” terer is licensed and insured, which allows Keil added, “Our venue ensures the per- you to curate a culinary experience that fect fit for any event, regardless of its size complements your event seamlessly. or scope.”

The staff at The Regent make booking Since its establishment in 2007, the your event as effortless as it is exciting. venue has undergone continuous en- You can reach out at 813-571-2494, vishancements, ensuring that every event it The Regent’s user-friendly website at held there benefits from the latest ame- www.theregentfl.com or email to info@ nities, technology and aesthetic upgrades. theregentfl.com.

Beyond being a splendid event space, Keil said, “The Regent is more than a The Regent plays a pivotal role in fos- venue; it is a testament to the dedication tering community engagement. It takes and passion of our team. With diverse pride in hosting numerous local chamber event offerings, community engagement meetings and galas, creating a conducive initiatives and commitment to excellence, environment for meaningful connections The Regent is the ideal choice for your and collaborations among local business- next celebration or corporate gathering. es and organizations.

Experience the difference at The Regent, Keil said, “In an effort to continually where moments become memories and enrich the community experience, The celebrations are crafted with perfection.”

Regent is thrilled to announce the upcomFor more information, please visit www. ing Quinceañera Expo scheduled for the theregentfl.com.

Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition

December 2023

Page 23

Beyond what we give our families and friends, this holiday season offers so many opportunities to brighten the lives of others through charity. The Anonymous Angel or Secret Santa programs at various churches and other nonprofits are great places to start. If you’re interested especially in kids, here are a few organizations that make it easy for you:

A Kid’s Place of Tampa Bay

RE/MAX Hall of Fame, Top 1% among all agents across Tampa Bay

Holiday Gift Drive www.akidsplacetb.org or 813-381-3839

Toys For Tots Tampa

Certified Luxury Home Specialist

Annual U.S. Marine Corps gift collection tampa-fl.toysfortots.org or 813-510-0701

Newsome High, Riverview High parent

Metropolitan Ministries

“I live here.

I love it here.

And I sell here like no one else!”

Food & toy donations www.metromin.org or 813-209-1000

I give free ad space to groups or events that improve our community. Call me with your ideas! — Ann Marie

East of FishHawk near Alderman’s Ford, the wait is over for this custom-built, 4,000-SF pool/spa home that blends country farmhouse roots with breathtaking design & amenities on 5 acres in a gated, exclusive, equestrian enclave!

You'll love the lifestyle in this 1-of-a-kind property surrounded by other executive manors! With 5 bedrooms & 4.5 baths (including 3 en suite), plus a front office or den & a 3-car garage, it can handle almost any size family plus guest or multigenerational options. Quality finishes from quartz counters & soft-close wood cabinets to 8-foot doors, 8-inch baseboard & wood-look tile floors. Gas heat for the pool/spa & tankless water heater. New to market at $1,369,000.

Email: annmarievaughan @verizon.net Web: annmarievaughan. realtor

In Mariposa, a gated enclave of executive homes at the edge of Riverview, this 3,400-SF beauty offers a private pool in a fenced, corner yard of 1/3 acre with a rear view of trees instead of another neighbor! The Meritage Homes Royal design makes multi-generational living easy with 2 suites suitable as primary bedrooms & baths -- 1 downstairs overlooking the pool's open patio & 1 upstairs with an extended sitting room over the pool's roof-covered lanai. There are 5 beds & 3.5 baths overall, a central great room under a 20-foot ceiling, plus a 3-car tandem garage of more than 760 SF. (That’s right; it only looks like a 2-car from the front.) Soon for sale at $775,000 or for monthly rent at $4,450.

Beyond upgrades from roof to floors, you’ll find a backyard haven here exceeding expectations: an extended, screened & roof-sheltered pool lanai with a stamped concrete deck, open patio, shed, vinyl privacy fence & more! The home is a 2,245-SF 4/2/2 in no-fee Boyette Springs. $469,900 This one’s for rent in Boyette Springs, & it’s upgraded from new roof to new floors! It’s a 5/3/2 with 2,160 SF, but then it adds a screened & roof-covered lanai overlooking conservation land with no rear neighbor. It also has a 1/4 acre yard newly vinyl-fenced in back.

Monthly rent $2,695

Over $20 million in sales in 2022

With a pond view in back & a park view in front, this maintenance-free villa gives you a standout spot along a singlestreet enclave in Rivercrest! An open design & screened lanai help the 3/2/2 live larger than its listed 1,521 SF. New carpet, also new fridge among stainless-steel appliances. $329,900 Another rental on a privacy-fenced 1/4 acre in Boyette Springs is this 1,950-SF 3/2/2 with customized upgrades & a nearly 500-SF lanai!

That distinctive outdoor living space throws the home open through 4 sets of sliders from the living room, family room, kitchen & master suite.

Monthly rent $2,495

Customized upgrades for the original owners give this pondview townhome added value now that they're selling after only 2 years! You’ll find it in Brandon’s Timbers at Williams Landing. 3 beds & 2 baths upstairs plus a half-bath down, 1-car garage, screened lanai overlooking the water. $299,900 Yet another improved from roof to floors, this villa with no rear neighbor in sight is move-inready in Sun City Center! A 240-SF Florida room helps it live larger than its listed 2-bed, 2bath, 1,714 SF. Your water bills & yard care are covered & it’s all on a cul-de-sac street.

Monthly rent $2,200

Page 24

Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition

Volume 22, Issue 12

SECTION Page 25 TWO

Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition

December 2023

SENIOR CITIZEN SCAMS — BEWARE, DON’T BECOME A VICTIM

By Kelly Wise Valdes Each year, millions of elderly Americans fall victim to financial fraud, which may include such things as tech support schemes, romance conspiracies, fake lottery winnings, sweepstakes scams and more. These scams are estimated to have caused a loss of $3 billion per year for the elderly population.

Criminals prey on the trust of the elderly and communicate with them directly online, over the phone and by mail. Seniors tend to be easy targets from scammers because they may understand less about technology than the younger generation.

According to the FBI website, “Seniors may be less inclined to report fraud because they don’t know how, or they may be too ashamed at having been scammed.

They might also be concerned that their relatives will lose confidence in their abilities to manage their own financial affairs.”

Below are two similar stories from local victims on recent fraud via tech support schemes. Only first names will be used to protect the victims and their families.

In August, 86-year-old Mary was on her iPad looking through emails when a message popped up on her screen saying that her computer was compromised and she needed to call the toll-free number displayed. When her daughter, Sue, called her that afternoon, Sue learned that her mom had gone to the bank to take an $1,300 advance on her credit card.

“I found out that my mom had called the number and was told that she needed to pay $2,000 to unlock the computer,” said Sue. “My mom told him that she didn’t have that kind of money and he told her to go to her bank and get a cash advance from her credit card.”

Mary drove herself to the bank and asked to take out a cash advance. The teller asked her many questions, but Mary

According to the FBI website, senior citizen scams are an estimated $3 billion yearly industry.

finally told the teller that her son was in jail and she needed the cash for bail. She asked for all $100 bills and brought the cash home with her to await further instructions.

“I happened to have called her right after she returned home and asked where she was because I tried to call her,” said Sue. “That’s when she told me about the pop-up message earlier in the day while she was on the internet. I knew it was a scam and frantically asked her where the money was.”

Sue told her mom to not answer the phone until she arrived at the apartment.

“I immediately took possession of the cash and called the police who said there was no crime since the money had not been given to the scammer.”

The police advised Mary and Sue to block all calls and to not answer any unfamiliar calls. Mary was frantic, saying that the U.S. government had called her multiple times and she was scared that the government was coming after her. Sue had to continually reassure her mother that it was a scam and that the U.S. government would not ask her to take a cash advance from a credit card to unlock her

computer.

In September, 76-year-old Mark had a similar situation. Mark was contacted by a convincing scammer who claimed to be a ‘Microsoft employee’ and explained to him that hackers had gotten access to his computer and had accessed several illegal sites, prompting an FBI investigation.

Shortly after that call, the ‘FBI’ contacted Mark and told him he would be arrested if he didn’t pay a fine of $6,000.

According to Mark’s daughter, Jen, her dad was very shaken by the event.

“They catch elderly victims off guard, and they panic, so logic goes out the window. He withdrew cash and was driving around per their instructions to a bitcoin machine to send it via a QR code,” she ex-

plained.

Luckily, Mark had inadvertently turned off the cell access on his phone in his panicked state, and that is likely what kept him from losing his money. Mark thought the FBI had ‘locked’ his phone and was coming to arrest him, until Jen got there the next day after being unable to reach him and realized what happened.

Both Sue and Jen said that education is the key to ending scams like this.

“Tell your parents never to be embarrassed to ask for help if they think they are in trouble,” said Jen. “Tell them about scams. Tell them that if someone threatens them, don’t engage, just hang up and call a trusted friend or family member.”

Seniors should be taught how to block a number and to not give out their number to people online and to never click a link that may come through via text. Also, seniors should be shown the FBI website, where there is a section that addresses these types of scams.

Another solution is to add another name of a trusted family member to the bank account and credit card of a senior so someone else is able to be messaged of possible fraud regarding the accounts.

If you or someone you know may have been a victim of elder fraud, contact your local FBI field office or submit a tip online at www.fbi.gov.

BRANDON TERMITE & PEST CONTROL

Termidor

MEMBER WEST FLORIDA

10 Year Guarantee

Against Subterranean Termites

Main Office: 108 S. St. Cloud Ave. • Valrico • Fax 685-3607 • 6am-6pm

brandonpestcontrol@tampabay.rr.com

Serving: Clearwater-Tampa-Orlando-Plant City For a FREE ESTIMATE call (813) 685-7711

#1 BUG MUGGERS SINCE 1973

Tickets On Sale Dec. 7th at 8 am • FLstrawberryfestival.com

out of this world!

Feb. 29 - Mar. 10, 2024 Plant City, FL Artists Appearing on the

Soundstage:

The Oak Ridge Boys

OLIVER ANTHONY

Thu. Feb. 29, 3:30

Thu. Feb. 29, 7:30 $35

American Made Farewell Tour

Black Eyed Peas Sat. Mar. 2, 7:30 $65

Parker McCollum Sun. Mar. 3, 7:30 $65

$35

The Bellamy Brothers Mon. Mar. 4, 3:30 $25

Out of The Woods

The Beach Boys Fri. Mar. 1, 3:30 $45

Jordan Davis Fri. Mar. 1, 7:30 $55

Mark Lowry

ZZ TOP

Mon. Mar. 4, 7:30 $55

Tue. Mar. 5, 3:30 $30

Zach Williams Tue. Mar. 5, 7:30 $40

Craig Morgan

Wed. Mar. 6, 3:30 $35

Visit FLstrawberryfestival.com or call 813-754-1996 and get your tickets for the best seats available!

Home of OUR

Riley Green

Wed. Mar. 6, 7:30 $50

Gene Watson

Thu. Mar. 7, 3:30 $25

Kirk Franklin

Thu. Mar. 7, 7:30 $45

The Commodores Fri. Mar. 8, 3:30 $35

FOREIGNER

Fri. Mar. 8, 7:30 $55

Jo Dee Messina Sat. Mar. 9, 3:30 $30

Flo Rida

Sat. Mar. 9, 7:30 $50

Cody Johnson

Sun. Mar. 10, 7:30 $75

#berryfest24 Concert dates and times are subject to change

• T-Mobile • Alessi Bakeries • AMSCOT • Astin Farms • Candyland Warehouse • Global Frequency Technology • TRUFFOIRE • Circle K • Local Ford Dealers • O’Reilly Auto Parts • Grove Equipment Service • Stingray Chevrolet • Uncommon USA • ZYN • Monticciolo Sedation Dentistry • Netterfield’s Concessions • Verizon Wireless • Badcock Home Furniture &more • Good Health Saunas • Krazy Kup • DIRECTV • Images Everywhere! • Master Spas • Choo Choo Lawn Equipment • Florida Blue • Wyndham Destinations • Entenmann’s • The Bank of Tampa • Solution Source Construction & Development • Suncoast Credit Union • ICEE • AT&T • Florida Restaurant & Lodging Association • General RV Center • SUN ’n FUN Aerospace Expo • AUSSIE GRILL

Page 26

Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition

CHRISTMAS TRADITIONS TO START FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY

Volume 22, Issue 12

By Ashley Abene

BRANDON BALLET CELEBRATES 30TH ANNIVERSARY WITH MEMORABLE PERFORMANCE OF THE NUTCRACKER

The holiday season At-home traditions is quickly approaching. for the family include The busyness and fast spending December pace of Christmas can watching a Christbe overwhelming and mas movie each day exhausting. However, or baking cookies and taking a step back and bringing them to the enjoying Christmas neighbors together.

Metropolitan Ministries’ annual Holiday traditions with family Gift Market helps reach the community in Another idea is makcan be a release. There ing simple, inexpensive need every year. are many traditions crafts, such as cards, kids can participate in that bring gift tags or presents from Dollar families closer and help them Tree finds. Finding items around remember the reason for the the house to recycle and make season. ornaments together can be fun, One fun tradition to do as a like turning an empty baby food family is to look at Christmas jar into a snow globe. lights. Besides local neighborChristmas countdowns are hoods, there are events in the also a great way to include the area that put on light shows. Tampa Bay YMCAs kids in preparing for Christmas.

Plant City’s Christmas Lane Some Advent calendars have often participate in Angel Tree each (https://christmaslane.com/) a candy or flavor of coffee for Christmas season. and the Burton Family Light each day. Other Advent calenShow in Valrico (www.facebook.com/bur- dars focus on biblical Scriptures, suggesttonfamilylightshow) are such options. ing a Scripture a day for the month of DeThere is also the live nativity called Walk cember.

Through Bethlehem (WTB) held at Kings Finally, to get into the spirit of giving, Avenue Baptist Church in Brandon. This there are many local volunteer opportunievent is only put on for a few days: Thurs- ties that the whole family can participate day, December 7 through Sunday, Decem- in. Metropolitan Ministries has events to ber 10. WTB is a live-action nativity telling volunteer at, like toy and food drives or givthe classic Christmas story. Reserve a spot ing out donations to families in need. Many at https://walkthrubethlehem.com/. local YMCAs participate in the Angel Tree A local realtor, Sarah Hart with the Hart program; when entering a YMCA location, Group, said, “I enjoy spending time with grab an angel off the tree and return the my family at Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park, requested gifts for that child. Reach out where the riverwalk is transformed into to your local YMCA for Angel Tree locaa Winter Village. This transformation in- tions. You can also call the Salvation Army cludes luxury decorations, ice skating, faux of Tampa for a list of Angel Tree locations snow and more.” throughout the county at 813-549-5303.

More information for this event can be These are all great ways to encourage givfound at https://wintervillagetampa.com. ing in the heart of families.

The Brandon BalBrentwood J. let will celebrate Townend, artistic their 30th anniverdirector of Brandon sary with a special Ballet, is excited for performance of The this milestone event.

Nutcracker this DeTownend said, “It cember. This year’s is an honor and a performance will privilege to welcome feature a heartback the talented warming reunion artists who laid the as original cast foundation for our The Brandon Ballet will celebrate its 30th members from the anniversary with a memorable performance of Nutcracker tradition. company’s very first The Nutcracker on Saturday, December 2 and This 30th anniverNutcracker perfor- Sunday, December 3 at Riverview High School. sary production is mance. so much more than just a show. It is a celeThe Nutcracker will be held at Riverview bration of the remarkable effect of Brandon High School, located at 11311 Boyette Rd. Ballet’s artistic contributions to this commuin Riverview. Performances will be held on nity.”

Saturday, December 2 at 7:30 p.m. and on Townend added, “We look forward to Sunday, December 3 at 2:30 and 5:30 p.m. sharing this performance, and 30 more Tickets are between $25.65 and $36.65. years of success, with audiences old and Price for tickets increase by $5 if purchased new.” at the door. Homeschool students should The original cast members will unite email the Brandon Ballet at dance@bran- with a talented new generation of dancers donballet.org to get a special discount code. to create a memorable experience like no You can get tickets by visiting https://bran- other. This nostalgic reunion promises to donballet.org/. evoke cherished memories for the dancers The much-anticipated 30th anniversary themselves as well as for Brandon Ballet’s production of The Nutcracker promises to dedicated audiences as they embark on an be an enchanting journey down memory unforgettable journey through the Land of lane. Brandon Ballet has assembled an ex- Sweets. ceptional lineup featuring Melanie BrockBrandon Ballet, founded in 1993, is a nonmeier-Jordy and Lucille Hanson, two of the profit dance company based in Brandon. It dancers who helped bring the timeless hol- is known for its commitment to artistic exiday classic to life three decades ago. This cellence and its contribution to the local arts extraordinary reunion is a testament to the community. The company has a rich history enduring legacy of Brandon Ballet and the of producing classical ballet performances, profound impact The Nutcracker has had on including the annual holiday classic The Nutits performers and audiences alike. cracker.

The Nutcracker is the perfect way to ring For more information, please visit https:// in the holidays with friends and family. brandonballet.org/.

By Kathy L. Collins

The Holidays Are Here!

Leave the cooking to us and unwind with our catering and heat-and-serve meals. Save Time This Holiday Season Order Your Delicious Feast from Vine Vegan!

Food for everyone: allergy-friendly and many gluten-free options @VineVeganFL

Gift Cards Available!

Mon: 11 am - 6 pm l Tues - Sat: 10 am - 8 pm Sunday Brunch: 10 am - 2 pm 2080 Badlands Dr l Brandon | 813-939-VINE l eat@vinevegan.com | vinevegan.com

Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition

December 2023

ANGEL FOUNDATION FL HOSTS SECOND ANNUAL LADIES CHRISTMAS COFFEE

By Kelly Wise Valdes

The Angel people and Foundation FL raised $5,637. is a local nonThis year’s profit organizaevent is protion that was jected to have formed in 2003 more than 200 and partners people in attenwith local busidance. nesses and comEvent chairmunity memman Lisa bers to provide Wheeler is exThe Angel Foundation FL is hosting its second annual resources for Ladies Christmas Coffee event on Thursday, December 14 cited about this families exyear’s Ladies from 7-9 p.m. at The Regent. periencing a Christmas Coflife-threatening illness or fee. catastrophic event.

“My favorite part As part of its fundof the event is getting raising efforts, the Angel dressed up in ChristFoundation FL invites the women of the mas classic and seeing the excitement community to attend its second annu- on the ladies’ faces as they learn about al Ladies Christmas Coffee. During this what we do and how they can help,” said event, the Angel Foundation FL will collect Wheeler. “Plus, it’s really cool to see the gift cards to help Angel families through- husbands, brothers and sons volunteering out the year. as our coffee servers.”

