Osprey Observer Bloomingdale/FishHawk December 2022

Bloomingdale/FishHawk

35

December 2022

Volume 21, Issue 12

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CELEBRATING 20 YEARS OF PUBLISHING P OSITIVE COMMUNIT Y NEWS

NEWSOME’S KATIE ROCHA NAMED COUNTY PRINCIPAL OF THE YEAR

By Ariana Pedraza

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Congratulations cessful at being are in order for Newan instructional some High School leader. I appreciPrincipal Katie Roate her hard work cha, who was recentfor Newsome High ly named HillsborSchool,” said assisough County Public tant principal Dr. School’s Principal of Chera Jones. the Year.

Paul Lindstrom, Newsome High School Principal Katie Rocha Rocha has been assistant principal with her assistant principals after being surprised the principal of Newfor administration, with the Principal of the Year award. some for three years. said, “Her work ethHer background in ic is unmatched, and education began with she expects the same her mother, who was from her staff; she an educator in Poland. would not ask anyone At 16, Rocha and her to do something she parents immigrated to would not do herself.”

Brandon. She graduat“Mrs. Rocha is a ed from Brandon High powerhouse principal School and later got who holds herself, her Bachelor of Arts and her staff, to high and Science degree expectations. Her enand her master’s in ergy is outstanding, educational leadership and her love of stufrom the University dents makes her the of South Florida. She best choice for this taught chemistry at award,” said Stacie Bloomingdale Senior Superintendent Addison Davis presenting Cleary, assistant prinHigh School for eight Principal Katie Rocha with her Principal of cipal for curriculum. the Year award. years and at Blake Rocha was surHigh School for one year. prised with the award at school on a Spirit Rocha was selected to be Principal of the Day. She was asked not to dress according Year through a process involving nomina- to the theme for the day and was dismayed tions from district principals, regional su- because she did not know why she could perintendents and other members of the su- not dress up. She was surprised by her asperintendent’s cabinet. The award is given sistant principals and the superintendent, to the principal who exemplifies leadership who presented her with the award. and that can create the best environment “It was a very exciting day, and it is an for students, faculty and staff. honor to receive this award. All the credit “Mrs. Rocha is so inspirational and allows goes to the faculty, staff, students and comher master schedule to be diverse to give munity. Newsome would not be the place it opportunities to her students. She has such is without them,” said Rocha. a willingness and mindset to create a posiWhen not at school, Rocha enjoys spendtive place, and I am proud of her.” said Hill- ing time with her husband and two sons, sborough County Superintendent Addison and especially enjoys traveling.

Davis.

From the community, congratulations “Mrs. Rocha taught me how to be suc- Principal Rocha!

REMEMBER TO SHOP LOCAL

BLOOMINGDALE HIGH SCHOOL INVITES THE COMMUNITY TO HOLIDAY UNDER THE STARS

By Jane Owen

Take a break playing saxoand get into the phone. holiday spirit at Rodriguez Bloomingdale shared, “The High School’s free Holiday Under Holiday Under the the Stars event Stars concert and is one of my festival on Thursfavorite events day, December 8. of the year at The Bloomingdale BSHS. This High School Muevent showcassic Department es the amazing welcomes the talents of our community to atstudents in the tend their outdoor band, chorus, holiday concert and orchesat Bloomingdatra programs Photo courtesy of Fred Ocasio. le’s Charley Harris Principal Dr. Marcos Rodriguez played the saxophone while supportfootball stadium. ing the Toys at the inaugural Holiday Under the Stars in 2020.

Beginning in for Tots char2020 as a way ity. The event to hold a holiday peralso includes local formance while social business displays distancing during the in our “winter vilpandemic, the Holiday lage” that help Under the Stars concert support our local and festival has become community. If you an annual Bloomingwant to hea dale tradition. Atr great music, tendees will enjoy support a great performances by the cause, and support Bloomingdale bands, our local businessthe Crimson Guard, es make sure you choirs and orchestras. plan to attend The The festive event will Holiday Under the include a market for Stars event this holiday shopping and year!” food trucks for an The event starts easy dinner. at 5:30 p.m., which Jon Sever, director of bands at is when vendors begin selling items. Food Bloomingdale High School, shared that options include Mr. C’s Grilled Cheese, both students and directors are looking Taco Holic, Nothing Bundt Cakes and JC’s forward to the night.

