Osprey Observer Bloomingdale/FishHawk 05 2019

Bloomingdale/FishHawk 49-57

18 C E L E B R A T I N G

May 2019 Volume 18, Issue 5 Ph: 657-2418 1 7

Y E A R S

O F

P U B L I S H I N G

P O S I T I V E

C O M M U N I T Y

N E W S

Kiwanis Teddy Bear Project Delivery To Local Schools Provides Student Comfort

BayCare Fitness Center Offers State Of The Art Health & Wellness Solutions

Counselors at feelings and express local schools have a themselves in connew tool to help stustructive ways; estabdents thanks to lishing a safe and Kiwanis members and supportive learning Hillsborough County environment for every Public School’s student.”

(HCPS) Security and Lithia’s Pinecrest Emergency Elementary is one of Management Office. the schools benefitting Through the from the program.

Elementary Teddy “We have so Bear Project, HCPS many kids who can has purchased stuffed use something to love teddy bears for school that the bears have counselors to loan or been an instant hit,” share with traumasaid Kim Terrell, Pinecrest Elementary in Lithia is one Pinecrest Elementary tized students many schools throughout the coun- School Counselor. throughout the school oftry that received animals from The year.

Elementary Teddy Bear Project, fund- “They are great for ed by the Kiwanis and Hillsborough kids who are scared “This is just one County Public Schools. School of the innovative or frightened, espeCounselor Kim Terrell has already put strategies the district the bears to good use to soothe upset cially kids coming students and help others work through from foster homes or is using to help with problems. students’ emotional dealing with divorce or and social learning,” said HCPS Media other traumatic events in their life. It’s Outreach Representative Tanya Arja. just a great way to calm them down and “The hope is that the teddy bears will really help us connect with them.” allow school psychologists and social Terrell is grateful for the five bears workers to help children address unrethe school received, but stated that the solved emotional issues that hinder a students would really benefit from more child’s socialization and learning animals so that she could let some take processes.” them home with them.

The Kiwanis group donated $3,000 “Although these have been great at towards the purchase of more than 900 school, if anyone has any bears sitting teddy bears that were distributed by unused at home, we would gladly take School Security Officers for Hillsborough them,” she said. “Many of our kids could Schools countywide. Each campus really something of their own to support received four or five bears. them forever.”

“Our school security officers are To learn more about the program, delivering the teddy bears as a way to visit www.sdhc.k12.fl.us or call 272build relationships with our most vulnera- 4000. Pinecrest Elementary is located at ble students,” said Arja. “The teddy 7950 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. and can be bears will help students connect to their reached at 744-8164.

The BayCare Fitness Center in Bloomingdale is part of the BayCare HealthHub-a high-tech health and wellness destination designed to make life better for residents in the greater Brandon area and surrounding communities. The state-of-the-art health and wellness facility incorporates innovative technology and convenience to not just treat symptoms, but also to keep families healthier. The 115,000- q. ft. facility The BayCare Fitness Center in Bloomingdale integrates traditional health care servicincludes a HealthHub and state of the art fitness facility that is a one-stop experience for es such as primary care, pediatrics, health and wellness for the whole family. adult rehabilitation, behavioral health, The new BayCare Fitness Center in urgent care, imaging and laboratories Bloomingdale is a 20,000 sq. ft., state-ofwith wellness activities, including fitness the-art facility designed to provide servicclasses, nutrition education and like-mindes focused on whole body health and ed retailers, to promote healthy living. wellness. The fitness center, managed by Patients also experience a streamlined EXOS–a global leader in human perform- visit as they check in only once at a cenance and fitness management incorpotral registration desk for multiple health rates high-tech wellness tools through and wellness services. web, mobile and in-person experiThis facility’s amenities also help creences. At the recent open house, comate an environment where wellness, community members and BayCare team munity and fitness become one. At the members were invited to take a first look heart of a holistic approach to fitness are at the state-of-the-art fitness center. More the Four Pillars Methodology–mindset, than 200 guests attended the event. nutrition, movement and recovery.

Todd Jones, vice president of ambuBayCare Fitness Center is located at latory experience and operations, 2470 Bloomingdale Ave. in Valrico. For explained that the facility includes the latmore information, call 995-8728 or visit est cardio and strength equipment, perwww.baycare.org/locations/b/baycare-fitsonal training, a free fitness tracker for ness-center-bloomingdale. members, more than 50 group exercise classes per week (including barre and yoga), separate yoga and cycling studios, In This fully equipped locker rooms and nutrition Issue and meal planning services with a certified registered dietitian. On-site childcare PURPLE FOR MILITARY CHILD ............PG 3 services will be available for an additional fee.

COUNTY COMMISSIONERSL ............PG 10 According to Jones, what makes this BLOOMINGDALE VISITS EUROPE ....PG 15 fitness center different others is, “the integration, innovation and personalization of BOKOR ‘S CORNER ...........................PG 16 multiple services under one location.”

“We offer integration of medical servEYE ON BUSINESS .....................PGS 25‐26 ices with BayCare TechDeck, single regCHALKLINES .....................................PG 38 istrations desks and other innovative technology,” said Jones. “We’re also perSPORTS CONNECTION...............PGS 32‐33 sonalizing services that meet members READ MORE LOCAL NEWS ONLINE where they are and recommending prowww.ospreyobserver.com grams and materials that support their journey.”

By Kelly Wise Valdes

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Serving Our Customers in 4 Locations: Lithia • Big Bend, Riverview • 301, Riverview • Sun City Center 737-9223 10415 C.R. 39 (Just 2 miles south of FishHawk at the corner of Lithia Pinecrest Rd and CR 39)

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Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Volume 18, Issue 5

May 2019

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Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Kids Wear Purple, Recognized In Local Schools, For Month Of The Military Child

By Stacy Huisman

Local schools celand students to wear ebrated the Month of the color purple, celethe Military Child with brated with activities parties, posters and and adorned bulletin the color purple. boards with facts about Because military kids military life. Randall serve, too, area eleMiddle School, with mentary schools nearly 150 military stuFishHawk Creek, dents, also offered a Bevis, Stowers and special day to wear purLithia Springs desigple and hosted doughnated a week in April nuts for their military to show their apprecikids.

Piper Bourgeois and Abby Huisman ation for the sacrifices According to the are surprised by their thank these students make Hillsborough County you notes written to them by their active duty parent. while supporting their Public School military parents. records, Fishhawk In 1986, April was and Lithia area designated Month of schools have the the Military Child by largest population of Defense Secretary military-connected Casper Weinberger to students outside the recognize and thank gates of MacDill AFB. children from military Many military families families for the sacrimove to the area for fices they make living the highly rated the military lifestyle. schools, despite the World Map in the media center of Purple UP is the camlong and arduous FishHawk Creek of all the places mili- commute to MacDill paign that propels tary kids live. activities throughout AFB. the Month of the Military Schools with a large Child to honor, acknowlpopulation of military-conedge, and support milinected students are faced tary-connected kids in our with supporting the unique schools and communities. lifestyle military families FishHawk Creek experience. According to Elementary School offered the Department of a They Serve, Too dessert Defense, active duty milibar for their Military Kids’ tary families move every Club members. Their milione to three years and the tary or veteran parent average military-connectTreat bags and thank wrote thank you letters to ed student will attend six you notes for military kids at to nine schools during their kids expressing their local elementary schools. gratitude for support and their K-12 school experibravery when faced with challenges of ence. The continual moving creates chaldeployments and multiple moves. lenges in academic and social growth for Students read their surprise thank you many military kids. notes while enjoying a sea of purple A study published in Military Medicine treats. Military Kids’ Club volunteers found that military kids who move more served up nearly 72 military students with frequently may experience greater difficula note of gratitude with a side of purple ty making new friends, may struggle more sweets. in school and could have more emotional Emily Robinson, a Marine spouse and behavioral issues. However, the with two military students at FishHawk study says a supportive family, school Creek says, “The Purple UP dessert bar and community can help prevent many and thank you notes were especially issues. important for military kids because they FishHawk and Lithia schools joined need to be reminded and thanked for other schools from around the world in their service, too. They grow up in famiApril by recognizing these little warriors lies where sacrifice, deployments and fre- during the Month of the Military Child quent change are normal and expected. “ while filling their school hallways with a Stowers, Lithia Springs and Bevis sea of purple and camouflage.

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It Takes A Village To Get Students Safely To School: Area Representatives Meet Randall Middle School and Principal Claire Mawhinney hosted a meeting attended by several organizations and county groups earlier this month. Safe Bus for US!!! Advocacy for Safe School Bus Transportation’s Josephine Amato, organized this meeting to address concerns regarding students arriving and leaving school safely. Hillsborough County Public School (HCPS) Transportation Department, State District 57 Representative Michael Beltran's office, HCPS Board Member Melissa Snively; Randall Middle and Newsome High School’s Resource Officers and Lieutinent from Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office (HCSO); Newsome’s Principal Carla Bruning and Randall’s Principal Claire Mawhinney; local and county PTSA representatives; and Hillsborough County Public Works' traffic division were all and attended the meeting.

With all the different departments represented, resolutions to high priority items were heard and addressed. The first concern was the crosswalk at the corner of FishHawk Crossing Blvd. and FishHawk Blvd. where cars turn right on red not allowing students to fully utilize the crosswalk during the pedestrian crossing signal

By Kathi Hayes

timeframe.

According to Public Works’ traffic division, they had already ordered the ‘blank out’ signs, which will be installed over the summer.

The signs will not allow cars to turn right on red.

The second concern was the extension of the ‘End Of School Zone’ sign to include the crosswalk previously mentioned. This would allow the speed zone to remain 20 mph as students cross instead of the current 45 mph. While the concern was heavily addressed by many, including the HCSO, unfortunately, the Public Works did not see the immediate danger and would readdress it in the future.

Other concerns include the plastic poles (quick curbs) at the crosswalk on FishHawk Blvd. unintentionally routing students into the road; the crosswalk in the middle of Newsome parent car line; pathways from FishHawk Trails and FishHawk Ranch Phase One cutting through CDD and TECO property and leaving students to cut through a high traffic parking lots; and continued discussion defining the county’s definition of ‘hazardous conditions.’

For more information and updates, visit www.facebook.com/groups/safebusforus/.

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Blu Indigo Brings Safety Harbor Spa Experience To Valrico Location Valrico resident Leticia Kallas has dreamed of owning a spa for decades. Last October, her dream came true when she opened Blu Indigo Spa in the Sprouts-anchored plaza at the intersection of Bloomingdale Ave. and Lithia Pinecrest Rd., and she has already developed a strong following in just a few months.

An esthetician for 25 years, many of which she spent at the famous Safety Harbor Spa, Kallas has put her heart into Blu Indigo and it shows.

“I had been talking about opening a spa for years but between our other family business and our children, the time never seemed right,” said Kallas, whose family also owns and operates Cafe Cuba, formerly La Cubinita, in the Crunch Fitness Plaza. “But this opportunity fell into my lap and I am loving every minute of it.”

Blu Indigo is a different spa experience from the moment a customer opens the door to the 1,800 sq. ft. building.

“From the decor to the music, beverages offered and even the stem-wear we use, I really wanted to create an experience here,” said Kallas, who talked about the Greek influences she incorporated in the spa’s peaceful decor.

An extensive list of services, including a large variety of manicures, pedicures, facials, massage and waxing

Volume 18, Issue 5

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

By Kate Quesada

options, is just one of the things that sets Blu Indigo apart.

“I was very specific when developing our menu,” said Kallas, who personally trains all of her employees to make sure that every customer receives the same level of service at the spa. “I want to guarantee that every service is beautiful from beginning to end.”

The Blu Indigo team of five massage therapists, two estheticians and two nail technicians uses high-quality products chosen by Kallas to be as natural as possible. Products used for nail services include Zoya, a vegan line, and Bio Seaweed Gel, which comes from Canada.

According to Kallas, one of the spa’s most popular services is the Charcoal Detox Pedicure, which uses White Japanese Charcoal to detoxify the skin.

“My goal is to create a space that people want to come back to,” she said.

“The spa is calm and cozy and we work to make a visit here a true experience from beginning to end.”

“I want customers to be able to come in all the time, not just for special occasions,” she said. “Routine maintenance is as important as brushing your teeth.”

Blu Indigo Spa is located at 3339 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. and can be reached at 651-3258. For more information, a full list of services and to request an appointment, visit www.bluindigospa.com.

Newsome High School Orchestra Plays At Carnegie Hall, New York City

By Michelle Caceres

Members of the Newsome High School orchestra are not the only ones basking in the glow of a once-in-a-lifetime accomplishment- performing in the worldrenowned Carnegie Hall in New York City.

It’s orchestra director ,Christopher Allen. was pretty enamored with the experience as well.

While waiting nervously backstage to be announced, a stagehand, whose job it was to open the stage door, said, “You know I’ve opened this door for some of the greats…and now I’m opening it for you!”

That comment was enough to put a smile on Allen’s face as he walked on stage.

“There was nothing that could have prepared me for the emotions that washed over me as I walked on that stage,” he said. “This whole entire trip was one I will never forget.”

From the audience, parent volunteers were feeling emotional as well.

“I could tell that every student was playing their heart out on stage,” said parent chaperone Lacey Holt. “Our 100 musicians were playing their hearts out.”

Before the performance, the students had to walk almost a mile while attired for the performance in long gowns and tuxe-

dos and carrying their instruments down the streets of New York in frigid temperatures.

“They looked so mature and grownup in that moment,” Holt said.

Some young musicians experienced a lot of firsts during the trip: their first time on an airplane, first time in New York, first time on a subway, first time in Central Park and first time going to see a Broadway show, the hit-musical Aladdin.

Holt said one student in her group had never left Florida and it was also her first time on an airplane.

“I enjoyed watching her out of her element as she marveled at the concrete jungle and took a lot of photos with her camera,” she said.

Although some students experienced many firsts, every one of them was able to share the first time of playing at Carnegie Hall.

“They will be telling stories about that to their grandkids one day,” said Holt.

Newsome junior Regen Adams called the entire experience magical.

“It was a dream come true and one I’ll never forget,” she said.

After planning for nearly a year, Allen said the experience was over in a moment. However, he said making memories for his students made it all worth it.

“This was a thrilling experience for them that I hope they will remember always,” said Allen.

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May 2019

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Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

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Image Lift Offers Seminar - Look Younger Without Surgery

Thursday, May 2; 1 p.m. held at the River Hills Country Club located at 3943 New River Hills Pkwy., Valrico. Lunch served.

Call 888-875-3223 to reserve your spot Grand Prize drawing (one syringe of filler up to $1,200 in value) Visit www.ImageLift.com or Facebook.com/ImageLift.

Pet Vaccination Clinic At Kim’s Natural Pets

Saturday, May 4 and June 1; 2-3 p.m.

Kim’s Natural Foods – 2110 Lithia Pinecrest Rd., Valrico EZ Pet Low Cost Pet Vaccination Clinic Call 684-3663 to confirm.

Social Security Benefits Seminar Hosted By Angeloni Tax Advisory Group

Thursday, May 9 and Tuesday, May 21 at 5:45 p.m.

Learn strategies and principles behind the proper timing of taking your Social Security benefits; perfect for ages 58-67.

The HCC campus at the Regent, 6437 Watson Rd. in Riverview.

Call 626-7575 to make reservations. Leave message after 4:30 p.m.

Plants, Pollinators And Professionals - Making Gardening Great

Saturday, May 18; 10 a.m.-2 p.m. at 5339 CR 579, Seffner The cost is $10 and includes a gift bag containing a gardening book, rain gauge, hose nozzle, water bottle and free soil test, one per household.

Plant, recycled yard art and other vendors will be on-site. Volunteers will be on hand to answer questions.

Pre-registration required. Visit www.eventbrite.com/e/2019-florida-friendly landscaping-101-plants-pollinators-and-professionals-tickets-54994188097

Master Gardener Plant Clinics

Riverview Library, 10509 Riverview Dr. Tuesday, May 7; 6:30 p.m. – Open Forum with Master Gardeners A panel of Master Gardeners will be available to answer your landscape questions. Class participants encouraged to bring samples and questions for group discussion.

For more information, call 273-3652.

Parkinson's Support Group At Savannah Court Of Brandon

Third Tuesday of the month; 6 p.m.

Savannah Court of Brandon, 824 N. Parsons Ave., Brandon Call 643-6767 to RSVP with Rhonda Fournier, Executive Director.

Hawthorne Health & Rehab Parkinson’s Disease Support Group

Third Thursday of the month; 2 p.m.

851 W. Lumsden Rd., Brandon For more information or to register, call 661-8998 - M-F 9 a.m.-5 p.m.

Calling All Marines, FMF Corpsmen And FMF Chaplains

First Tuesday of the month; 7 p.m.

Alafia American Legion Post #148, 7240 US Hwy. 301 in Riverview.

The Sgt. Walter P. Ryan Detachment of the Marine Corps League is looking for new members.

All Marines welcome. Other military branch members accepted too.

Email mclsgtryan@gmail.com or call Ron Essick at 503-0390.

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Page 6

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

AdventHealth Building Emergency Care Center In Brandon

By Brad Stager

Ahearn, director of corporate communications for AdventHealth West Florida Division, the Brandon emergency department will be able to stabilize emergency patients and will have 12-24 beds available, with extended follow-up treatment just an ambulance ride away.

“If we had a patient come to the ER who needed to be admitted or transferred for in-patient care, they would go to AdventHealth Tampa.”

The southeast corner of the property where Hoenes-Ahern also said AdventHealth is building a freestanding emergency room that will be open 24/7 and AdventHealth is committed to providing scheduled to open in early 2020. a high level of comprehensive emerEmergency medical care for an accigency medical care. dent or illness is going to be more acces“We are really heartfelt and passible to Brandon and nearby east sionate about looking at where our comHillsborough County residents with the munity needs more healthcare services, construction of a new, 18,000 sq. ft., free- and we know there’s a lot of growth in standing emergency medical room by Brandon, so we are very dedicated to AdventHealth at 305 E. Brandon Blvd. making sure there are convenient, The facility is expected to open in early accessible, high-quality options for peo2020 and replaces a Florida Orthopaedic ple there.”

Institute clinic on the property.

Freestanding emergency rooms Freestanding emergency rooms, or have become a trend in the local hospioff-site emergency departments, are tal industry. Existing facilities include St. state-licensed medical facilities detached Joseph's Hospital-South Emergency from but under the direction of a hospital, Center in Riverview and TGH in this case AdventHealth Tampa in north Emergency Center Brandon.

Hillsborough County, about 30 minutes AdventHealth is also constructing a away. It is certified to provide the same freestanding ER in Carrollwood, and level of care as a hospital-based emerBrandon Regional Hospital, three mingency room and must be open 24 hours utes from AdventHealth’s new facility, daily. Medical staff working in a freestand- has plans for a freestanding emergency ing ER are required to have the same room in Wesley Chapel. qualifications as if they were working at AdventHealth Tampa hospital is an emergency room attached to a hospilocated across the street from the tal.

University of South Florida, at 3100 E. According to Richelle HoenesFletcher Ave.

Volume 18, Issue 5

Nothing Like Mahler In May With The Florida Orchestra

By Kelly Smith

Did you know picnic and plenty of The Florida canned goods for Orchestra performs Tampa Bay Harvest. more than 130 conInside certs a season?

Shostakovich Many of them are (Thursday, May 23): free or cost little. And Michael Francis that is how the seablends humor, smart son wraps up in May, analysis and live with a mix of stellar orchestra demos to concerts in the contake you on a journey cert hall and in the through community.

Shostakovich’s Colin Currie, a percussionist, will Mahler’s Symphony No. 5, perform Switch at the Mahler concert Symphony No. 1 ending with a perperformed Friday and Saturday, May 3 (Friday and formance of the entire and 4.

Saturday, May 3 & 4): Mahler’s spellsymphony. You will never listen to music binding Symphony No. 1, ‘Titan,’ is the same way again. Admission is pay framed by Steve Reich’s unusual Music what you can at the door at the Palladium for Pieces of Wood and Andrew Theater in St. Petersburg.

Norman’s ridiculously virtuosic percussion Tchaikovsky’s Violin Concerto concerto Switch, featuring Colin Currie.

(Friday-Sunday, May 24-26): TFO’s 51st Switch was written especially for Currie, season wraps up with Tchaikovsky’s who has said he feels like “being trapped dashing yet graceful Violin Concerto, a inside a pinball machine’’ when performhighly demanding piece that shows the ing it on instruments stretched across the virtuosic skill of TFO Concertmaster stage. Michael Francis conducts. Tickets Jeffrey Multer. The concert ends on start at $18; free tickets for kids and teens Shostakovich’s heroic masterpiece, in advance.