Each table at the event will have a table The Christmas Coffee is taking place on hostess who can decorate their table with Thursday, December 14 from 7-9 p.m. at a theme of their choice. The cost is $25 The Regent located at 6437 Watson Rd. which includes finger sandwiches, fruit, in Riverview. Some of the sponsors of this desserts, coffee and tea. Hostesses are year’s event are Churchill Mortgage, The able to invite seven of their friends whose Regent, Landscape Lighting Repair, Red admittance is a $25 Walmart, Target, gro- Scorpion Fabworks & Offroad, Regalitea cery store or Visa gift card. and Brandon Equine Medical Center.

Guests will enjoy a wonderful evening If you would like to be a table hostess, to celebrate the holiday season with en- attend as a guest, donate an item for the tertainment, a silent auction and a presen- raffle or silent auction or become a busitation by Junior Angels, and they will hear ness sponsor, please contact Wheeler at inspiring testimonies from Angel families 813-967-3694, email lisa@lisa-wheeler. who have been served by the Foundation net, call the Foundation office at 813-689Angel program.

6889. For more information visit https:// Last year’s event was attended by 138 angelfoundationfl.com/.

Page 27

PALM TREE SANTAS OFFERS SPECIAL VISITORS FOR HOLIDAY EVENTS

By Jane Owen ’Tis the are hiring s e a s o n a trained for perprofessionfect beach al with a weather, background festive boat check, liabilparades and ity insurance decorated and a Santa palm trees. who abides While it is by a code of true that ethics,” said holiday traElkin. ditions in The numFlorida are A group from the Palm Tree Santas met for dinner in October ber of Sanat The Shrimp Boat in Valrico. unique, most tas in the everyone agrees a visit from Santa is a organization varies from year to year, highlight of the season. but it is between 125 and 150. In HillsIf you are looking to see Santa or hope borough County, there are currently 26 he will make a special visit, the place to Santas. On the Palm Tree Santas webstart your search is with the Palm Tree site, Santas can be located by county.

Santas Inc. You will find a Santa and Santas are listed with a picture and peace of mind. biographical information. They can be The Palm Tree Santas is an organi- emailed and, in many cases, called or zation of professional Santas and Mrs. texted. There is a place on each Santa’s Clauses who are all required to submit page to request a quote from a Santa an annual background check, carry a for a public event. In addition, there is a professional entertainers liability in- Santa coordinator who will send a quote surance and maintain a membership in on whichever Santa is available. the International Brotherhood of Real It’s been 30 years since Elkin porBearded Santas (IBRBS). trayed Santa for the first time, and his Bob Elkin, known as ‘Santa Bob,’ is passion for the role has grown every the president of the Palm Tree Santas. year.

In 1993, Elkin first spread joy as a San“Each time a child sees Santa, they ta at his granddaughter’s preschool. He seem to light up. The love, the hope and soon became passionate about sharing the joy that shows in their eyes and in the traditions of Santa in a profession- their smiles warms your heart. I am so al way; Elkin even has a Ph.D. in Santa very blessed to portray Santa Claus,” ElClausology. He started Palm Tree Santas kin said. in 2006, and the organization was incorFor more information about the Palm porated as a nonprofit in 2011.

Tree Santas, email Santa Bob at san“Hiring a member from our website ta@santatb.com. To find a Santa, visit means the client can rest assured they https://palmtreesantas.com/.

COME VISIT US 1044 BLOOMINGDALE AVE VALRICO FL 33596 WWW.NAGATEA.COM

Care partners of those with any type of memory loss, to whether family, friends or professionals, need t be equipped with the knowledge to best suppor their loved one. t Gain this knowledge at our NEW hybrid suppor groups being held via Zoom and in person at Tessera of Brandon.

@NAGATEAVALRICO

Hybrid Dementia and Alzheimer’s Support Groups Assisted Living Facility #AL 13150

Fourth Wednesday

Fourth Tuesd a

Come on in, unwind and let your nails shine at Sh’e Nail.

...Your journey to stunning nails begins here!

@shenailfl 20% off Any Service with mention of this ad 1042 Bloomingdale Ave Valrico Offer expires 1/31/24 (Located in Plaza Bella) www.shenailfl.com

813.315.8253

Appointment Preferred & Walk-in Welcome

of Every Mon y th at 6:30 pm Meeting in per so and via Zoom n !!!

Zoom Meetin g Number 897 6781 047 Password: ev 9 ening

fe a S A Have ppy a And H y! a Holid

of Every Month at 2:00 pm Meeting in person and via Zoom!!!

ZOOM Meeting Number 869 4044 7508 Password: support

Come a little early for refreshments!

1320 Oakfield Dr. Brandon, FL 33511

813-607-6880

Page 28

Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition

Volume 22, Issue 12

UPCOMING FREEDOM PLAZA HOLIDAY EVENTS WILL ENGAGE COMMUNITY MEMBERS

By Lily Belcher

10% OFF

entire purchase

Sunflower Cafe 3452 Lithia Pinecrest Rd., Valrico 813-65-SUSHI

Only valid with regular menu. With this coupon.

Must present before submitting payment.

Before tax. One coupon per visit. Not valid with 12/31/23 other offers Offer expires 9/30/23

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.)

Circa FishHawk

Now Enrolling • 6 Weeks Through 12 Years • Full & Part Time Options • Open Monday through Friday • 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

FREE VPK

Freedom PlaJubilee Concert za residents are on Tuesday, Depreparing for cember 19 feaan eventful holturing singers iday season to from Martini celebrate with Pop. Martini Pop friends, family is a seven-piece and neighbors. show band of Freedom Pla- Freedom Plaza will feature three holiday events for its singers who za will host its perform holiday community. annual Christcarols and mumas tree lightsic. The coming for its community munity will also host on Monday, Deceman ugly Christmas ber 4. The lighting sweater contest. will kick off the holiFreedom Plaza is a day season at Freedom Plaza. Live carol- life plan community located in Sun City ers will offer entertainment at the event Center for seniors. The community offers and holiday treats and beverages will be an active, carefree-living lifestyle with available. different residential options to fit every “We do events like this year around to lifestyle. There are over 400 independent showcase the active lifestyle we offer at living residences and 83 assisted living our community,” marketing and sales co- residences available at the plaza. ordinator Tiffany Hernandez said.

“By choosing our community, you’re Around 20 employees will work the assured of active senior living with a events to bring the engaging and active maintenance-free retirement lifestyle, reevents to attendees, Hernandez said. sort-inspired services and amenities and “The goal is to showcase of active life- a smart plan for care if it’s ever needed,” style we have at Freedom Plaza, a con- according to the website. tinuing care retirement community,” she The 140-acre grounds feature a private said. lake, a walking trail and an 18-hole execOn Wednesday, December 13, Freedom utive golf course. Freedom Plaza offers Plaza will have a holiday Sip and Stroll activities and programs with a focus on Social. socializing, learning and wellness.

“Join us for this festive after-hours Reservations are required for all holiday event celebration of Yuletide traditions events. Call 813-642-1257 to RSVP. featuring a variety of live holiday enterFor more information, visit https:// tainment, savory and sweet treats of the freedomplazafl.com/events/. To contact season, holiday ‘cheer’ beverages, decked Freedom Plaza, email life@freedomplazahalls and more,” the event’s flyer says. fl.com. Freedom Plaza is located at 1010 Freedom Plaza will host the Jingle Bell American Eagle Blvd. in Sun City Center.

• Outdoor Playgrounds with Water Park • Before & After School Care: 6-12 Years Bevis, FishHawk Creek, Stowers, Valrico Academy • Nutritious Meals & Snacks: Low Salt & Sugar • Spanish & Music Included • Trained Professional Staff, Certified in First Aid & CPR • Extracurricular Programs

• Class times: Tues-Fri 8:30am - 12:15pm • 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, 2023 • Must be Florida resident

5815 Kids Crossing Drive Located between Stowers Elementary & Mosaic

813-797-5497 www.krkcirca.com CHC432384

Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition

December 2023

WATERSENSE® EXCELLENCE AWARD A

Page 29

REMINDER OF TAMPA BAY’S COMMITMENT TO WATER CONSERVATION

FUNDS NEEDED FOR UNITED FOOD BANK OF PLANT CITY’S NEW BUILDING TO BETTER SERVE COMMUNITY

The U.S. EnvironThe Tampa Bay Wamental Protection ter Wise program proAgency (EPA) honored vides incentives in the Tampa Bay Water form of 20 rebates to Wise, the Tampa Bay homeowners and busiregion’s water consernesses that purchase vation rebate program, or implement new with a 2023 Waterwater-saving devicSense® Excellence es or measures, such Award. As drought as WaterSense-cerconditions continue in tified products. The Tampa Bay, the award rebate program helps is a reminder of the our community save community’s commitwater and money. ment to water conserRebates range from vation. $40-$40,000.

The “This is one of the Tampa Bay Water Wise, the Tampa Bay Southwest Florida driest years on reWater Management region’s water conservation rebate procord for our region,” District — one of five gram, was honored with a 2023 Watersaid Amelia Brown, Sense® Excellence Award for commitment regional water manto conservation. demand management agement districts in program manager for Tampa Bay Water. the state of Florida — co-funds the rebate “Yet we have enough to meet the drinking program. water needs, and that is due, in part, to “This is really an award for our region,” Tampa Bay’s conservation efforts.” said Brown. “I’m so proud of the residents The award was presented at the Wa- and business that have participated in the terSmart Innovations (WSI) Conference program — when we save water, we all in Las Vegas, Nevada, where WaterSense win.” celebrated the Tampa Bay Water Wise reSince launching in 2020, the program bate program for its work promoting Wa- has provided more than 4,500 rebates and terSense and water efficiency. saves more than 220,000 gallons per day.

Conserving water is always a priority for WaterSense, a voluntary partnership Tampa Bay Water and its member coun- program sponsored by EPA, is both a laties and cities. bel for water-efficient products, programs The Tampa Bay Water Wise program and homes as well as a resource for helpwas developed in partnership between ing consumers learn ways to save water.

Tampa Bay Water, the regional wholesale For more information, visit www.epa.gov/ drinking water provider and the utility’s six watersense. member governments: Hillsborough, Pasco For more information about Tampa Bay and Pinellas counties and the cities of New Water Wise, visit https://tampabaywaterPort Richey, St. Petersburg and Tampa. wise.org/.

“When I came, six or seven years ago, we were serving about 1,200 people a month; n o w we’re doing over 10,000 people a month.

We distribute almost 4 million pounds of food a year, and recently our numbers are … about 12 people per day that are brandnew, never been here before, and the face of the people we’re serving is different. … The high inflation is really making it difficult for people,” said Mary Heysek, executive director of the United Food Bank of Plant City.

The UFB will continue to support Plant City, Dover, Thonotosassa, Seffner, Bealsville, Brandon, Valrico, Lithia and Riverview.

If you’d like to help fund the final $2 million, visit www.ufbpc.org/building-our-future and select “Donate Here.”

You can use a pledge card to make a contribution as well. In addition, there are naming rights opportunities for donors of UFB’s campaign, ranging from over $2,500, which earns a plaque on its Donor Wall, to $2 million, which earns the right to name the building.

To learn more, donate, or get a pledge card, please contact Heysek at mheysek@ufbpc.org, 813-763-4660 (cell) or 813-764-0625, ext. 5 (office).

Staff Report

By Taylor Wells

A conceptual rendering of the United Food Bank of Plant City’s new home.

With its storage capacity too limited to serve the growing numbers of local residents in need, the United Food Bank and Services of Plant City (UFB) found itself in need of a larger facility to better serve them. Its Building Our Own Future Capital Campaign has raised $3 million, but there’s still much support needed to reach the $5 million necessary to fund its new home.

The food bank is temporarily located at Hillsborough Community College in a freestanding building at 2001 E. Cherry St. in Plant City as it prepares for the transition. The UFB expects to break ground for the new building soon, and it will take six to nine months to be completed. The new home will be located at the same address as the UFB’s old home: 702 E. Alsobrook St. in Plant City.

Once done, the food bank will have tripled in size, allowing it to have a larger warehouse and a loading dock that ensure acceptance of all food and supplies, whereas the limited space of the UFB’s old building forced it to turn away donations. It’ll also provide an education center and sustainability classes in English and Spanish as well as intake stations to find out what people really need and which places to refer them to if needed.

DIRECTORY OF LOCAL BUSINESSES Advertise in this directory for just $50 per ad ,or as low as $200 per month ... (INCLUDES ALL 5 EDITIONS)

Call Us Today! (813) 657-2418 or Visit OspreyObserver.com PRESSURE WASHING

SCREEN REPAIRS AND SCREEN REPAIR

ELECTRICIAN ELECTRICIAN

PRESSURE WASHING

HEAT & AC

10% OFF all work over $100

R E P O O CFREE ESTIMATES • Houses

• Pool Cages • Decks

• Driveways • Sidewalks • Gutter Cleaning • & More

813-892-5283

PAINTING ALL WORK GUARANTEED

FREE ESTIMATES

PROFESSIONAL PAINTING SPECIALISTS Celebrating 30+ Years In Business “20 Year Osprey Advertising Partner”

Family Owned and Operated

Fans & Fixtures • Panel Changes Boat Docks • Pool & Spa Wiring Generators & Surge Protectors Remodels • Exterior & Specialty Lighting

813-672-4084

www.BryanHindmanElectric.com

Residential and Commercial Exterior Cleaning

Driveways • Sidewalks • Pool Enclosures Fences • House Wash • and Everything In-Between!

Call or Text: (813) 699-0304 info@pro221.com

www.pro221.com

Florida State Certified Electrical Contractor | EC#13004922

SPRINKLERS/DRAINS PEST PEST CONTROL CONTROL

FRENCH DRAINS AUTOMATIC SPRINKLER REPAIRS

Warner’s Nursery 813-817-6826 Lic# RX0058177

Residential & Commercial Installation & Repair Commercial Refrigeration

(813) 671-2555

Certified PubliC ACCountAnt

(813)716-9196 (813) 468-8574

TNTtermiteandpestcontrol.com LOCAL & FAMILY OWNED “DYNAMITE CUSTOMER SERVICE”

Advertise in this directory for just $50 per ad or as low as $200 per month* includes ALL 5 EDITIONS per month

*

Call Us Today!

(813) 657-2418 or Visit OspreyObserver.com

MUSIC LESSONS LESSONS ACCOUNTING MUSIC

GARY D. MEYER Residential and Commercial

YOUR BUSINESS COULD BE HERE!

• Accounting & Bookkeeping • Compiled Financial Statement Presentations • Tax Return Preparation for Individuals, Corporations, LLC’s and Partnerships • Consulting for New Business Startups • Financial & Estate Planning

813-971-4067

gmeyer4@tampabay.rr.com Serving the Tampa Bay Area Since 1980

Merinn Jacobs Music Studio (813) 486-3814 mj.musicstudio@outlook.com Violin and Piano lessons for ages 5+

I come to YOU!

Teaching in Lithia, FishHawk, Bloomingdale, Valrico, Brandon and Seffner.

ZOOM Lessons also available!

Page 30

Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition

GET THE DIRT:

HOLIDAY GIFT IDEAS FOR THE GARDENERS IN YOUR LIFE

BY LYNN BARBER, URBAN HORTICULTURE AGENT With Christmas and the new year right around the corner, it’s time to ponder what to give your gardening friends. The classic holiday plant gift is poinsettia. However, this article will focus on two other great holiday plants, such as Christmas/ holiday cactus and Rosemary.

Many grow holiday cacti (Thanksgiving/Christmas) inside their home. They provide colorful blooms of red, white, pink, purple and more during the holiday season. During fall and winter, days shorten and flower buds form. During the day, this plant should be in an area with bright, indirect light. If you allow artificial light after dark near your holiday cactus starting in October, it may not produce holiday blooms. Repotting every year works well, and be sure to use a well-drained potting medium. Bud growth is encouraged by pruning this plant throughout the year. Pruning in early fall encourages branch growth for holiday flowering. See: https://ffl.ifas. ufl.edu/resources/ffl-minute-radio/2020-archive/december-2020/christmas-cactus/.

Rosemary is a fragrant herb that is easy to grow and works well in your landscape and kitchen. You can use it fresh or dried in dishes containing meats, breads and vegetables. It adds great flavor as a skewer for the barbeque. Not only is it attractive in the landscape, but it is also drought-tolerant and produces small pink, lavender or blue flowers in the winter and spring, depending on the cultivar. Rosemary thrives on welldrained soil and at least six hours of sun.

Don’t water it too often. See: https://gardeningsolutions. ifas.ufl.edu/plants/edibles/ vegetables/rosemary.html.

The gardeners in your life may want nonplant gardening-related gifts. Consider giving items such as knee pads, a garden cart, a saw or pruner, gloves, seeds, bulbs, pots, mulch, potting soil, perlite, compost, plant hangers, a composting bin, composting worms, a microirrigation kit, a garden sculpture, garbage cans (I only have eight and could use more) or dozens of other items gardeners want or need.

The University of Florida IFAS Extension Bookstore, http://ifasbooks.ifas.ufl.edu/, has an amazing selection of gardening, health and nutrition, home maintenance, health and nutrition, natural resources, wildlife and so much more. Logo items include clothing, umbrellas, key chains, hats, children’s books, toys and more. What a place!

Offer your labor for a specific number of hours or tasks to perform for your friends who may not want or are not able to do them. Tasks could include weeding, planting, pruning, watering, propagating, fertilizing, mulching, relocating plants and more. Get outside and garden so you can check things off your list, enjoy the outdoors and frolic with nature.

Visit our website at http://sfyl.ifas.ufl. edu/hillsborough/, and check out our calendar of events at www.eventbrite.com/o/ ufifas-hillsborough-extension-8606873308.

Contact Barber at labarber@ufl.edu.

MENTORS NEEDED!

Volume 22, Issue 12

DECADE OF CHANGE: FLORIDA IN THE 1920S IS NOW OPEN AT THE TAMPA BAY HISTORY CENTER

By Kathy L. Collins Do you ever wonida, with intriguder what Florida ing items such as a was like during the pro-Prohibition Polk 1920s, when bootCounty newsletter leggers, flappers and photographs and more helped of Tampa judge shape our culture?

Leo Stalnaker, a Then you need to staunch Prohibition make a visit to the The new temporary exhibit at the Tampa Bay champion.

History Center, Decade of Change: Florida Tampa Bay History in the 1920s, features many interesting relics The 1920s marked Center, located at the rise of the moincluding photographs of young women 801 Water St. in toring tourist, and enjoying a day at Miami Beach. This photo downtown Tampa. the exhibition sheds comes to the museum courtesy of the State Decade of light on this transArchives of Florida.

Change: Florida in formative trend. the 1920s is a new With approximatetemporary exhibit ly 2.5 million tourat the history cenists visiting Florida ter. The exhibit is in 1925 alone, the available for viewdisplay showcasing now through es the evolution of July 14, 2024. transportation and Decade of The new temporary exhibit at the Tampa Bay the establishment Change: Florida in History Center features many interesting relics, of motorist camps, the 1920s is curat- including photographs of Tin Can Tourists by including Tampa’s ed by Brad Massey, the Burgert Brothers. This photo is a part of the historic DeSoto Tampa Bay History Center Collection.