Coffee.

“We are excited to offer the community The concert begins at 7 p.m. Admission the third annual Holiday Under the Stars is free, and attendees are encouraged to at Bloomingdale’s football field. There will bring toys to donate to Toys for Tots. be food trucks, shopping and, of course, music will be the highlight of the night.

The concert is free, but we ask that you bring a toy to donate to Toys for Tots,” CAMPBELL’S DAIRYLAND............. PG 3 BRENDA WADE DONATES ............ PG 4 Sever said.

The event is special to Bloomingdale’s EYE ON BUSINESS ..........................PG 25 principal, Dr. Marcos Rodriguez. During CHRISTMAS TOWN ....................... PG 26 the first Holiday Under the Stars in 2020, Rodriguez performed with the Jazz Band ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT ........PG 39

IN THIS ISSUE:

HAPPY HOLIDAYS FROM OUR FAMILY TO YOURS

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Page 2

Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition

Volume 21, Issue 12

December 2022

Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition

20 YEARS AFTER THE FIRE, CAMPBELL’S DAIRYLAND IS GOING STRONG

By Taylor Wells On November a small play area 8, 2002, Campfor kids outside. bell’s Dairyland, It began as co-owned by Jay founder Boyd Paules, Jill Paules, Campbell sellLeesa Lee and ing chili dogs James Lee, sufat local events, fered fire damagusing a five-genes totaling around eration-old fam$250,000, which ily recipe for the The co-owners of Campbell’s Dairyland, from left to the Osprey Ob- right: Jay Paules, Jill Paules, Leesa Lee and James Lee. chili. In 1985, server covered he and his wife, in our December 2002 Pam Campbell, bought an FishHawk edition. Jay ice cream location, then was alerted of the fire at named Dairy Isle, and around 1 a.m. and rushed began selling chili dogs to his restaurant, but the alongside the ice cream. It damage was done. became Campbell’s DairyIt took eight months land in 1993, yet it’s such and eight days, but it a popular community fixcame back as a missed ture that some customers part of the communistill call it Dairy Isle. In ty. After learning of its 1998, the Campbells sold return date, Campbell’s the restaurant to their Dairyland entered a float in the Brandon daughters, Jill and Leesa, and it continued Fourth of July parade to announce it and on to now. celebrate, receiving much support and “What’s really neat is, I’ve been here for cheers.

30 years,” Jay said. “I’ve seen people that I “I remember the very first customers took their order from when they were little that I got to take their order was a mother kids coming in with their parents, and now and two young children, a boy and a girl, … they’re coming in here with their own kids and the little boy was the younger of the — they’re parents themselves, so I’m seetwo, and after I took their order, he looks ing these second generations with my own at me very sincerely and says, ‘Thank you eyes, and it’s really gratifying and humbling for opening back up!’ I ain’t going to lie, I to see.” shed a tear,” Jay said.

Campbell’s Dairyland is located at 200 The family-owned restaurant special- S Parsons Ave. in Brandon. It’s currentizes in sandwiches, hot dogs, burgers and ly seeking employees, so if you’d like to of course ice cream and ice cream-related become one, please contact the restauitems, along with options like salads, bat- rant. For more information, visit www. tered veggies, seafood and over 30 milk- facebook.com/people/campbells-dairyshake flavors. Plus, it has indoor and out- land/100063697802657/ or call 813-685door sit-down dining, a drive-through and 1189.

Page 3

BARRINGTON MIDDLE SCHOOL’S FFA WINS NATIONALS IN INDIANA

By Makenzie Atkins Barrington prepared for the Middle School 2022 convenis celebrating tion. Competing as its team of teams included Future Farmers seventh through bring back an ninth grade stuimpressive acdents, and Barcomplishment. rington’s team The Future had to go up Farmers Assoagainst many ciation (FFA) of the older stuat Barrington dents.

Middle School “It was excompeted in hilarating as a and placed first parent to watch at the Conduct such talented of Chapter students from Meetings at the across the counBarrington Middle School’s FFA team, Ashlyn De95th FFA Natry compete in manovich, Alexandra Jirinec, Karoline Kmetz, Jessie tional Conventhis debate areParker, Hallie Peacock, Danielle Ricks, Morgan Walters tion. Eight girls na,” said Sherie and Camryn Varnadoe, and their advisor, Greg Lehfrom Barrington man, brought home a big win for Barrington Middle Jirinec, mother Middle School School at the 95th FFA National Convention in India- of team memtraveled all the ber Alexandra. napolis, Indiana. way to India“When we all napolis, Indiana to compete against 42 realized that they had won the National other states.