Symphony No. 5. Michael Francis conFree Pops in the Park (Friday and ducts. Tickets start at $18; free tickets for Sunday, May 10 & 12): This spring TFO kids and teens in advance. performs concerts in two parks, The Florida Orchestra performs reguCoachman Park in Clearwater (May 10) larly at the Straz Center in Tampa, and Julian B. Lane Riverfront Park in Mahaffey in St. Petersburg and Ruth Tampa (May 12) – perfect for Mother’s Eckerd Hall in Clearwater.

Day. TFO Assistant Conductor Daniel The orchestra offers affordably priced Black directs film scores, Broadway hits tickets to a variety of concerts; prices and symphonic favorites with a grand vary. finale of Tchaikovsky’s 1812 Overture and See www.FloridaOrchestra.org or a patriotic salute. All free. Bring a blanket, call 727-892-3337 and 800-662-7286.

May 2019

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Page 7

The Outreach Clinic Presents Its 8th Annual Kentucky Derby Party- A Taste Of The Derby

18th Annual SeaGrapes Wine & Food Festival Supports Aquarium

The Derby themed Outreach Clinic games including will host its the Kentucky Eighth Annual Derby race, raffles Kentucky Derby and prizes.

Party- A Taste of Debbie the Derby on Meegan, Saturday, May 4 Executive Director from 5:30 to 9:30 of The Outreach p.m. at The Clinic said, “The Regent, located money raised Get dressed up in your finest at 6437 Watson continues to be Rd. in Riverview. Kentucky Derby outfit and hat used for life savand join others to raise funds Tickets are $100 ing health care. and awareness about The Outreach Clinic. per person. All This year, we will proceeds will benefit the Outreach Clinic. celebrate our 30th The Outreach Clinic's Eighth Annual year as a free clinic. There are still thouKentucky Derby Party is a fun and excit- sands of uninsured individuals living in ing event. Your ticket gets you compliour community who suffer from chronic mentary valet parking and more. There diseases such as diabetes, congestive will be over 10 area restaurants and heart failure, asthma and high blood caterers offering food samplings. These pressure. They have nowhere else to go include Outback, Stein & Vine, Tampa to get healthcare.”

Caterer, Don’t Forget The Food The clinic provides much needed Catering, Hats Off To Dining, Eddie healthcare to those who do not have Bull’s Cookie Dough, Nothing Bunt health insurance and cannot afford Cakes and LeAnne’s Cookies. healthcare. Most of those who are The free open bar will offer premium served, either hold a part-time job alcohol, wine and beer and will feature receive only minimum wage, are receivtwo signature drinks- the Classic Mint ing unemployment compensation or Julep and a Blueberry Mint Julep. You have Social Security Disability can watch the Kentucky Derby live on Insurance. two big screens.

The Outreach Clinic is located at No Kentucky Derby party would be 517 N. Parsons Ave. in Brandon. To get complete without fancy hats and welltickets, visit www.theoutreachclinic.com dressed ladies and gentlemen. Ladies or contact Susan Carasea at can compete in the Most Beautiful and susan@theoutreachclinic.com or email Creative Hat Contests and the Most Meegan at Fascinating Fascinator. A silent auction director@theoutreachclinic.com or call will feature over 50 items. There will be 654-1388.

celebration of our ocean and our community of ocean supporters.”

Dress is cocktail attire. VIP ticket holder entry will begin at 7 p.m. for early access to the food and drinks, as well as a special VIP area with exclusive food and drink options. As a VIP, you will have full access to the VIP-only area featuring exclusive food and wines as well as complimentary valet parking available at the Aquarium’s SeaGrapes Wine & Food Festival is The Florida main entrance.

Aquarium’s largest annual One hundred percent of the fundraiser. This year it will proceeds from tickets purchased take place on Saturday, May 18 from 8-11 p.m. Enjoy over 100 types of support The Florida Aquarium’s, a wine and great food from local restaurant partners.

501(c)(3) not-for-profit, mission to both entertain and educate as well Join The Florida Aquarium for its as inspire stewardship of our natural envi18th annual SeaGrapes Wine & Food ronment.

Festival fundraising event presented by During the event, a silent auction will Amalie Oil on Saturday, May 18 from 8-11 take place. Guests can bid on an impresp.m. sive array of auction items that appeal to SeaGrapes provides guests with an adventurers, arts and culture buffs, fashunforgettable evening featuring more than ionistas, sports fans, luxury travelers and 100 types of wine, gourmet food from gourmands. numerous premier restaurants and a full You must be 21 or over to attend. night of entertainment including access to General admission tickets are $100, VIP all the Aquarium’s vibrant exhibits featurtickets are $250. ing over 8,000+ animals and plants that Bring your love of wine, your commitcall the Aquarium home. ment to the conservation of endangered “One of The Florida Aquarium’s species and your cell phone to bid on the goals is to be a leader for aquatic animal silent auction and be a part conservation and research, and our sigof #SeaGrapes2019 on social media. nature fundraiser event, SeaGrapes, For more information about the helps us to obtain that goal,” said Roger event, call 273-4000 or Germann, President and CEO. “It’s an visit flaquarium.org/seagrapes. exciting time to bring people together in The Florida Aquarium is located at support of our Blue Planet conservation 701 Channelside Dr. in Tampa. efforts. SeaGrapes is going to be a great

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Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Local Couple Celebrates 75th Anniversary When Dorothy (Dot) and Aldon George married in 1944, southeastern Hillsborough County was a very different place. The couple, who met on a bus Dot and Aldon George are celebrating their Aldon drove 75th wedding in Brandon anniversary this year. when Dot was 16, are celebrating their 75th wedding anniversary in June and have lived, started a successful business and raised their family in the area in that time.

“The Brandon area has changed so much,” said Dot. “We almost get lost when we go out now even though we have lived here our whole lives.”

At 91 and 92 years old, Dot and Aldon have three children, two daughters and a son-two of whom live in the Brandon area-nine grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.

They met as teenagers when Aldon was working as a bus driver in rural Hillsborough County, picking up workers for the Herman Sausage Plant, which was located on the land that now houses Brandon Ford.

“We always had a lot in common,” said Dot. “Including the fact that we are both twins.”

In 1944, George came home from his job in aviation for the Navy and the

By Kate Quesada

couple married in a small family ceremony at the Hillsborough County Court House in Tampa.

“We ran out of gas on the way home on our wedding day,” said Aldon.

“That is a funny story to look back on now.”

After the war, the couple started W.A. George Upholstery Inc. out of their home on Bloomingdale Ave. in Riverview. Two of their children now work at the business, which offers custom upholstery services for residential and commercial furniture.

During their years in Brandon, Dot and Aldon were very active , even working as greeters there for 25 years. Aldon also fondly remembers his time as a scout leader and especially enjoyed taking trips with his troop.

“We really had a lot of fun,” he said.

When asked to what she credits the length and success of their marriage, Dot mentions their faith in God and their willingness to compromise.

“We always got along,” she said. “We don’t think alike every time, but we do what we can to agree with each other.”

W.A. George Upholstery, located at 10416 Bloomingdale Ave. in Riverview, can be reached at 626-4980 or info@georgeup.com. For more information, visit www.georgeup.com.

Volume 18, Issue 5

Local MPact Services Helps Collect & Recycle Unwanted Electronics

By Nick Nahas

MPact how large or Services, run by small the size. husband and wife You can contact team Matt and the logistics Donna McCarty, department and helps businesses, schedule a time communities, and date for the agencies and removal of the other entities with material. MPact responsible elecwill provide you tronics recycling, with a certificate including consultof recycling or a Photo courtesy of MPact Services certificate of ing and project MPact will go to communities on the weekends destruction upon management and have collection events so that residents can services, along request to ensure responsibly get rid of their electronics. with disposal of none of your senscrap and surplus metals and obsolete sitive data is released back into the pubheavy equipment. lic.

The McCartys started the company The company works with homeownin 2014, and together, have used their ers associations around the area and on previous working experience to help select weekends will go to different comjump-start MPact. “We feel that our communities to hold collection events. Some pany makes an ‘MPact’ on the communiof the electronics are eventually repurty and the environment by providing our posed or used for scrap metal. The hard neighbors with an environmentally friendly drives are all erased and properly disand responsible way to properly dispose posed of. It can assist everyone from of their end-of-life electronics and scrap homeowners and small businesses all the items,” said McCarty. “The more material way up to large government agencies. we can recycle and/or repurpose, the The event calendar is located on its webmore we can lessen the stream of materi- site. als that are being sent to our landfills.”

For more information, you can visit MPact accepts most residential electhe website at MPactServicesUSA.com. tronic items like small appliances such as You can follow MPact Services on cell phones, as well as commercial type Facebook at MPact Services, LLC as equipment, from laptops to printers. You well. can find a list of items it accepts listed on “It gives people peace of mind, the their website, MPactServicesUSA.com. feeling of knowing that their electronics Its services, which are completely aren’t just going to be thrown in a landfill free, also include complimentary pickup and are handled responsibly,” said from your home or business, no matter McCarty. “That’s really important to us.”

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Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Local Group Makes Souvenirs For Children Of Wounded Athletes

By Kate Quesada

The children of athbags, which will contain a letes attending the variety of items from food Department of Defense and drink to toys to keep (DoD) Warrior Games in the children entertained Tampa this summer will during downtime with a have a special souvenir to theme of Everything take home with them Florida. Matos and other thanks to a local group. group members are workLed by FishHawk resident ing hard to crochet the Melissa Matos, members manatees as a special of the Greater Tampa Bay souvenir, but need help to FishHawk resident Melissa chapter of The Blue Star reach their goal.

Matos is looking for help assembling sports packs for Mothers of America Inc. Matos, whose son, the children of athletes are putting together sports Andrew, serves in the attending the Department of packs for the approximate- Defense’s Warrior Games in Army, became involved in Tampa this summer. ly 400 children with parents the project through her participating in the games and Matos is Blue Star Mothers of America group. The looking for residents who can crochet to women, all mothers of children who are help her hand make manatees to add to or have honorably served in the military, each pack. support service members and their chilDuring the DoD Warrior Games, dren. approximately 300 wounded, ill and “This is important to me because I injured service members and veterans enjoy giving back to my community and representing the United States Army, supporting our military and their families,” Marine Corps, Navy, Air Force and said Matos, who has lived in FishHawk Special Operations Command, in addition since 2000. to athletes from the United Kingdom The games will take place throughout Armed Forces, Australian Defense Force, the area, with events as close as Alafia Canadian Armed Forces, Armed Forces State Park, from June 21 to June 30. of the Netherlands and the Danish Armed Anyone interested in helping with the Forces, will compete in 14 sports includcrochet project should contact Matos at ing archery, cycling, indoor rowing and melisam007@aol.com. Financial donawheelchair tennis, rugby and basketball. tions can be mailed to c/o Margaret The goal of the games is to enhance the Simmons, Treasurer, 12932 93rd Ave. N., recovery and rehabilitation of wounded Seminole, FL 33776. warriors and to expose them to adaptive A full schedule of events can be sports. found at www.dodwarriorgames.com. To Matos and her group wanted to find learn more about the Tampa Bay Blue a way to support the athletes and their Star Mothers, search for the group on families and came up with the idea for the Facebook or email FL3BSM@gmail.com.

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Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Volume 18, Issue 5

Meet Your Elected Hillsborough County Board Of County Commissioners

By Kathy L. Collins

Commissioner Sandra Murman District 1 Do you know what the Hillsborough Board of County Commission (BOCC) does and who the Commissioners are? In this article, we will explain what the BOCC does, introduce you to the seven County Commissioners and let you know how you can contact them. The seven County Commissioners are there to serve the residents of Hillsborough County.

The Hillsborough County BOCC oversees the county and creates policy which provides a plan for the County Administrator to implement. In other words, the Hillsborough County BOCC is like a Board of Directors for a company. They are responsible for overseeing the county budget (your tax dollars), managing growth, land use and infrastructure. They are also responsible for every day issues such as garbage, street lights and filling potholes.

As part of their duties, the seven County Commissioners sit on various boards and Advisory Committees such as the Hospital Authority, Tampa Sports Authority, Expressway Authority, Visit Tampa Bay, Florida Aquarium, Arts Council of Hillsborough County, Environmental Protection Commission and Southwest Florida Water Management.

Commissioner Sandra Murman represents District 1 which covers West Hillsborough County from Ruskin to Keystone. Her Legislative Aides are Della Curry and Jeffrey Huggins. (272-5470) “As a longtime resident of Hillsborough County, I focus on economic development, creating jobs, transportation, ending homelessness and fighting the opioid crisis locally. I also focus on tackling human trafficking through awareness and education, addressing mental health issues through a successful Jail Diversion Program; and providing high quality critical children’s service,” said Commissioner Murman.

Commissioner Ken Hagan District 2

Commissioner Stacy White District 4

Commissioner Mariella Smith District 5

agement and environmental protection throughout the county. Smith is a fourthgeneration native of Tampa. She lives in Ruskin. As an avid cyclist, Commissioner Smith is working to get a paved trail- the South Coast Greenway Trail- built through South County.

Commissioner Smith said, “I will always put the interests of our communities and citizens first.”

Commissioner Smith’s Legislative Aides are Amanda Brown and David Yunk (272-5725).

District 6 is represented by Pat Kemp, the Vice Chair for the BOCC. Commissioner Kemp said, “I focus on land Commissioner Kimberly Overman Commissioner Pat Kemp use, transportation and sustainability. In addition to serving as Vice Chair, I am the District 7 District 6 Chair of the Environmental Protection Commissioner, Sandra Murman, representing District 1, Commissioner Ken Hagan, repreCommission.” Commissioner Kemp senting District 2, Commissioner Lesley “Les” Miller, representing District 3, Commissioner Stacy White, representing District 4, Commissioner, Mariella Smith, repre- added, “I am a huge supporter of the Ferry senting District 5, Commissioner, Pat Kemp, representing District 6 and Commissioner, System to connect South County to Kimberly Overman, representing District 7.

MacDill Air Force Base, downtown Tampa District 2, which covers Citrus Park, represented by Commissioner Stacy and St. Petersburg.”

Lutz and parts of North Brandon, is repreWhite.

Commisssioner Kemp’s Legislative sented by Ken Hagan. He is a native of Commissioner White said, “While I live Aides are Laura Lawson and Raquel Hillsborough County He has served on the in Valrico, I was raised in Wimauma as a Valdez (272-5730).

BOCC since 2002 and has represented fifth-generation Floridian. I want to protect District 7 is represented by Kimberly several districts during that time. and preserve the East Hillsborough Overman.

Commissioner Overman focusCommissioner Hagan’s Legislative lifestyle.” Commissioner White added, es on transit, homelessness, juvenile jusAides are Eric Denney and Richard Reidy “Being a County Commissioner, you are at tice and affordable housing.

“I focus on (272-5452). the level of government closest to the peothese issues so that people can get Lesley ‘Les’ Miller, Jr. is the County ple and work on issues that can have around the county safely.

As a Financial Commissioner for District 3. Commissioner immediate effects on the lives of your conPlanner, I have experience in giving advice Miller is the Chairman of the BOCC. stituents.” that helps people make good decisions to District 3 covers most of Tampa. He was Commissioner White’s Legislative take care of their lives.” elected to the BOCC in 2010. Prior to that, Aides are Megan Nixon and David Garcia As the County Liason to MacDill Air he had a long and distinguished career in (272-5740).

Force Base, Commissioner Overman is the Florida Senate from 2000 to 2006 and Districts 5, 6 and 7 are Countywide committed to seeing the Ferry System get the Florida House of Representatives from Districts which means that these three implemented as it will help people who live 1992 to 2000.

Commissioners represent every resident and work in the county and at MacDill.

Commissioner Miller’s Legislative and every corner of Hillsborough County.

Commissioner Overman’s Legislative Aides are Alphanette Jenkins and Larry A. District 5 is represented by Mariella Aides are Maya Brown and Monica Williams (272-5720).

Smith. She has been a community advoPetrella (272-5735).

District 4 touches Pasco County to the cate for decades working on community For information, visit www.hillsbornorth, Polk County to the east and plans, transportation plans, growth manoughcounty.org.

Manatee County to the south. District 4 is

May 2019

Page 11

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

County Gives Leaders A Backstage Pass

By Kate Quesada

PERSONAL INJURY

FAMILY LAW

Members of a recent Hillsborough Backstage Pass Program class toured the water treatment plant and are pictured here with George Cassady, Director of Public Utilities.

Every two weeks, 25 residents from around Hillsborough County have the opportunity to spend half a day experiencing local government firsthand. These residents are members of the county’s Backstage Pass Program, part of the Neighborhood Relations Department, and applications are currently being accepted for the next sixmonth session.

“It is such a wonderful program,” said Stephanie Agliano, the Neighborhood Liaison who has been running the program since 2017.

According to Agliano, Backstage Pass is designed to provide community leaders with an insider’s look at the workings of county government. With topics including Social Services, Transportation, Emergency Management, Parks and Recreation, the Medical Examiner and Fire Rescue, members learn though interactive presentations, demonstrations, conversations with department leaders and tours of facilities, including a water treatment plant and the Emergency Operations Center.

“What we really hope to accomplish is to make our community stronger and better through education,” she said.

Any resident over the age of 21 living or working full-time in Hillsborough County is eligible to apply to the program. Members must commit to attending at least nine of the 12 half-day sessions and must sign-up for

an orientation class to learn about the program requirements.

“The leaders who go through this program leave with a new appreciation of what county employees do,” said Agliano. “We hope that they leave more informed community leaders who go on to share their knowledge with neighbors, communities, friends and families.”

The program is free for those accepted and all course materials are included.

According to Agliano, one of the highlights of the program comes during one of the final sessions where members get a chance to put a lot of the information they have learned to good use.

“During one of the later sessions, the group is given the opportunity to make a budget for the county using real figures,” she said.

“That really gives them an appreciation for where the money goes and how hard it can be to run a county of this size.”

When the program is complete, members participate in a graduation ceremony and are then invited to join the group’s alumni program, which allows them an even greater opportunity to make an impact on the community and network with other leaders.

To apply for the Hillsborough Backstage Pass Program, visit www.HCFLGov.net or call the office of Neighborhood Relations at 272-5860.

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Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Volume 18, Issue 5

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Volume 18, Issue 5

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

TD Bank Hosts Financial Literacy Event At Bloomingdale High School

By Nick Nahas

April is a condo, if they Financial Literacy were going to have Month and, in that roommates, transspirit, TD Bank portation options, recently held an etc… There were event at 15 different booths Bloomingdale High for the students to School to teach the visit and make their students firsthand choices. At the end, how to handle their they sat down with finances when they the banker and balgraduate and head anced their budget.

Photos courtesy of Jacquelyn Marshall out into the real “Seniors that TD Bank hosted the first ever Financial world.

Future Fair at Bloomingdale High School in will be attending April.

“Only 17 college or entering states require students to complete a the workforce need to know what expensfinancial literacy course before graduaes they may be incurring,” said Marshall. tion; Florida requires an economics “We were amazed that kids didn't know course, but not one that teaches students how to calculate their taxes, how much real-life money management skills,” said eating out five times a week really costs, Jacquelyn Marshall, Bloomingdale High or when you should start saving for retireSchool AVID (Advancement Via Individual ment.”

Determination), who helped organize the “Financial literacy is one of our ready event. commitments at TD Bank,” said Peacock.

The Financial Future Fair was a suc“It’s a personal passion of my own cess, with nearly 120 graduating seniors because I was one of those kids that attending. According to TD Bank Apollo never had that benefit, so I learned the Beach Store Manager Bonnie Peacock, hard way. We like to increase access to who also helped organize the event, they people to help them improve their finanset up a small version of the game of Life cial security, and we are firm believers to help illustrate what it would be like to that that has to start in the schools.” have financial responsibilities. “It’s imporThis was the first time Bloomingdale tant that when they get out of school and hosted this event, and Peacock and they are out there on their own, that they Marshall hope to do it again next year. “It have an idea of what they are looking at was, I think, a really great success,” said when it comes to life,” she said.

Peacock. “The students all were very The students had to make realistic engaged, they enjoyed it and a lot of the decisions about what to do with their feedback they gave was that they felt like money, such as choosing housing this was something they really needed options, if they were going to rent or buy and that it was a wake-up call for them.”