Ph.D., Saunders Park.

Foundation curator There is even of public history. something for The exhibit transsports enthusiasts ports visitors back who will love exto an era marked by ploring the popularbootleggers, flapity of baseball, golf, pers and a transand tennis during formative wave of the 1920s. The exsocial, political and hibit features a cultural shifts. The look into the thrivexhibit provides a ing sports culture, snapshot of what from the Davis IsThe new temporary exhibit at the Tampa like was like in Bay History Center features many interesting lands Tennis Club Florida during the relics, including photographs of the Pepsi-Cola hosting the Dixie Giants, a ‘Negro League’ team that played in Cup in 1925 to the 1920s.

“One of the inter- Florida and Cuba in the 1920s and beyond. emergence of FloriThis photograph of the Giants in front of their active elements in da as a premier golf bus was taken in 1940 and is a part of the the show will teach destination with Tampa Bay History Center Collection. visitors how to do legends like Babe the foxtrot while Zaharias, Bobby boogying to ‘You Jones, and Walter Better Keep BabyHagen gracing the ing Baby,’ a 1920s newly constructed hit,” said Massey. courses.

Another highlight The exhibit conof the exhibition cludes with a is a collection of thought-provoking swimsuits that encapsulate the revolu- examination of Jim Crow politics, archition in beachwear during the era. The tectural transformations and the rise of daring departure from the conservative religious fundamentalism and PentecosBathing Suit Regulations of 1917 is told talism during this tumultuous period. through the stories of innovators like The Tampa Bay History Center is open Jane Fisher, who played a role in intro- daily from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. ducing fabric-light suits to the beaches If you would like more information of South Florida. Alongside bathing at- about tickets or exhibits, please visit its tire, Decade of Change features artifacts website at www.tampabayhistorycenthat tell the story of Prohibition in Flor- ter.org.

SCORE TAMPA - HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY

FREE SMALL BUSINESS MENTORING BY EXPERTS IN MARKETING, FINANCE, CPA’S AND MORE • $700,000 (estimated) IN FREE MENTORING LAST YEAR • 968 SMALL BUSINESS CLIENTS LAST YEAR • 387 ASPIRING ENTREPRENEURS MENTORED

Schedu le You r Appointment Today!

We’re Helping People Achieve Their Dreams!

WWW.SCORE.ORG/TAMPA

EMAIL: CH.ADMIN0203@SCOREVOLUNTEER.ORG

1 6 6 3 7 FishHawk Blvd. • Suite 1 0 1 • Lithia

Located in the FishHawk Office Park, behind Taco Bell

(8 1 3 ) 6 5 7 -7 3 3 7

www.premiercarepeds.com “We pride ourselves in developing a personal, caring partnership dedicated to tailoring our services to meet the individual needs of our neighbors and their families.”

-Dr. Minick and Dr. Pruitt

501(C)(3) NON-PROFIT RESOURCE PARTNER OF THE U.S. SBA

Regu lar Hou rs: Mon-Fri 8 am-1 2 pm & 1 pm-5 pm | After Hou rs: 2 4 hou rs, 7 days a week

Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition

December 2023

HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY PRESENTS YOUTH EXCELLENCE AND ACHIEVEMENT AWARDS

By Kathy L. Collins On October 18, the Hillsborough County Board of County Commissioners recognized six outstanding young people for their contributions to the community through leadership in academics, community service, athletics, performing arts, conservation and other areas. The 2023 Youth Excellence and Achievement Awards, also known as the YEA! Awards, were presented at the October 18 regular meeting of the Board of County Commissioners.

The YEA! Awards recognize three middle school and three high school students in Hillsborough County who display initiative, innovation and commitment to themselves and others while pursuing leadership excellence.

Specifically, the YEA! Awards categories include Success Despite Difficult Odds. Eligible students must show the ability to persevere through challenges to make a positive impact on others.

The second category is Leadership. Here, students must demonstrate 21st-century skills, including critical thinking, communication, collaboration and creativity in how they lead others academically, in extracurricular programs or in service to the community.

The third category is Volunteer or Community Service. In this one, students who dedicate substantial time to serving their community are recognized.

This year’s YEA! Awards recipients in the Success Despite Difficult Odds are Gavin Shreeve from Randall Middle School and Caitlin Conrad from George M. Steinbrenner

High School.

In the Leadership category, the winners are Nathaniel Freeman from Williams Middle IB School and Hunter Anderson from Durant High School.

In the Volunteer or Community Service category, the recipients are Gabrielle Lee from Farnell Middle School and Jayen Patel from Hillsborough High School.

Shreeve, despite serious and significant health issues, has maintained excellent grades and uses his spare time to give back to the community. Specifically, Shreeve fundraises for the Tampa Bay Chapter of the Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation. He was also named the 2024 Children’s Miracle Network Champion for John’s Hopkins All Children’s Hospital for his efforts in an annual toy drive.

Shreeve said of the award, “I was surprised and very happy to learn that I would be receiving the YEA! Award.”

Anderson, a senior from Durant High School, was selected for his leadership skills in leading the school’s Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) chapter. He is the consummate team player who collaborates with his peers and other organizations. He recently persuaded the Valrico FishHawk Chamber of Commerce to sponsor 44 students to be able to attend the FBLA’s conference in Orlando.

Anderson said of the award, “This is an honor to receive.”

The YEA! Awards were created in 2010.

For more information about the YEA! Awards, go to www.hcflgov.net/yea.

Page 31

HIT THE TRAILS WITH THE

HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY HIKING SPREE

By Kathy L. Collins Fall in Florida and range brings cooler, from neighdrier air, which borhood is a perfect comparks, like bination for getJ.C. Handly ting outside. This Sports Comyear, make a plan plex in Branto participate don, to large in Hillsborough preserves Get out and experience the joy of hiking by participating in County’s annual with multithe 2023-24 Hillsborough County Hiking Spree. The theme Hiking Spree. The ple habitats, this year is ‘Discover Your Own Path’.

Hiking Spree belike Edward gan on November 1 and Medard Conservation runs through Sunday, Park in Plant City, to March 31, 2024. You Florida State Parks, can find information on like the Hillsborough the Hiking Spree and complete your reg- River State Park in Thonotosassa. istration to participate by visiting www.

Participants are encouraged to post hcflgov.net/hikingspree. photos from their hikes using the hashtag The annual Hiking Spree began in 2016 #TakeAHikeHC.” as a way to encourage people to exercise, There are a total 22 neighborhood explore the outdoors and experience na- parks, conservation parks, nature preture by visiting the many beautiful parks serves and state parks on this year’s and preserves located in Hillsborough list. The list includes several local destiCounty. The Hiking Spree has grown in nations, including Bullfrog Creek Wildpopularity each year and now draws life and Environmental Area in Wimauthousands of participants. ma, FishHawk Sports Complex in Lithia, This 2023-24 Hiking Spree trail list fea- Lakeview Village Park in Brandon, Stetures 25 trails. If you hike at least eight phen J. Wortham Park in Riverview and of the 25 trails between now and the end Alderman’s Ford Conservation Park in of March 2024, you can earn a patch, Plant City. a medallion for a walking stick or a pet The list of trails is higher because some bandana. One of the hikes can be at a lo- locations have more than one trail. cation anywhere on Earth.

I have had the privilege to participate Residents are encouraged to bring and complete the Hiking Spree for the their leashed dogs on the hikes. last few years. It is something I look forThe trails are designed to offer some- ward to each year. Hillsborough County thing for everyone, from hiking rookies is large, diverse and beautiful, and the to seasoned outdoor enthusiasts, with Hiking Spree provides an opportunity for hikes rated easy, moderate or strenuous. everyone to get out there and experience Hikes range in length from 5 miles to less the beautiful area we all call home. than a mile. The environmentally diverse Please visit www.hcflgov.net/hikingsites are spread throughout the county spree to register and participate.

&ÄúÁ- ēÔ &§××åēúÁÄó ÁĆö Á ;O0H qd OH

F

_

_

- _ 0 c F

c

]× ę×Äúā

k

-_0ckF c

-_0ckF c | &§ āĆöÄÞµɋ

ɳNɶ -ßÑē G¾µ»ûɴ

-`0dlG d } d `}0 l0G d

Ǜǘ G ɖ Ǜǝ]G ɖ ǝ]G ɖ ǡ]G ĻúÁÁ ēÔ´ ɉåöµ

ʚĻúÁÁ ēÔ´

Page 32

Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition

Volume 22, Issue 12

FIRST CLUBHOUSE FOR RESIDENTS PULTEGROUP IS COMMITTED TO WITH MENTAL ILLNESS IS NOW THE BETTERMENT OF EVERYONE Staff Report OPEN IN HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY

By Kathy L. Collins

For residents of to help members find Hillsborough County employment through who need help with job training as well mental illness, addicas learning life skills. tion and trauma, they ACTS has been will now have anothserving the Florier option. The Agenda community since cy for Community 1978 by providing Treatment Services individualized behav(ACTS), assisted with ioral health services The public gathered for a ribbon-cutting significant funding of the new Agency for Community Treat- in substance abuse from Hillsborough ment Services Clubhouse, which provides and mental health.

County, has creatACTS provides and help to area residents 18 years or older ed the county’s first who need help with mental illness, addic- manages a broad tion or trauma. clubhouse to help array of behavioral people with mental illness reclaim their health services, including prevention, lives. acute care and stabilization, treatment The ACTS Clubhouse, located at 201 and support services in the areas of subE. Yukon St. in Tampa, is housed in a stance abuse, co-occurring substance 10,000-square-foot building that was abuse and mental illness, child proteccompletely gutted and renovated. The tion, delinquency, criminal justice, housrenovated building includes employ- ing, economic self-sufficiency, health ment and technology training areas and and wellness. a kitchen for members. The renovations ACTS Board President Patrick Mazza and furnishing of the building cost an es- said, “The journey of bringing a clubtimated $2.5 million. Hillsborough Coun- house to Hillsborough County has been a ty Affordable Housing Services provided long and difficult one. A clubhouse allows $1.1 million in Community Development those diagnosed with mental health disBlock Grants. orders to transition from consumers of A ribbon-cutting ceremony to cele- mental health services to active, healthy brate completion of the work was held members of society.” on October 12.

The programs and services funded by Any resident 18 years or older who has Hillsborough County focus on creating a mental illness is eligible to become a new affordable housing opportunities, member of the clubhouse. Members are training for residents to further their given support in acquiring and keeping careers and afford home ownership and affordable housing and accessing men- infrastructure improvements that ental health services, government disabili- hance the communities around them. ty benefits and other services they may For more information, please visit need. The membership model is designed www.actsfl.org or call 813-246-4899.

Established in 1950, PulteGroup is one the next two years. of America’s largest and most respected PulteGroup’s philosophy is that homehomebuilding companies in the country. building is a wonderful business that can With operations in more than 40 markets have a profound impact on others’ lives. throughNot only out the has it crePulte builds homes with the homeowner top of mind. We focus on what’s U.S., Pulte ated an important; building beautiful, quality has proven employee designs that bring families together.

Our insightful Life Tested® design features time and culture fomake everyday moments easier time again cused on and more enjoyable. that it uninspiring derstands one anpulte.com/tampa the needs other and of homeserving buyers and its homebelieves in innovative solutions, consum- buyers, but PulteGroup also embraces er-inspired homes and beautiful commu- the communities where they live. In fact, nities that make homeowners’ lives bet- PulteGroup’s West Florida division was ter. named a One Tampa Bay honoree by the PulteGroup builds new homes in the Tampa Bay Business Journal for the third Tampa Bay area through popular brands consecutive year for its work in going such as Pulte Homes, Centex and Del above and beyond to give back to the Webb. Pulte’s commitment to homebuy- community. PulteGroup has been awarded ers is clear and undeniable: exceptional as a Top Place to Work by the Tampa Bay customer experience, superior operation- Times for five consecutive years. Whether al execution, foresight into the future and its individual and group volunteerism, holinspired employees. iday events like the annual Turkey Drive or Nothing reflects PulteGroup’s repu- the eighth annual ‘Building to Make Lives tation for overall quality more than the Better’ Golf Tournament that recently expansion and success of its West Flor- raised a record-breaking $358,770 for ida division. Throughout the Tampa Bay the Children’s Home Network, PulteGroup region’s quickly growing counties, in ad- is more than willing to step up for the betdition to Parrish/Manatee County to the terment of everyone. south, Ocala/Marion County to the north Such inspiration requires the time, dedand Lakeland/Polk County to the east, ication and effort needed to consistently Pulte Homes, Centex and Del Webb cre- deliver exceptional customer experiences ate, plan, build and deliver communities and quality homes for its customers in of well-built homes with industry-leading highly desirable communities that cuswarranties in highly desirable locations. tomers are excited to call home.

In fact, just in the last two years, PulteFor more information on PulteGroup’s Group has opened more than 15 commu- award winning homes and communities, nities with plans to open another 21 over visit www.pulte.com/tampa.

Using your mobile camera, scan here to see current availability

IERNA Your Trust — IERNA Your Business

50 OFF

$

YOUR NEXT REPAIR

FREE ESTIMATE

400 OFF

PLUS, $ UP TO

A REPLACEMENT WATER HEATER

49

$

+ NO BREAKDOWN GUARANTEE

Must present coupon at time of service.

See IERNAair.com/coupons for details.

Must present coupon at time of service.

See IERNAair.com/coupons for details.

IERNAair.com

SEASONAL TUNE-UP

IERNAair.com

Must present coupon at time of service.

See IERNAair.com/coupons for details.

IERNAair.com

100% SATISFACTION GUARANTEED | FREE ESTIMATES from our Comfort Consultants

EMERGENCY

(727) 616-0090 © By IERNA’s Heating & Cooling. All Rights Reserved. LICENSE #CAC1813676, #CFC1429475

Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition

December 2023

Page 33

JINGLE BELL BAZAAR AT YBOR

ECONOMIC STUDY SHOWS ARTS HAVE STRONG IMPACT IN WELCOMES THE COMMUNITY TO A HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY FESTIVE HOLIDAY EXTRAVAGANZA Staff Report

By Kathy L. Collins

From Boys 2 Men Inc. and cake enthusiasts is thrilled to announce are invited to showcase the return of the Jingle their culinary talents in Bell Bazaar at Ybor. Set a friendly competition. to take place on Sunday, Judges will select the December 10, the event most mouthwatering, will once again transvelvety creation, and the form Historic Ybor City’s winner will receive a covCentennial Park into a eted title and a special holiday wonderland of prize. Visitors can also family-friendly activities, sample these delicious live entertainment and an creations, making it a array of seasonal delights. delightful treat for cake The fifth annual Jingle connoisseurs.

Bell Bazaar at Ybor in- The fifth annual Jingle Bell Bazaar at The Jingle Bell Bazaar vites attendees to expe- Ybor City returns on Sunday, Decem- at Ybor is also excited rience a day filled with ber 10 with fun for the whole family, to announce the ‘Fosterjoy, laughter and holiday including face painting, Santa’s Vil- ing a Dream Young Enlage, live entertainment and more. cheer. The event will featrepreneur Scholarship,’ ture live bands, captivating live performers, generously sponsored by the Grow Financial delectable food trucks and an abundance Foundation. This scholarship offers financial of holiday vendors offering unique gifts and assistance to young entrepreneurs who are treats perfect for the season. pursuing their entrepreneurial dreams and Santa’s Village, a central attraction at the striving to make a positive impact in the bazaar, will host holiday-themed activities, business world. including Santa’s Workshop of Arts and “We are thrilled to introduce the Red VelCrafts, free face painting for the little ones, vet Cake Contest and the Fostering a Dream a video gaming truck for all ages and the Young Entrepreneur Scholarship this year,” chance to capture the magic of the season said Archie. “These additions add an extra with free pictures with Santa himself. layer of excitement and community involve“Our aim with the Jingle Bell Bazaar at ment to our annual event, emphasizing our Ybor is to create an unforgettable experi- commitment to creativity, talent and fosterence that brings our community together in ing the dreams of our young entrepreneurs.” the spirit of the season,” said Linda Archie, The event is open to the public and free event coordinator. “We’re excited to provide for all to attend, offering a day of family-oria day filled with festive entertainment and ented activities and delightful experiences. unique shopping opportunities that highlight For sponsorship opportunities or further the essence of the holidays.” information about the event, please conOne of the highlights of this year’s Jingle tact Archie at info@jinglebellbazaar.com Bell Bazaar is the Red Velvet Cake Con- or visit the event’s website at www.jingletest. As part of the festivities, local bakers bellbazaar.com.

The arts are organizations an economic and their audriver in comdiences. The munities that main takeembrace the aways from arts. Hillsborthe study inough County clude the total is such a comarts industry munity.

This spending, the was revealed impact of that in the Arts & spending by Economic Prosarts organizaperity 6 (AEP6) tions and their Study. In partaudiences and The Arts & Economic Prosperity 6 (AEP6) Study was nership with event-related presented by Randy Cohen, vice president of research at national nonspending by auprofit Ameri- American for the Arts, on October 18 at the Tampa Theatre. diences. cans for the Arts, the Hillsborough County The results from the study include the Arts Council has released the findings for following topics and economic impacts: the local results of the Arts & Economic Total industry expenditures for fiscal year Prosperity Study.

2022 were $387,463,290. Personal income The study was presented by Randy Cohen, paid to residents working in the arts was vice president of research at American for $260,142,550. Local tax revenue, includthe Arts, on October 18 at the Tampa The- ing city and county, was $11,242,603. atre. Dozens of residents and arts stakehold- Total event-related expenditures were ers attended the event including David Cox $234,390,974. of the Gasparilla Music Foundation.

The results put the role of the arts in Cox said, “I think the presentation was Hillsborough County as an economic drivvery enlightening, and it was great to have er into perspective. The $53.68 per person such a respected economist as Randy Co- per event spent is 40 percent higher than hen in Tampa to present the findings.” the national average of $38.46 and helps He added, “The Gasparilla Music Founda- show that arts and culture drive commerce tion was founded in 2011 (at the tail end of to local businesses. Additionally, the arts the Great Recession) with the premise that create livable communities and are crucial the arts can be a vital economic engine and for the local economy, jobs and businesses. are critical for making the county a more The full results of the study can desirable place to live. It was very reward- be found by visiting www.hillsboring for our efforts to be validated by this o u g h c o u n t y. o rg /e n /m e d i a - c e n t e r/ very comprehensive study.” press-releases/2023/10/18/new-studyThe study measures the economic and arts-is-a-strong-local-industry-that-cresocial impact of nonprofit arts and culture ates-jobs-and-boosts-the-economy.

NOW OPEN IN RIVERVIEW! Primary Care Physician Accepting New Patients Same Day Appointments with M.D. 20 Years Experience Accepting Medicare, MedicareAdvantage Plans, PPO and Private Pay

Contact us!

813-257-0342 Our Only Priority is to Keep You Healthy!