Conduct of Chapter Meetings title, all of “I am so incredibly proud of these stu- our mouths dropped, and the cheers of joy dents. Their work ethic and determination commenced.” are unsurpassed,” said Greg Lehman, BarEach student was given an item of busirington Middle Schools FFA advisor. “To ness that was debated and voted on acreach the level that they have achieved re- cording to the rules of parliamentary proquires multiple practices every week plus cedure. They were also given privileged, many hours of study time at home.” subsidiary and incidental motions that had The team came in second place back in to be stated and handled correctly. Each 2021 as seventh graders, which gave them student was given 13 minutes and then the drive to go back and win this year. had to answer the judges’ questions.

With multiple practices each week, the To learn more about Future Farmers of team, Ashlyn Demanovich, Alexandra Jir- America, visit www.ffa.org. Barrington inec, Karoline Kmetz, Jessie Parker, Hallie Middle School, located at 5925 Village Peacock, Danielle Ricks, Morgan Walters Center Dr. in Lithia, can be reached at 813and Camryn Varnadoe, worked hard to be 657-7266.

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Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition

Volume 21, Issue 12

BRENDA WADE TEAMS WITH RIBBON-CUTTING CEREMONY COMMUNITY PARTNERS TO HELD FOR NEWSOME HIGH SCHOOL DONATE $10,000 TO A KID’S PLACE JROTC OBSTACLE COURSE

By Marie Gilmore For its 10th in times of need. annual ‘Partners This year, we are in Giving’ event partnering with a on November 1, wonderful comthe Brenda Wade munity cornerReal Estate Team stone that serves and its communiboth children and ty partners were families in need able to come toright here in our gether and raise local community.” $10,000 for A Wade is thankKid’s Place foster ful to her busihome in Brandon. ness partners, This donation who offered their will go a long support not only way, according The Brenda Wade Team and its ‘Partners in Giving’ to her clients but to Samantha to the commuevent donated $10,000 to A Kid’s Place.

Mellen, developnity as well. The ment specialist businesses she at A Kid’s Place. has worked with “This donation this year include will feed all 60 the Law Office of our kids for of Rory Weiner, two months and it makes Complete Choice Insura huge difference for our ance, Meek Insurance organization,” she said.

Group, CrossCountry Through the years, the Mortgage, United MuBrenda Wade Team, the tual Funding Corporatop real estate agent in tion, the Home Loan Hillsborough County and Expert, The Rice Finanone of the top 50 real estate teams in the cial Group, CertaPro Painters, All AmerUSA, has donated more than $110,000 to ican Title Company and Osprey Observer local charities.

Newspapers.

“Each year, I match the amount of “When we work together, we can make money our partners donate,” said Brenda a difference,” she said.

Wade, president and CEO of the team, “so For more information about A Kid’s we truly are partnering together. We help Place, visit www.akidsplacetb.org. For families, day in and day out, as they buy more information about the Brenda and sell homes, so this was a wonderful Wade Real Estate Team, visit https:// opportunity to come alongside of families brendawade.com/.

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By Jeanelys Dugrot

The Newsome High School JROTC program conducted a ribbon-cutting ceremony for its obstacle course on October 29.

The purpose of the obstacle course is to provide cadets with a challenging, fun but safe opportunity to promote teamwork, build individual confidence, and improve overall physical fitness. The course consists of obstacles that are typically only found on military bases. Building the course on the Newsome campus has been an ongoing project for the Wolfpack Battalion for the past four years. After a lengthy approval process, cadet fundraising efforts and construction delays caused by the pandemic, the JROTC program finally received approval to begin using the course this past summer.

Following the ribbon-cutting ceremony, JROTC raider teams from 18 different high schools across Hillsborough, Pinellas and Pasco counties were invited to run through the course. These teams all returned to Newsome the following weekend to compete in the Area 9 Raider Competition. This event served as the qualifying meet for the

State Raider Competition, which will take place on Saturday, December 3 at Camp Flaming Arrow Boy Scout Reservation in Lake Wales.