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Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Bloomingdale Students Fill Vienna And Prague With Sounds Of Music

By Kathi Hayes

under the direction of During spring Bloomingdale Senior High School Music Beverly Sutherland, break, beautiful Students performed in Vienna and Prague. band director, Jon Austria and Czech Sever and orchestra Republic were director, Jason Locker. invaded by the ‘Red One of the parentSea’...170 chaperones, Cheryl Bloomingdale Kehrmeyer said, “It was Senior High absolutely amazing to School’s (BSHS) see and hear our stumusic students that dents performing in the is! Downtown beautiful cathedrals and Vienna and Prague Principal Sue Burkett (R) joins Band to watch the band were filled with ‘The Director Jon Sever (C) and Orchestra march through the town Sound Of Music’ as Conductor Jason Locker (L) squares. All of the the band played performances were through the streets packed with such as locals and other appreciative fans from tourists heard and all over the world. We felt the BSHS spirtraveled with 170 stuit. dents, who all worked Evan Hydock, so hard in the months a BSHS senior leading up to this trip, and the drumline really represented our captain said, “I’ve community well and always wanted to made it easy for the travel outside of Cheryl and Jake Kehrmeyer enjoyed parents and chaperthe U.S.; visiting sightseeing in between performances. ones--and made us Europe has really works of archiall so proud.” Her son Jake Kehrmeyer, a opened my mind tecture...there is BSHS sophomore in the chorus and on to realize all of the Trey(L) and Evan (C) Hydock stand the wrestling team said, "It was a great Orchestra Chamber and Chorus perform inside the really nothing wonders the world beside guard outside of Prague Castle. like it in America. opportunity to perform in these historic beautiful St. Peter’s Church in Vienna. had to offer. In the orchestra and chorus filled the Vienna The art and the culture pervade every cathedrals alongside my classmates and U.S., we tend to think that the ‘American Community Church, the Peterskirche, part of the cities, and it was wonderful to to experience other cultures." way’ is the only way. But after visiting Praque’s Church of the Holy Saviour and experience the beauty that they had to For more information about Vienna and Prague, you are forced to the Church of St. Nicholas in Old Town offer.”

Bloomigdale Senior High School, the immerse yourself into a whole new culSquare. Trey Hydock, a BSHS sophoFor several years, the trip has been music department or to contact Principal ture and discover a ‘new way’ of doing more and first chair viola in Chamber organized through Youth Music Of The Sue Burkett, visit http://bloomingdale.mysthings. It’s a bit out of the norm at first, but said, “The cities of Vienna and Prague World, which creates and organizes perdhc.org or call 744-8018. BSHS is locatit is an experience that is more than worth are just so full of culture and history. formance travel programs to the world’s ed at 1700 E .Bloomingdale Ave. in it.”

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Volume 18, Issue 5

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Brian Bokor Corners Local Growth On Facebook Page

By Michelle Colesanti

You may have the area along with a seen Bokors Corner lot of general employon Facebook. The ment that is being creman behind the ated by all the new page is local resident services, restaurants, Brian Bokor. shops, etc. I'd much Bokors Corner rather live in an area started as (and still where new growth is is) a personal hobby occurring versus a part for Bokor; a place for of town where shops him to keep track of are closing and strip all the local commumalls are half full.” nity growth taking He did note that place. It is for his the flip side is the personal use, but as increased traffic that all it is all public record these new servicesoBrian Bokor created the Bokors (no confidential inforbring. “It’s inevitable; it's Corner Facebook page to keep mation), he gratrack of all the growth taking place despised by 100 perciously shares his cent and it's dangerous. locally. finds with the community.

I feel for those that have to commute to Born in Chicago, IL, Bokor grew up and from Tampa on a daily basis.” in Charlotte, NC and graduated from He agrees that the growth is North Carolina State University in 1986. absolutely necessary, but overgrowth He worked for Allstate Insurance as a can become restrictive on its residents.

Financial Analyst for 15 years and then He added that everyone has opened up a Real Estate Appraisal firm access to the information he currently in 2003 with his wife, Sharon, who is supplies, although it can be daunting both an appraiser and a real estate bro- trying to find it. ker. With the development boom of the Bokor visits the Hillsborough current market, her focus has been County Property Appraiser site specializing in assemblage of vacant (www.hcpafl.org), which gives you land. owner info, property location and curBokor has his reasons for wanting rent use, size of parcel and more. to be in the know. “Being an appraiser “If you can find those little yellow by trade, it made sense for me to know signs on the project site, they will have what was being built behind my proper- the rezoning or file or application numty and how it could impact my future ber for that specific project listed. This property values. I then visited with my is when you would need to go to neighbors and asked anyone if they the Rezoning, Plans and Permit knew that an 81-unit apartment comInformation (PGM) Store website to do plex had been proposed in our backfurther research at ‘www.hillsboroughyard, to which all of them said ‘No.’ county.org/en and search ‘PGM.’” That’s when the bell went off in my He notes that sometimes you have head.” to dig through several file folders in Their current home was built by his order to find the information you might father-in-law in 1996. “I moved to the be looking for. area in 1997. Our first home was in Bokor loves the interaction with Bloomingdale East, so we are very those who use his Facebook page. If familiar with all the changes that have you see something while you are drivtaken place since then,” Bokor noted. ing around the community, let him know Bokor feels that that all this new and he will find out what is going on. construction is a double-edged sword.

Like Bokors Corner at “Some really good jobs are coming to www.facebook.com/bokorscorner/.

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Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Applications Open For Community Water Wise Awards Program

By Lynn Barber, Florida-Friendly LandscapingTM Agent

The 2019 impact on our Community Water environment.

Wise Awards, You can view sponsored by photographs of Tampa Bay past winners at Water, recognize http://tampabayindividuals and waterwise.org and businesses comwatch a short mitted to conservvideo which ing our water includes several of resources and them. The deadprotecting the line for entries is environment by An award winning photo from a previous year. Sunday, June 30, Now is the time to think about entering the using Floridaso you can com2019 Community Water Wise Awards contest.

Friendly Deadline to submit your application is Sunday, plete an applicaLandscaping™ tion now, submit it June 30.

(FFL) principles. Does your landscape and get a head start on the 2019 conhave what it takes to win? Enter today to test. It takes approximately ten minutes find out. to complete the application and submit There are nine FFL principles which on-line to tampabaywaterwise.org. include: right plant right place, water effi- Attaching a photo or two is helpful. Onciently, fertilize appropriately, mulch, site landscape evaluations will be schedattract wildlife, manage yard pests uled and conducted in May and early responsibly, recycle, reduce stormwater June with homeowners and business runoff and protect the waterfront. Many owners present. Winning entries will of these principles are used as part of receive a handmade mosaic stepping the landscape evaluation process for this stone for homeowners or a plaque award program. option for businesses. If you have quesThe retention of existing trees and tions regarding the Community Water vegetation is evaluated, as are landWise Award program, please contact me scape design, utilization of mulch and at 744-5519 x 54105. plant selection. Stormwater runoff preFor more information about the nine vention and efficient irrigation techniques principles of the Florida-Friendly are reviewed, including rain gardens, LandscapingTM Program, for assistance rainwater harvesting and functioning rain with gardening-related questions, consensor devices. Winning landscapes bal- tact the UF/IFAS Extension Hillsborough ance attractive designs with plants, land- County at 744-5519 and visit scape elements and water efficient irrihttp://sfyl.ifas.ufl.edu/hillsborough/upcomi gation techniques that have a positive ng-events/ for upcoming workshops.

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Page 18

Volume 18, Issue 5

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Friends Of Bloomingdale Library Host Book Sale To Benefit Program

By Kate Quesada

Looking for a good The Friends of the deal on something to Bloomingdale Library is a read or listen to? Then citizen support group and head over to the a chapter of Friends of the Bloomingdales Library Tampa. In addition Regional Library on to operating the bookstore Saturday, May 4 for a in the library’s lobby, the special spring book group hosts special prosale. grams and events Hosted by The throughout the year, Friends of the including a Life Story Bloomingdale Writing Workshop, comRegional Library, the puter classes, teen book sale will take games, science literacy place from 10 a.m.-3 and summer programs for p.m. in the McLean children.

The Friends of the room and bookstore.

“Events and programs Bloomingdale Library group will “For this one-day for children in the summer be hosting a book sale. Stop by only special sale, all have included magic acts, on Saturday, May 4 from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. bookstore items will be yoga for mother and baby, marked down and specially priced for hands-on drum circles and dogs trained inventory reduction,” said Carlos to perform tricks,” said Garcia. “For the Garcia with The Friends of past two years, the bookstore has Bloomingdale Library. raised the funds to provide backpacks According to Garcia, a wide and school supplies for children in the assortment of both hardcover and 78th Street Community Library area, paperback books, music CDs, DVDs helping get their school years off to a and books on CD will be available for terrific start and promoting a love for litpurchase at significantly discounted eracy and learning.” prices.

The group hosts two similar sales a All money raised at the book sale year, one in the spring and one in the will go towards providing special fall, and runs the bookstore which is library programs. open to the public any time the main “Find those books by your favorite library is open. authors or shop for something different, The Bloomingdale Regional Library useful or exciting,” said Garcia. “Stop in, is located at 1906 Bloomingdale Ave. in browse and find whatever you might be Valrico, just east of Bloomingdale High looking for. Books, music and videos School. are always great gifts for friends, youngFor information, contact Garcia at sters or for yourself.” crgarci@verizon.net or call 273-3652.

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Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Brandon Community Gathers For Grand Opening Of The Carey Family Boys & Girls Club Various county leaders and the community joined together with the Boys & Girls Club of Tampa Bay for the grand opening of the newly remodeled Carey Family Brandon Boys & Girls Club in Brandon on March 29. The club also relocated to Sadie Park as part of an expansion to the Bill Carey Brandon Boys & Girls Club, which previously could be found on Knights Avenue.

Carey’s daughter Amy Carey Lee had a chance to reflect back on her childhood with the opening of this club.

“I remember as a little girl attending classes here at the old Brandon Civics Center, which was really the center of Brandon at the time,” Lee said.

This would be one of the eight clubs working under a community collaboration model. For instance, the Boys & Girls Clubs of Tampa Bay, the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office and the Hillsborough County Parks and Recreation Department united to bring the vision of a stronger community to reality. At one point, the original Knights Ave. location operated under the leadership of Sheriff David Gee, which would be the first Club to bring law enforcement into the conversation around community impact.

Currently, the Club maintains its leadership under Sheriff Chad Chronister.

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"Having a deputy on-site not only creates a safer environment for children to learn and play everyday, but it also is a chance to show them that law enforcement officers are their friends,” Sheriff Chronister said.

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Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

To o d a s o R y m e r Je shion a F u a u L , m r o f Per Show & More… helle Colesanti, Compiled by Mic observer.com michelle@osprey

and will be used to provide college tuition for a child of a fallen special-forces operator.

The Y Wants To Awaken Summer Imagination At Free Healthy Kids Day®

Volume 18, Issue 5

nominational event and all ladies are welcome. No membership is required.

Call Lillie at 740-0098 for reservation and information.

Impact To Host Community Leaders Breakfast

Teen Impact will host a free breakfast for pastors, church leaders and Christian business leaders on Wednesday, May 15 from 7:30-9 a.m. at The Regent. The event is an opportunity to hear more about the positive impact Jeremy Rosado To Perform At Holy that the organization Impact is making in Innocents’ Youth Event the community. The local nonprofit eduThe community is invited to the cates and empowers teens to make Spring Event of ‘HILL’ (Holy Innocents’ American Idol contestant Jeremy Rosado will healthy choices by avoiding high-risk Linking Lives). This inaugural event is perform at Holy Innocents first annual youth being put on by the Holy Innocents’ Youth event taking place on the church grounds on behavior.

Saturday, May 4 from 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

A few local pastors that will share Group to bring family, friends and neightheir experiences with being involved bors together for a day of fun. This event, months. with the program. Networking will begin scheduled for Saturday, May 4 from 10 The YMCA’s Healthy Kids Day takes at 7:30 a.m. with programming at 8 a.m. a.m.-5- p.m. It will be held on the church place at various locations and features The purpose is to promote awareness grounds with Piggy Palace Food Truck, fun, active play and educational among youth leaders, mission directors, laser tag, bounce house and slide. There activities. Each participating and local leaders will also be video and dance games, and YMCA has more information so that they can a DJ. In addition to American Idol conteston the free activities and food promote Impact ant Jeremy Rosado, dancers from Judy's offered at its specific location within their Dance Academy will perform. on Healthy Kids Day. Visit church and Bring family, friends and neighwww.ymcatampabay.org/findorganization as bors to enjoy the day at Holy your-y/. well as make a Innocents', 604 N. Valrico Rd. in financial plea to Valrico. This is a free event except for Luau Fashion Show Ends keep the program food and beverage purchases from Christian Women’s Season running. the food truck. For more information, Brandon Christian Please regisvisit hiepiscopal.org or contact the Women's Connection’s last luncheon of ter for the breakfast by Monday, May 13 Church Office at 689-3130. the season will be a Luau Fashion at Show ‘Summer Fun Fashions’ by Bon https://impactbreakfast.eventbrite.com/.

Special Operations Warrior Worth Fashions on Monday, May 13 at The Regent is located at 6437 Watson Foundation Check Presentation Bell Shoals Baptist Church in its Special Rd. in Riverview. For more information On March 14, Congregation Beth Event Center, 2102 Bell Shoals Rd. in on Impact, visit www.whatisimpact.com Shalom of Brandon presented a check Brandon. The luncheon takes place or its Facebook page @whatisimpact. to its partner charity - the Special from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. The cost is $15.

For further questions, contact Angie Operations Warrior Foundation. The Steven McLeary, Executive Director of the founda- First time guests pay $10. Come and Kagey at akagey@whatisimpact.com or money was raised through Beth tion accepts a check from Susan Baylis, the bring a friend for a fun lunch, entertain264-9368.

Fundraising Chairperson for Beth Shalom.

Shalom’s annual fundraiser last month ment and speaker. This is a nondeOn Saturday, April 27, the Tampa Metropolitan Area YMCA & YMCA of the Suncoast are holding free community events to inspire more kids to keep their minds and bodies active at the annual YMCA’s Healthy Kids Day®, the Y’s national initiative to improve health and well-being for kids and families.

Healthy Kids Day is an opportunity to ignite children’s imaginations so that they can imagine what they’ll accomplish this summer. The free open houses, hosted at nearly 20 Ys across six Tampa Bay area counties, feature activities such as summer camp games, poolside fun, music, demos, free healthy snacks and visual arts to motivate and teach families how to develop and maintain healthy routines at home throughout the summer

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Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Newsome Senior & Valedictorian Wins JROTC County Cadet Of The Year

By Kate Quesada

Newsome High and interviews, 10 School has another finalists were chosuccess to celesen based on elebrate this month. ments including The school’s valegrade point averdictorian, Katherine age, community Metheny, was service hours, letnamed ters of recommenHillsborough dation and military County’s Junior knowledge.

Reserve Officer “I was so proud Newsome High School senior Katherine Training Corps Metheny was recently named JROTC Cadet to represent of the Year for Hillsborough County.

(JROTC) Cadet of Newsome,” said the Year at a recent ceremony.

Metheny. “There are so many incredible JROTC is a federal program sponyoung leaders in our battalion; it was an sored by the United States Armed Forces honor to be chosen among them.” and is based in high schools across the During the Cadet of the Year awards county and military bases across the ceremony, Metheny also won five addiworld. Twenty-seven of Hillsborough tional prizes recognizing her leadership County’s public high schools have and dedication.

JROTC programs representing the four Metheny, who worked her way different branches of the military, and in through the ranks at Newsome’s JROTC 2018, approximately 5,200 students parand is currently the battalion’s executive ticipated throughout the school district. officer, credits the school’s JROTC leadThe group’s mission is to motivate ership with the students’ success. young people to become better citizens “Our leadership is wonderful at cultiby preparing them for responsible leader- vating a culture of success and pushing ship roles and making them aware of us to new heights,” she said. After her their rights, responsibilities and privileges graduation from Newsome this month, as American citizens.

Metheny plans to attend the University of “The caliber of students who particiSouth Florida and study pre-law. She recpate in JROTC is incredible,” said ommends the JROTC program to any Metheny, whose brothers were also student looking to grow during high cadets when they attended Newsome. school.

“The program at my school in particular For more information on Newsome inspires genuine leadership, not just in JROTC, visit www.newsomejrotc.com. To title but in character as well.” learn more about the program throughout Each of the 27 county programs Hillsborough County, call 272-4000. nominated a student for Cadet of the Newsome High School is located at Year, and after a process of essays, tests 16550 FishHawk Blvd. in Lithia.

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Page 22

Volume 18, Issue 5

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

River Hills Community Social Team Hosts Mardi Gras Resident Party

By Kate Quesada

River Hills resi“Wow, what an dents recently benamazing event,” efitted from anothsaid resident Josh er night of fun Cook. “Thank you thanks to the comfor all the hard munity’s active work and energy Social Team. On the social commitMarch 30, the tee put in to make group hosted it a special night approximately 200 for all. Our kids residents for a had an absolute The River Hills Social Team put on a Mardi Mardi GrasGras-themed Party in the Park for residents blast.” in late March. themed ‘Party in According to the Park’ bringing together neighbors Lori Felegy, the event chair, the River and offering local vendors the chance to Hills Social Team believes the key to gain customers in the community. successful events is collaborating on “Focused on making sure there was ideas and a few months of detailed plana little something for everyone; small ning. children, teens, adults and grandparents.

“In addition to bringing families and This was the HOA’s first major event the community together, one of the best featuring local vendors providing a parts of being on the Social Committee movie night and food truck experience at and attending the events is the lifelong the same event,” said Julie Rule, River friendships that have been formed,” said Hills Social Team Chair. “We believe in Felegy. giving back to the entrepreneurs in our Rule explained that it took several community, and it paid back dividends.” committee meetings and many volunResidents and families attending the teers to make the event a success. event participated in basketball games “In addition to our River Hills Social spanning generations at the lighted bas- Team, volunteers included team memketball courts; Mardi Gras-themed photo bers’ husbands, over 25 golfers, board opportunities; children’s crafts, including members, residents and high school stua personalized Mardi Gras mask, givedents who earned service hours,” she aways of AMC movie gift cards, free said. popcorn and cake; food from BBQ Time “This is the second of many more food truck; and the main event, a showevents and volunteer opportunities that ing of “The Princess and the Frog” on a the River Hills Social Team will be plan25-foot jumbo movie screen thanks to ning for residents this year,” she said. “If Skipper from Awesome Party Inflatables. you’re interested in volunteering for an Glow necklaces were also passed out at upcoming event or joining the team, let dusk to add to the ambiance. us know.”

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Page 23

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Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Volume 18, Issue 5

See Inside For More News Section 2 of 3 MAY 2019

Volume 18, Issue 5

Bloomingdale/FishHawk

www.ospreyobserver.com

The Political History Of Alderman Ford Park

By Charlie Nelson

In 1894, a group of young friends enjoyed a picnic at Alderman’s Ford on the Alafia River.

From this small gathering, pioneer families of Eastern Hillsborough County launched an annual, muchanticipated reunion that lasted nearly a half-century.

Alderman’s Ford Park, on County Route 39 in Eastern Hillsborough County, between Pinecrest and Alafia, memorializes the spot where James Alderman built a ford across the Alafia River in 1848 and includes the original picnic site. Today’s park-goers enjoy picnics, camping, canoeing and hiking along well-maintained nature trails.

However, they are most likely unaware of the spirited political history of Alderman’s Ford.

From 1894 to 1942, the annual Alderman’s Ford Picnic attracted hundreds of East Hillsborough residents who re-encountered old friends, met new ones and enjoyed shared picnic baskets. From the picnic’s beginning, old-time friends often huddled together to engage in spirited debates on the issues of the day.

In 1904, seizing on that lively tradi-

tion, the Hillsborough County Democratic Executive Committee invited County and State office seekers to kick off their primary campaigns at a political rally coinciding with the Alderman’s Ford Picnic. During evennumbered years, until 1942, energetic crowds would swell to thousands to hear speeches from eager candidates seeking votes in the rough and tumble world of Hillsborough County Democratic primary politics. The largest crowd in 1928 exceeded 7,000, witnessing gubernatorial candidate Sidney Catts discuss his merits as a candidate.

Few local, state or national issues were off the table and candidates used their positions to pry votes from those in attendance. As one listener observed, “the candidates kept the sky blue” in stating their positions and attacking those of their opponents. From reported accounts, picnic-goers were very receptive to the verbal fireworks.

In 1924-1925, candidates debated the proposed creation of a new Plant County by dividing Hillsborough County east of Brandon. Good roads, government corruption and cattle dipping were also hotly debated. In the Depression years of the 1930s, economic issues were at the heart of the debates.

By the late 1930s, the importance of this biennial political event began to wane. Attendance at the 1937 “off year” picnic dwindled to under 300 as organizers wanted an old-fashioned picnic and declared politics as a “taboo” subject. In that same year, reporters noted “thinning ranks of old timers.”

Just how much longer they could attend was a question being asked. On the other hand, young people were more likely to hear political news from the radio, not political rallies.

The biggest blow was the 1938 decision to reschedule the Democratic Primary to early May. Suddenly, the

picnic at Alderson’s Ford, on the 4th Saturday of April, was too late to be a factor in the upcoming political season, further reducing its significance.

The political rally was canceled by the Democratic Party in 1942. The stated reason was a shortage of tires due to the war rationing effort. In reality, rallies across the state were being very poorly attended. No rally reported more than 400 attendees, and one local Tampa area rally reported a mere 26 in attendance.