Salman Ahmed M.D

Diplomate, American Board of Internal Medicine

Page 34

Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition

Volume 22, Issue 12

GET INVOLVED WITH HONORING AMERICA’S HEROES ON NATIONAL WREATHS ACROSS AMERICA DAY

By Taylor Wells

“ Re m e m b e r ning at 10 a.m., the fallen. Honor followed imthose who serve. mediately by Teach the next wreath placegeneration the ment. value of freeAbout the dom.” This is the local support yearlong misfor WAA, Kalyn sion of Wreaths Dukes, family Across America service coun(WAA), a 501(c) Scouts in front of Mission BBQ’s mobile catering truck at selor at SerenSerenity Meadows Memorial Park.

(3) nonprofit ity Meadows, started in 2007 as an answer to the call for said, “It’s good. I mean, we’re in a military sponsored wreaths to honor our veterans. community here, a lot of veterans are here.

This year, National Wreaths Across Ameri- There’s a lot of support. We have…a lot of ca Day, during which volunteers will lay over Scouting troops, Mission BBQ, several air 2 million live balsam wreaths, is Saturday, patrol, some VFW, different groups like December 16. that.”

WAA’s theme for 2023 is ‘Serve and SucShe added that it’s looking like hundreds ceed.’ of people will be attending, and attendees “There are many ways to serve your com- will have a chance to lay a wreath or two. munity and country, and just as many defiSerenity Meadows is still accepting volnitions of success. We hope through focus- unteers. For anyone wanting to find out how ing on those stories of success we will help they can help, please call 813-677-9494 and change the dialogue around what it means ask for Dukes, who is coordinating National to serve your country,” said Karen Worces- Wreaths Across America Day at Serenity ter, executive director of Wreaths Across Meadows.

America.

Serenity Meadows has actually surpassed Nationwide, over 4,000 locations and its goal of 600 sponsored wreaths for more than 2 million volunteers are partici- Wreaths Across America Day, but additionpating this year. Alongside them are trans- al donations are always appreciated and will portation companies and their drivers who be used next year. And, of course, other lowill help deliver over 650 truckloads of cations hosting the day might need wreaths. sponsored wreaths. It’s a massive coordina- Sponsoring a wreath costs only $17. tion effort for the good cause of honoring To learn more about Wreaths Across America’s heroes.

America or how to get involved, visit www.

One location in our area that’s taking part wreathsacrossamerica.org. For Serenity is Serenity Meadows Memorial Park, Funer- Meadows’ WAA page, visit www.wreathal Home & Crematory. National Wreaths sacrossamerica.org/social/flsmfh-sereniAcross America Day at Serenity Meadows tymeadowsmemorialparkfuneralhomeandstarts at 9 a.m. with the ceremony begin- crematory?sid=45982|17920|0|1.

$IBNQJPOTIJQ (PMG ] $PNQMFUF 1SBDUJDF 'BDJMJUZ 5FBDIJOH 4UBGG ] 4VQFSC 5FOOJT "NFOJUJFT %JWFSTF 4PDJBM 1SPHSBNNJOH ] &YDFMMFOU %JOJOH ] :FBS SPVOE +VOJPS (PMG 5FOOJT $MJOJDT

! ! ! ! ! !

www.RiverhillsCountryClub.com ! ! ! ! ! !

Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition

December 2023

Page 35

PLANT CITY ARTS COUNCIL HOSTS 36TH TAMPA BAY’S FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS AT HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS HOME TOUR ILLUMINATES SANTA’S ENCHANTING

By Kathy L. Collins The Plant City Council is to Arts Council will bring arts to present its 36th the Plant City annual At Home for community, to the Holidays Home promote eduTour on Sunday, cation in the December 10 from arts and to de1-4:30 p.m. The At velop artists Home for the Holand arts proidays Home Tour grams. will feature five The high festively decorated school scholhomes. Four homes arships are Members of the Plant City Arts Council are proud to are conveniently logiven to sepresent the 36th annual At Home for the Holidays cated in Plant City Home Tour on Sunday, December 10. Ticket holders niors from get to tour several festively decorated homes. and one is in Dover.

Durant High Tickets for the event are $30 School, Plant City High per person.

School and Strawberry In addition to the tour, the Crest High School. AppliPlant City Arts Council will cations can be obtained offer refreshments at the from the school’s guidPlant City Photo Archives loance counselor in March. cated at 106 S. Evers St. in Awards are made at the historic downtown Plant City. end of the year assembly Refreshments are included in at each school. the cost of your ticket.

In addition to the Maggie Carlisle, chair for scholarships, the Plant the 2023 At Home for the City Arts Council sponHolidays Home Tour, said, sors a variety of com“This is the Arts Council of munity events. These Plant City’s 36th annual tour. All proceeds include the annual Seward sculptures, are used for the Arts Council projects. The banners on light poles in downtown Plant projects are focused especially for schol- City, Empty Bowls, youth development, arships to graduating seniors who want to field trips for underprivileged children and continue their education in the arts from the Reflections Project at Plant City High three of our local high schools.”

School.

Last year, approximately 250 people For more information on the 36th antoured the homes on view. I went on the nual At Home for the Holidays Home Tour tour. Every home had its own personali- and to get tickets, please contact Carlisle ty and was decorated in the most festive at mcarlisle@trinkle-law.com or call 813fashion. I would highly recommend at- 763-1686. For more about the Plant City tending the tour this year.

Arts Council, please visit www.plantcityThe mission of the Plant City Arts arts.com.

VILLAGE AT COUNTY FAIRGROUNDS

Staff Report

The magic is back! cember 17) and Dennis Tampa Bay’s Festival of Lee (Friday and SaturLights and Santa’s Village day, December 15-16), returns to the providing a toe-tapping Hillsborough County backdrop to Santa’s VilFairgrounds, and it’s biglage activities. ger and brighter than Making a grand enever. With an extended trance this year are 2-mile drive-through exdynamic dancers from perience and the introWe Are Amplify! of the duction of a convenient Florida Academy of Perseason pass, families can Guests can bring their well-behaved, forming Arts and Music immerse themselves in leashed dogs and cats for a visit and Showcase (Wednesday, their Hometown Holiday photo op with Santa on Thursday, December 20) and DancDecember 14 for a donation.

Festival from Thanksgiving for Donations (Thursing Day through New Year’s Eve. day, November 30 and Thursday, December Enveloping guests in more than 1 million 21). In December, Laura Jerkiewicz swings lights, Tampa Bay’s Festival of Lights and above the stage in her Aerial Holiday Show Santa’s Village brings back favorites such as (Friday to Sunday, December 1-3). the fearless Pirates of Tampa guarding the The Hillsborough County Fairgrounds entry to the 110 ft. drive-through animated continues its support of members of the tunnel. military, veterans and first responders with Santa’s Village is packed with tasty treats $10 off each ticket with valid ID for Heroes and activities, including holiday-themed Night on Thursday, December 7 from 6-9 rides, the bustling holiday market and the p.m. Members of the military, veterans and Hometown Hillsborough Historical Village. first responders also receive $5 off tickets Visits with Santa, Santa’s Workshop with for any night of the event with valid ID. craft stations, Santa’s Barnyard, camel The Hillsborough County Fair 2023 Harrides, holiday movies and live entertainment vest Queen Court hosts Paws & Claus Night promise endless fun for the entire family. on Thursday, December 14 from 6-9 p.m.

For the first time, live entertainment will to benefit the Hillsborough County Pet Rebe presented every weekend of the festival. source Center. Guests can bring leashed New to this year’s stage are musical artists dogs and cats for a visit and photo op with Jordan Denise Williams (Friday and Satur- Santa for a $10 donation. day, December 22-23), a four-time ‘Best of Santa’s Village is open Thursday to Sunthe Bay’ winner for Best Pop Act and Best day, November 23-26; Thursday, November Dancer, and Big Time Jukebox (Thursday, 30 to Sunday, December 3; Thursday to SunDecember 7 and 14 and Monday, December day, December 7-10; and Thursday, Decem18), a five-piece band performing popular ber 14 to Monday, December 25. All other dance hits spanning the generations. They dates are drive-through only. Visit https:// join favorites Katie Lombardo (Friday and hillsboroughcountyfair.com/tampa-bay-fesSaturday, December 8-9), Aimee Carter tival-of-lights/ for tickets, a calendar and (Sunday, December 10 through Sunday, De- event information.

FINANCIAL FOCUS

CAN YOU MAKE CHARITABLE GIVING LESS ‘TAXING’?

Once again, it’s the season of generosity. In addition to considering gifts for your loved ones, you might want to think about charitable gifts as well. But what should you know before making gifts to charities? And what impact might these gifts have on your financial and tax situation?

First, you may want to create a gift budget by deciding just how much you will give to charitable organizations over the rest of the year.

Next, look closely at the groups to whom you wish to contribute. You can find many reputable charities, but some others may be less worthy of your support.

One of the red flags of a questionable organization is the amount of money it spends on administrative costs versus the amount that goes to its stated purpose.

You can check on the spending patterns of charitable groups, and find other valuable information about them, on the well-regarded Charity Navigator website (charitynavigator.org).

Once you’ve established a gift budget and are comfortable with the groups you choose to support, you might turn your thoughts to another key issue connected with charitable giving: tax benefits. A few years ago, changes in the tax laws resulted in a large increase in the standard deduction, which meant that many taxpayers found it more favorable not to itemize — and lost the ability to take charitable deductions. But if you still do itemize, your charitable gifts or contributions to tax-exempt groups — those that qualify as 501(c) (3) organizations — can generally be deducted, up to 60% of your adjusted gross income, although lower limits may apply, depending on the nature of your gift and the organization to which you’re contributing.

Other, more long-term avenues also exist that combine charitable giving with potential tax benefits. One

such possibility is a donor-advised fund, which allows you to make an irrevocable charitable contribution and receive an immediate tax deduction. You can give cash, but if you donate appreciated assets, such as stocks, your tax deduction would be the fair market value of the assets, up to 30% of your adjusted gross income.

Plus, you would not incur the capital gains tax that would otherwise be due upon the sale of these assets.

Once you establish a donor-advised fund, you have the flexibility to make charitable gifts over time, and you can contribute to the fund as often as you like.

Another possible tax benefit from making charitable contributions could arrive when you start taking required minimum distributions, or RMDs, from some of your retirement accounts, such as your traditional IRA and 401(k). These RMDs could be sizable — and distributions are counted as taxable income. But by taking what’s called a qualified charitable distribution (QCD), you can move money from a traditional or Roth IRA to a qualified charitable organization, possibly satisfying your RMD, which then may be excluded from your taxable income. You must start taking RMDs at 73 but you can begin making QCDs of up to $100,000 per year as early as age 70½. (This amount will be indexed for inflation after 2023.)

Establishing a donor-advised fund and making qualified charitable distributions are significant moves, so you’ll need to consult with your tax advisor first.

But if they’re appropriate for your situation, they may help you expand your ability to support the charitable groups whose work you admire.

END OF THE YEAR BLOWOUT SALE! (Financing available)

HUGE SAVINGS UP TO

60% OFF NEW UNITS! Sale Ends: 12/31/2023

813-752-0821 FREE Wi-Fi thermostat upgrade with each new system! (mention this ad at booking)

This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor.

Article 11 – Nov. 27, 2023

Adam M benAbram Financial Advisor 10312 W Bloomingdale Ave Suite 105 Riverview, FL 33578

edwardjones.com

Member SIPC

813-626-3052

edwardjones.com/adam-benabram

Merry Christmas from Alan’s Air Conditioning!

Brian Lewis License # CAC1815368

Page 36

Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition

VINE VEGAN’S HOLIDAY MENU WILL REMIND CUSTOMERS OF HOME

By Lily Belcher Vine Vegan’s holiHowever, Stevens day menu features a said Vine Vegan can range of vegan meals fulfill a catering orto offer a healthy and der of any size for delicious alternative the holidays. to holiday dining.

Vine Vegan’s Owner Danielle Christmas menu will Stevens is offering have a similar look, two choices for enbut Stevens said trees: a sage mushcustomers can look room nut roast and forward to exciting a Vine Vegan house new dishes after meatloaf. Both enthe start of the new trees are also gluyear. ten-free.

In 2023, Vine “These dishes are Vegan was voted Danielle Stevens will offer holiday meal inspired by all the the best vegetaroptions at Vine Vegan. dishes we all grew up ian restaurant by on eating during the holidays.

Restaurant Guru after being They just feel like home,” Steopen for just one year. vens said.

In December of 2022, SteIn addition to the choice vens opened Vine Vegan to of entrees for Thanksgivoffer tasty vegan meals to ing meals, customers can the Brandon area. Her meals pick four sides, from mac range from healthy choices and cheese to maple walnut to vegan comfort food, offersweet potatoes to sage sausage stuffing. ing an option for all customers. The cafe Other sides include mashed potatoes and also offers a beautiful dining room degravy, roasted balsamic Brussel sprouts signed by the architectural designer and and a green bean casserole. founder of Bellevida Design.

“It was difficult to narrow down the Stevens found a way to connect her ones we chose, there are so many good culture and heritage to the menu at Vine ones,” she said. “It came down to talking Vegan, where she works to set an examto my staff and asking, ‘Which one of ple for improving the world one plantthese would you want to see on your based meal at a time.

Thanksgiving plate?’”

Vine Vegan is located at 2080 BadStevens said she would love to provide lands Dr. in Brandon off Brandon Park100 meals to local customers. In addition way. to offering individual plates for its meals, To view the menu or sign up for the Vine Vegan offers trays to share. Shar- newsletter, visit https://vinevegan.com/. able options include a six to eight-portion For more information, call 813-939-8463 tray and another 15 to 18-portion tray. or email eat@vinevegan.com.

Bring your kids to the YMCA on most school holidays* for an exciting, enriching experience while you’re at work or out and about! *See website for available dates, tampaymca.org

Visit a Y near you today!

CAMPO FAMILY YMCA: 813.684.1371 NORTH BRANDON FAMILY YMCA: 813.685.5402 SPURLINO FAMILY YMCA: 813.228.9622 YMCA CAMP CRISTINA: 813.677.8400

SIGN UP TODAY!

Volume 22, Issue 12

RIVER HILLS COUNTRY CLUB COMMITMENT

TO IMPROVEMENT CONTINUES FOUR YEARS INTO OWNERSHIP TRANSITION

By Makenzie Atkins Noel (Editor’s Note, this story was previously printed with editorial errors and has been corrected by the editorial team. Please forgive the confusion) River Hills Country Club has been on a journey of growth, improvement and commitment to providing an exceptional experience for members and guests.

Conceived in 1988 as a daily-fee golf facility with amenities that far surpassed any in what was a fairly remote area of Hillsborough County, River Hills Country Club opened the Joe Lee-designed course and clubhouse in 1989. The developer realized that Tampa was a burgeoning market and built a community that offered a great golf course, superb dining, clay tennis courts and tremendous value just as it does to this day.

With the decision for the HOA to purchase the amenity in September 2019, a commitment to continuous improvement has been a key factor in the continued growth and success of the club.

“We pride ourselves on having an outstanding board, great staff and honestly a down-to-earth, great membership,” said Margie Martin, membership and marketing director at River Hills Country Club. “It’s like all those three things just work so harmoniously together, and it really does make River Hills special.”

River Hills has also strengthened its ties with the community through events, workshops and social gatherings, and with goals to further enhance its offerings, this community connection will continue to grow.

By giving the gift of membership to

River Hills Country Club, you are gifting exclusive access to premium facilities, participation in members-only events and a sense of community. A membership to River Hills grants you access to the 18-hole championship golf course and practice facility, eight Har-Tru tennis courts with tournament-quality lighting, exceptional dining, an active social calendar, a fitness center and a Junior Olympic heated pool.

Individuals who join the club become part of a community that values connection and growth and strives to give a sense of community.

“It makes you feel like you’re home, which I think for people moving into the area are looking for that little slice of home,” said Martin.

The team at River Hills works hard to make every day fun at the club.

From golf and tennis lessons to monthly social events, you can always expect a good time. With upcoming holiday events, clinics, a 2024 Concert in the Park series, Theme Nights and more, there is something for everyone.

River Hills has made remarkable strides over the past year, with goals of a future that embraces inclusivity, sustainability and community engagement. Becoming a member at River Hills Country Club is about more than just golf; it’s about community.

For more information or to inquire about membership, please contact Martin at 813-655-5203 or email mmartin@riverhillscountryclub.com.

December 2023

Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition

Page 37

THE THREE B’S MINISTRY

CONTINUES TO GROW AND HELP THOSE IN NEED

By Libby Hopkins

The Three B’s Miniscleaning products try provides food, clothto over 60 famiing, shoes and other lies every week as vital necessities to famwell as 60 grocery ilies and individuals in boxes every other need in our community. week.”

“Our mission is to feed Last year, the people in our commucommunity’s need nity who have a need quickly surpassed for food,” said Melanie The Three B’s Ministry provides food, clothing, what Diaz was able Martin of The Three shoes and other vital necessities to families and to provide from the individuals in need in our community.

B’s Ministry. “We limited space in her believe no one should go hungry. Our non- home. “Prayers were answered earlier this profit has two main focus areas: homeless year when La Iglesia La Esperanza stepped outreach and family outreach. The nonprofit up to help provide the much-needed storwas officially established in December 2021, age space as well as distribution space for and 501(c)(3) status was received in Febru- this growing ministry,” Martin said. “Every ary 2022.”

Wednesday at this church location, the minMeals for the homeless are prepared and istry offers free grocery pickup, fresh foods, distributed every weekend and weekly gro- children’s clothes and toys.” cery pickups are organized each Wednesday Recently, the ministry was presented with before being distributed from the ministry’s the opportunity to purchase a box truck. partner church, La Iglesia La Esperanza on Having a box truck is a necessity, as multiSt. Cloud Rd. in Valrico. More than 1,000 ple pickups are made throughout the week people in the Tampa Bay area are assisted from various partners around town in order through The Three B’s Ministry each month. for The Three B’s Ministry to have the sup“In addition to homeless outreach, the min- plies needed for distributions. “At present, istry also provides free groceries, hygiene the ministry pays weekly to rent a box truck, items, clothing and small household items and unfortunately the funds for this recureach Wednesday at a church in Valrico as ring rental are running out,” Martin said. well,” Martin said. “During COVID, there “Having our own box truck purchased and were also families asking for help with gro- readily available for the various pickups will ceries. Martha Diaz, our director, discovered greatly increase the efficiency of the minthere was a huge need for food and that istry as well as the budget, allowing funds many families were struggling. She began to to be used for other necessities instead. The partner with different organizations to ac- community can help greatly in donating tocess more food and started making grocery wards the purchase of this box truck..” boxes each week for families in need. We If you would like to donate to The Three now provide fresh fruits, vegetables, meat, B’s Ministry, visit www.paypal.com/donate?dairy products, bread, sweets, drinks and campaign_id=NEEJLPNUHU5XA.

Cancel ed

LITHIA

Full Service Facility!