According to Preston Eder, cadet battalion commander and raider team captain, “The cadets are very excited about the completion of the obstacle course. This new addition will be put to great use not only by our raider teams but also by other members of the program during team building events such as field day.”

The Newsome JROTC program would like to thank Dr. Andrea Beverly, CTE supervisor, and Katie Rocha, principal of Newsome High School.

The endorsement of our administration, as well as that of the many friends, families and organizations that have supported the Wolfpack Battalion, have made the obstacle course become a reality.

The ribbon-cutting ceremony was supported by the Valrico/FishHawk Chamber of Commerce and sponsored by Hillsborough County School Board member Melissa Snively and State Farm, and the Area 9 Raider Competition was sponsored by the Military Order of World Wars, Sun City Chapter 226. The Newsome JROTC program appreciates their dedication and commitment to it and the future leaders of America. Pictures of the obstacle course are available at www.nhsjrotc.com.

Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition

December 2022

Page 5

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INFINITI Q50 SPORT SEDAN IS A COOL PICK! Last year, we and daytime test-drove the running lights.

Q50 Red Sport Dual chrome version of this exhaust tips midsize luxury deck the rear. sport car from If anyone tells Infiniti with you that the In400 horsepowfiniti cabin isn’t er. For 2023, on par with the carmakits German rier dispatched vals, point out over the lessthe top-notch er-trim Senmaterials and Q50 SENSORY (AWD) sory model boasting gloss levels. The InTires: P245/40R19 300 hp at 6,400 Touch infotainment Wheelbase: 112.2 inches rpm. Both have the system, which comes Length: 189.6 inches same 3.0-liter V6 with dual 8 and Width: 71.8 inches twin-turbocharged 7-inch touch screens Weight: 3,966 pounds engine under the atop each other, hood. But kid you is functional. Also Fuel capacity: 19 gallons not, the sedan didn’t standard are leathCity: 19 mpg feel much different er, heated, eight-way Highway: 27 mpg on the road, navigatpower front seats; Base price: $50,350 ing sharp curves and dual auto AC; 60/40 Website: www.infiniti.com turns with self-asrear seats; overhead surance and grace. sunglass holder; And, except for adding the Premium Care Bose audio with 16 speakers; aluminum maintenance program (three years of oil sill plates with an ‘Infiniti’ insignia; and changes, tire rotations and inspections), power-tilt/telescopic steering column and the Q50 maintains its status quo. moon roof. But the 13.5-cubic-foot trunk Putting out 295 pounds-feet of torque could use with slightly more space. at 5,200 rpm and available as a rear-wheel Standard safety features include dual or all-wheel drive, the lively midsize sedan front and side airbags; side curtain airbag; is coupled with a slick seven-speed auto four-wheel antilock brakes; vehicle dynamgearbox. An independent double-wish- ic and traction controls; front seatbelts bone front and a multilink rear suspension with pretensioners; remote keyless entry; ensure safety for occupants in adverse rearview camera; zone body construcroad/weather conditions. Credit for the tion; blind-spot, lane-departure and forsuperbly accurate steering goes to a pow- ward-collision warnings; rear cross-traffic er-assist, rack-and-pinion system. Behind alert; auto brakes with pedestrian detecthe wheels hide large rotors: a front dual tion; hill-start assist; energy-absorbing piston, 12.6 inches, and rear single pis- steering column; tire-pressure monitoring ton, 12.1 inches, to inspire confidence in system; and daytime running lights. the driver. Lest we forget, you can enjoy A clever and fine choice for a potenthe Q50 in personal, eco, snow, sport and tial sport sedan buyer, the Q50 displays standard modes. impressive handling, superb grip and a Up front, the double-arch grille and wide strong steering feel. And it is a head-turnhood are surrounded by LED headlights er ride to boot.