Also, in 1942, the land was sold to Hillsborough County and was no longer privately owned.

About the Author: Charles 'Charlie' Nelson holds a MA degree in History from George Mason University and taught as an adjunct instructor at HCC (Dale Mabry). He is also affiliated with Tampa Bay History Center as a volunteer docent, researcher and community lecturer, with an emphasis on South Hillsborough County history.

Page 26

Volume 18, Issue 5

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

G ET THE DIRT WITH FLORIDA YARD EXPERT

Lynn Barber, Hillsborough County Extension

The Lazy Gardener, Work Smarter Nine years ago, I wrote an article about being a lazy gardener.

To this day and, I believe, for the remainder of my gardening days, I will remain one.

You, too, can have a beautiful garden while maintaining a lazy gardener lifestyle. Right plant/right place, the first of the nine FFL principles, includes consideration of site conditions. Other components are hydrozoning, considering plant size and keeping it simple.

Right Plant/Right Place: Analyze sun, shade, water requirements and soil composition.

Lazy Watering: Hydrozone – group plants by water needs, use microirrigation and harvest rain water for ornamental plants, not edibles.

Size: Determine garden dimensions, mature plant size and the laziest number of plants needed to fill space. Lazy and smart gardeners do not plant for instant gratification, but for mature plant size saving time, work and money.

Keep It Simple: If you are too lazy to water during dry spells, plant droughtresistant bloomers or wait until the rainy season to plant. If you are too lazy to rake leaves or pine needles when they fall, create self-mulching landscape beds.

Instead of annual flowers, plant perennials.

Sweat Savers: Repeat your successes and plant re-seeders. Deadhead for more blooms and to save seeds. Use a timer system to perform 15 minutes of a dreaded gardening activity, then stop when the timer goes off. You’ll be sur-

prised by what you can accomplish.

Time Saver: Wear gloves. Saves time cleaning your hands and fingernails.

Maximize Your Laziness: Use your friends wisely, start a friends gardening group, learn to love volunteer plants and permanently borrow plants from your friends and neighbors.

Asking first is always a wise move. Divide and relocate perennials: no money spent, save on gasoline and no need to shop. Wait a minute. No shopping?

Lazy Maintenance Plants: Slow growers need less pruning. Wide spreaders means fewer plants required.

Drought-tolerant plants require less watering. Pest and disease resistant plants need less Lazy Pest Management.

Low Demands and High Returns include: Dracaena, Plumbago, Firecracker Bush, African & Walking Iris, Thryallis, Pentas, Firebush, Croton and Salvia. These are just a few. For more ideas, order your own copy of The Florida-Friendly LandscapingTM Guide to Plant Selection and Landscape Design from watermatters.org. Click on resources, look for free publications, add to your cart and this Guide will be mailed to you.

My article next month will present Limitations to Lazy Gardening. More gardening information is available at http://sfyl.ifas.ufl.edu/hillsborough/ and http://edis.ifas.ufl.edu. To view and register for upcoming workshops, visit http://sfyl.ifas.ufl.edu/hillsborough/upcoming-events/.

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We have spoiler. The driven several cabin is spaversions of the cious with a Mitsubishi passenger volOutlander with ume of 101 the somewhat cubic ft. The OK 2.4-liter 4seven-inch cylinder and touch naviga3.0-liter V6 tion and dispower trains play audio under the interface is hood. But easy to operrecently, we ate. The black test drove the instrument five-passenger SUV panel with silver OUTLANDER PHEV with a 2.0-liter accents conveys eleTires: 225/55R18 engine, putting out gance found in highWheelbase: 105.1 inches 117 horsepower @ end vehicles. Keep Length: 184.8 inches 4500 rpm and 137 an eye on the roundWeight: 4,178 pounds pounds-feet of ed energy meter for Suspension: MacPherson strut torque @ 4500 rpm. fuel savings, which front; multi-link rear And yes, it’s a displays charge, eco Steering: electric power Gas only: 25 mpg PHEV (Plug-in and power readings.

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Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Volume 18, Issue 5

May 2019

Julia Moseley Celebrates 100th Birthday At Her Family Home Known As ‘The Nest’

By Kathy L. Collins

Thursday, oak canopy that lines March 21, 2019 Lakewood Dr. When was proclaimed the road was desigto be ‘Julia nated to be widened, Moseley Day’ by she led an effort to Brandon's save the oaks.

Honorary Mayor, Moseley was also Melissa Haskins. instrumental in getOn that momenting a historical marktous day, er placed at the corMoseley celener of Lakewood Dr. brated her 100th Julia Moseley celebrated her 100th birthday at Woodberry and at “The Nest,” her family home. birthday. The Limona Roads. proclamation read by Haskins stated in Over the years, Moseley has rejected part, "Julia Moseley is the personification multiple offers to sell ‘The Nest’, preferring of a protector of Florida history." to keep it as it has been for over 100 Moseley is a member of one of years.

Brandon's pioneering families. Moseley It is for her efforts at historical and continues to live on the property that was environmental preservation that the comsettled in 1883 by her grandparents and munity came together to celebrate her in the home that her family built in 1886.

100th birthday. In addition to the procla‘The Nest’, as it is known, and its 14+ mation made by Honorary Mayor acres are on the National Register of Haskins, a Commendation signed by all Historic Places. It is also on the state and of the Hillsborough County Board of local historic registries. The home, which County Commissioners was also presentis located just off of Brandon Blvd. near ed. The Commendation read in part, "The the Westfield Brandon Mall, is protected Board of County Commissioners of and maintained by a trust.

Hillsborough County, Florida does hereby When you pull into the property, it is commend Julia Moseley for her dedicaas if you have been transported back in tion in safeguarding the historical legacy time. Most of the buildings on the properof Brandon and Limona and their landty are original to the period of ownership. marks, and congratulates her on her The main house still has the original wall 100th birthday." covering which consists of palmetto fiber You can learn more about Moseley, on painted burlap. This unique wall cover- her family’s history and the history of the ing was taken down and exhibited at the area by purchasing her book, Come To World's Fair in Chicago in 1893.

My Sunland: Letters of Julia Daniels Moseley is a fierce protector of Moseley From The Florida Frontier, 1883Brandon and its rich history. You can 1886.The book is available at Barnes & thank her and her efforts for the beautiful Noble.

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Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

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Guardian ad Litem Urges You To Help Change The Story Ending

By Tabitha Lambert, Guardian ad Litem Circuit Director

The places, faces and some circumstances vary, but so many of the details are the same. This is the beginning of one foster child’s story. By volunteering a few hours a month, you can be part of the ending for another child’s story as a Guardian ad Litem Volunteer Child Advocate.

Melissa, the oldest of four children, tell her story this way: “For the first 12 years of my life, I was never allowed to be a child. My mother would trade the government assistance that was intended for our food, diapers, clothing and bills for alcohol and drugs. I resorted to stealing and stashing food stamps, which I would take to a nearby grocery store and ask the clerk to help me maximize the amount of food I could purchase. I was desperate to find help. I approached my dance team coach and confessed the abuse. She was able to convince my mother to let us stay with an aunt and uncle temporarily. Shortly after, we entered the dependency system.”

“My siblings and I lived in limbo for five long years, as my aunt and uncle fought to gain permanent custody of us,”

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she continued. “After at least two reunification plans failed, my mother’s rights were severed and my aunt and uncle adopted us.” Melissa remembers that one thing truly helped get her through this difficult period: her Guardian ad Litem Volunteer Child Advocate. “[She] was the only one we could turn to for answers. She tried to comfort us and guide us through the process. She was a constant in our lives and our voice in the courtroom.

She showed me that while my childhood may have been taken away, I was in control of what I would do with the rest of my life.”

Hillsborough County has more children in the dependency system than any other part of the state. A Guardian ad Litem Volunteer Child Advocate will get to know a child that has been abused, abandoned or neglected and become a consistent figure for them while they are part of the dependency system. Children with a court-appointed special advocate do better in school, receive more services and are more likely to be adopted than those without.

“Just a few hours a month can make a lifetime of difference for a child,” said Guardian ad Litem 13th Circuit Director Tabitha Lambert. “These children need to know a consistent, caring adult is there for them.”

Information sessions are held weekly in various locations. To learn more about the Guardian ad Litem program of Hillsborough County, visit www.galtampa.org or 272-5110.

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Page 30

Volume 18, Issue 5

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Keeping I.T. Simple With Locally Owned KITS Computers And Web

By Taylor Wells

Oftentimes, people try since 1993 and might find themselves has been proudly getting frustrated due to providing his experivarious issues with ence and services to their computers, the local homes and phones and other businesses of the devices and want easy Tampa Bay area, its to understand solusurrounding areas tions. Keep I.T. Simple and Sarasota County.

(KITS) Computer KITS Computers is Services, LLC, strives also part of the KITS Computers provides a great varito help customers ety of I.T. services for residential and Greater Riverview through their tech troucommercial customers and strives to Chamber of keep it simple. bles with little hassle for Commerce, Taking a satisfying service.

Care of Business (TCOB) and Established in 2013, originally named SouthShore Business Association.

VivJer Computers, KITS Computers Rothstein stressed the importance offers a large variety of I.T. services, such of having backups for devices and as getting started with new systems data, as one never knows what can go (desktops, laptops, tablets, Apple), repair- wrong. “Whether it’s a battery backup ing existing systems, upgrades, home to allow you to properly shut down the wiring, networking assistance, data recov- computer when your power goes off or ery and extraction, virus removal and an external hard drive or flash drive to more. Additionally, KITS Computers offers backup your most important data, I monthly, quarterly or semiannual maintecan’t stress those two items enough.” nance contracts.

“We strive to be a business you “From retrieving data from non-workcan count on, both in commitment and ing hard drives, to removing malicious integrity,” said Rothstein. “We are viral attacks on more than one computer proud of our positive track record.” system in a business office, to establishKITS Computers is open Monday ing network connectivity when other peothrough Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. ple failed, we have done our very best in Saturdays are available only by scheda number of circumstances to help peouling an appointment beforehand. ple, both residential and commercial,” For more information, visit said Jerry Rothstein, founder of KITS www.kitscomputers.com/, go through Computers. He added that customers do the website’s Support page, call 689not have to bring their electronics, as 5028 or email KITS Computers can come to them info@kitscomputers.com. To schedule instead. an appointment, call the number Rothstein has been in the I.T. indusabove.

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When The Congestion Is Inside Your Car, Lysol Does The Trick And, you thought rush-hour gridlock was bad…

There is another type of congestion on Tampa Bay roadways, this spring: invehicle, allergy suffering.

Keeping the windows up during the daily commute does not mean you’re protected from smog and pollen intrusion.

No place is safe from their grasp -- including your vehicle’s airvent system.

But I’ve got an easy fix you can do, at home. It includes a can of Lysol and a couple of minutes of your time.

While parked in the driveway, start the vehicle (keep the shifter in “park” mode). Set emergency brake. Follow these steps: 1) Locate the air intake vents on your vehicle. Some cars and trucks you will be able to see the duct work between the windshield and the hood of the vehicle.

Others, you will have to open the hood.

(Keep the hood open as you will need to access this grid.)

2) Turn on the vehicle’s AC system, making sure that it’s in the “freshair/norm” setting.

3) Exit vehicle. With the can of Lysol in hand, stand next to the intake air vents.

Carefully, spray the product into the grid;

By Pam Oakes ASE/EET

count to 20.

4) Revisit the climate controller.

Move setting from AC to vent.

5) Return to the air intake grid.

Repeat step #3.

6) Revisit the climate controller. But, this time, move the setting to heater.

7) Return to the air intake grid.

Repeat step #3.

8) Revisit the climate controller.

Now, move the setting back to AC (see step #2).

After completing the final sweep, turn-off vehicle. It’s that simple!

A few pointers: This treatment is most successful if performed every five to six weeks, with a reasonably clean cabin air filter. If you are unsure of the condition of this passenger filter, ask your ASE certified automotive technician to check.

Then, be like me – sneeze-free when it comes to my vehicle’s climate control air quality.

Pam Oakes has been embedded within the automotive industry - for almost 30 years - as an automotive applications engineer, instructor/course developer, automotive business expert/strategist, shop owner, ASE-certified technician, automotive author, syndicated radio host. And, she still “turnswrenches,” for fun, nowadays.

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Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

iHeartSmiles Provides Outstanding Pediatric Dentistry And Orthodontics In FishHawk

By Kelly Wise Valdes

Dr. Dana Busciglio This experience led Diaz knows that children’s Dr. Dana to further her health is a top priority for education and complete parents. At iHeartSmiles, three additional years of Dr. Busciglio Diaz (also training at Nova and known as Dr. Dana) is earned Masters of committed to making dental Science in Orthodontics and orthodontic visits an which allows her to proenjoyable experience for vide orthodontic care for everyone. both children and adults.

As the youngest of six The completion of two children, Dr. Dana is a specialty degrees after fourth generation dental school, Pediatric Tampanian born in Tampa Dentistry and then and raised in Brandon in a Orthodontics, makes Dr. Dr. Dana Busciglio Diaz, large Spanish/Italian family.

Dana one of only five owner of iHeartSmiles in She graduated with honors dual-trained specialists in FishHawk, was recently from Brandon High School Florida. awarded Emerging Business of the Year by the FishHawk and went on to earn a “But more important Valrico Chamber of Bachelor of Science in than my degrees, I want Commerce.

Human Nutrition from the University of my patients to know that I care about Florida. From there, she was accepted to them,” said Dr. Dana. “I realize I am treatthe prestigious Tufts University School of ing a person and not just their teeth.”

Dental Medicine in Boston to pursue her At the beginning of Dr. Dana’s career dream of becoming a dentist. in dentistry, she had a vision of becoming “From an early age I knew that I a business owner. With more than 13 loved working with children and after den- years of experience in the industry and tal school I completed my Pediatric with a great deal of hard work and perseDental Residency at Nova Southeastern verance, Dr. Dana, along with her husUniversity in Ft. Lauderdale where I band AJ, opened iHeartSmiles Pediatric gained extensive knowledge in treating Dentistry and Orthodontics in August infants, adolescents, teenagers and spe2018. Soon after, Dr. Dana and her huscial needs patients,” said Dr. Dana. band added their newest addition to their After graduation, Dr. Dana was fortugrowing family. Baby Lola was born in nate to work with her father, an outstandNovember 2018, and was happily weling local orthodontist for more than 50 comed by older siblings four-yr.-old Sofia years. “While working with my father, I fell and 2-yr.-old Aneudi Mateo. in love with the transformation that orthoiHeartSmiles is located at 5601 dontics allows a patient to have,” said Dr. Skytop Dr. in Lithia. Visit www.

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Volume 18, Issue 5

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Sports 657-2418 www.ospreyobserver.com

Connection

By Nick Nahas and Photos By Kathi Hayes

Two Bloomingdale Baseball Players Earn Saladino Tournament Awards

Bryce Hazzard receives the 813Preps Iron Man Award from 813Preps.com founder and editor Jarrett Guthrie.

The 39th edition of the Saladino Tournament concluded over spring break. Two Bloomingdale High School players received tournament awards.

Bloomingdale first baseman Kyle Merkle was the recipient of the Jose Fernandez Passion For Baseball Award. The award was named after the Marlins All-Star pitcher and former Alonso Raven who passed away in a boating accident. “Winning the Jose Fernandez Passion for Baseball Award made me feel honored that I was recognized for my four years of hard work and determination,” said Merkle. “It has made my whole high school experience worthwhile and I am very appreciative to have received this award.”

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Kyle Merkle holds the Jose Fernandez Passion for Baseball Award with Cheryl Saladino.

Merkle’s teammate and the Bulls’ outfielder, Bryce Hazzard, was given the 813Preps Iron Man Award, presented annually by 813Preps.com founder and editor Jarrett Guthrie to a senior varsity player who has been a steady and consistent force for his team for a full four years. “We are very proud to award our second annual 813Preps Iron Man Award to Bloomingdale senior Bryce Hazzard,” said Guthrie. “We could not hope to find a better recipient than Bryce. In his time at Bloomingdale, he has been a four-year varsity starter, but more than that, he has been an example of dedication and leadership for the Bulls.”

“It meant the world for me to win

(Alonso), to name a few.

Former Bloomingdale shortstop and Florida Gator Richie Martin, who is playing in his first season in the majors as the starting shortstop for the Baltimore Orioles, also played in the 2012 Saladino Championship The Plant City Raiders made it to all the way to the Saladino game. The Championship game. The Head Coach Mike Fryrear and PCHS Saladino is the Principal Susan Sullivan were there to cheer them on. largest spring the Iron Man Award because I know break tournament in the country. Over how much hard work I put in each and 30 teams from Hillsborough County every day, especially when no one is participate each year. The elimination looking,” said Hazzard. “For me, that rounds and the championship are held was a big achievement.” at Brandon High School. Every player The Saladino Tournament is held takes pride in being a part of the tradiannually over spring break to showtion. “It means a lot, it’s a very special case players from Hillsborough County. event that I take pride in playing in Tournament founder Tony Saladino got every year,” said Hazzard. “It’s like one the idea to start the tournament from of those things for me that I can’t get his late wife, Bertha Saladino, to honor enough of.”

Tony’s late father. Many players who Plant City and Durant High have gone on to play in the MLB have Schools competed in the championship played in the tournament over the game this season. Plant City came out years, including Hall-of-Famer Wade on top 4-1, but had to forfeit the game Boggs (Plant), Fred McGriff because of a pitch count violation. On (Jefferson), Gary Sheffield April 8, the state athletics governing (Hillsborough), Tino Martinez body and tournament officials ruled (Jefferson), Dwight Gooden that the tournament would have no offi(Hillsborough) and Jose Fernandez cial champion in 2019.

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Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Newsome Wrestler Jake Finken Finishes Second At State Wrestling Championship

Gymnast Competitors Stick Landing Together On College Team In South Carolina

Newsome High dreamed of since School wrestler he was in kinderJake Finken fingarten. ished off his high Finken is the school career as first wrestler from the Region 2 Newsome High Champion for his School to be a 170 weight class state finalist. “It was and a berth in the a pretty cool Florida State moment,” said Wrestling Finals, Finken. “I’ve been where he finished wrestling since first in second place. grade, and seeing Jake Finken finished second at the Florida Finken and his everything come State Wrestling Finals. family moved to the together and accuarea from mulate into this Minnesota when he result was cool — was a sophomore to see it all add up in high school. and come out with According to his a good finish for mom, Jan Finken, my career.” he has been Finken will be wrestling since first attending UCF next grade, and he year, where he absolutely loves the plans to participate sport. “His dream in the competitive was to be in the club wrestling prostate champiJake Finken and his dad, Dave Finken, who gram. He wants to onships,” said Jan is a former high school state champion in IA. major in computer Finken. engineering as “We have well. As far as spent more than wrestling goes, 50% of our weekFinken hopes to ends at wrestling place in Freestyle tournaments over Nationals this sumthe years, and I mer, as well as have come to placing in Grecoabsolutely love this Roman Nationals. sport.” Both He wants to evenFinken’s dad and tually coach Dave Finken (left), Jake Finken, Coach uncle were state wrestling at some Stephen Gilbert and Coach Mark Drake at champions at the point in the future. the state championship.

1A level when they “He’s a trailwere in high school. blazer in that he’s Newsome’s first finalOn March 8-9, the senior completed ist,” said Newsome Head Wrestling his high school Folkstyle wrestling career, Coach Stephen Gilbert. “I think he’s finishing second at the Florida State shown others how to get to that final, Wrestling Championships in the Silver championship level. I think you’re about to Spurs Arena in Osceola. In the process, see some state champions at Newsome, he achieved his lifelong dream, which his and Jake’s accomplishments have a mom said was the moment that he had huge influence on that.”

Shayla Snow on the elite and Jaden Haley track training both started gymfor the US nastics at age national team. three. Through the Both girls years both girls had many divishowed great talsion 2-3 colent, advancing one lege options as level at a time. well as a few Haley’s family preferred walkmoved to Lithia ins at division and her love of 1 schools. gymnastics folAnother lowed; she trained friend of Haley at several different committed to gyms perfecting Baylor her skills. She University for eventually found acro and tumher home at bling. After Lakewood Ranch much considGymnastics. eration, Haley Jaden Haley, Morgan Todd and Shayla Snow- determined Snow contin2018 Eastern Nationals Rochester, NY ued her own perthat her years sonal journey trainof training in ing to become a the sport of standout at her gymnastics local gym, Tampa would transfer Bay Turners. It was to this new only after many and exciting years, thousands opportunity to of hours of practice compete. After and extreme hard many college work that the girls visits, she found themselves made the decicompeting against sion to sign at each other.