Happy Holidays from Anytime Fitness Lithia! #AFLithiaFit Get the rest of the year FREE with our 12 or 24 month activation. Let’s get you back into a routine of self care with Health and Fitness!

Highly Rated Club

https://www.anytimefitness.com/schedule-an-appointment-online/?club=4090

Sunset Dinner Cruise for 2 Value $99

Expires 1/7/2024

IT’S TIME TO GROW UP. Who Have You Been Talking to About Your Money?

Let’s talk to find out how we can help work toward your financial freedom!

Expires 12/31/2023

Expires 12/31/2023

Page 38

Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition

SLAYING TAMPA BAY HIGHLIGHTS LOCAL WOMEN MAKING A DIFFERENCE

By Kelly Wise Valdes The much-anticipated education to the real estate Slay the USA book series industry,” said Stinson. has launched in Tampa and Eventually, Stinson marfeatures several incredible ried an Air Force member, women making a difference embraced the opportunity in the Tampa Bay communito live in South Korea, and ty. Best-selling author Leigh travelled while learning M. Clark highlights the perabout the harsh realities sonal lives of successful of generational poverty, women in her book, Slaying exploitation and lack of acTampa Bay, which is now cess. “This experience ignitavailable on Amazon and ed a deep passion for advoBarnes & Noble. cacy and a desire to make Several local women are feaSlaying Tampa Bay pays tured in the new book Slaying a difference in the lives of accolades to several ex- Tampa Bay. The book highlights women and families facing traordinary women who women who are inspirational adversity in resource-poor continually demonstrate and making a difference in our and developing countries,” community, including Lithia their commitment to excelsaid Stinson. resident Jennifer Stinson. lence. It highlights several This led Stinson to start Tampa women and their stories of success her own business in partnership with Noonand inspiration. day Collection, whose business model is a Clark and her team looked for women to vehicle for good, fair-trade fashion with a feature who were leaving their mark and commitment to social entrepreneurship. legacies in the Tampa Bay community, and Through her business, Stinson has created there was no shortage of incredible women a marketplace for more than 2,500 global here. artisan partners (71 percent women) where One woman chosen was Lithia resident she shares the powerful stories of impact Jennifer Stinson, a Noonday ambassador, behind the pieces in the fair-trade collecauthor and fair trade advocate. tions.

“I received an email from Leigh in the “Being a co-author of Slaying Tampa Bay spring asking for an interview for a proj- serves as a testament to my dedication to ect,” said Stinson. “I took a chance and the leading a life of purpose, passion and impact 15-minute Zoom interview turned into over and commitment to inspiring others,” said an hour and my ‘yes’ to becoming one of the Stinson. “It provides me with a platform to authors.” amplify my advocacy efforts, contributing to Stinson’s story involves a journey of the positive representation of Tampa Bay’s self-discovery and a commitment to making influential women I am among in the book. a positive impact on the world — “leading a I hope it inspires others, especially women, life of purpose, passion and impact.” who may read about my journey and find Her childhood dreams included becoming motivation to pursue their own passions a teacher and having a family. with purpose and meaning.”

“My life took unexpected turns, including For more information, visit https://jennia shift from an initial dream of a career in ferstinson.noondaycollection.com/.

GIFT CARDS AVAILABLE

OODC20

/ /2023 12/31/2023

Disclaimer: Offer valid only when coupon is presented at drop-off. Not valid on dry cleaning, wash & fold, laundry or laundered shirts, leather, wedding dresses or alterations. Coupon can only be for services sold at participating Tide Cleaners locations.

It cannot be redeemed for any product sold at any other retail store. Cannot be used with any other discount or promotion. One discount per household. Offer valid for onetime use through 12/31/2023 / /2023

(813) 662-4243

1928 E Bloomingdale Ave

OOCFTR20 OODC20

(813) 251-2234

1529 S. Dale Mabry Hwy

tidecleaners.com

Volume 22, Issue 12

VALRICO FATHER WANTS TO SHARE JOURNEY OF EMPATHY AND CONNECTION AFTER LOSS

By Kelly Wise Valdes

Sometimes life large crowds, Mejia throws curve balls at is determined to stop us. No one knows this teenage suicide. Mejia better than Valrico advocates that parents resident Alvaro Mejia. make an effort to listen Years ago, while sitwith empathy and unting at the kitchen taderstanding. ble, he embarked on a “This is a mistake life-changing conversathat I wish to change tion with his son, Danny. by helping others un“Dad, I’m gay,” Danny derstand that bigotry told his father. Mejia did Valrico resident Alvaro Mejia is spread- has no place in faminot handle this news lies.” ing the word of parental compassion and communication in an effort to stop well.

It took three years “My relationship with teenage suicide and honor the memory of for Danny to break his son, Danny. my child plummeted through his father’s when Danny told me he was gay,” said Mejia. defenses.

“I disowned him.”

Fortunately, Danny continued to use paToday, Mejia is on a mission to help others tience and persistence to educate his father. learn from his mistake. “I would like to share “I lost three years of my life with Danny my story. My example offers many people a because of my stubbornness,” said Mejia. chance to mend what might be broken and “My son taught me so much more than my give hope to those who feel hopeless,” he limited mind could fathom. He taught me said. how to accept people who are different than “I still tremble, filled with shame and re- me.” morse. How can a loving father reject a son A few short years later in March 2011, that adores you? This irrational rejection is Danny was diagnosed with a brief illness totally unacceptable,” said Mejia. that took his young life.

Mejia found out later that Danny attempt“If I knew our time together would not ed suicide. Heartbroken by the recollection, continue forever, I would have made differMejia continued, “I didn’t understand that ent decisions. I don’t want anyone else to Danny’s sexuality was not one of choice.” suffer as I do now,” Mejia said regretfully.

According to the American Academy of He continues to tell his story in hopes it Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, suicide is resonates with other families. He has spothe second-leading cause of teenage death. ken to groups around the country as well as Teenage suicide is often attempted because internationally, telling his story of hope and parents reject their own children, and gay reconciliation. For more information about a children are rejected at a very high rate. public speaking engagement, contact Mejia Recently, Mejia launched a business that at alvaro@alvaro-mejia.com or call 813aims to spread the message of reconciliation, 444-9575. You can also find him on Facehope and love. Speaking in front of small and book by searching ‘Alvaro Mejia Valrico.’

December 2023

Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition

Page 39

TAMPA ELECTRIC’S MANATEE VIEWING CENTER IS NOW OPEN FOR THE WINTER SEASON

Staff Report

Tampa Electric’s ture of Tampa Bay is award-winning Mana68 degrees or colder, tee Viewing Center remanatees gather in opened on November 1 the clean, warm wafor the season. ter discharge canal of This year, the ManaTampa Electric’s Big tee Viewing Center will Bend Power Station, include a new viewing sometimes by the platform to allow visihundreds. tors to get even closer Visitors also can ento the manatees. The joy meeting the rays, new platform opened critical animals that on, November 15. The TECO Manatee Viewing Center was rely on a healthy Tamrecently selected as one of the USA TODAY TECO has revamped pa Bay ecosystem — 10Best Readers’ Choice Travel Awards for the Education Center and even touch them best free attractions for 2023. and also has added two gently as they glide new electric golf carts to help transport past in the touch tank. Guests can hike the guests from the remote parking lot. nature trail and take in the vistas from the “We’re pleased we can offer our guests 50-foot observation tower. additional elbow room – and the opportuniEach season, the center draws nearly ty to see the manatees from an even closer 400,000 visitors — for a total of more vantage point,” said Stan Kroh, manager of than 7 million. Admission and parking at Land and Stewardship Programs for Tam- the Apollo Beach facility are free, and the pa Electric. “The Manatee Viewing Center boardwalks are compliant with the Ameris the showcase for Tampa Electric’s com- icans with Disabilities Act for its guests’ mitment to environmental stewardship.” convenience. Contributions are welcomed The Manatee Viewing Center is the an- and will directly support protecting manachor attraction for the Florida Conserva- tees, preserving their habitats and educattion and Technology Center (FCTC), which ing the public. is a public-private partnership to feature The Manatee Viewing Center’s reguboth nature and technology. Tampa Electric lar hours are 10 a.m.-5 p.m. every day provides the campus to its environmental from now through April 15, 2024, except partners for their important research and Thanksgiving, Christmas and Easter, when educational outreach. In addition to Tam- it is closed. (The facility closes at 3 p.m. on pa Electric, the partners include The Flori- Christmas Eve.) Comfortable shoes and da Aquarium, the Florida Fish and Wildlife clothing are recommended. Please note Conservation Commission (FWC) and the that no pets are allowed, only trained serUniversity of Florida. vice animals.

The manatees have gathered in the caVisit the center online at www.tampanal to find refuge from the cold since the electric.com/manatee or call 813-228early 1970s. When the water tempera- 4289 for more information.

BONNET SPRINGS PARK…NOT JUST FOR KIDS

By Jeff Hoening

Opened in October Once outside, you 2022, Lakeland’s beaucan exercise your way tiful 168-acre Bonnet through the park, by Springs Park is dewalking, running or cyscribed as an ‘urban cling through the plethoasis,’ the perfect green ora of paved pathways, sanctuary for people of stopping at the two staall ages. There are plentionary exercise stations ty of activities for kids, to enhance your workincluding a variety of out. Or, for a more leiCrenshaw Canopy Walk is a shaded path that allows visitors to walk multilevel playgrounds surely experience, jump among the treetops. and climbable trees, but aboard the free electric Bonnet Springs is also a cart that whisks visitors great place for adults to along a 1.8-mile path, enjoy a nice day outside. stopping at key mustUpon entering the sees along the way. park, you’ll be impressed Covered picnic areas with its aesthetic and and shaded benches alcleanliness, as visitors low park-goers to relax, can still smell the fresh eat and socialize with paint and feel the ‘newfriends and family. There ness’ of everything of- Treks up the North Mountain brings are even grass-covered stunning views and breathtaking fered. Even the Givewell ‘mountains’ that allow sunsets.

Community Foundation you to ‘hike’ along conScience Center, boasting with exhibits and crete pathways, to the top, for a great view. fun facts about Florida’s ecosystem, hous- For a change in scenery, you can walk along es an incubator where cocoons are still the Lagoon Boardwalk or the elevated Crengrowing future residents of Zoey’s Butterfly shaw Canopy Walk set among the trees.

House.

End the day by watching the sunset over Begin at the visitor center and venture up- the Western horizon while enjoying a draft stairs to the Watson Clinic Gallery and Mu- beer and some tasty chicken wings, and seum to learn the history of the area and the maybe an ice cream cone, from the Depot pioneering public/private partnership that Café’s rooftop, garden and bar. made Bonnet Springs Park a reality. Once Visit Bonnet Springs Park at 400 Bonnet you’ve visited the gift shop, complete with Springs Blvd. in Lakeland. For more inforbranded apparel, you can enjoy a caffeinat- mation, visit the park’s equally impressive ed beverage in the quaint, cozy coffee shop and informative website at https://bonserving signature Starbucks beverages. netspringspark.com/.

FEEL GREAT FOR THE HOLIDAYS! Non-invasive, Drug-free medical device Using harmless, yet powerful acoustic waves to identify & treat a wide variety of conditions.

What Patients Are Saying...

“I can honestly say this has changed my life...I recommend this to everybody.”

-Malcolm (Knee Pain) “Before my StemWave treatment I wasn’t able to walk even 100 yards...now I walked 8 miles last week!”

-Joan (Foot Pain) “As a nurse, I thought I would need to have surgery for my carpal tunnel. Since having StemWave done, it’s been awesome. I have very little pain and don’t feel like I will need surgery. It’s been wonderful.”

-Shannon (Wrist Pain)

Scan Below for a

Special Offer!

Treatment at Motion ChiroTherapy will always be patient-centered and personalized to meet your specific needs.

16765 FishHawk Blvd, Lithia (Located in the Winn Dixie Shopping Plaza)

813-793-7791 • www.MotionChiroTheraphy.com

Page 40

Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition

Volume 22, Issue 12

TIPS TO EASE THE STRESS OF HOLIDAY TASKS Staff Report

Florida is home to an abundant and diverse array of species. This is especially true for the number of unique bird species that we can encounter throughout the state. One of the most interesting and adorable birds you may observe is the killdeer.

Killdeer are fascinating birds because they are shorebirds that you can find thriving away from the ocean and within inland communities instead of strictly near the water. In fact, killdeer are one of the least water-associated of all the shorebirds. Similar to the snowy and piping plovers who are often found running around the beach, the killdeer are equally a joy to view. These year-round residents are widely distributed across North America and can be found throughout Florida.

A portion of the state’s population is also considered migratory.

Killdeer prefer habitats that are on open ground spaces with low vegetation, sand or gravel. When inland, they often choose to live around buildings, golf courses and in parking lots. They also frequent wetlands, mudflats, pastures and grasslands.

They are small white birds with brown, black and tan plumage. They have a round head and beady, black eyes encircled with a red hue. They are slender in shape with a short bill that is similar to other plovers.

They average a length of 8-11 inches long.

Killdeer are also identifiable by the double black bands around their neck. They have

short, fast-moving legs and take flight quickly with their wide wings when threatened or disturbed. Killdeer are very cautious, shy yet inquisitive animals.

They are opportunistic ground foragers and have a diet that consists almost entirely of insects and small crustaceans, but they will also eat berries and seeds.

After killdeer have mated, the pair will often scoop out a shallow nest on the ground made of rocks and sticks. The female killdeer will then lay an average of four to six eggs. Both parents participate in incubation of the eggs. Killdeer may have up to two broods together a year and can find new partners in the following year.

It is crucial to their survival that we are aware of ground-nesting and ground-dwelling species. Killdeer and their fondness to live in human-modified habitats make them vulnerable to suffering from habitat loss, degradation, traffic incidents and pesticide poisoning.

Remember to help keep Florida wild by respecting wildlife and keeping their habitats free of unnecessary chemicals that are a danger to our treasured biodiversity.

Ali Holton is currently director of FishHawk TNR Inc. She has a master’s in biodiversity, wildlife and ecosystems and 20 years of experience specializing in animal behavior and conservation. To reach her, email fishhawktnr4@gmail.com.

Faith Family United Church of Christ An Open & Affirming Congregation

ALL are Welcome Here!

706 Bryan Rd. Brandon FL 33511 Sunday Services Bible Study 9:30AM Worship 10:30AM ourfaithfamilychurch.com Our Website

Pastor Rev. Edd Kostelnik

“Church like it used to be.”

“We love because “We love because He first loved us.”

1 John 4:19

Doctor Malcom S. Clements- Pastor

First Baptist Church of Gibsonton Traditional Worship Service Old-time Gospel Hymns Nursery Available Children & Youth Ministry

Sunday School…………. 9:30 A.M. Morning Worship……… 10:30 A.M. Sunday Evening…………. 6:00 P.M. Mid-Week (Wed.)……… 7:00 P.M.

9912 Indiana St. • Hwy 41 & Estelle Ave • Gibsonton, FL 33534 813.677.1301 Inspirational Internet Broadcast: Great Preaching, Bible Study, Singing Please visit: ChristianWorldTV.com

(StatePoint) From greeting cards to seasonal to-do lists, there’s a lot to write down and keep track of during the holidays. Use these tips and recommendations to reduce stress while you complete these important tasks: • To-do lists: Whether you’re listing the gifts you must buy for loved ones, the groceries you need to prepare a holiday feast or the tasks you must complete before your guests arrive, writing and referencing a lengthy to-do list can be anxiety provoking. However, choosing the colors of your stationery and writing utensils wisely can ease these feelings and spur you to action. The colors in the G2 gel ink pen’s limited-edition Harmony Collection were formulated to create an oasis of calm. Color psychology suggests that gray represents neutrality and balance; iris blue is meditative with a touch of magic; apricot orange balances energy and is relaxing; salmon signifies hope, health and happiness; grape connotes harmony; and rose pink inspires grace, gratitude and joy. Choose colors according to your mood, then keep your lists posted prominently, such as on your desk or at eye level on the fridge so you stay on top of tasks. After completing an item, cross it out for a sense of immediate accomplishment.

• Calendars and planners: Plans can change quickly during the hectic holiday season, so be prepared to adapt to evolving schedules while keeping everyone in the family updated. When entering such seasonal events as holiday office parties, cookie swaps and school plays into your cal-

endar or planner, be sure to use ink that erases cleanly so you can revise repeatedly as needed. Pilot’s FriXion line of erasable pens comes in a variety of hues, making them a great choice for vibrant and easy color coding.

• Gift tags: Sometimes, it’s the littlest details that count the most. To ensure loved ones find their names clearly on all the items they receive from you this holiday season, be sure to use a rolling ball pen, such as the Precise Deco pen, to allow for clean lines, even on small gift tags. To personalize gift tags a bit, draw a cute little doodle or cartoon specific to each gift recipient, such as their favorite seasonal symbols, animals or abstract designs.

• Holiday cards: The holiday season is the perfect time to catch friends and family up on the events of the past year. While all that note writing is a beautiful way to stay connected to the people that matter most, it can lead to writing fatigue. To write and address your greeting cards with more ease and less stress, use a tool such as Dr. Grip, a wide-body ergonomic pen with a comfortable rubber grip. Its smooth-writing ink dries quickly to help avoid smears, so your sentiments won’t get muddled. To prepare envelopes in bulk, use a wet cotton ball to moisten the glue seal, then press firmly down on each envelope. Post your notes using fun, festive seasonal stamps.

For more seasonal tips and inspiration, visit https://powertothepen.com/.

As your holiday to-do list grows, you may be feeling a bit frazzled. Having the right tools on hand can help you complete all your tasks with ease.

Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition

December 2023

also. A green deceiver fly on an 8-weight setup is a great approach plan.

Nearshore fishing, with the fish moving in closer with the season, should be on fire. Do some homework and locate the drops and ledges on Google Maps, the Navionics app or something similar.

Pinfish, shrimp or greenies will be spot-on for these fish. Grouper are closed for the year, and coming months after, but there are many other types of fish to hook up with in the gulf. Snapper, grunts, porgy, hogfish and many others will avail themA recent charter brought in some nice selves for the fish on the line for kitchen tathese residents. ble. Inshore setups with a half to 1-ounce weight and a 1/0 hook will be the best bets.

Be wary of the low and falling tides this time of year in the inshore waters. You may get stuck for a while if you fail to pay attention.

The weather is changing, and the fish and their habitat are also changing.

The grass has receded, and the bait has shifted to the towers. Most of the target species we look for have shifted into the backwater areas and residential canals to escape the colder water temps. Our offshore species have moved into the 40 ft. ranges and are easier to get to on the calmer days.

Sheepshead should be moving into the reef areas inside Tampa Bay and will readily eat a live or dead shrimp.

Fiddler crabs are ideal but are sometimes hard to come by. Trout, redfish and snook will be in the seasonal haunts of canals and backwater areas. Artificial baits can be key to fishing this time of year. The waters get very low and the fish will school up in the deeper water bend areas. Try a little flyfishing in these areas

OUR PASSION

IS GETTING YOU BACK TO YOURS. MAKE AN APPOINTMENT TODAY. Leaders in orthopaedic care.