Division 1 The two athPresbyterian letes always had a College in strong mutual South respect for one Carolina. another. Side by Snow was Region 8 Team @ Eastern Nationals 2018 side on the podinot familiar um, often placing first and second, with the sport of acro and tumble, and they could be seen rooting for the was also very intrigued by what it had other no matter who took the title. to offer. Haley reached out to her colTheir friendship developed stronger as lege coach right away. A few weeks they were Region 8 teammates repre- later, Snow attended a recruiting senting the southern states at the weekend and also fell in love with the national championships, which include campus, athletics program, coach and the top six gymnasts from each region entire acro team. A scholarship was that compete at the national level. immediately extended to Snow, who Between both young women, they accepted. have travelled to 12 different states for Both girls are excited to be a part competition as well as Costa Rica. of an upcoming and vastly growing These two athletes hold a combined college sport, and even more excited 11 state titles, 8 regional titles and 4 to share together in the experience of national titles. competing all over the country, There are only are a limited numbecoming teammates college roomber of spaces available in college for mates. gymnastics. Most young women that Acrobatics and Tumbling is curenter the top 20 division 1 programs rently offered at approximately 25 uniin the country have spent four to five versities with more added each year years at level 10 or were considered as the sport continues to grow.

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Page 34

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Petite Madelyn’s Bake Shoppe Earns Top Marks At Florida Strawberry Festival

By Michelle Caceres

Anyone wonCake Pops and dering where most placed second for of the prize ribbons her cupcakes. from the Florida Her cake was a Strawberry nod to Nintendo Festival’s cake decSwitch and showorating competition cased old-school went need only set video games Dig foot inside Petite Dug, Donkey Madelyn’s Bake Kong, Pac-Man Shoppe. and Mario.

Owner and Grace Curne, chef Megan Malin, a former employThe owners and staff at Petite Madelyn’s Bake her family and staff Shoppe took home more than a dozen awards ee and family for their decorating skills at the Florida took home more friend, first in cake Strawberry Festival. than a dozen ribpops. bons in Cake Decorating, Cake Pops, Petite Madelyn’s newest cake decoCupcake Decorating and Gingerbread rator, Aixa Aylor, took home second place House Decorating. The award-winning in beginner cake pops, first place in masterpieces of sculpted sugar and intribeginner cake decorating and grand cate designs are on display throughout champion in beginner cupcakes. the shoppe.

Aylor said it was a miracle she even Just like the bakery itself, the compe- had an entry in the beginner cupcake cattition was a family affair for Malin, her egory (her entry featured a mini tea party husband and head baker Dennis, her theme) because her miniature designs mother and her two children. Malin’s kept disappearing. mom Diana Knapp scored top honors as Even though competition entries are a beginner for her gingerbread creation. decorated on Styrofoam bases, cusHer 8-year-old daughter Madelyn and six- tomers purchasing a baked good at the year-old son David both won first place in shoppe will bite into a real cake or cupthe youth division for cake decorating. cake and find they taste as good as they Her husband placed in the cake decoratlook. ing category.

“Our bakery has also won awards for Malin entered in the professional cat- our cake’s taste as well as their presentaegory and placed second for her cake tion,” said Malin. pops and grand champion for her gingerFor more information about Petite bread and wedding cake designs.

Madelyn’s Bake Shoppe or to place an Head decorator chef Jaida Klyeman order for one of its specialty cakes, visit also entered as a professional and won www.PetiteMadelynsBakery.com or call grand champion for Cake Decorating and 681-CAKE (2253).

Volume 18, Issue 5

May 2019

Page 35

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Residents Share Concerns With Commissioner White

By Michelle Colesanti

Thirty-two local resiRidge lengthened and the dents paid a visit to District 4 initial study that the county Commissioner Stacy White has done has recommendas he and staff members ed 200 ft. We believe it hosted community hours at should probably be about the Bloomingdale Regional half a mile and we are tryLibrary on April 18. White ing to get the met one-on-one with those Commissioner’s support to wishing to express concerns get it on the funded about traffic, stormwater, requirements list because code enforcement, transthe county owns the rightportation issues and other of-way and it is a project Stacy White various projects and issues. Commissioner recently hosted community that would help all of the With Lennar Homes set Lithia area. People who are hours at Bloomingdale Regional Library to listen to going through the CR 39 to begin construction on 66 residents concerns. townhomes near the and 37; that whole entire Walmart on Bloomingdale Ave., questions area of Plant City so it would be a good about traffic flow concerns were one the investment for the county. priorities asked by residents as well as Commissioner White agreed with the other traffic concerns on Brown and he plans to have the county Bloomingdale just east of Bell Shoals Rd. do a more in-depth engineering study.

One resident was concerned about Some of the questions were simple. the new fire station’s trucks entering the Bloomingdale resident Joe Liguori asked road as speeders are prevalent running about the removal of the tree stumps on lights. It is not uncommon for there to be Bell Shoals Rd. and was assured by the multiple accidents daily. With Navigator, Commission that the county has the fundthe new charter school scheduled to open ing. this fall and The District, a new subdiviThe Commissioner promised to look sion being built across the road, into sidewalk repairs needed at a home in Commissioner White agrees that these Fox Run, which was reported to the traffic concerns need to be addressed. county two years ago with no results.

He noted that both the townhomes All in all, the meet-up with residents and charter school approvals fell under was successful for both sides. old zoning land development codes and Community members will probably get regulations that are no longer used. another opportunity to meet with the Ruth Brown is an ambassador for Commission in the next quarter.

FishHawk Ranch. “We have been workFor information, visit www.hillsboring with Commissioner White’s office to oughcounty.org/en/government/board-ofget the right turn lane from FishHawk county-commissioners/stacy-white.

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Page 36

Volume 18, Issue 5

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Now is the time to list!

The #1 agent is Brenda Wade!

No one sells for more and no one takes better care of their customers than Brenda and her team!

Call Brenda 813-924-8677 MORE THAN $120 MILLION SOLD IN 2018

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G EWIN N T S LI

IMPRESSIVE HOME IN GATED DUNLINWOOD IN FISHHAWK RANCH! 5/4.5/3 + loft + pool/spa home on 0.49 acre lot! This beautiful home offers wood floors, custom wooden cabinetry, crown, fireplace, French doors & more! Chef's kitchen with wood cabinets, granite & built-in stainless appliances! $698,000 !

G EWIN N T S LI

GORGEOUS WESTBAY "BISCAYNE IV" IN STARLING AT FISHHAWK RANCH! 4/4/3 + office + bonus craftsman style home that shows like a model! Crown, neutral paint, board & batten molding, French doors & tile floors throughout living area! Kitchen with 42" espresso cabinets, oversized island, granite & stainless appliances! Screened lanai! $485,000

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STUNNING HOME IN GATED TERN WOOD IN FISHHAWK RANCH! Fall in love with this 4/4/3 + office + bonus Sabal home that shows like a dream! NEW luxury vinyl plank, plantation shutters, beautiful paint choices & master retreat with new carpet! Spectacular kitchen with cherry cabinets, island & stainless appliances! $565,000 !

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STUNNING HOME WITH GOLF COURSE VIEWS IN GUARD GATED RIVER HILLS! 5/4.5/3 + office + bonus home that has been meticulously maintained!

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CONSERVATION VIEWS IN GATED SORA TRACE IN FISHHAWK RANCH! 4/4/3 + bonus + flex space + pool/spa home that shows like a dream with fresh interior paint, Pergo floors, crown molding & plantation shutters! This home also boasts a chef's kitchen & flex space in addition to bonus room! Wonderful private view! $550,000

BEAUTIFUL SABAL "WESTWIND" HOME IN JAEGERGLEN IN FISHHAWK RANCH! You will fall in love with this 4/3/3 + office + pool/spa home that is minutes on foot to Bevis elementary! Wood floors, tray ceilings, French doors, plantation shutters & kitchen with white cabinets & stainless appliances!

Resort-like lanai area! $459,000

CONSERVATION LOT IN THE MERLIN GLEN IN FISHHAWK RANCH! 4/4/3 + office + bonus + pool/spa home with over 3,300 sqft! Neutral paint colors, wide base, crown, wood floors & more! Kitchen with 42" cherry cabinets, granite & stainless appliances! No car line with a 4 minute bike ride to Bevis! $489,000

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PERFECT CARDEL "ENDEAVOR III" HOME IN FISHHAWK WEST! Wonderful 4/4/3 + office + bonus home that offers perfect paint choices, wood floors, French doors & perfect screened patio! Chef's kitchen with 42" espresso cabinets topped with crown, oversized island, stainless appliances & granite counters! $475,000 !

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SUNRISE "MONTEREY III" ON 1/3 ACRE LOT! Welcome home with this 4/3.5/3 + office + bonus + media room + pool home sitting on oversized lot in Parkside Village! Walking distance to coveted Bevis elementary! Wood floors, plantation shutters, new carpet & so much more! No CDD! $489,000

SPECTACULAR SABAL HOME ON 0.36 ACRES! Fall in love with this wonderful 4/4/3 + office + bonus + pool/spa home that offers a fabulous canvas for you to make your own! Loaded with upgrades including fabulous wood & tile floors, plantation shutters, crown, gourmet kitchen & lanai with pavers & outdoor kitchen! Perfect! $665,000

office: (813) 655-5333 | direct: (813) 924-8677 | Brenda@BrendaWade.com www.BrendaWade.com

May 2019

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Rosecastle At Delaney Creek In Brandon Celebrates Its 20th Anniversary The Rosecastle at Delaney Creek in Brandon cordially invites the local community to commemorate it being in operation for 20 years. This event will occur on July 18 of this year from 4 p.m.- 6 p.m. with a 90’s theme décor. Food, entertainment, tours and more will provided for those who attend.

In 1999, Rosecastle at Delaney Creek opened. The 52,000 sq. ft. building features an option of a six floor plan such as a studio, two-bedroom, one-bedroom and more. It also offers 24-hour on-site staff, which includes LPN’s (Licensed Practical Nurses) and caregivers. To add, residents get specialized care for those with memory loss or Alzheimer’s disease.

Residents also receive assistance with daily activities that include dressing, grooming and much more.

Rosecastle at Delaney Creek executive director, Christopher Kmet expounded on the kind of premiere services it offers to their residents.

“With our extended care license residents can age in place,” Kmet said. In addition, some primary services that one could receive would be home health,

By Tatiana Ortiz

physical therapy, occupational therapy and more.”

Kmet also mentioned about the various completed renovations here. For example, Rosecastle at Delaney Creek got a new roof and the interior was painted just to name a few.

With Kmet’s role as the executive director he strives to make sure that Rosecastle at Delaney Creek continues to maintain its reputation that it had since 1999. He also aims to bring awareness about what the facility does, especially for those who never visited Rosecastle at Delaney Creek.

In regards to the 20th year anniversary celebration, Kmet shares his excitement about it.

“We hope to bring in the community and show them what we did,” Kmet said. “To add, in this industry it’s not an accomplishment that many companies can fulfill.”

Overall, as the population ages, Rosecastle at Delaney Creek will continue to provide quality care for its residents.

For more information, visit http://rosecastleal.com/delaney.html. Delaney Creek is located at 320 S. Lakewood Dr. in Brandon. Call 655-8858.

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Page 37

Southshore Insurance Professionals Celebrates Five Years Serving Community

By Manuela Graf

Trusted. Local.

“I believe our focus on Convenient. These are education and providing the principles that information to our clients Southshore Insurance along with building relaProfessionals™ prides its tionships makes us differservices upon. The indeent. Our customer experipendent insurance firm ence is something we recently celebrated its work hard on every day fifth anniversary on and we’ve got a customer March 14, recogexperience solution for nizing its service to everyone. Our experience Michelle Mosher is whatever our client’s all clients seeking is the founder of the best insurance need dictates and as Southshore products and polithose needs change, we Insurance Professionals. cies for them. adapt to those things,” she Licensed agent said. and owner of Southshore Insurance Given Florida’s unique insurance Professionals Michelle Mosher welcomes market, Southshore Insurance also prides the company’s anniversary with enthusiitself on providing services to accommoasm and advocates for the company’s date these needs. mission.

“We have a wide selection of prod“Our mission is to be sure that we’re ucts and services because of Florida’s providing a service that educates our market. We have markets for all sorts of community. We’re committed to risks, whether it’s private flood insurance, provide\ing insurance solutions that the mobile homes, high risk auto insurance or client can understand and provide only such,” she said. the highest quality information, services, In addition to founding the company, products and insurance carriers,” said Mosher has also taken on the role of Mosher.

President of the Greater Riverview “Our agency offers an array of perChamber of Commerce and is passionsonal and commercial insurance policies. ate about supporting local businesses as We write home, auto, flood, collector vehi- well. cle, commercial property, liability and “I have learned that there is nowhere workers’ compensation coverage, just to else I’d rather be serving than in this comname a few,” she said. munity,” she said.

As an independent insurance compaCall 448-7580 or text 517-8181. ny, Southshore Insurance proudly makes Southshore Insurance can be found on customer service a priority to provide a social media platforms including unique experience to its clients, according Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, Pinterest or to Mosher. visit https://southshoreins.com/.

Page 38

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

gs ummin

Mr. C

rade 12th G dale ing Bloom h Hig School d By

Sponsore

Signature Wade

ings Mr. Thomas CeuMmom nth Teacher Of Th

e a teacher?

Why did you decide to becom d desire to help students pushe My passion for history and aI could effectively relay inform me into teaching. I felt that to them in a way that would tion to students and relate enhance their learning.

teacher?

What is a goal of yours as a an to reach as many students as are lly rea Goals for teaching g educator which means findin ts den stu to ation ways to communicate inform be interested in. ly ari ess nec t that they may no dents don’t know What is something your stu about you? lly a sensitive While I am sarcastic I am rea very quiet unlike person and in school I was a teacher. my personality in school as t you live by?

Is there a quote or saying tha llan the educaIn the words of Michael Fu is more of a tor "Moral Purpose" which do what is phrase which reminds me to dents. in the best interests of my stu

Mr. Cum

mings ha s been 16 years a teacher for .

and why?

What is your favorite book ause it probably Fahrenheit 451 bec vel no n Really any dystopia piness and what society about what brings hap challenges the status quo in rselves. role we have in educating ou re with your stusing moment you want to sha What would be an embarras dents? climbing on top of sing but getting in trouble for I’m not sure if it is embarras a portable during class. changed in the schools?

What would you like to see more funding for edue to teach, less paperwork, In a perfect world more tim e what I do. olvement, but honestly I lov inv al ent par sed rea inc , ion cat

Volume 18, Issue 5

Hillsborough County School District Receives First Sales Tax Check

Staff Report

The Hillsborough County School District has received the first sales tax check from the Education Referendum that Hillsborough County that residents approved back in November. The check, in the amount of $9 million, is from January sales tax collections. This now paves the way for major projects at traditional district schools in every area of the county. Its ready to deliver on its Half-Penny Promise to taxpayers.

The projects across the district will be spread over the next 10 years as the state collects and sends the money to the district. Its facilities and maintenance teams have been working behind the scenes for the last five months to select companies who will carry out the work and begin initial planning and design for the first phase of projects. The district teams created a plan of 1,785 total projects over the 10 years of the Education Referendum, focusing on high priority needs.

The first of the largest projects, including 21 air conditioner replace-

ments and millions of dollars in roof repairs, will begin over the summer, when students and staff are off campus—as crews of sometimes more than 100 workers complete the work.

Other, smaller projects will begin soon after depositing this first check.

The independent Citizen Oversight Committee, led by former State Education Commissioner Betty Castor and Sheriff Chad Chronister, has been reviewing each of the projects and spending before the work is submitted to the School Board for final approval.

The county knows it will still take time to complete these projects, however, the overwhelming support by the people of Hillsborough County shows a true commitment and support for the students, teachers and staff at every school.

For more, Hillsborough County Schools, visit www.sdhc.k12.fl.us/.

May 2019

Page 39

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

ue Math Leag y Art njo Champs, E More…

Outdoors &elle Colesanti,

by Mich Compiled rver.com spreyobse o @ e ll e h mic

Burns Middle Awarded Math League Grand Champion

Burns Middle School math league students were named the Grand Champions in the recent competition after competing agains 40 other middle schools across the district.

Brandon Angel Foundation’s Junior Angel program worked side by side recently to make 200 peanut butter and jelly sandwiches. The sandwiches, along with fruit snacks and chips, were bagged and delivered to St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church in Seffner that supports the Hillsborough County Homeless Initiative.

In February, Burns Middle School competed in Hillsborough County Math League competition with approximately 40 other middle schools from across the district. The teams were made up of four students per grade level from sixth-eighth grade. The students took an individual test and then did 10 team questions. The individual scores are combined with the team score for an overall score. The sixth, seventh and Algebra teams each took First Place in the region and every team member also placed individually.

After all team scores were combined Burns had the highest score in the entire county and was announced the Grand Champions.

Winners were: Sixth Grade Bridges residents and Junior Angels recently Team-Coach-Alice Jones: Tristan worked together to help feed the homeless.

Bensley-1st place; Mason Krzic"Bringing together the residents and 2nd place; Nicolas Darby-3rd place; the Junior Angels was terrific for everyHannah Ray-4th place; Seventh Grade one.

It was wonderful to watch them work Team-Coach-Virginia Keith: Emma Voehlside by side and help each other make 1st place; Joseph Brown-2nd place; Kody the sandwiches while talking, laughing Nguyen-3rd place; Tyler Hacker-4th and getting to know each other," stated place; 8th Grade Team-Coach Shelly Jill Lansky, Chair of the Brandon Teal; Hadley Horton-1st place; Hanlin Foundation Junior Angel Program.

Zhang-2nd place; Emma Skousen-4th According to residents Bruce and place and Emily Nichols-5th place.

Leslie Frimet, “It was so nice to connect and work alongside these kids and to see Art At Cracker Country On Wednesday, May 8 from 10 a.m.- them so gung-ho about helping those less fortunate.” These two groups have 1 p.m., bring a blanket and picnic under been working together since 2017 and live oak trees while sketching the historic are committed to continuing their partnerbuildings at Cracker Country. Join in on ship to support those in need. art workshops designed for visitors of all skill levels then visit the historic buildings State Farm Agent Melissa Snively’s and discover Florida's rural history. Art Quotes For Good Program workshops are designed for visitors 6 Local State Farm agent Melissa years old or older. Younger learners are Snively and nonprofits, Newsome welcome to attend and test out their colOrchestra and Brandon Ballet, team up oring skills. Do not forget to bring a camfor this month’s Quotes for Good proera to tackle some photography chalgram. lenges.

Throughout April, each person who General Pricing is $8 per person 4 contacts Melissa Snively State Farm years old and up, children 3 years old seeking a car, home, or life quote can and younger will be admitted for free. A request the agent to donate $10 per sketch book is included with each household to either Newsome Orchestra advance purchase admission. or Brandon Ballet.

The Quotes for Good program was Seniors And Teens Feed The created for local State Farm agents to Homeless build relationships with local groups and Residents at The Bridges Assisted organizations and help make a difference Living Community and teenagers with the

in their communities.

The Newsome High School Orchestra is comprised of students in grades 9-12.

The orchestra competes against other orchestras and recently performed at Carnegie Hall in New York.

Playing an instrument in high school is beneficial because students gain a sense of achievement, develop creative thinking and spatial intelligence and often produce higher scores on standardized tests.

Brandon Ballet is a local professional ballet company whose dancers range

insurance needs Stop by Melissa Snively’s office located at 16209 FishHawk Blvd. in Lithia or call 6623622.

Create A Journal Workshop At Bloomingdale Library

Come create at a workshop held at Bloomingdale Regional Library on Saturday, May 11 from 10 a.m.-1 p.m.

This class will be led by veteran artist Bonnie Phillips.

Participants decide what kind of journal they want to make: Travel, Summer, Art, Bullet, Writing, Holiday or a combination. Class includes everything you will need to begin. You may bring your own journal to work in, use a steno notebook provided, or create pages provided that

FishHawk Early Learning Center will have the largest graduating class since opening its doors in 2000. The private preschool has two locations, one next to Bevis Elementary and one next to FishHawk Creek Elementary.

from age 9 to adult. The company is com- you can add to your own journal later. prised of professional artists, pre-profesYour Journal will be as simple or as cresional trainees and training dancers. The ative as you wish using colorful papers, pre-professional training program is pens and art materials. Your beautiful unique in that each dancer is provided pages will inspire you to keep writing. with individual attention, college and Sign up now at the Bloomingdale Library career guidance, along with daily dance Ask Desk in person or call 273-3652 and instruction to support their individual ask for the Bloomingdale Library Ask goals.

Desk to register.

“I’m extremely excited to support Ducks Unlimited Award To such great organizaShoot Straight tions through Quotes Shoot Straight on US for Good,” explained Hwy. 301 has enabled the Melissa Snively.

East Hillsborough Ducks “This program is a Unlimited Chapter to sponsor great way for all of us conservative-minded youth to support our comeducational events as well as munity. At the same fund raising over the last five time, our office can years. In partnership with Presenting the Environmental also provide cusother organizations, Shoot Conservation Award to Tom tomers with a comAllen are Ducks Unlimited Straight enabled the local Committee members Evan prehensive underchapter to restore 210 acres of Smith and Joseph Layrisson standing of their Florida wetlands.