And getting you back to the life you enjoy.

Find the quality orthopaedic care you need—all in one place. Introducing OMG Surgery Center, Hip and knee replacements, Sports medicine, foot and ankle solutions.

All powered by Stryker’s cutting-edge technology.

13837 Circa Crossing Drive, Suite 100 Lithia, FL 33547

At OMG Surgery Center, care meets convenience. We’re designed to get you treated and back home in hours. Because our passion is getting you back to yours.

CALL: 813.684.2663 VISIT: OMGSurgeryCenter.com Our partner in technology. patients.stryker.com

Page 41

Holiday Sales

Nov 21 - Dec 24

Find Us On Facebook

Free Estimates!

Open Tuesday - Friday 10 - 6 • Saturday 10 - 4

813-689-8124

201 S Kings Ave, Brandon (Formerly Carson’s Optical)

Custom Design Jewelry | Previously Loved Jewelry | Watch & Jewelry Repair On Site We purchase your scrap GOLD!

Page 42

Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition

BRANDON BAND NASTY SAVAGE CELEBRATES 41 YEARS WITH OVERSEAS TOUR

By Kelly Wise Valdes

Brandon band Nastraveled from Germaty Savage is excited ny, France, Russia as to celebrate 41 years well as other Europeof playing together. To an countries. memorialize this epic “We enjoy playing milestone, the band is our music, being with touring Belgium and the guys, seeing old Holland to play for friends, making new their many fans overones, media coverage, seas. The band has rephotographers’ imagleased five albums and es, the travel, the chalhave toured all over the lenge to deliver the world. music and the stage Brandon band Nasty Savage, still bringing The band has previshow,” said Galletti, energy and excitement to the heavy metal ously toured Europe, who is turning 62 in stages more than 40 years later. including their time in December.

1988 with shows in PoThe band consists of land behind the iron curtain.

Galletti, also known as Nasty When they were beginning, Ronnie; Scott Carino on bass Nasty Savage toured with 60 guitar; Jim Coker on drums; as shows in 65 days across the well as Pete Sykes and Dave United States. A few years Orman on guitar. ago, they headlined music fesGalletti explained that their tivals in Lima, Peru; Santiago, stage show has always been Chili; and Mexico. However, they found they an extreme and true performance. had loyal fans across Europe.

“Nasty Savage is a mix between pro “It’s always exciting to continue and to wrestling meets Jim Morrison meets a mogo back to something you created years tivational speaker meets Slayer,” said Galago and play to hard-core loyal fans but to letti. “We take people on a trip like a roller also capture new fans of younger demo- coaster of emotion and it will burn images graphic,” said lead singer Ron Galletti. “To in people’s brains.” travel to Holland and Belgium with Nasty Nasty Savage is lining up future dates in Savage in 2023 is a marvelous experience, 2024 to play their popular heavy metal mu100 percent.” sic in Tampa.

The Heavy Metal Maniacs Festival was “The music is the power. It’s the most held just outside Amsterdam, Holland. important thing on that live stage,” said The band headlined this two-day event Galletti. that drew more than 1,000 fans. While in For more information visit www.nasBelgium, the band headlined a club full of tysavage.com or Facebook search for Nasty long-time Nasty Savage fans. Concertgoers Savage.

Make It Merry With Mint!

BELL CREEK ACADEMY GRADUATE IS FIRST ALUMNUS TEACHER AND HEAD COACH

By Jane Owen

In 2017, Chandler evident in the way he Elsner graduated as dedicates himself to part of Bell Creek his students.

Academy’s (BCA) first “Coach Elsner gengraduating class. Bell uinely cares. He is Creek Academy is a organized and knows charter school in Rivhow to make learning erview that is recogenjoyable for the stunized for its high stan- Bell Creek Academy head basketball coach dentsl,” Leadingham dards for academic Chandler Elsner inspires students on and said. achievement.

BCA Elsner’s decision to off the court. has an innovative academic environment teach evolved in college while pursuing a that includes being part of the Cambridge history degree. Inspired by his aunt, teacher program. By design, BCA provides teaching Deanna Ingram, he decided to apply his love techniques to meet the individual needs of of history in the classroom. students. The focused attention Elsner re“I found in studying history there are no ceived in high school gave him the skills to shortcuts. You have to take time to process follow his passions. He graduated from Flor- the information you are given,” Elsner said. ida College with a Bachelor of Arts in history “That has made its way into coaching basin 2022. That same year, Elsner returned to ketball and my classroom. I adapt the lesthe school as the first alumnus to be on staff sons from the past.” as a teacher. This year, Elsner took the helm Elsner’s past at BCA includes being a stuas the school’s head boys’ basketball coach, dent and basketball guard. From basketball taking over a program that won its first 3A to the classroom, he embodies the academDistrict 7 championship in 2022. ic rigor of the school and the passion he The principal of Bell Creek Academy, Dr. learned from his favorite coach.

Margaret Fahringer, said the milestone is “The one coach I pull from the most is my both sentimental and profound. Elsner’s ac- dad. I pull motivation from him and getting ademic success plays out firsthand on cam- kids to not only believe in you as coach but pus and is as an asset to the school. believe in themselves,” Elsner said.

“The great thing is, Chandler came Elsner is the first alumnus to return to the through in our atmosphere of high expecta- school as a teacher and head coach. His legtions. We work very hard with our expecta- acy will be his passion to work to the bettertions. He was raised with it,” Fahringer said. ment of whoever is in front of him.

“He is one of our youngest teachers and he Bell Creek Academy anticipates a great has a very good rapport with the students. first year with Elsner as head basketball They respect him.” coach. Elsner will lead the team passionately Fahringer said Elsner’s roles as both coach to honor former player Elijah Payne. and teacher enable him to teach dedication “The Bell Creek Panthers are dedicating to goals. BCA head girls’ basketball coach this season to our teammate, friend and Charles Leadingham witnesses Elsner’s suc- leader, Elijah Payne. Elijah will be greatly cess on the court and the classroom next missed. BCA plays for 33 this year!” said to his. He said Elsner’s leadership skills are Elsner.

WINDOW TREATMENTS, AUTOMATED SHADES, FLOORING, KITCHEN & BATH CABINETS

THE FUTURE OF

Peppermint Iced Coffee Peppermint Chip Milkshake

FLOOR SHOPPING IS HERE

We make it easy to get the look you want at the right price!

Frosted Peppermint Chip Coffee

LAKE BRANDON VILLAGE 11325 Causeway Blvd • Brandon (813) 655-1237

Volume 22, Issue 12

ROOM VISUALIZER ▪ DESIGN BY COLOR BUDGET FRIENDLY ▪ WARRANTIED

Hours:

6:30am - 10pm

BRANDON SOUTH 2010 Bloomingdale Ave • Valrico (813) 571-0569

0%

Financing*

Scan & Save

Your Home Interior Experts...

Over 33 Years Strong

Visit Our Newly Decorated Showroom!

2305 College Ave. E. • Ruskin

*WAC

(1 mile west of I-75 Exit 240B)

813-645-8660 • www.doveinteriorscarpetone.com

December 2023

Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition

Page 43

TAMPA’S MAJESTIC MOVIE PALACE CELEBRATES THE SEASON WITH CLASSIC MOVIES AND A VISIT FROM SANTA

THE VILLAGE PLAYERS WILL PRESENT THE TRIAL OF EBENEZER SCROOGE THIS DECEMBER

It is almost the most No holiday season wonderful time of the would be complete year. You can get into without a showing the spirit of the holiday of It’s a Wonderful season by visiting TamLife (1946). You can pa’s most historic thesee this classic beater, the Tampa Theatre, ginning on Friday, and participating in its December 15 at 7 Holiday Classics Movie p.m. There will be Kick off the holiday season with a visit with Series. This will begin showings on Saton Sunday, November Santa as the Tampa Theatre kicks off its annu- urday, December 26 and run through al Holiday Classics Movie Series on Sunday, 16 and Sunday, November 26. You can get a free photo courtesy January 7, 2024.

December 17 at 3 of series sponsor Bank of America.

Jill Witecki with and 7 p.m. on both Tampa Theatre said, days. Then, you can “When you visit Tampa see the film at 7 p.m.

Theatre, you are not just from Monday, Decoming for a movie, you are coming for an cember 18 through Thursday, December 21. experience.”

Tampa Theatre will offer a sing-along Witecki added, “One of the brightest and White Christmas on Sunday, December 24 most beloved of those experiences is the tra- at 3 p.m. Ring in the new year with a showdition of sharing favorite holiday films on the ing of Rent on Sunday, December 31 at 3 big screen with family and friends and sing- p.m. The Holiday Classics Movie Series will ing along to holiday carols with the Mighty end on January 7, 2024, with a sing-along Wurlitzer Theatre Organ before the show.” Frozen at 3 p.m.

The Holiday Classics Movie Series will kick Tickets for the sing-alongs are $14.50 off on November 26 with the 1947 classic ($11.50 for members). All others are $10 Miracle on 34th Street at 3 p.m. Before ($7 for members). You can get tickets at the film, guests are invited to meet Santa the Franklin Street Box Office or online at Claus himself and take home a free 4-inch https://tampatheatre.org/. by 6-inch commemorative photo. The opporTampa Theatre is also partnering with the tunity to see Santa starts at 2 p.m. in the Junior League of Tampa this holiday season. beautifully restored Tampa Theatre lobby.

You are asked to bring disposable diapers, On Sunday, December 3, come see Nation- wipes and diaper cream to families in need. al Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation from 1989 You can also purchase items off the Junior at 3 p.m. Then, The Grinch (2018) will be on League of Tampa’s Amazon Wish List. the big screen on Sunday, December 10 at The Tampa Theatre is located at 711 N. 3 p.m.

Franklin St. in Tampa.

The Village Players of Scrooge encounters his Valrico will present The dead partner, Jacob Marley, Trial of Ebenezer Scrooge in his door knocker and his this December. The play is bedchamber. Marley also a humorous continuation shadows Scrooge around, of Charles Dickens’ classic and as Scrooge sees it, it is for the holiday season and downright stalking on Maris great entertainment for ley’s part. the whole family. The Trial Pierce said, “The cast of Ebenezer Scrooge was and crew of The Trial of written by Mark Brown.

Ebenezer Scrooge are not Gail Pierce, director of just talented. In fact, they this production and presare a unique, all-volunteer The Village Players will ident/producer of The ensemble of spirited indiVillage Players, said, “Bring- present The Trial of Ebenezer viduals who bring an amazing The Trial of Ebenezer Scrooge this December. This ing energy and humor to humorous continuation of Scroogee to our community the stage. Each member has Charles Dickens’ classic is is a joy and a privilege. We inpoured their heart into ungreat for the whole family. vite everyone to join us for an derstanding the nuances of evening that celebrates the enduring spirit their characters, ensuring that every laugh of Dickens’ message, with a comic twist that and twist is delivered with precision and only writer Mark Brown could envision. It warmth.” will leave you laughing as you realize there The Trial of Ebenezer Scrooge will be peris more than one way to look at Ebenezer formed on Friday, December 1, 8 and 15, and Scrooge.” on Saturday, December 9 and 16 at 8 p.m.

The Trial of Ebenezer Scrooge is a humor- Matinees will be offered on Sunday, Decemous and inventive sequel to Dickens’ A Christ- ber 3, 10 and 17 at 3 p.m. mas Carol. In this comedic reimagining, Tickets are available now for purchase.

Ebenezer Scrooge takes the three Christmas General admission is priced at $18, with disSpirits — past, present and future — along counted rates of $15 for seniors (ages 60with his departed business partner, Ja- 65), military personnel and students with cob Marley, to trial. They are charged with ID. Reserved seating is available for groups kidnapping, trespassing, bodily endanger- of 10 or more. ment and even breaking and entering, just To secure your seat, visit https://thevilto name a few. As the trial unfolds, it casts lageplayersvalrico.com/. For more personthe spirits as self-professed do-gooders who alized service, please call the box office at only approximate the future.

813-480-3147.

WALK-IN CLINIC

A convenient & affordable alternative to the ER

Urgent Care Services School & Sports Physicals On Site X-Rays & EKG’s

Right in your neighborhood & ready to help!

Located near Publix in the Fishhawk Ranch Shopping Center

Flu, COVID, Strep, TB Testing We are now open:

9:30am to 6:30pm / M-F 9:00am to 3:00pm / Sat

Work Injuries

To better serve our community.

& More!

New Lithia Location 5660 Fishhawk Crossing Blvd Lithia, FL. 33547

(813) 725-5088 PrimeHealthUC.com

Page 44

Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition

Volume 22, Issue 12

We offer peace of mind through access to a full continuum of high-quality care for life. This is a place where you can nurture connections through a full social life, new learning experiences, fitness, recreation and more.

Veteran-Friendly • Freedom Fairways Premier Executive Golf Course & Clubhouse • Pickle Ball & Tennis Courts

Schedule A Private Tour Today!

(813) 642-1257 1010 American Eagle Blvd, Sun City Center, FL 33573

A Senior Living Community

FreedomPlazaFL.com

Bloomingdale/FishHawk

December 2023, Vol. 22, Iss. 12

SCHEDULE ON PAGE 43

Bay Beauty Aesthetics Celebrates Opening

Bay Beauty Aesthetics celebrated its opening with a Valrico FishHawk Chamber of Commerce ribbon cutting. Owned by Johanna Pedraza, Bay Beauty Aesthetics is a tight-knit team of skin and beauty experts providing an intentional approach to your aesthetic goals.

“We don’t offer extreme, unnatural or unattainable solutions but rather a graceful approach to reveal your innate beauty,” said Pedraza.

Services offered include Botox, dermal fillers, skin care, facials, microneedling and more. Bay Beauty Aesthetics is located at 3113 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. in Valrico.

Call 813-404-4098 or visit its website at www. baybeautyaesthetics.com for more information.

County. Call 813-4384628 or visit its website at www.thegoatplumbingcompany.com for more information.

HCA Florida Brandon Hospital Earns ‘A’ Hospital Safety Grade

HCA Florida Brandon Hospital earned a HosMotion ChiroTherapy, located at 16765 Fishhawk Blvd., celebrated its fifth pital Safety Grade of A year in business with a ribbon cutting hosted by the Valrico FishHawk from The Leapfrog Group, Chamber of Commerce.

Ruskin and Wimauma areas, offera national nonprofit ing transportation to the center. For vices offered, visit its website at www. more information, call 813-458-2859. miramedspa.com or call 813-654-6472. watchdog that sets standards for excellence in patient care. Leapfrog assigns an A, B, C, D or F grade to general hosMira Med Spa Sip And Shop Event The GOAT Plumbing Company Mira Med Spa, an upscale boutique According to Alex Harrison, owner of pitals across the country based on over 30 national performance measures remedical spa based in Valrico, is hosting a The GOAT Plumbing flecting errors, accidents, holiday Sip and Shop event on Company, his resideninjuries and infections, as Thursday, December 14 from tial business is “the well as the systems hospi2-6 p.m. Stop by to win raffles greatest plumbing tals have in place to preand shop for skin care products company of all time vent harm. It is the only at a 20 percent discount. Along serving Hillsborough hospital ratings program with skin care products, Mira County.” It prides itself on its service, The Pavilis Center exclusively based on hospital prevention Med Spa also offers facials, honesty and reliability that sets it apart For Hope of medical errors, infections and injuries massages, lash services, chemi- from the competition. The company’s The Pavilis Center for that kill more than 500 patients a day cal peels and more. Its goal is to team of skilled professionals goes above Hope is an adult day trainnationally. make you feel refreshed, confi- and beyond to ensure that customers reing center which provides “An ‘A’ grade means our team of caregivdent and beautiful by providing the most ceive the highest quality plumbing solusupport services to people who have deers is putting our patients first,” said Tripp advanced treatments tions. Whether it’s a rouvelopmental disabilities. It provides fun Owings, CEO at HCA Florida Brandon Hospiand natural looking tine maintenance task or and creative indoor and outdoor activital.

“Patient safety is our number one prioriresults. Mira Med Spa an emergency, The GOAT ties, including Spanish class, employabilis located at 1082 E. Plumbing Company is ity skills, nature walks and a variety of Bloomingdale Ave. in dedicated to providing arts and crafts. The Pavilis Center serves Valrico. For additional exceptional service. It Tampa, Riverview, Brandon, Gibsonton, information on serserves all of Hillsborough

Page 46

Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition

EYE ON BUSINESS.....CONTINUED FROM PAGE 25

By Jenny Bennett der; portions are huge, and ty at Brandon Hospital. We everything is cooked to talk about safety in every order. Selfie Subs is open meeting with our team.”

Monday through Saturday, To see Brandon Hospi7 a.m.-9 p.m. To find out tal’s full grade details and more and to view the menu to access patient tips for visit its website at www.selstaying safe in the hospital, fiesubs.com. visit www.hospitalsafetygrade.org. HCA Florida Brandon Hospital is locatBurn Boot Camp ed at 119 Oakfield Dr. in Opens In Brandon Brandon. For more inforThe Mindy McCabe Team, with Burn Boot Camp is a mation, visit https://hcaKeller Williams Realty Suburban gym that offers chalhealthcare.com/.

Tampa, recently collected and donatlenging 45-minute

Taste The Best Wings In Riverview

ed over 40 blessing baskets for those in need this Thanksgiving season.

Selfie Subs at 8001 U.S. 301 in Riverview does not just offer subs and sandwiches, although it does have a wide selection including Cubans, Philly cheese steaks, burgers etc. It also has what have been described as “the best wings in Riverview” by customers. Owner Christopher Murphy comes from Buffalo and uses the Anchor Bar recipe. You won’t be disappointed by anything you or-

workouts to members of all fitness levels, focus meetings to keep you on track and complimentary child watch as well as the best fitness community in the world. The workouts consist of alternating strength and conditioning days, focusing on different types of training for different areas of the body. Burn Boot Camp Brandon is located at 107 W. Bloomingdale Ave. in Brandon. Visit its website at https://burnbootcamp.com/brandon-fl/ for more information.

Volume 22, Issue 12

THE FUTURE LOOKS BRIGHT FOR FIVE BLOOMINGDALE ATHLETES ON NATIONAL SIGNING DAY

By Nick Nahas

The Bloomingdale life, a new beginning,” High School gym was said De La Rosa. “I get crowded with anticito see what God has pation on November 8, in store for me and National Signing Day, what baseball will do as five athletes signed for me in the future. If on the dotted line, takbaseball doesn’t work ing the next step toout, I’ll always have ward their futures. an education. I want Baseball outfielder to work hard for evFive Bloomingdale athletes sign on Cooper Hinson signed ery opportunity I get.”