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Page 40

Volume 18, Issue 5

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

ng, Best Food Drive, Danci ore…

Buddies Walk & M Compiled by Michelle Colesanti, michelle@ospreyobserver.com

Sight Support Group Enjoys Bowling Event

the community.

For more information, please contact Maren Funderburk at 685-8407.

Best Buddies Walk Celebrates 30th Birthday Of Organization

Best Buddies International creates opportunities for one-to-one friendships, The Palms Church Sight Support integrated employment, leadership develGroup met April 16 at the Brandon opment, and inclusive living opportunities Crossroads Bowling Alley. It was a time for people with intellectual and developfor overcoming challenges for this visualmental disabilities.

A Best Buddies ly impaired group. A good time was had Friendship Walk will be held on Saturday, by everyone.

May 4 in Tampa in honor of its 30th birthThe next meeting will be held day.

Tuesday, May 7 at 1 Best Buddies p.m. at the Palms Tampa is proud to Church, located at welcome 1,500 of its 204 New Hope Rd. friends in a walk for (off Parsons Ave.) in inclusion, working Brandon. At the towards surpassing monthly meetings you the 2019 fundraising will share coping goal of $125,000 for methods, learn about the Friendship Walk. new technology and Members and spouses of The Registration begins at listening to various Palms Church Sight Support Group 8 a.m. and the walk enjoy a day of bowling at Brandon speakers. The Group Crossroads Bowling Alley. commences at 9:30 is free and open to

a.m. at Raymond James Stadium, 4201 N Dale Mabry Hwy. in Tampa. Following the walk, please join Best Buddies for a day of fun, free food, family, fitness, and friendship.

Best Buddies thanks its top sponsors, Heritage Insurance and The Seminole Hard Rock Casino. Sign up a team today at www.bestbuddiesfriendshipwalk.org/tampabay.

are encouraged to take the survey. The survey will serve as a baseline for future surveys as well as to provide an opportunity to gather information about the services residents think are most important in this community.

The survey is designed to measure resident sentiment in key focus areas such as local economy, public safety, life enrichment, recreation opportunities, self-sufficiency programs for individuals and families, and high-quality community assets.

For information, visit HCFLGov.net/Survey.

Countywide Survey Available To All Residents Online

Volunteers Needed For Food Drive

Whether you want to talk about your adopted pet, your neighborhood park or your proposed roundabout, the new online Hillsborough County survey is for you.

The 2019 Countywide Survey is online for all residents to share their opinions and ideas. The survey is available in both English and Spanish. It should only take about 10 minutes to complete.

Every Hillsborough County resident, including those who live in the cities of Tampa, Temple Terrace, and Plant City,

Please join ECHO and the National Association of Letter Carriers to help Stamp Out Hunger in Hillsborough County by assisting with the National Postal Food Drive on Saturday, May 11 starting at 12:30 p.m. at 10275 Windhorst Rd. in Tampa as well as the Brandon, Seffner, Riverview and Valrico Post Offices.

Volunteers will help with sorting, boxing and weighing the food and clean up.

Trucks and trailers are needed to assist at the post office sites.

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Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

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Page 42

Volume 18, Issue 5

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

With Arts & Entertainment Editor Kathy L. Collins

The Tradition Of High-Quality Dramatic Productions Continues At Lithia Springs Elementary School

Florida Orchestra Musicians Association Announces Young Artists Competition Winners

For nearly 30 In addition, the stuyears, Lecia dents, their parents and McCarty, a 5th siblings who need servgrade Language ice hours, put in time Arts/Social Studies with rehearsal and set teacher at Lithia production.

Springs McCarty said, “It Elementary School is all about family has been directing and about the com4th and 5th grade munity. So many Students at Lithia students and propeople help me put Springs Elementary School, under the direction of Lecia on these productions.” ducing live theatriMcCarty, will perform the Jr. Disney McCarty added, “I find it cal performances.

Production, Mary Poppins, Jr. This tradition will wonderful when a student continue this May when the 4th and 5th reaches high school, comes back and grade students, under the direction of asks me if I remember them. I love when McCarty, perform the Jr. Disney they come back.”

Production, Mary Poppins Jr. Over the years, the productions have The shows will take place on grown. McCarty used to write the scripts Thursday, May 16 and 23 and Friday, and only had a small stage. Today, she May 17 and 24 at 6:30 p.m. at Lithia contracts with Jr. Disney Productions, has Springs Elementary School located at an expanded stage and elaborate sets.

4332 Lynx Paw Trail in Valrico. Tickets McCarty’s love of drama began at an are $10 per person and can be obtained early age. She wrote her first play when at the school’s front office as of she was just 11 years old. She was Wednesday, May 1. involved in community theatre in college McCarty said, “Everyday is a good and has a secondary degree in Theatrical day because of the kids.” McCarty works Arts- Directing. tirelessly to put on the productions.

The drama productions at Lithia However, she does not do them alone.

Springs are open to students from surShe is assisted by choreographer and fel- rounding schools. Each August, McCarty low teacher, Amy Hoover; set designer, sends out information on the show that artist and art teacher, Shelley Valdez; and will be performed that year. For more former parent and long-time costumer, information, please contact McCarty at Sandra Carter.

Lecia.Mccarty@sdhc.k12.fl.us.

Each year, The Melissa Petrescue. This is Florida Orchestra the fourth time that Sexton Musicians Association has competed in the competiholds the Justine tion.

LeBaron Young Artists Sexton competed Competition. This year, against 13 other young musithe competition was held cians. Sexton said, “The on March 23 at the competition was very profesMusic Center on the sional and welcoming. The Gibbs Campus of St. judges created an environPetersburg College. ment where young musicians The competition is could showcase their hardnamed in remembrance work and musicality while of the former Principal receiving feedback to better French Horn of the Photo courtesy of Sweet Bee their future playing and musiStudios, Tampa cal experience.” Sexton added, Florida Orchestra. This Myra Sexton, a resident of year’s competition Lithia and an 8th grade stu- “A big shout out to Bill involved 37 young clasMickelsen, Principal Tuba of dent at Progress Village Middle. sical music students the Florida Orchestra, who from Hillsborough, Pinellas and Pasco spent countless hours organizing this counties. The students competed in the year’s competition.” senior and junior divisions in piano and Sexton studies under Lauren Murphy instrumental categories. The competition of Tampa Suzuki Strings. Sexton is the was open to students ages 8 to 22, winConcertmaster of her school’s Honors ners received cash prizes totaling $4,600. Orchestra. She is also the Principal Locally, one student placed in her Musician, Violin 2 section of the TMYO’s respective category. Myra Sexton, an 8th Symphony Orchestra, and violinist for Into grade student at Progress Village Middle the Forest, a local synth-rock band that Magnet School of the Arts. She is a resireleased two EP’s in 2018. dent of Lithia. Sexton plays the violin. She Sexton also participated in the earned First Place in the Junior Perlman Music Program/Suncoast Super Instrumental Division (under age 15).

Strings Program. In 2017, she participatSexton performed the first movement on ed in the Mark Wood Electrify Your Concerto No. 9 in A minor Op. 104 by Strings Program.

Charles de Bariot, accompanied by For info, visit www.floridaorchestra.org.

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Page 43

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

The Kyrie Center Offers Healing, Reiki, Tai Chi, Yoga & More For Mind, Body And Spirit

By Kelly Wise Valdes

The Kyrie Center Freemãn. She began offers a variety of classes to study Reiki with the that help improve the American Reiki Master mind/body connection, Association and was reduce stress and also drawn to study the increase overall wellness Tai Chi and Kung Fu and personal growth. The forms of the Juai Kung facility offers Reiki and Karbo (Mastery the Tai Chi and Kung Fu through Movement) forms, Lama Yoga medimartial arts system. tation as well as guided “While studying the meditation classes. forms, I found the conLynn Montana Freemãn Instructor and owner, nection of the higher Shihan Lynn Montana Freemãn opened order of Reiki, Tai Chi and Kung Fu,” said the doors to her center in March and is Freemãn. “It was an amazing experience excited to offer these services to the com- and it set the tone for the next two munity. decades of my life, which finally brought Freemãn was born and raised in me here.”

Pennsylvania, but she has now returned Freemãn doesn’t teach fighting or to the FishHawk/Valrico area and is here fighting technique – everything she to stay. “I am in love with this community,” teaches centers on healing. said Freemãn. “I have met great people, “The Tai Chi and Kung Fu forms I the businesses are so well run and the teach have all of the Reiki symbols in community is rich with new ideas and them,” said Freemãn. “It is incredible personal growth, and that is what I am all energy, full of so much love and clarity, about.” which can only be a healing experience More than 20 years ago, Freemãn whether you receive it as a treatment or found herself with some residual pain study it at any of the three degree levfrom a boating accident. She went to the els.” owner of a crystal store who practiced Freemãn also teaches Lama Yoga Reiki, which means ‘Universal Life Force.’ meditation and offers guided meditation “I had no idea what it was and was classes as well. Lama Yoga meditation is very leery of the whole ‘laying-on-ofnot traditional yoga as in body movehands’ description she gave, but I trusted ment, but is a breathing meditation that her,” said Freemãn. “Not only did she fix inspires personal evolution and growth my injury, a side benefit was that she beyond the physical. Visit healed a pinched nerve in my left shoulwww.thekyriecenter.com, or Facebook at der that had been bothering me for years. The Kyrie Center for Body, Mind & Spirit.

I was sold.”

The Kyrie Center is located at 101 South This was the defining moment for St. Cloud Ave. in Valrico.

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Page 44

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Volume 18, Issue 5

Bloomingdale/FishHawk

May 2019

Volume 18, Issue 5

Ph: 657-2418

49-57

Crafty Crab Offers Authentic Cajun Seafood

Crafty Crab offers the freshest seafood and most authentic Cajun recipes in the area. Experience Southern charm and a friendly, welcoming atmosphere that will make you feel at home. Whether a business lunch, family dinner, date night or a night out with friends, Crafty Crab is the perfect spot.

Enjoy homestyle seafood such as crab, crawfish, shrimp, calamari and lobster. The signature New Orleans Style low country boil is a feast for seafood lovers and is perfect for a casual dinner. Its unique seasonings help to create a wonderful arrangement of flavors. If you are not into shellfish, you can try the Cajun rice, chicken tenders and other flavorful menu options.

Crafty Crab is located at 704 E. Brandon Blvd. in Brandon. Call 2785111 or visit www.craftycrabrestaurant.com.

Brandon Regional Hospital Named One Of Nation’s 100 Top Hospitals

By IBM Watson Health

Brandon Regional Hospital (BRH) was recently named one of the nation’s 100 Top Hospitals by IBM Watson Health. This recognition spotlights 100 top-perform-

to be a regional leader in Graduate Medical Education.

The Graduate Medical Education program at Brandon Regional Carmen & Sheila, owners of The Salt Grotto, Hospital provides residency celebrate one year of ownership. opportunities in ing hospitals in seven different specialties, including the U.S. based on publicly available an Emergency Medicine Residency, data and performance related to cliniInternal Medicine Residency, cal outcomes, operational efficiency Obstetrics and Gynecology Residency and financial metrics. and Surgical Residency.

The IBM Watson Health 100 Top For more information, visit Hospitals study uses a scorecard that BrandonHospital.com. assesses hospitals of similar size and teaching status. Over 5,500 hospitals The Salt Grotto Celebrates were evaluated, and the 100 highest One Year With Mother’s Day performing hospitals had lower mortaliOffer ty rates, fewer patient complications, Owners Carmen Matos provided faster emergency care, kept and Sheila Alba-Manager are a expenses low and scored higher on mother and daughter who patient experience. acquired The Salt Grotto a Brandon Regional Hospital was year ago. listed under the The Salt Grotto offers a method of Teaching Hospital inhalation of the purest grade of salt in category on the 100 a day spa-like environment surroundTop Hospitals list. ed by crystals of native and authentic The hospital started Himalayan pink salt.

Products offered its teaching program are Halotherapy (Dry Salt Therapy), in 2015 and currently has over 170 Massage Therapy, Acupuncture and physicians enrolled, positioning itself

Infrared Sauna.

As the one-year anniversary is celebrated, it is offering a Mother’s Day Special: two hours of the ultimate relaxation; a one hour therapeutic massage (including Salt Grotto’s famous Lemongrass salt scrub to the calves and feet), followed by a 45 minute session in the relaxing Adult Salt Room with a cup of hot tea and fluffy blanket; a great gift for mom or for you. The cost is $95.

It is located at 1026 Bloomingdale Ave. (Plaza Bella) and is open Monday and Saturday from 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Tuesday-Friday from 10 a.m.-7 p.m. and Sunday from 12 Noon-4 p.m.

Call 324-8946 or visit www.thesaltgrotto.com.

Missy’s Ink Celebrates Two-Year Anniversary

Missy’s Ink Permanent Makeup is celebrating two years of making women feel more confident from the outside in. Over the past two years, Missy Duncan has taken many advanced classes, which have helped to perfect her craft. Seeing the smiles and sometimes happy tears from over 250 women is what makes Missy love what she does.

Missy said, “Life isn’t always perfect, but your makeup can be.”

Missy’s Ink is located at 1104 N.

Continued on next page

Page 46

Business Column Continued.............

By Michelle Colesanti

Parsons Ave., Ste. B. Call 659-0648 for more information or visit www.missysink.com.

Home Instead Senior Care Franchises Test Electronic Locks For Clients

Volume 18, Issue 5

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

said Kristi Campbell, Owner at Home Instead Senior Care of Tampa and Brandon.

Home Instead Senior Care is planning to test the solution during the spring. The test involves around 20 locks in each county. After the pilot, additional users will soon be able to benefit from the solution. Call 684-1972.

Home Instead Senior Care franchises in Hillsborough, Pasco and Hernando County have opted to test digital locking technology from the Swedish company, Phoniro, to improve At Last Chiropractic Celebrates users’ experience along with enhanc- New Location With Ribbon Cutting ing security and safety. Phoniro Lock is installed in over 110,000 doors in A ribbon cutting was recently held different countries and used by over for At Last Chiropractic, which 200 public corporations and private recently moved to 5613 Skytop Dr. in home care companies. Phoniro is Lithia.

According to owners Dr. Anthony part of Assa Abloy Hospitality, which provides Taylor and Dr. trusted secuCarissa Hughes, your rity solutions health is your greatthroughout est fortune and the US and everyone wants to live free of pain and the world for healthcare, disease. The doctors hotel and know that specific cruise induschiropractic care gives your body the try. Assa Abloy has ability to function at its optimal potential been featured in which is the best way Dr. Anthony Taylor and Dr. Carissa Hughes Forbes to begin a life changrecently celebrated At Last Chiropractic’s move.

Magazine for ing process to better health and healing. several years as one of the ‘World’s most innovative companies.’

It is a family-focused office; all With the Phoniro Lock, clients no ages are treated and have special longer have to risk their security by training in adjusting pregnant mothleaving a key out or hidden under the ers and pediatrics. The technique is doormat. With the electronic lock, the very gentle, specific and safe for all caregiver will digitally enter the home ages. via an app installed on their smartHours are Monday and phone. The app is protected by the Wednesday 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Tuesday highest level of security through an and Thursday 9 a.m.-7 p.m. and IT platform known as Phoniro Care.

Friday 8 a.m.-1 p.m. Call 461-6500 or The lock is not visible from the visit https://atlastchiropractic.com/. outside and clients and their relatives can still use the physical key. It is Hiring Event For Teachers aesthetically pleasing and easy to Charter School Associates is hostinstall and remove. The electronic ing an in house hiring event for all lock will not interfere with any other security solutions the client may have.

“Client safety is a priority at teachers on Wednesday, May 29. The Home Instead Senior Care, and this event is being held at 13221 Boyette new technology will allow us to give Rd. in Riverview from 4-8 p.m. Charter reassurance to both our seniors and School Associates has much to offer their family members who may live their teachers such as competitive 1,000 miles away that the door isn’t salaries, free health care, offers dental left unlocked and that the ‘key under and vision, 401K Plan, professional the mat’ falls into the wrong hands,” growth opportunities, acknowledgment

for advanced degrees and PTO(paid time off). For more information, email Denise Herrera at dherrera@charterk12.com or call 954-414-5767 x1119.

Greater Riverview Chamber Of Commerce Celebrates Water Smart Tots

It uses cutting edge Damon brackets for patients needing traditional braces. Research has shown that Damon patients were treated in an average of 6.33 months less time than those treated with conventional twin brackets.

With $500 down children or adults can start their orthodontic treatment.

Whether it is the innovative Damon brackets or being an industry leader Invisalign, Hess Orthodontics has treatment options for children and adults.

Call 645-4377 to schedule a free consultation. Locations are in FishHawk, Riverview, Apollo Beach and Parrish.

Greater Riverview Chamber of Commerce members (GRCC) attended the ribbon cutting for founder and instructor, Kari Bahour’s Water Smart Tots, Inc. This family-friendly event was a celebration which took place at Kari’s Watch Me Swim property. Complete with bounce house, photo booth and EZPeeZ Launches Online plenty of refreshments, GRCC memLocal resident Brian Kleinschmidt bers along with family and friends from the Valrico/ Fishhawk Chamber were appeared on Shark Tank a few years treated to a water safety carnival. Two ago with his invention which has officially launched. EZPeeZ has revolucurrent students demonstrated water tionized the way the world potty trains. safety survival skills.

Water Smart Tots, Inc. is a With just a simple flip of the lid, chil501(c)(3) dedicated to decreasing pedi- dren can have their very own toilet seat atric drowning. Its mission is to provide that is just the right size. Now water safety education and scholar‘everyBUTTy’ in your family can easily use the same toilet seat without any ships for survival swimming skills to headaches or concerns. It is available children ages 12 months to 6 years who are financially underprivileged. on Amazon.com for $39.99.

Since 2000, Bahour taught aquatic TECO Peoples self-rescue swimming skills Gas Easiest to thousands of Utility In Nation infants and To Do Business young children.

With Bahour also has TECO additional extenPeoples Gas was sive training to recognized by become qualified Market Strategiesto train and Morpace as the mentor other easiest utility in instructors in the the nation with self-rescue which to conduct methodology. business, based Call 802on Customer Water Smart Tots ribbon cutting 9963 or email Effort index info@watersmarttots.com. Visit scores. Peoples Gas led the nation www.WaterSmartTots.org. with the highest Customer Effort index score, 802, out of the 140 electric, natHess Orthodontics Launches $199 ural gas and combination utilities A Month Braces And Invisalign included in the survey. The Customer Program Effort index score measures how easy Hess Orthodontics recently it is for customers to interact with a utillaunched a program allowing children ity across a variety of touchpoints. Only and adults to get state of the art ortho33 utilities also were considered easy dontic treatment for only $199 a month. to do business with, based on a “We are always looking to provide Customer Effort score of 750 or the perfect mix of cutting-edge technol- greater. ogy and provide value for our patients,” Peoples Gas also has been desigsaid Dr. Michael Hess. “Straighter nated an Environmental Champion and teeth mean better oral health, which in a Customer Champion by the same turn, has a direct impact on the rest of group for the past five years. the health of your body. Poor oral It serves about 390,000 cushealth including tooth decay and gum tomers across Florida. It is a subdisease is linked to heart disease. sidiary of Emera Inc, headquartered Straight teeth help prevent this.” in Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada.

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Assisted Living Facility #9739

May 2019

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Page 47

Page 48

Volume 18, Issue 5

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Florida Aquarium Announces Moon Bay: New Out-Of-This-World Touch Experience The Florida Aquarium will unveil an exciting new interactive experience, ‘Moon Bay,’ in time for the 2019 summer season.

The stars of this touch experience, moon jellies, which are named for their translucent moon like circular bells, are sensational, mesmerizing and prehistoric. This unique experience, to gently interact with jellies, is only the fourth of its kind in the United States. Moon Bay will connect guests to these graceful animals that have inhabited our oceans for more than 500 million years.

The Florida Aquarium’s mission to entertain and educate guests, while inspiring them to protect and restore oceans and waterways, is forefront in this opportunity to touch moon jellies in the first-floor lobby of the Aquarium.

“Connecting our guests to the underwater world and inspiring them to care about every animal in the ocean, including jellies, is core to our mission,” said Roger Germann, President, and CEO of The Florida Aquarium. "This exciting new touch experience will undoubtedly change perceptions of these amazing animals provide a rare opportunity for guests to interact with jellies, and enhance our world-class guest experience. It will be Tampa Bay’s must-sea attraction this summer.”

This unique 2,000-gallon habitat will

By Sandra Morrison

have two separate areas where the jellies can be touched by visitors. Guests are invited to experience and understand these beautiful animals up close as their bodies glow with the illumination of changing colored lights as they drift gracefully through the water.