National Signing Day. with Marshall UniverVolleyball star Madsity and will get the chance to play imme- ison Sofarelli signed with Division II pediately for his team. He wants to help his rennial power University of Tampa. The team win and build a successful program middle blocker said that she wanted to at his school. He will major in political sci- go to the University of Tampa since she ence. was 12 years old and has been going to “It’s a dream come true,” said Hinson. camps there for that long. Sofarelli led the “It’s everything I’ve ever dreamed of. It’s Bloomingdale volleyball team to a state really surreal today to finally get this op- semifinal appearance this season. She portunity.” wants to major in either exercise science Hinson’s teammate, Pierce Collins, or physical therapy. signed with Drury University in Spring“I love the community, the coach, all field, Missouri. The third baseman said the girls,” said Sofarelli. “I actually had a that the school is the right fit for him be- tryout when I went there for a visit. That cause it has his computer science program all led to my decision.” and he has a good chance to play on the Josiah Davila-Richardson will play socbaseball team as a freshman right away. cer for Wake Forest University. The strik“I loved the surrounding of the school. er said that Wake Forest was always his It was really beautiful,” said Collins. “It’s favorite of the five schools that were pursuper exciting, I am really grateful for all suing him. He likes the style of play and the people that have helped me along the the culture of the program. He will major way.” in either sports medicine or business. The The duo’s teammate, Johnny De La Rosa, soccer star has high hopes of making it will be attending Saint Leo University. The past college and into the pros. pitcher/outfielder said that the opportuni“I went on a visit and as soon as I left ty to play for the school was an unexpect- the school, I made up my mind,” said Daed surprise and is thrilled to continue his vila-Richardson. “I had the best time of baseball career. He is currently undecided my life, and that’s when I knew I wanted on his major. to go there. I didn’t wanna go anywhere “This celebration is a new chapter in my else.”

Weekend Fun! AT A MODERN DAY IRISH PUB

HALF PRICE APPETIZER WITH ANY DINNER ENTREE FRIDAY & SATURDAY 6PM-CLOSE

Where in the World is the

GOT TRAVEL PLANS?

DINE IN ONLY. NOT AVAILABLE FOR TO GO.

e many Bring your Osprey Osprey tt by one of th Jenny Benne Italy. e, ic en V hout canals throug on your travels & share with us.

Email photos, name & location to jhurst@ospreyobserver.com.

Call or Text For A FREE Quote!

813.595.6374 1363 Oakfield Drive, Brandon, FL 33511

Custom Rentals

Payment Plans Available • Long Term Rental Plans Available

Wedding & Events Packages + A La Carte Arrangements

December 2023

Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition

Page 47

Lifestyle, Location and Savings To Love Three Award-Winning Home Builders in Tampa First-time homebuyers get the best value for their money when they step into a Centex home. From our collection of smart, flexible floor plans to our timeless designs and inviting communities, Centex has what you’re looking for in a place to call home.

Using your mobile camera, scan here to see current availability

centex.com/tampa

Pulte builds homes with the homeowner top of mind. We focus on what’s important; building beautiful, quality designs that bring families together.

Our insightful Life Tested® design features make everyday moments easier and more enjoyable.

Using your mobile camera, scan here to see current availability

pulte.com/tampa

No one understands the importance of community like Del Webb. That’s why we can say we offer much more than a beautiful home; we offer a place to belong.

Our homes are designed for how you want to live, with the features you want and amenities that are second to none.

55+ Active Adult Communities

Using your mobile camera, scan here to see current availability

delwebb.com/tampa

Photographs are for illustrative purposes only, are not intended to be an actual representation of a specific home being offered and depict models containing features and designs that may not be available on all homes or in all areas or that may be available for an additional cost. Please see sales consultant for details. © 2023 PulteGroup, Inc. and/or its affiliates. All rights reserved. 11/23

Page 48

Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition

Volume 22, Issue 12

BLOOMINGDALE YOUTH SPORTS STUDENT FILMED ‘SHARK ATTACK’ SHOW ASSOCIATION PLAYERS COMPETE PROVIDES PROFESSIONAL COVERAGE OF RIVERVIEW HIGH SCHOOL SPORTS DURING THE WORLD SERIES

By Jane Owen In July, the BloomingPHR program is the dale Youth Sports Asimportance of worksociation (BYSA) held ing towards goals. their first-ever Major “I learned that I League Baseball Pitch should always be conHit & Run event. Mafident in myself and jor League Baseball work hard for somePitch Hit & Run (PHR) thing I really want,” is a free event that Ooley said. provides boys and The PHR program girls an opportunity to created a memorable showcase their baseexperience for each ball and softball skills child at nationals. In while competing for a addition to getting chance to attend the to compete at the nanational finals at the tional stage level, the Major League Baseball Christian Gaines (12) and Madison Ooley trip included video (8) at the Major League Baseball Pitch, Hit interviews, photograWorld Series. & Run National Finals during the 2023 Two of Bloomingdaphers, unlimited arWorld Series. le’s PHR winners, Madcade time and tickets ison Ooley and Christian Gaines, made it to to attend game two of the World Series. the PHR National Finals that took place on “The best part was all of the fun events October 29. they had planned for us and that we got Ooley (age 8) won the 7/8 Softball Divi- treated like celebrity athletes,” Ooley sion team finals for the Miami Marlins on said.

August 26. Gaines (age 12) won the 11/12 BYSA President David Nolte is excited Baseball Division team finals on October 2 about the PHR event and success from for the Tampa Bay Rays. They both earned Bloomingdale. an all-expense paid trip to nationals in Tex“BYSA is extremely proud of both as for themselves and one guardian.

Christian and Madison and very excited Gaines won the 11/12 Division PHR Na- for their success. Two players who both tional Finals. He competed against players played at Bloomingdale and also qualified from Canada, Puerto Rico, Arizona and Tex- for the MLB Pitch, Hit & Run event at our as. park,” Nolte said. “BYSA is also excited “I loved being able compete against play- to be hosting the MLB Pitch, Hit & Run ers throughout North America. I learned event again in 2024. We would love to see the importance of putting in hard work. I future players emulate the success Madipracticed for many hours to increase my son and Christian achieved this year.” chances of winning,” Gaines said.

For more information, visit www.bysaOoley said what she learned from the fl.com.

By Nick Nahas

Riverview High pears on the YouTube School student Ben channel, Riverview Tilley wanted to High Shark TV. find a way to fit in “Whenever we go to public school afout to football games, ter going to private the vibe is just exschool for 11 years. traordinary. It’s so He was encouraged exuberant; it’s really by his father to projust fabulous,” Ben vide video coverage said. “You get into the of his high school flow of the game and sports teams. The Photo courtesy of Evelyn Johnson it’s just amazing. It’s a ‘Shark Attack’ covgreat environment. Our Tilley and Heysteck film the pregame show. erage didn’t start out as smoothly as he school is fantastic, the crowd is always large would have liked it to over a year ago at the —and it’s awesome to be out on the field.”

Riverview football game.

The junior credits his TV production “Our first show was against East Bay, ac- teacher, Overstreet, with helping them come tually, at the stadium. We had quite an expe- up with ideas for the show and giving them rience,” said Ben. “We had a rain delay, and inspiration. He was also very complimentary the power went out. It was a pretty eventful of Heystek, his partner and TV production first show. That’s what kind of got me in- classmate who started helping with the terested. I never thought of it as, you know, broadcast this season. this could be really popular. I figured that “I got interested in doing the sports covermaybe the coaching staff will see it, some of age because I was originally more interestthe players will see it and say, ‘Look, a cool ed in movie-style films and Ben asked me to little highlight reel,’ but it’s just turned into help him with the Shark Attack coverage,” so much more, and it’s just been awesome.” said Heystek. “Once I started helping with Ben and his partner, Kenny Heystek, along the coverages, I almost instantly started to with Ben’s dad, Chris Tilley, who has worked like reporting on the games.” in the TV industry for 20-plus years as a The ultimate goal of the three-man team videographer, have a production meeting is to expand coverage of Riverview High on the Friday before the game to discuss School sports. They have covered flag footthe script and their plans. They produce a ball, football, basketball, volleyball and plan pregame video on-site at the sporting event, on covering other sports. Ben wants to conB-roll of the game footage and postgame tinue in his father’s footsteps in the TV field. coverage, including interviews of the players Chris worked for WTSP for several years and coach. The group will then edit the vid- before he became a freelancer. eo until the early hours of Saturday, record “None of this is possible without my dad,” voice-overs, and then post it online for their said Ben. “He’s the greatest father ever, and viewers. The video is posted on their Insta- he’s doing so much for me at the beginning gram page, @RVHSSharkAttack, and ap- of my career.”

The Holidays Are About Family!

Leave the Cooking to Us! ORDER from Our Catering Menu!

Deadline for placing catering orders for Christmas Eve is Wednesday, 12/20 at 3:00 pm

NOCHE BUENA Pork FAMILY MEAL (Feeds a Family of 4)

Includes pork, rice, black beans, salad, platanos, bread and 2 liter soft drink.

SPECIAL! SPECIAL!

$44.95 $44.95

Take Out Only NOCHEthrough BUENA Special 12/31/2023 Pork FAMILY MEAL

through 12/31/2022 NOCHE BUENA Pork Special FAMILY MEAL (Feeds a Family of 4)

Open for Pre-Ordered Catering ONLY on Saturday, 12/23 11:00 am-2 pm Closed Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, New Years Eve and New Years Day 702 W. Lumsden Rd., Brandon • 813-685-0502 • www.laseptimacafe.com Mon. - Sat. 11am. - 8pm. • Closed Sunday

;<A2 3<? ;<A2 0BA 3<? 0BA Z+A#: Ŵ`+ 8 `ZŴGAŴZ : ŴAGq

`GŴGV VŒŴp+Z+`ŴVS"eA +A# A` VŘ G@ŴGVŴ ::ŴĐĎċŨĐċČŨĐĉĉĉ

Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition

December 2023

Page 49

THOUGHTFUL HOLIDAY GIFTS BEYOND GADGETS: A GUIDE FOR TEENS AND COLLEGE KIDS

By Cameron Clark

As the holiday season apConsider gifting classic holiday proaches, many find themgifts like socks paired with accessoCooking Class selves pondering the perfect ries like headphones, a stylish water gifts for the hard to buy for bottle, a cozy blanket or a gift card. teenagers and college students Avah Armour, a student athlete at in their lives. While tech gadthe University of Central Florida, gets are often at the top of shares her perspective: “Socks used wish lists, considering alternato be an annoying gift, but at this tive options can add a personal age, I could always use more socks touch to your holiday giving. in my drawer. I’m always wearing From experiences to traditional mismatched socks. It all makes Bonsai Class presents, here’s a quick guide sense now.” to help you navigate the world Top Tech Gifts: of holiday gifts for the younger For those still interested in tech, generation. explore gadgets that go beyond the Experiences Over Tech: ordinary. Virtual reality experiencInstead of the latest tech es, smart home devices (Alexa and gadget, consider giving the gift Google home paired with smart of experiences. There are many lights), or even personalized tech things in the State of Florida accessories can be both practical we take for granted beyond and exciting. Headphones go a long theme parks. Find some nearway in college and some cheaper Track Personal Rainbow River options that get the job done are by museums of interest, for Items the space junkie, take a tour of Apple’s older airpods or you can opt Kennedy Space Center, take an for nicer ones like Bose QuietComEverglades swamp boat advenfort 45 Wireless or Apple AirPods ture, go tubing down the RainMax. A very popular unique new bow River, explore the Florida tech gift is the ChromaComfort Keys (not just Key West) or Bathroom Exhaust Fan with Sentry swimming with manatees. Think outside the box when shopping for your teen and always consider options tailored to their specific passions. A gift sonic Bluetooth Speaker and LED of a unique experience for your teen (and maybe a friend) will create memories that last.

Concert tickets to see a favorite lights. For forgetful teens consider performer are always a hit so pay atten- plant or cactus for her dorm or bedroom ences. Whether it’s a set of high-quality Tiles bluetooth tracking devices. tion to whatever music your student is or maybe a class at an area nursery? For tools for the DIY enthusiast, an outdoor In the spirit of the holiday season, blasting in their room or shower. Surfing the fashion-forward, a curated clothing adventure like sky diving, a new gaming make your gifts more than just materilessons, movie passes or even cooking subscription or a unique piece of jewelry chair or a subscription to a niche stream- al possessions—make them expressions classes can all provide memorable mo- might be the perfect fit. A Tiffany heart ing service, personalized gifts show that of thoughtfulness and consideration. ments that last a lifetime. Offer to have necklace or the Prada tag necklace are you’ve put thought into their dedicated Whether it’s a memorable experience, a a friend tag along for the fun too! Expe- on the pricier side but meaningful and interests. Inflatable loungers or ham- unique tech gadget, or a traditional gift riences not only entertain but also offer timeless. Lots of college girls love cap- mocks are a fun option for a college kid with a twist, show that you know and apopportunities for personal growth and turing the moment so find a cheap digital and retro vinyl record players are also preciate the recipient’s individuality. This skill development. camera or buy a few disposable cameras popular right now. And a lot of guys holiday season, let your gifts reflect the Top Girl Gifts: for some fun memories for her. would also appreciate a nice chain or joy of giving with a personal and unique Ditch the clichés and consider gifts Top Guy Gifts: watch. touch. that cater to individual passions. If she Move beyond generic gifts for guys Traditional Presents with a Twist: Clark is a Freshman student at the Uniloves plants, why not a beautiful little by focusing on their hobbies and preferPut a creative spin on traditional gifts. versity of Central Florida.

Stronger and Healthier Than Ever

How It Works

Combine Fuel Rewards® savings earned from everyday purchases to save when you fill up at Shell.

Platinum Status - Save10¢/gal Gold Status - Save 5¢/gal Silver Status - Save 3¢/gal Just for being a Fuel Rewards® member. FuelRewards.com

Riverhills Shell • 4330 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. • Valrico, FL 33596 813-643-7809 • riverhillsshell@gmail.com • @riverhillsshell Hours: M-F 5 a.m.-11 p.m. | Saturday 6 a.m.-11 p.m. | Sunday 7 a.m.-10 p.m.

Receive 10% off the service of your choice with mention of this ad.

Offer expires 1-15-24 Consultations Are Complementary GIFT CERTIFICATES AVAILABLE @baybeautytampa

3113 Lithia Pinecrest Rd., Valrico info@baybeautyaesthetics.com

(813) 404-4098

Last December, my husband approached me about us setting a goal of getting healthier in 2023. So, we made an appointment to talk to Rob at RobZFitness, who was recommended to him by our primary care physician Dr. Shawn Wallace. Upon meeting with Rob, we both decided it was time to commit to a healthier way of life. With the help of Rob and Taylor, and the support of each other, we have lost about 170 pounds total over the last 8-10 months. I have lost 70 pounds and lost 14% body fat in 10 month. My overall fitness level was at 15% when I started and now its at 88% for women at my age.

Like a lot of women, I have struggled with my weight all my life, especially after kids. This time my weight loss feels different. I wasn’t sure what to expect in the beginning, but I am surprised at how much stronger I’ve become, and the weight seem to just come off, losing an average of 2 pounds a week. I am 5’10 and I haven’t weighed under 200lbs in years. Now I weigh 195. With Rob and Taylor’s encouragement, I am pushing myself to get stronger and doing exercises I never thought I could accomplish. I have a few limitations with my knees but both Rob and Taylor worked around it and still push me to get stronger.

Rob focused more on strengthening during his sessions and I am lifting amounts I never imagined. Taylor designated Wednesdays as Carolyn’s Core night. With his help, I am doing core exercises that I never thought I was capable of. With the support of Rob, Taylor and my husband who encouraged me all the way, I am stronger and healthier than I’ve been in a long time.

Thank you for helping me get stronger and healthier.

Before...

...After

Carolyn Stafford

813.571.3700 www.RobZFitness.com 16315 FishHawk Blvd, Lithia, FL 33547

Page 50

Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition

Volume 22, Issue 12

NEWSOME HAS 18 ATHLETES SIGN NATIONAL LETTERS OF INTENT

By Lily Belcher N e w season yet some High and taking School his game hosted a to the next signing day level for event on his career November at Flori8 to recda Tech,” ognize its McAleavey 18 athletes said.

Newsome High School’s athletes were honored at the event at the who signed N e w beginning of November for their future on collegiate teams.

National some’s Letters of Intent. girls’ lacrosse team had Gracie Ochoa, Wolves wrestler Lana Clayton signed Mimi Walters and Mia Proctor sign at the after just a year of wrestling with New- event. Coach Matthew Proctor said all the some. Clayton’s coach, Corynn Cusson, girls have worked hard both on the field said she has developed a great work ethic and in school. during her time on the team.

“It means a lot to me that Newsome Five softball players signed at the be- takes the time to showcase their [comginning of November, including Grace mitment to] athletes every year by holdChin, Ciera Diaz, Mya Wells, Jenna Thom- ing a signing day event. It goes to show as and Nicole Rivera. how much time and effort the school con“They bring so much positivity to our tinues to put into their athletics programs program and I know they will do the and realize the importance of recognizsame at their future programs. Watching ing student athletes’ achievements in all them grow on and off the field has been a sports,” Ochoa said. blessing, and I look forward to seeing all Jacob Ackerman, a Wolves golf player, the great things they accomplish as they signed in November, saying the event was continue their softball careers,” coach Al- special to the athletes who were honored lyson Ledenham said. for their commitments.

Ryan Spitzer, Braden Moon, Wade WalHallie Wolpert and Megan Anderson ton and Ryan Harris signed from New- signed from Newsome’s girls’ soccer team some’s baseball team. as well.

“They’ve been a big part of our program Swimmer Taylor Messerschmitt signed for four years,” coach Richard Rohrberg at the event as well. Her coach, Jeff Shotsaid. well, said that, as a senior captain, MessBoys’ lacrosse player Braiden Ames erschmitt has become one of the team’s signed as well. Coach Ryan McAleavey best leaders. said Ames has a great understanding “Taylor is a true competitor. She alof the game and has been a pleasure to ways shines in the biggest moments. We coach. couldn’t be happier for her and her family “I am looking forward to seeing him in seeing her get the opportunity to swim finish his Newsome career with his best at the next level,” Shotwell said.