Guests will be guided through an interpretive experience and learn fascinating facts, including the importance of moon jellies to our ocean planet, and why moon jellies and their relatives are not jellyfish. (The correct term is ‘jellies’ as they are not fish).

Above Moon Bay will be a state-ofthe-art digitally mapped projection wall that will bring guests on a journey though the waters of Florida and beyond. This dynamic visual, and Moon Bay, will transform the guest experience as they enter the Aquarium from the main entrance.

This is the second major exhibit to open at the Aquarium in the past year, following the debut of Heart of the Sea. Heart of the Sea is a renovated 100,000gallon habitat and is the Aquarium's second largest aquatic display, second only to a 500,000-gallon Coral Reef habitat, where guests can see more than 400 animals including endangered sea turtles, sharks, coral reef fishes, underwater coral trees and more.

Visit www.flaquarium.org.

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Page 49

2019 Summer Camps Offer Many Options To Keep Active & Engaged It’s that time of the year when parents are beginning to wonder how they will keep the kids busy during the dog days of summer. What can you do to keep the kids entertained? Where can they go to try new things, learn how to swim, meet new friends and have great fun? There are many options to choose from locally that will fit the bill.

The staff at the Osprey Observer has collected the top recommendations for local summer camps and created this special pull out section.

Maybe your kids would like to spend the summer ‘horsing around.’ R&R Ranch offers that opportunity, and not just to learn to horseback ride, but also about the care of the horses.

At Music Showcase, music and theatre take the stage and so can your child. Musicals such as Willy Wonka and Frozen Jr. will be offered, and your child can hold starring roles in these and other popular musicals offered from the Florida Academy of Performing Arts for children ages 5 and up.

For your actor or musician, don’t forget to also check out Firehouse Cultural Center and Patel

Conservatory, which also offer fun and exciting ideas.

The local YMCAs will offer many types of camps which mix fun along with great learning experiences.

With plenty of choices, there is something for everyone.

Mathnasium offers ways to keep your student’s math skills from getting rusty in a fun environment.

Do you have a child interested in cooking? Check out Rolling Pin Kitchen Emporium’s Cooking Camps for Kids through Teens.

With weekly themes utilizing agespecific activities and field trips that make BSAC unique, your kids will enjoy every moment of summer camp.

Specialty camps for Baseball (Ostingers), Legos (Bricks4Kidz), Art (Center Place) and Tennis (FishHawk Ranch Tennis Club) also offer great opportunities.

For dates, prices and registration information on these and more, turn the page and enjoy this special section and have a great summer.

Did we miss one? Let us know by emailing subject line ‘Summer Camp’ to michelle@ospreyobserver.com and we will be sure to add to our full listing online.

Page 50

Spots Filling Fast For Outdoor Adventure At Tampa YMCA Summer Camp This is the year to experience YMCA Summer Camp.

Registration is now open for the Tampa Metropolitan Area YMCA’s newly enhanced summer camp program. Y Summer Camp 2019 offers children a day camp curriculum full of fun, educational activities.

Activity specialists will lead campers through various experiences each day including swimming, science, high ropes, outdoor education, nature encounters, horseback riding, canoeing, visual arts and more.

The fun and unique experiences give Y campers an opportunity to explore the outdoors, meet new friends, discover new interests and create memories that last a lifetime. In Y Summer Camp, kids are in a welcoming environment where they can belong, build relationships, develop character and discover their potential.

New for 2019, parents now have the option to add on before- and after-care activities which include swimming, horseback riding, sports and high ropes. There are also various specialty camps where campers will be immersed in their selected specialty in addition to enjoying traditional camp fun. Activities and specialty

Staff Report

options vary by location.

Once again, Hillsborough County Public Schools has committed to providing free breakfast and lunch as part of the Summer Food Program. The program runs from Monday, June 3 – Friday, August 2 and is open to all kids in the community ages 18 and under, including Y campers. To find out the time frames when free breakfast and lunch are available, contact your local Y. Visit https://www.tampaymca.org/locations for locations.

Spots are filling fast at 14 locations across Hillsborough and East Pasco counties, including four sites for the Y’s The First Tee of Tampa Bay program. (www.thefirstteetampabay.org/informationsummer-camps/).

Experience summer camp locally at: Campo Family YMCA in Valrico (6841371), North Brandon Family YMCA (685-5402), Spurlino Family YMCA at Big Bend Rd. in Riverview (228-9622) and YMCA Camp Cristina in Riverview (6778400).

To ensure your kids stay engaged socially, physically and academically throughout the summer, register today at www.tampaymca.org/letscamp.

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Registration Open For Patel Conservatory Summer Camps And Classes

By Leslie Farrell

tions will be held Thursday, March 28, Thursday, April 18 and Friday, May 17.

Dancers age seven and older will attend placement classes to determine which classes are most appropriate. Those younger than seven are not required to attend a placement class.

Registration for auditions is required by visiting www.strazcenter.org/auditions or by calling 222-1040.

Nearly $200,000 in scholRegistration is arships will be awarded for now open for Patel Patel Conservatory camps Conservatory dance, and classes this summer. music and theater Scholarship applications are summer camps and available online at www.strazclasses, which begin center.org/financialaid; the prithe week of Monday, Patel Conservatory is now regis- ority deadline is June 3. tering for its summer camps and Monday, April 8.

Nearly 70 camps classes. Some will require auditions.

The accredited Patel and classes are offered, most with performance opportuni- Conservatory offers classes in dance, music and theater for students of all ages ties, for students of all ages and abilities.

Camps and classes vary from jazz dance and experience levels. Each year, the to jazz music, from Shakespeare to Annie Patel Conservatory and the Straz Center’s arts education programs enrich to Comedy on Broadway, and from the lives of more than 50,000 students in Ukelele Camp to Youth Opera Camp. A our classrooms, on our stages and complete line up is online at www.patelthrough the community. conservatory.org.

Events, days, dates, times and prices Some summer camps and classes, are subject to change without notice. which are held for all ages and abilities, Patel Conservatory is located at the require auditions. Music auditions will be Straz Center for the Performing Arts, held Saturday, March 30, Saturday, April 1010 N. W.C. Macinnes Pl. in Tampa.

13 and Tuesday, May 21. Theater audi-

Page 51

Game Show Themes Add Up To Summer Camp Fun At 2019 Camp BSAC

Staff Report

BSAC offers a game show themed summer experience for campers this year.

BSAC Campers can once again look forward to exciting themed weeks of fun camp experiences. BSAC’s ‘Who’s Got Game’ theme is based around game shows. Have you always wanted to be a contestant in your favorite TV game show? Now you can.

Each themed week runs from Monday to Friday (except week 5 when there is no camp on the 4th of July).

Week 1: SURVIVOR - June 3 – June 7; Week 2: ESCAPE ROOM - June 10 – June 14; Week 3: THE AMAZING RACE - June 17 – June 21; Week 4: FEAR FACTOR - June 18 – June 22; Week 5: MINUTE TO WIN IT - July 1 – July 5 *Closed July 4th; Week 6: DOUBLE DARE - July 8 – July 12; Week 7: WIN, LOSE, DRAW - July 15 – July 19; Week

8: WIPE OUT - July 22 – July 26; Week 9: FAMILY FEUD - July 29 – August 2 and Week 10: THE REUNION SHOW - August 5 – August 9.

Registration Fees are $45 per child or $85 per family. It includes one camp T-shirt and one backpack per camper. The cost for camp per child is $150 full a full day (7 a.m.-6:30 p.m.); $90 week for half day – either 7 a.m.-12:30 p.m. or 1 p.m.-6:30 p.m. If you want to bring your child for drop in days, the cost is $40 for the day from 7 a.m.6:30 p.m. Drop in days must be selected and paid in advance to reserve and are non-refundable. Field trips are offered throughout the season at extra cost and are optional.

A Summer Camp Open House will be held on Saturday, April 27 from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Get a preview of the summer experience: a day in the life of a camper.

Be a contestant on your favorite TV game shows. You will tour BSAC, swim and play games in the pool, meet the summer camp mentors, have a family fun day with summer camp games and activities.

There will be a DJ and vendors.

BSA is located at 405 Beverly Blvd. in Brandon. For more information, call 689-0908 or visit www.mybsacorg.

Enjoy The Summer Scene 2019 At The Florida Academy of Performing Arts

Make Summer Days Happy Days At Happy Day Summer Camp

Full and half day camps are available for kids ages 5 and up at The Florida Academy of Performing Arts (FAOPA) at Music Showcase.

Musical Theatre productions of Willy Wonka (June 3-14), Once Upon A Mattress (June 10-21), Frozen Jr. (June 17-28), The Wizard of Oz Jr. (July 8-19), Once on This Island (July 15-26), and The Lion King Jr. (July 22-August 2) will all take place this summer for ages 5 and up.

Campers will participate in various classes each day that are customized to fit their appropriate age groups and will experience, music, acting, singing, dance, creative art, rock camp and more.

Music Showcase is located at 402 Oakfield Dr. in Brandon. For more information, call 490-2787 or visit faopa.org.

Weekly themes that are fun for your kids ages 1 to 10 will include many activities that will keep them moving and having a great summer.

The days will include plenty of arts & crafts, friendships as well as academic summer fun. Music, sports & games, character and manners, bouncy house and giant slide with outdoor water play round out the fun. Kids will enjoy an ice cream social and much more.

The cost is $100 per week for upcoming K5 to 5th grade campers.

This includes all field trips and weekly activities such as bowling, skating, AMC Movies, state parks, MOSI, public library, Publix, Florida Aquarium, Lowry Park Zoo, Dinosaur World and more.

Happy Day Summer Camp is open from Monday to Friday from 6:30 a.m.-6:30 p.m. and is located at 722 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. in Brandon. For more information, call 685-0028.

Continued on Next Page

Our instructors have 30 years combined professional playing and coaching experience.

Session 1 June 3-7 (M-F)

Session 2 July 8-12 (M-F)

Session 3 July 29-Aug 2 (M-F)

Location:

M-W Ostingers Academy • 8711 Lithia Pinecrest Road Th-F Field for games and other activities Space is Limited Age Group: 7 - 14 yrs Register Early Time: 8:30 am to 12:30 pm to hold your spot!

Cost: $180/camper **(Second Child $130) **Multi week discounts

Daily Instruction • Games • Pitching/Catching Fundamentals Addressed • Drills For More Information:

Call 813.737.3000 or visit our website at www.OstingBaseball.com

SUMMER CAMP 2019 Award Winning STEM Camps Since 2005 Where Bright & Creative Kids Play to Learn

813-444-2267 | techplayzone@gmail.com

Page 52

Bricks 4 Kidz Offers LEGO® Summer Camps

Bricks 4 Kidz is back with awesome LEGO® Summer Camps being offered all over the Brandon, Riverview and Valrico areas. Join in for a different theme each week such as Fortnite, Pokemon, Star Wars, Minecraft and much more. Each week campers will be building signature Bricks 4 Kidz robotic LEGO® models, very popular LEGO® mosaics and 3D LEGO® sculptures, as well as playing fun games and creating arts and crafts projects they will get to take home. At the end of each week, every camper will get to take home their very own LEGO® minifigure. Each day and week will be a brand new LEGO® adventure you won’t want to miss!

The schedule for the camps being offered at nearby locations is as follows: We Rock The Spectrum Monday to Friday, June 10–14: LEGO® Gamer’s World July 1 – July 5: LEGO® Summer Theme Mashup (Single

Day Pricing: No July 4 Camp) Monday to Thursday, July 15– July 18: LEGO® STAR WARS/MINECRAFT Mashup (Four Day Pricing).

The Venue In Riverview Monday to Friday, June 17– June 21: LEGO® Summer Theme Mashup Monday to Friday, August 5 August 9: Bricks 4 Girls LEGO® Camp with Girls With Confidence FishHawk Aquatic Center Monday to Friday, June 3 – June 7: LEGO® Gamer’s World Monday to Friday, July 8 – July 12:

da-tampa or call 545-4282.

Center Place Fine Arts Offer Summer Art Camp To Brighten The Day

Who knew that art could be so much fun?

This summer, register your 7-13 year old to discover their love of painting, drawing, pottery and more.

Classes are offered Monday to Friday from 9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. and include Art Mural, Animal Paintings, Pencil Drawings Cruise Around the World, West & Wild Canvases, Ceramic Sculpture, Recycled Art, Landscape Drawings, Paper Sculptures, Space Art, Mixed Media and more.

Center Place is located at 619 Vonderburg Dr., Ste. B in Brandon. For more information or to register, visit www.centerplacebrandon.org or call 685-8888.

Fun And Education Spins Throughout The Summer At Kids ‘R’ Kids

LEGO® STAR WARS/MINECRAFT Mashup Monday to Friday, August 5 - August 9: LEGO® Summer Theme Mashup Sign up at www.bricks4kidz.com/flori-

Kids ‘R’ Kids is excited to launch a new twist on camp where kids are redefining summer and turning ordinary days into the extraordinary.

Just as fragments inside a kaleidoscope fuse together to captivate us with a new perspective, Kaleidoscope 360° will spin this summer into a unique dimension of discovery, fun and friendships through various weekly themes. This summer

promises a well-supervised, engaging and enriching camp for preschool and elementary aged children.

Extended hours, meals/snacks, weekly field trips, sports and more are being offered.

Learn Baseball From The Pros At Ostingers Baseball Academy Summer Camp

Ostingers Baseball Academy will hold its baseball camp this summer to give your child a better understanding of the game of baseball, through instruction, drills and games. Having a good time while learning the fundamentals will be the main focus of this camp.

Ostingers staff is made up of all former professional players who instruct, teaching the game from the ground up.

The camp is not a full day camp with video games and indoor activities.

Jim Osting is a baseball instructor with 12 years of professional baseball

Continued on Next Page

Page 53

playing experience including two years of Major League Experience (Padres and Brewers).

Patrick Ryan is a baseball instructor with eight years professional pitching experience. Kris Wilken is the Head Baseball Coach at Bloomingdale High School and has six years of professional playing experience. College and high school players trained by Ostingers Baseball Academy will assist your child throughout their camp experience. Additional help is provided from Ostinger players current and past to make the campers experience ‘one of a kind.’

With the instructors and the staff, the ratio per camper is around 6:1.

This ratio allows for added reps for each player and helps to break up the groups in age appropriate format.

Camp weeks run Monday to Friday, June 3-7, July 8-12 and July

KIDS

Summer Camps (Ages 6-11) 10:30am - 1:00pm

29-August 2. Camps run half days from 8:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Camps are held Monday to Wednesday at Ostingers Baseball Academy, 8711 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. and Thursday and Friday at the FishHawk Sports Complex fields located at 16120 FishHawk Blvd. in Lithia (for games and other activities). The cost is $180 (sibling discounts available).

For more information or to register, call 737-3000 or visit www.OstingBaseball.com.

Rolling Pin Kitchen Emporium Is Cooking Up Some Summer Fun

Rolling Pin Kitchen Emporium’s Summer Camps are a great way to learn new skills in the kitchen, create tasty recipes, and meet lots of new friends. The only things you need to be prepared are closed toe shoes and a restraint for shoulder length hair. All of the ingredients, tools and even the fun are included.

Students are taught how to properly use real kitchen tools, knives and appliances safely under adult supervision.

Students come away with the confidence to prepare dishes that are age appropriate and tasty. The goal

June 3-6 June 10-13 June 17-20 June 24-27 July 8-11 July 15-18 July 22-25 July 29-Aug 1 Aug 5-8

TWEEN’S & TEENS

Summer Camps (Ages 11-15) 2:00pm - 4:30pm

Brandon’s Big Green “EggQuarters”

is to encourage your child to be a help in the kitchen and to have fun while building a lifetime of good skills.

Cooking Camps for kids ages 6-11 will take place from 10:30 a.m.-1 p.m. daily and the tween’s and teen’s Summer Camps, ages 11-15 will take place from 24 p.m.

Camps will take place weekly for

four days and run from Monday, June 3 through Thursday, August 2.

Rolling Pin Kitchen Emporium is located at Brandon Crossroads, 2080 Badlands Dr. in Brandon. Call 653-2418 or visit www.rollingpinonline.com.

Continued on Next Page

Register online at www.girlswithconfidence.com Questions: Info@girlswithconfidence.com

813-571-2002

Helping Girls Develop Positive Overnight Self-Esteem for a Lifetime Camp Topics Include:

Friendships Girl Power Role Models Positive Mind & Attitude Love My Selfie Being Brave Taking Care of Yourself and much more!

5 Day Camps for K-Rising 6th Grade Girls

Camps offered throughout the Summer Full Day & Half Day Camps Available Prices start at $119 Volunteer Opportunities for High School Girls New Camper, Multi-Camp & Sibling Discounts Available Please visit our website for full listing of available camps!

for GIRLS 6th-8th Grade!

Page 54

Hoop It Up At FishHawk Fellowship’s Basketball Camp

Take your game to the next level.

Develop your skills and have fun doing it.

Work daily to improve every player’s technical abilities. Camp is suitable for everyone from beginners to elite players.

FishHawk Fellowship Church is partnering with Alpha & Omega Sports, Inc. Its staff designs intense, fun training sessions.

Camp will run Monday, June 24 to Friday, June 28 for grades 2-5 and Monday, July 22 to Friday, July 26 for grades 6-12.

Both camps will be held from 8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at FishHawk Fellowship Church, 15326 FishHawk Blvd. in Lithia.

The cost is $100 per student. For more information, visit www.fishhawkfc.org/basketball.

Tennis Camp Weeks Offered In FishHawk

FishHawk Ranch Tennis Club will offer camp this summer for ages 6 to 16. Camp is for beginning and intermediate skill levels.

Choose your weeks between Monday, June 3 and Friday, August 9.

Full day camp available or half days from 9 a.m.-1:30 p.m. or 1:30-4 p.m. are

available.

Camp will be offered at 15921 Courtside View Dr. in Lithia.

Register online at http://fishhawkranchtennisclub.com or call 681-4000.

Musical Theater And Much More Offered At Firehouse Cultural Center

The Firehouse Cultural Center will be offering Summer Camp through the summer. It is located at 101 1st Ave. NE in Ruskin.

Week 1: June 3 – June 7 - Musical Theater I; Week 2: June 10 – June 14; Musical Theater II Week 3: June 17 – June 21; Musical Theater III; Week 4: June 24 – June 28; Musical Theater IV Week 5: July 1 - July 5 (No Camp on Thursday, July 4), Art Studio; Week 6: July 8 - July 12, Art Studio II; Week 7: July 15 – July 19, Cartooning & Animation; Week 8: July 22 – July 26, Robotics-Tech Fee for Robotics: $50; Week 9: July 29 – August 2, Robotics Tech Fee for Robotics: $50.

For more information, call 645-7651 or visit www.firehouseculturalcenter.org.

Camps are: MAC Basketball (ages 7-12) - June 10-14, Harlem Legends Shoot for the Stars (ages 7-14) – June 24-28; MAC Girls Volleyball (ages 8-13) July 8-12; MAC Soccer (ages 7-12) –July 15-19; MAC Basketball (ages 9-13) - July 22-26 and MAC Coed Volleyball (ages 8-13) - July 29-August 2.

Registration forms for MAC summer sports camps can be picked up at the MAC Front desk or downloaded at https://themacgym.org/mtcontent/uploads/2019/04/campregistrationform2019.pdf .

The Harlem Legends Basketball Camp forms can be downloaded at https://themacgym.org/mtcontent/uploads/2019/04/legendscamp2019.pdf.

Sign up early as camps fill up fast. Form and registration fees may be dropped off at the MAC front desk or mailed to the church marked ‘Attention: MAC.’ Make checks payable to: First Baptist Church of Brandon, 216 N. Parsons Ave., Brandon, FL. For more information, please call the MAC at 315-3280.

Continued on Next Page

MAC Summer Sports Camps

The MAC Center located at First Baptist Church of Brandon is offering multiple sports summer camps from 9 a.m.-1 p.m. (unless otherwise specified).

The cost for each camp is $100 except for Harlem Legends, which is $140.

Camp weeks will run from Monday to Friday.

Hours: 6am - 10pm South Brandon

Lake Brandon Village

(813) 571-0569

(813) 655-1237

2010 Bloomingdale Ave, Brandon 11325 Causeway Blvd, Brandon

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Page 55

Valrico (Plaza Bella shopping center).

Combat Dreaded Summer Slide With Mathnasium Of Brandon Or Mathnasium @Home

Kids can power up this summer with Mathnasium of Brandon or Mathnasium @home. The summer slide is real and students can lose over two months of mathematical skills every summer. Mathnasium can help prevent that with its Power Up summer programs.

Summer is an ideal time for student's math ability to skyrocket. Without the pressure of school and extracurricular activities, students are able to focus and learn in a relaxed atmosphere, and they will love coming to Mathnasium as FUN is built in to the mathematical activities along with celebrating successes and fun prizes for outstanding attendance and growth.