Michael Francis, Music Director

Making Waves in Tampa Bay HOUGH FAMILY FOUNDATION MASTERWORKS

Mozart’s Violin Concerto No. 4 Jan 6 & 7 RAYMOND JAMES POPS

Sci-Fi Spectacular Jan 13 & 14 Support your Florida Orchestra today FloridaOrchestra.org/donate

HOUGH FAMILY FOUNDATION MASTERWORKS

Tchaikovsky’s Symphony No. 6 Jan 19 & 20 COMING SOON Gershwin Celebration Center Stage Morning Concert From Broadway with Love Gershwin’s Rhapsody in Blue

FloridaOrchestra.org | 727.892.3337

,6 ,7 7,0( )25 $ &+$1*(" ƥ

2JINHFWJ 8ZUUQJRJSYX 2JINHFWJ &I[FSYFLJ 5QFSX FSI 5FWY ) UQFSX

ƥ

+WJJ HTSXZQYFYNTSX KTHZXJI TS YMJ 5 X UWT[NIJWX UWJXHWNUYNTSX FSI UWNTWNYNJX

ƥ

<J WJUWJXJSY YMJ YTU NSXZWFSHJ HFWWNJWX NS ^TZW FWJF FSI T[JW UQFSX

4FPȌJQI )WN[J 8ZNYJ & a 'WFSITS +1

<J IT STY TȈJW J[JW^ UQFS F[FNQFGQJ NS ^TZW FWJF (ZWWJSYQ^ \J WJUWJXJSY TWLFSN_FYNTSX \MNHM TȈJW UWTIZHYX NS ^TZW FWJF 5QJFXJ HTSYFHY 2JINHFWJ LT[ 2JINHFWJ TW ^TZW QTHFQ 8YFYJ -JFQYM .SXZWFSHJ 5WTLWFR 8-.5 YT LJY NSKTWRFYNTS TS FQQ TK ^TZW TUYNTSX <J FWJ STY UFWY TK FȉQNFYJI \NYM WJ[NJ\JI TW JSITWXJI G^ (28 & STS LT[JWSRJSY JSYNY^

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES AVAILABLE

December 2023

Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition

Page 51

MOBILE SHOWER OUTREACH SGT. WALTER P. RYAN DETACHMENT

LAUNCHES IN HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY

By Kelly Wise Valdes Although taking a hot working to add additional shower and doing laundry locations as well.” is a common occurrence Ultimately, ShowerUp for most people, there is a will establish full-time rising homeless population operations in Tampa Bay in Hillsborough County and hopefully purchase a that doesn’t have that opnew mobile unit that will tion. Fortunately, there is a have showers and a mosolution. Paul Schmitz and bile laundry.

ShowerUp is a mobile shower his wife, Rhonda Schmitz, outreach that has recently launched “Our costs to purchase in Tampa. launched ShowerUp in the equipment and opthe Nashville area in erate for the whole first 2016, and it is available loyear full time is $228,000,” cally. ShowerUp is a mobile said Paul. “Until we reach outreach that provides hot that goal, we have been able showers and laundry services to start part-time operations to people in need. In most cities, there are with a mobile shower unit that we had been resources for those experiencing homeless- using in one of our other cities. It doesn’t ness to receive meals, clothing and other have mobile laundry, but it does have three necessities, but the Schmitz family realized private shower suites, air conditioning and that there are very few places to get a hot unlimited hot water.” shower and take care of basic hygiene.

ShowerUp has raised 30 percent toward “Like most of the cities that we launch in, its full-time goal. As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, it we were invited to come to Tampa Bay by relies on individuals, families, churches, busisomeone who has seen the need and reached nesses and local foundations for support. out to us,” said Paul. “Tampa Bay is a similar “We are looking for collaborative partners size to our first city, Nashville. There’s also a who we can come alongside,” said Paul. “We sizable number of people who are experienc- love to team up with other groups and noning homelessness and who don’t have access profits who are doing amazing things like to a shower on a regular basis.” providing meals, clothing, haircuts, etc. One ShowerUp held two events last month of the things that we love is involve as many where it provided 30 showers and supplied people as we can in our outreach. Whether toiletries, hygiene and other needed items. it’s through financial support, volunteering, “Sometimes, the biggest need is just for taking care of needs on our Amazon Wish friendship, relationship and community,” List or building shower kits for us, we love to said Paul. work with the community.”

Because ShowerUp is mobile, it is able Donations can be made at https:// to go to multiple locations throughout the showerup.org/ and can be designated for course of a week. The goal is to establish a ShowerUp Tampa Bay. The shower location regular schedule with multiple locations. schedule can also be found on the website.

“As of right now, we have locations set Follow ShowerUp on Facebook at ShowerUp up at Bread of Refuge in Brandon and with Tampa Bay and Instagram @showeruptamFeeding Tampa Bay,” said Paul. “We are pabay.

OF THE MARINE CORPS LEAGUE OF RIVERVIEW SEEKS TO ADD MEMBERS

By Libby Hopkins The Marine of the active-duty Corps League of and Reserve esRiverview was tablishments of formed in 2006 the U.S. Marine but renamed the Corps.

Sgt. Walter P. The detachment Ryan Detachment meets on the first in 2017 in honor Tuesday of every of Walter P. Ryan, The Marine Corps League of Riverview was formed month at Ameriwho was the serv- in 2006 but renamed the Sgt. Walter P. Ryan De- can ing commandant tachment in 2017 in honor of Walter P. Ryan, who Legion Alafia was the serving commandant at that time and at that time and Post 148, locatdied while in that office. It is currently looking for died while in that ed at 7240 U.S. new members. office. “Our mis301 in Riverview. sion is veterans helping veterans,” said Vice “Meetings start promptly at 7 p.m. and usuCommandant Ron Essick Sr. “If you were ally last about one hour,” Essick said. “Prior a Marine, FMF corpsman or Navy chaplain to the meetings there is a social hour with and miss the fellowship that you enjoyed pizza provided that begins at 6 p.m.” while on active duty, this may be the place The detachment also supports the for you.” It is currently looking for new JROTCs in the area. “We provide scholarmembers. ships grants to qualified applicants who are The Riverview detachment consists of pursuing an undergraduate degree,” Essick more than 100 members. “There are male said “Children and grandchildren of eligible and female members,” Essick said. “There members can receive national, department are officers and enlisted within our ranks. and detachment-level scholarships yearly.”

There are combat veterans from Korea, It also offers support for the local honVietnam, Desert Storm, Desert Shield and or guard. “The mission of a Marine Corps the current conflicts among us. There are League honor guard is to provide military those who have only served during peace- honors for funerals, memorial services, time, we have members that are still serv- dedication ceremonies and other civic ocing and there is also limited number of casions as may be requested,” Essick said. associate members who live up to our stan- “As a member of the Marine Corps League, dards and adhere to our principles.” you can once again enjoy the camaraderie The Marine Corps League was founded in you had while serving. We have in our ranks 1923 by Maj. Gen./Commandant John Le- members of several generations and theJeune and chartered by an act of Congress atres of operation. We would be honored to in 1937. The league is the only federally have new members to help us continue our chartered, Marine Corps-related veterans missions.” organization in the country. Since its earFor more information, please contact Esliest days, the Marine Corps League has sick at ronessick@aol.com or visit www. enjoyed the support and encouragement mclriverview.org.

Page 52

Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition

Volume 22, Issue 12

BECKY MCDANIELS CELEBRATES NEXT GENERATION CONTINUES HER MATHNASIUM TEAM AND TNT TERMITE & PEST CONTROL’S EXCEPTIONAL SERVICE NEW RIVERVIEW CENTER

By Makenzie Atkins Noel

By Lily Belcher Mathnasium’s 10-year have to be scary. At celebration was a speMathnasium, we make cial one for owner Becky it fun to learn math in a McDaniels, as the local safe and welcoming entutoring center is preparvironment.” ing to open its Riverview The grand opening location. was on November 6, but “I feel so honored and McDaniels plans to host blessed to have been a larger celebration afgiven the opportunity ter the holidays. to change lives through “We look forward to math each day and to be welcoming all in to see surrounded by an incredwhat Mathnasium is all ible team and supporting about and to visit our husband of 31 years. My brand-new facility,” Mcheart is full,” McDaniels Daniels said.

Lance and Becky McDaniels have said.

The journey to openMcDaniels and her made Mathnasium possible for the ing the Riverview localast 10 years. team hosted a red-carpet tion is three years in the celebration on October making.

Mathnasium 22 for neighbors, friends was waiting for the new and community memplaza to be completed bers to commemorate a before it received its decade of serving math certificate of occupanstudents. The celebration cy and opened its doors was complete with math to Riverview students. games, cake and awards The center currently has for longtime employees. four instructors and is The Mathnasium administration One of these longtime hiring more to serve loteam strives to help local math stuemployees is Baylor Kull, dents at the Brandon and Riverview cal math students from who will serve as the K4 through K12. locations. center director at the Riverview location.

“Our passion is for our students to grow Kull was the first hired instructor and has in confidence and smiling when they have worked alongside McDaniels to support their ‘aha’ moments,” McDaniels said. “The Mathnasium since the center opened its kids walking into the center is my favorite doors on October 28, 2013. part of the day.”

McDaniels said the decision to open a The Riverview Mathnasium center is loRiverview location came in response to an cated at 13388 S. U.S. 301 off Big Bend influx of students to the area.

Road. For more information on the new “My heart is to reach as many students center, call 813-565-1102 or visit www. as we can,” McDaniels said. “Math doesn’t mathnasium.com/riverview/about.

Many families while expanding have things they their involvement in pass down throughthe community. out generations, of“I never would tentimes a piece of have envisioned furniture, vintage working in a career jewelry or maybe involving insects, family traditions. For but it’s a lot of fun this local couple, it is and I learn sometheir family-owned thing new about and operated busi- Ed and Bonnie Tekampe are thrilled to be bugs every day,” able to pass their business on to their son, ness. said Grace, “I was Andy Tekampe, as they know he will be Ed and Bonnie obsessed with bugs a great leader for the TNT Termite & Pest Tekampe founded when I was a little Control team.

TNT Termite & Pest girl, so I guess I Control in 2011 and have been serving came full circle.”

Eastern Hillsborough County ever since.

TNT Termite & Pest Control offers a Now, they are ready to pass it along to wide range of pest solutions, including their son, Andy Tekampe, and his wife, treatments for ants, wasps, roaches, Grace Tekampe. silverfish, spiders, and subterranean Andy has been working in the family termites. The company primarily serves business since 2012 and has since be- Eastern Hillsborough County, covercome a certified operator in both pest ing areas such as Lithia, FishHawk, and termite control. As the years went Bloomingdale, Valrico, Riverview, Apolby and his parents began considering re- lo Beach, Brandon, Seffner, Dover, Gibtirement, they knew they would want to sonton, Wimauma, Sun City Center and pass along their company to him.

Ruskin.

“I look forward to working with cus“Customers will still feel that sense of tomers more and further expanding ed- familiarity knowing it was passed down ucation on native Florida insects,” said to their son,” said Grace, new co-owner Andy, now co-owner of TNT, who aims of TNT. “They still get that comfort with to gain more experience as a leader for the familiar Tekampe name.” his team and make sure that everything The Tekampe family is looking forward operates smoothly. to the future of TNT and are excited to In addition to Andy’s expertise, continue community engagement, exGrace’s background in customer service pand their educational initiatives and enand her passion for writing and commu- sure that the business continues to thrive. nication make her a valuable addition to For more information, please contact the TNT team. As residents of FishHawk Grace at grace@tnttermiteandpestconthemselves, the two aim to continue pro- trol.com or visit https://tnttermiteandviding exceptional pest control services pestcontrol.com/.

Glow Up for the Holidays • 25% OFF First IV Vitamin Drip after initial consultation • BOGO 50% on 2nd Facial • $20 OFF Customized Massage Experience (80 Minutes or longer)

Must present coupon at time of purchase. Not valid with any other offers and discounts. Limit one coupon/offer per visit. Exp 1/31/2024.

Spa

Facials Waxing IPL/Laser Rejuvenation oto Ph Hair Removal

Welln

Live Blood ess A Nutrition nalysis Coaching Body Conto Suppleme uring ntati IV Therapy on Functiona l Medicine

Massageorts

Therapeutic Sp Lymphatic Deep Tissue Reiki Hot Stone

NOW Accepting New Patients Call today to schedule an appointment.

813-530-0903 631 W. Lumsden Rd. | Brandon, FL 33511

Dr. Helen Tong, PhD. DNM/Owner

Dr. Keith Tong, Ph.D DNM/Owner

Dr. Prudhvi Karumanchi, MD

813-651-3258

3339 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. Valrico (In the Sprouts Plaza)

www.bluindigospa.com

Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition

December 2023

Page 53

FESTIVE FLAMINGOS ON DISPLAY AT THE EIGHTH ANNUAL VFCC SHOP LOCAL

Staff Report

The eighth annual Valrico FishHawk Chamber of Commerce (VFCC) Shop Local event, held on October 21, was a resounding succes. With over 60 area vendors, there was fun for the whole family, including shopping, food and pumpkin patch photo ops. A favorite tradition, the decorated flamingo competition, brought out the fun and creative side from many area businesses. The 2023 VFCC charity of choice, Faces of Courage, was the beneficiary of funds raised at the event. From ribbon-cuttings to after-hours events to business connections, there are plenty of opportunities for your business with a membership in the VFCC. Visit www.valricofishhawk.org for membership details.

Grand Champion/Best Holiday Spirit Sew n Sew — Kathy Vircik.

Most Creative RYT IT Solutions — Jennifer Montgomery.

Best Company Representation State Farm Insurance — Melissa Snively.

Funniest Barefoot Fairies — Doe Farrell.

Best Dressed The Stylist Chick — Barbara Ellis.

Entire flock of flamingos.

Honorary Mayor’s Choice Cardinal Roofing — Bridget Wilson.

Kids’ Choice Vine Vegan — Danielle Stevens.

Most Floridian Noonday — Jennifer Stinson.

VFCC President’s Choice Sugar Lees Gourmet Coffee Service.

For more information on the VFCC, visit www.valricofishhawk.org or call 813-324-7902.

Schedule Your Tour Today!

ent Living Independent ary Ser vices With Complim

ing r ed Liv Assist Brandon...living you

“Tessera

lifestyle.”

Careishing oryt...c Mempre her sen

“Living the

the past.”

Call for details and pricing!

TesseraBrandon.com

Assisted Living Facility #AL13150

Have a smashing good time with friends & family

Smash! ! r e t t a l Sp throw!

Happy Ho liday

s

From Our Home To Yours!

1320 Oakfield Dr. Brandon, FL 33511 813-607-6880

Book Now!

813-807-6274 863 E Bloomingdale Ave Brandon FL 33511

Page 54

Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition

MAISI SIGLER WANTS TO SERVE IN MILITARY; COMMITS TO WEST POINT SOFTBALL PROGRAM

May you have joy, laughter and the makings of wonderful memories this holiday season!

By Nick Nahas

CHRISTMAS DINNER

Turkey & Ham By The Pound, Savory Sides and Delicious Desserts!

Order deadline: Monday 12/18.

Delivery: Saturday 12/23 See Full Menu And Place Orders Online at:

DavenportsDailyDelights.com

KO Kickboxing

Maisi Sigler, first the Army, and with baseman/outfielder a West Point educafor the Academy of tion, she will be able Holy Names, has been to be commissioned a softball standout for in the Army upon the school since she graduation as an ofwas in eighth grade. ficer. She wants to She got her start playmajor in computer ing in the FishHawk science and join the recreational softball cyber branch of the league as a kid. The Army. She’s been game has opened the coding since sixth door for the Riverview grade. resident to pursue her The softball star lifelong goal of servwas inspired by her Photos courtesy of Melissa Moss. ing in the Army. grandfather, Louis W. Maisi Sigler went on a visit to West Point Johnson, who served She committed to with her mom, Becky Sigler. the West Point softin the Army for more ball program and will than 32 years. Sigler officially sign in Februnever got to meet him, ary 2024 once she has but her family has told her official acceptance her for her whole life to the school. Sigler has that she embodies his her letter of assurance spirit and energy. and nomination but is Sigler wants to make still going through the the most of her last long process of admithigh school softball seatance to the prestigious son, especially since she school. won’t be able to play in Softball star Maisi Sigler was inspired “I met the Army by her grandfather Louis W. Johnson, the summer because of coaches, and they were who served in the Army for more than basic training. She beamazing. I feel a lot lieves that softball has 32 years. more at peace now helped her grow from a that I am committed,” said Sigler. “I’ve leadership perspective and will carry on always wanted to join the Army. It just into her military career. made sense that I would go somewhere “My goals for softball in college are to that is not only a prestigious university keep getting stronger, keep getting betbut also somewhere I could meet my end ter, work well with my team — things goal of joining the Army and put me in a that I can use in the Army that will benegood spot.” fit me in the future,” said Sigler.

Sigler was always planning on joining

Volume 22, Issue 12

813-588-KICK

173 E Bloomingdale Ave Brandon, FL 33511 (Located next to Urban Air)

KOKickboxingTampa.com

December 2023

Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition

Page 55

THE GIFT OF GIVING THIS CHRISTMAS SEASON

By Ashley Abene Inflation has made it diftoys during the Christmas ficult financially for many season. There are many families this year, making drop-off locations for toys, the need across the nabut exact locations can be tion staggering. Thankfulfound at https://tampa-fl. ly, there are many ways to toysfortots.org. help those in the communi- Metropolitan Ministries has For over 50 years, Metrobeen providing toys for kids in ty, as several organizations politan Ministries has been need every Christmas season. are hosting charity supporting families drives this Christmas in need throughout season. the year. This holiday ECHO (Emergency season, MetropoliCare Health Ortan Ministries is ganization) is a expected to suplocal organization port over 30,000 that supports families through families in crisis its various drives with emergency and holiday tents. food, clothing and Learn more about other resources. ECHO partners with local the ways to help at www.metromin.org/ churches every holiday season to provide holiday-central/ways-to-give/. toys and food through The Brandon Gift Meals on Wheels is an organization that of Hope. There are many ways to give to supports the homebound, elderly and disthis drive, such as monetary donations, abled within the community. Each Decemshopping for the wish list and volunteer- ber, Meals on Wheels delivers holiday gift ing. More information about how to par- bags to those within the program. Volunticipate can be found at https://echofl.org/ teers are needed to help deliver these gift holiday-assistance/. bags. More information can be found at Salvation Army’s Angel Tree is a way to https://mowtampa.org/programs/holiday/. donate a toy to a local child this ChristFinally, The Give Joy Collective is made mas. To participate, head to an Angel Tree up of local foster moms, who have a heart location, grab an angel off the tree, pur- for children in the foster care system. In chase gifts for that child and return with a combination effort of local churches and the unwrapped gifts. For a list of all Angel The Give Joy Collective, it hosts Christmas Tree locations, call 813-549-5303 or go for Fosters which helps foster children to https://salvationarmyflorida.org/holi- have a lovely Christmas. This year, 900 day-assistance/. foster children are expected to be sponToys for Tots, a U.S. Marine Corps Re- sored through this program. Christmas serve program that collects toy donations for Fosters needs monetary donations or for children of all ages, has been collecting sponsoring a foster child. More informadonations for the last 76 years. In 2022, tion on this program can be found at www.

Toys for Tots was able to distribute 131,855 christmasforfosters.com.

Dear Santa,

Is this covered?

love, me

Call today for a FREE EVALUATION of your current coverages!

s ±

Call One Of Our Elves! (813) 213-9600

± ± OCMP

k1 ? kc OI c A IO}

Ŭ ů ů Ŷ s Ų ŵ Ų Ÿ Ū ū Ų Ÿ ű ŷ Ť Ŭ ŵ 4 Ŧ Ų Ű

400 Frandorson Cir., Apollo Beach

Page 56

Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition

Volume 22, Issue 12