"Take advantage of the more relaxed environment of summer break which is a golden opportunity to improve math performance whether your student is struggling or just wanting to dig deeper into their math studies," suggest Becky McDaniels, center director at Mathnasium of Brandon and Mathnasium @home.

Mathnasium's @home program is an additional benefit for students who would like to keep up their skills

Math Help

Summer Camps For Girls Develop Positive Self Esteem

but are traveling. You can take Mathnasium anywhere with Mathnasium @home.

Mathnasium will help parents choose a Summer Power Workout Plan, such as numerical fluency, fractions, multiplication fluency, problem solving, algebra readiness, geometry readiness and so much more based on a diagnostic of the student. Experts say that the effects of a summer learning program, such as Mathnasium's, will make a positive difference for student's moving forward.

Call 655-MATH (6284) or visit www.mathnasium.com/brandon/promotions to schedule your student's risk free diagnostic at your favorite neighborhood center or at home with the Mathnasium @home program and help your student to Power Up this summer.

Mathnasium of Brandon is located at 1048 E Bloomingdale Ave. in

Math Enrichment

Test Prep

Girls With Confidence offers fun and creative workshops, events and camps for girls in K-8th grade that focus on the development of strong self-esteem and confidence. This summer, Girls With Confidence will help your daughter between the ages of Kindergarten

through rising 6th graders develop positive self-esteem during day camps geared just for them this summer.

Themes will include Friendship, Girl Power, Role Models, Positive Mind & Attitude, Love My Selfie, Being Brave and Taking Care of Yourself & more.

Overnight camps will also be offered for those in 6-8th grade. Volunteer opportunities are available for high school girls.

Visit www.girlswithconfidence.com for more information. You can also email info@girlswithconfidence.com or call 571-2002.

SUMMER CAMP 2019

JUNE 3 - AUGUST 2

Summer Fun

Avoid The SUMMER SLIDE! Summer Topics

• Curing Finger Counting • Focusing on Fractions • Having Fun & Building • Confidence in Math

• Preparing for Middle School • Maximizing ACT/SAT Math Skills • Previewing or Reviewing • Algebra I & II or Geometry

Now Enrollin g for Summer

Mathnasium of Brandon has two options to serve you with an In-Center experience or an @home experience.

Beach Side, Cliff Side, or World Traveler; take Mathnasium@home anywhere!

813-655-MATH

Summer Camp at

Camps Dates:

June 3rd through

August 9th Sign Up for

We specialize in horse experiences for Summer Camp the young child and beginner riders.

Space is limited.

• Daily Hay Rides Only $2 2 5 per wk.

(Mon. thru Fri. 9am - 5pm) Ages 6-12 • Horse Education We Also Offer: Field Trips, Pony Parties, Play Groups & More 9805 Bryant Rd Lithia, FL 33547 Visit us on the web: rrranchlithia.com

For more info call 81 3-6 53-381 9

Page 56

Summer Camp At T.L.C.’s Gypsy Haven

T.L.C.’s Gypsy Haven is now registering for summer camp. The farm has been in business for more than 12 years offering after-school riding lessons, horseback riding camps, monthly horse leasing, pony parties and more.

Your kids, from age 7 and up, will have a lot of fun enjoying weekly themed horseback riding camps. They will receive hands-on experience, learning to ride as well as how to groom the horses.

Camp takes place Monday to Friday from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. starting Monday, June 3. Your kids will enjoy field trips each Friday they are at camp.

With limited space (eight spots weekly), you will want to call early.

Located 10 minutes from FishHawk, T.L.C. Gypsy Haven is located at 4325 Keysville Rd. in Lithia.

For more information, please call Tammi at 842-4236 or visit www.tlcsfarms.com.

Sports Performance Conditioning Summer Camp

This summer your student athletes ages 12-18 can attend 2A Elite’s Sports

Training Performance Conditioning Summer Camp, helping athletes to work on first step explosion, multi-directional movement, speed endurance, maximum linear acceleration and combine drills.

The coaches with NFL, Olympic and Collegiate experience moving your gains to the next level. The coaches include Coach Rey, previously head track coach at USF and Texas A&M; Antonio Bishop, former NFL Recruit; and other current college athletes who will be leading this camp. If you train here, you can compete anywhere.

Camp will take place from Monday, June 10 to Thursday, August 1 at 6026 Churchside Dr. in Lithia (at the field at The Chapel at FishHawk). The cost is $225 per week. Register for four weeks and the fifth week is free.

Call 248-935-5564 for more information.

Visit on Instagram: @2A_ELITE_SPORTS_TRAINING.

Wednesday, June 171,; July 8-10 and July 22-24.

Camp will be available at both locations2210 W. US Hwy. 301 in Tampa and 2332 E. Edgewood Dr. in Lakeland.

The cost is $100 per child with equipment rental, $60 per child who does not need to rent equipment.

Space is limited. You can preregister by calling 664-8700 or 863-937-8968.

Visit http://www.adventuresarchery.com/.

Camp Osprey is the area’s best-kept secret. Boys and girls ages 7-15 can enjoy a week of adventure at a traditional overnight camp.

It is located on 204 acres of beautiful woodlands, nestled alongside the Little Manatee River in Wimauma .

While at camp, kids will enjoy horseback riding, paintball, high ropes challenge course, canoeing, fishing, color games, archery, gaga ball and much more.

WWW.CAMPOSPREY.COM -6860

941-928

t pt Secre Best Ke pa Bay! in Tam

Summer Camps At Adventures Archery

Kids from the ages of 8-16 can spend some time this summer honing their skills at archery. Learn about range safety, archery skills and arrow fletching.

Summer camps will take place during three sessions from 10 a.m.-12 Noon daily.

The sessions are Monday to

Camp Osprey Offers Overnight Camping Options

All-Inclusive Kids Overnight Adventure Camp For Ages 7-15 $450 Week - Sunday - Saturday Day Camp Available: Mon - Fri 8 am to 6 pm $195 - By the day $39 Breakfast and lunch is provided.

SOCCER FUN WITH COACH JUAN Boys and Girls

Boys and Girls

born between 2012 and 2007

born between 2006 and 2002

Soccer Fields of the FishHawk Sports Complex Lithia FL

Soccer Fields of the Fishhawk Sports Complex Lithia FL

July 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 2019 9.00 am to 1.00 pm

July 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 2019 9.00 am to 1.00 pm

$195.00 if registered before April 15, 2019 • $215.00 if registered after April 15, 2019 CAMP FEATURES: Age appropriate technical and tactical instruction • Small sided games • Daily 5 v 5 Competitions • Daily Soccer Tennis and Soccer Golf Competitions • Professional coaching staff • Athletic Trainer onsite • Hydration Station • Camp T Shirt Registration:www.floridahawksfc.com Contact Juan E De Brigard, Director of Coaching, Florida Hawks FC | doc@floridahawksfc.com • Cell # 754 244 3016

GOALKEEPER SUMMER CAMP

STRENGTH AND CONDITIONING CAMP

Age Groups: 8U – 10U, 11U - 12U,13U and Up, College Level July 29,30, 31, August 1, 2, 2019 8.00 am to 2.30 pm

Monday through Friday, starting June 24 until August 2, 2019 8.00 am to 10.00 am

Fishhawk Sports Complex, Lithia, FL

First two weeks: Randall Fields, then Soccer Fields of the FishHawk Sports Complex, Lithia FL

Investment: $495.00

$50.00 for 5 days • $100.00 for 10 days • $150.00 for 15 days

CAMP FEATURES: Daily session of specific, age appropriate Goalkeeper Skills & tactical aspects of the Goalkeeper Position Daily Video Session on technical and tactical aspects of the Goalkeeper Position Daily “Only a Goalkeeper can do it” Competition, Crossbar Challenge Competition & Goalkeeper War Competition Experienced Coaching Staff and optimal Coach to Player Ratio Athletic Trainer onsite • Hydration Station • Camp T Shirt Registration: www.floridahawksfc.com Contact Juan E De Brigard, Director of Coaching, Florida Hawks FC | doc@floridahawksfc.com • Cell # 754 244 3016

CAMP FEATURES: Age appropriate physical, technical and tactical instruction • Speed • Agility Explosiveness/Reaction • Power Strength • Conditioning• Daily Soccer skills Professional and Certified coaching staff • Athletic Trainer onsite Hydration Station • Camp T Shirt

Male / Female Goalkeepers

Boys and Girls born between 2012 and 2001

Registration: www.floridahawksfc.com Contact Kaneile Thomas, Camp Director | k.thomas@floridahawksfc.com • Cell # 561 685 1328

Page 57

Overnight camp runs from Sunday through Saturday. The allinclusive cost of $450 includes weekly laundry, camp shirt, meals and all activities.

Day camp is also available Monday to Friday from 8 a.m.-6 p.m. for $195 or a daily drop-in fee of $39 per day. This includes breakfast and lunch.

For more information, call 941928-6860 or visit www.camposprey.com.

TechPlayzone Offers Hands-On Technology Enrichment In Fun & Safe Environment

TechPlayzone has led the charge for engaging young people in science, technology, engineering and math since 2005.

With an increased demand for hands-on technology enrichment, TechPlayzone has continued to provide families with an excellent curriculum and fun in a safe environment for all kids.

Give your child a high-tech advantage at TechPlayzone this summer.

TechPlayzone is pleased to offer 4 weeks (July 8, 15, 22 and 29) of STEM Camp for elementary and middle school students ages 7-13. Middle school camp is 8 a.m.-12 Noon and elementary school camp is 9 a.m.-12 Noon.

For the elementary camp, TechPlayzone is honored to partner with FIRST LEGO League at Hillsborough Community College to power the FIRST LEGO League Camp. Every week of

Florida Hawks FC Summer Camps For Soccer Players

TechPlayzone camp includes: LEGO Mindstorms Robotics, Minecraft for Jr. Engineers Hands-On Science Experiments, Scratch Game Design. It will take place at HCC Brandon Campus, located at 10414 E. Columbus Dr. in Tampa.

For middle school (6-8th grade) students, TechPlayzone offers engineering enrichment. Using TechPlayzone’s formula of hands-on project-based learning with cutting edge technology, students can work at their own pace or work as a team with the assistance of facilitators and staff members to complete one of the engineering projects each week.

Register for your choice of Minecraft Mods and Raspberry Pi, LEGO EV3 with RobotC, App Inventor App Development and Programmable Drones.

For more information, contact Desh Bagley at 444-2267 or techplayzone@gmail.com.

The Florida Hawks FC will be holding summer camps throughout the season. The Club is set up to develop great people by teaching life lessons on and off the field.

Strength & Conditioning Camp Strength and Conditioning Camp For Soccer Players will take place Monday through Friday, June 24 to August 2 from 8 a.m.-10 p.m. Boys and girls born between 2001 and 2012 are welcome to attend.

The camp will feature age appropriate physical, technical and tactical instruction, speed, agility, explosiveness/reaction, power, strength, conditioning as well as daily soccer skills. There will be a professional and certified coaching staff as well as an athletic trainer onsite. Your child must bring a readiness to push their strength and cardiovascular limits and a desire to learn soccer skills.

The first two weeks of camp will take place at the Randall Fields then move to the soccer fields of the Fishhawk Sports Complex.

Soccer Fun With Coach Juan You can sign your child up for Soccer Fun, which will include age appropriate technical and tactical instruction, small sided games, daily 5 v 5 competitions, daily soccer tennis and soccer golf com-

Staff Report

petitions.

Camp will take place from Monday to Friday, July 8-12 from 9 a.m.-1 p.m. for boys and girls born between 2007 and 2012.

For those born between 2002 and 2006, camp will take place Monday to Friday, July 15-19 from 9 a.m.-1 p.m. There will be a professional coaching staff as well as athletic trainer on-site.

The cost is $195 if registered before Monday, April 15 and $215 if registered after that.

Camp takes place at the Soccer Fields of the Fishhawk Sports Complex in Lithia.

Goalkeeper Summer Camp If your child is interested in being a goalkeeper, there is a camp specifically for them.

It features daily sessions of specific, age appropriate goalkeeper skills.

It will take place Monday, July 29 through Friday, August 2 and is for male and female goalkeepers in age groups 8U-10U, 11U-12U, 13U and up and college level. Camp begins at 8 a.m. and runs through 2:30 p.m.

The cost is $495. All campers need to bring cleats, shin guards, a ball and a water bottle. Contact Juan DeBrigard, Director of Coaching at doc@floridahawksfc or 754-244-3016. To register, visit www.floridahawksfc.com.

Page 58

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Great Networking Opportunities At Second Annual Multi-Chamber Event The Valrico Fishhawk Chamber has teamed up with the chambers from Riverview, Tampa, Brandon, South Shore, Sun City, and Eaton Realty Commerce Connections to put on Margaritaville, a multi chamber networking event. There is an open invitation for other local chambers to attend as well.

Polish your networking skills and stock up on your business cards.

Hundreds of people will be in attendance at this is a casual networking event so you will have a chance to take your networking to the next level with a challenge like no other.

Margaritaville will take place on Friday, May 3 from 4 to 7 p.m. at Watts Dental located at 5605 Skytop Dr. in Lithia.

Both non-alcoholic drinks and adult beverages will be available for a donation. Bucs tickets and many more great items will also be raffled off.

According to Dr. Jason Watts, “Proceeds will go to buying a brand new wheelchair for an amazing athlete with Cerebral Palsy that I will do

By Michelle Colesanti a marathon with in February 2020 for TriSmiles.”

TriSmiles is a 100% not-for-profit foundation that helps handicapped athletes compete and help them live their lives to the fullest. “We want to provide the means to remove the financial burden from families with handicap athletes to assist their participation in athletic events."

You can get your white, logo Tshirt printed at Big Frog Custom TShirts of Valrico for $5 (cash only).

All the money will also be donated to TriSmiles.

The event is rain or shine. In the event of rain, there will be huge tents to keep attendees dry.

Sponsorships for the event are now available too. If you have a business and you would like to donate food or DJ services, anything of that nature, please let them know.

You must register to attend. For sponsorship information or to register, visit www.wattsdentalfl.com. Use code 123P to get on the event page.

Visit on Facebook at Margaritaville - A Multi-Chamber Networking Event.

...for

Mom

Mother’s Day Sale

Starts Friday,

April 26th

30% OFF Regular Priced Merchandise

Watchmaker and Jewelers On Site • We Buy Gold!

Find us on Facebook

and enter into a random drawing each month for a chance to win a featured piece of jewelry.

c M Auley Fine Jewelry Open Tuesday-Friday 10-6 • Saturday 10-4

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

Volume 18, Issue 5

May 2019

Page 59

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Get To Next Level For Business Accounting With Elevator Up Coaching

By Michelle Caceres

When seaCoaching and soned entrepreConsulting is neur Misa Chien dedicated to needed the servhelping business ices of a tax proowners with new fessional during business formaan IRS audit, she tion, Quickbooks turned to set-up and trainaccountant Kita ing, cash flow Martinez. management and “I was Kita’s internal controls. client when she Whether worked with a businesses large CPA firm require daily or Elevator Up Coaching and Consulting owner and I liked workmonthly bookKita Martinez assists small and large business owners reach their goals. ing with her so keeping services, much that when I required her servMartinez said her services help busiices again I tracked her down using ness owners make decisions that will LinkedIn,” said Chien. “It’s really impact their bottom line. hard to find a good CPA you can “I use my accounting services to trust.” make sure the owner is aware of Martinez had started her own their business health,” she said. full-service accounting firm, Elevator Her business name refers to the Up Coaching and Consulting. fact that she does not just do the During what could have been a books and disappear but is readily stressful time, Chien said Martinez available to answer any questions confidently and efficiently helped her her clients have, giving them a navigate through the tax audit. At the sense of ease with regards to their conclusion of the audit, she didn’t books so they can focus on growing owe any additional money in taxes to their business, reaching “up” to the the government. next level.

Chien said she now relies on “It doesn’t matter what size your Martinez to keep her books up-tocompany is, whether small and date for all of her business endeavlarge, my clients feel like they have ors. an in-house accountant without the “It’s really easy to fall behind full-time cost,” said Martinez. when doing the books,” said Chien.

For more information about “Kita makes sure I don’t fall behind.”

Elevator Up Coaching and In addition to its tax preparation Consulting visit www.elevatorupand planning services, Elevator Up coaching.com or call 888-229-8254

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Page 60

Volume 18, Issue 5

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Now is the time to list!

The #1 agent is Brenda Wade!

No one sells for more and no one takes better care of their customers than Brenda and her team!

Call Brenda 813-924-8677 MORE THAN $120 MILLION SOLD IN 2018

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PERFECT ASHTON WOODS HOME IN GATED FISHHAWK PRESERVE! You are going to fall in love with this 4/4/3 + office + pool home that will impress from the start! Beautiful coffered ceilings, floors, wood accents, wide base, French doors & more!

Kitchen with white cabinets, Kitchen Aid appliances & TWO ISLANDS! You're gonna love it! $725,000 !

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PERFECT HOME IN PRESTIGIOUS RIVER HILLS! You are going to fall in love with this 4/2/2 home with NEW ROOF in 2012, water heater in 2017 & interior paint in 2016! Appreciate the plantation shutters, crown, wood floors, vaulted ceilings & other features this home offers! Large screened lanai! $319,000 !

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STUNNING FISHHAWK HOME ON CONSERVATION & POND LOT! Wonderful 4/3/3 + office home that is located in the Bridge View community! Freshly painted exterior & lush landscaping welcome you! Inside find neutral pint, volume ceilings, arched architectural details & diagonal tile! Kitchen with 42" maple cabinets & stainless appliances! $360,000 !

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BEAUTIFUL TRADITIONAL 4/3/3 + POOL HOME ON OVER 1/2 ACRE! Upgrades galore including crown, wide base, bamboo hardwood floors, granite & more! Oversized secondary beds that have been bumped out 6ft! Kitchen offers 42" maple cabinets, granite & stainless appliances! Fully fenced mature yard with pavilion! $485,000

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CUSTOM BUILT, DESIGNER HOME IN FISH HAWK TRAILS! 4/3.5/3 + office + bonus + pool home on oversized lot that has just had all living areas freshly painted! This home offers many features & would make a great family home! Over 4,300 sq.ft gives you ample room for you & your family! Great schools! $599,000 !

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LOOKING FOR SPACE & PRIVACY? YOU HAVE FOUND IT! 5.12 acres at the end of a cul-de-sac street with private gate! Perfect fixer-upper with 2 bedrooms & 2 baths and over 1,150 SqFt! With zoning allowing one home every 2.5 acres, you could build two homes! Multiple choices with this home & land! $250,000 !

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OVER 3,200 SQFT IN FISHHAWK RANCH! Marvelous 5/3/3 + office home on oversized 0.37 acre conservation lot with neighbors on one side only! 2018 exterior paint & stacked stone accents welcome you! Inside offers diagonal tile, 2016 windows, 2015 upstairs A/C, crown, remodeled kitchen, French doors & so much more! $375,000 !

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WONDERFUL DAVID WEEKLEY HOME IN STARLING AT FISHHAWK RANCH! Welcome to this perfect 4/3.5/3 + office + bonus home located just minutes on foot to the Fishhawk sports complex! Fall in love with the neutral paint palette, French doors & kitchen with maple cabinets, granite counters & stainless appl.! 2018 exterior paint! $425,000

Top Producer 2002 - 2018

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GORGEOUS WESTBAY"KEY LARGO" IN FISHHAWK RANCH WEST! Be impressed with this 4/3/3 + bonus Craftsman style home with expansive conservation views! Neutral paint, crown, wide base, tile floors in living areas, 8 ft doorways & so much more! Kitchen boasts 42" cabinets topped with crown, granite, island & stainless appliances! $515,000 !

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OVERSIZED 1.09 ACRE LOT! Fabulous 3/2/1 home that is zoned for wonderful schools & shows like a dream! New A/C in 2011, beautiful gray paint color throughout, wood-burning fireplace & shiplap accents in living room & entryway!

Kitchen with new oven in 2017! Oversized shed with electric & water connection! $237,000 !

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STUNNING HOME IN THE BRIDGEVIEW COMMUNITY IN FISHHAWK RANCH! Fall in love with this 4/3/3 + bonus + pool home that is move in ready & waiting for you! You will discover fresh neutral paint, new carpet, arched accents & a bright & open floor plan! Kitchen features refinished white cabinets, island & newer stainless appliances! $410,000 !

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STUNNING RYLAND "SIESTA" FLOOR PLAN! Nestled at the back of the neighborhood you will find this 5/3.5/4 + bonus home with no backyard neighbors!

Inside find wood floors, soaring ceilings, crown, French doors & more! Gourmet kitchen with 42" cabinets with crown, granite & stainless appliances!

Screened patio! $459,000

office: (813) 655-5333 | direct: (813) 924-8677 | Brenda@BrendaWade.com www.BrendaWade.com