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Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition

Volume 21, Issue 12

FLORIDA ORCHESTRA GOES DIGITAL CHRISTMAS MAGICAL FOR 18 YEARS WITH QR CODE CONCERT PROGRAM

By Kelly Wise Valdes TOYS FOR TOTS – MAKING

Staff Report

Christmas is a chambers of commagical holiday merce. The commufor children, but nities of MiraBay, for many families Southshore Falls, in Hillsborough Kings Point, WaterCounty, Christmasset, Rice Creek and time can be a fiHacienda Heights. nancial struggle to New this year are put toys under the Fuzzy’s Tacos on Big tree. Thanks to the Bend Road, Grease efforts of Pearson Monkey in Ruskin Capital Inc. and and Flip Flop Shops Toys for Tots, thou- Pearson Capital is in its 18th year of partnership in Cypress Village. with Toys for Tots. sands of children “It’s so heartthis year will receive gifts from Santa. warming to see the outpouring of generSince 1947, Marine Corps Reserve Units osity of the Southshore Community,” said nationwide have encouraged businesses Hathaway. to gather new, unwrapped toys for needy This year’s collection event is at a new children. Pearson Capital has spearheaded location, CENTURY 21 Beggins at 6542 N. this effort in Southern Hillsborough Coun- U.S. Hwy. 41 in Apollo Beach. “They have ty through the Toys for Tots program for been huge contributors throughout the 18 years now. Last year, Pearson report- years, and this year their location will serve ed that two entire truckloads of toys and as party central,” said Hathaway. “We’d 75 bicycles were collected, and more than also like to thank CubeSmart storage in $15,000 dollars was donated — in part Apollo Beach for their donation of a stordue to the generosity of Don Pearson/Pear- age unit to help us contain the boxes and son Capital, who matched every dollar at any overflow until our event.”

50 percent up to the max of $5,000. Don On Saturday, December 3 from 9 a.m.-2 has generously offered the same match p.m. at CENTURY 21 Beggins, the Marines again this year. Toy collection boxes are will be on hand to accept boxes and toy now being distributed throughout the area donations. Santa will make an appearance and donations are beginning. and there will be Toys for Tots giveaways.

“There are many boxes already out in There will also be classic cars on display. the community, with more being delivered Please remember that toys are to be new, every day,” said Ann Hathaway of Pearson unwrapped and in the original packaging.

Capital. “If someone wants to be a Toys for There is often a shortage of toys for chilTots location, you can call 813-645-6392 dren ages 0-2 years old as well as gifts for for a box.” Some of the annual collection lo- boys ages 11-14. New bicycles are in high cations include Rachel’s Family Hair Salon, demand each year. Cash donations are also Harriet’s Florist, Bass Pro Shops, The Wine accepted to help fill in the gap to purchase Society, NV Salon, Oops a Daisy florist, the toys that are needed. For more information, Firehouse Cultural Center, Boggs Jewelers, call Hathaway at 813-645-6392 or visit The Southshore and South Hillsborough https://tampa-fl.toysfortots.org/.

12/31/2022

12/31/2022

With the Masterworks start of its concerts and 55th season, get to know The Florida the guest artOrchestra ists and mu(TFO) is maksic before you ing a bold go. You’ll also and exciting find more rechange that sources on will improve the website to access to a TFO is excited to announce the new all digital program enhance your pages wealth of experience, concert information while reducing our including bios of TFO musicians, the TFO impact on the environment. Now all con- Blog, frequently asked questions, more cert information will be provided via about the mission and history and edudigital program pages. cation and community programs.

This change allows TFO to provide far One of the many benefits of this more than it could print in a program change is less waste. Program books book: videos, repertoire and sample mu- are useful for a few hours in the concert sic; full program notes; full bios of guest hall, yet they produce tons of trash. As artists, musicians and conductors; venue an arts leader in our community, TFO is information and maps; resources about committed to doing more to increase enthe orchestra; and much more. vironmental sustainability. The scarcity Everything can be easily updated, so and high cost of paper also are factors guests will always have the latest infor- that cannot be ignored. mation.

If you prefer to have printed informaAnd it’s all in the palm of your hand on tion, you still have that choice. Before your smartphone, tablet or other device. the concert, click on the printable proThe website is mobile responsive, which gram notes with repertoire and print at means it automatically adjusts content home. The program will also be available to look great and be readable at any at TFO’s information table in the lobby point size on any device. In the concert to view it or take a photo of it with your hall lobby, simply scan the QR code with phone. your phone camera and it will take you A lot of tradition surrounds playbills directly to the program page for that and program books, but TFO believes evening’s concert. this change will give you better access No need to wait until the concert, as to more information and make your condigital program pages can be accessed cert experience even more meaningful. at https://floridaorchestra.org/ from If you have questions or want to learn anywhere anytime at least a week be- more about the digital program pages, fore the performance. Take your time please email TFO directly at admin@ to read the excellent program notes for floridaorchestra.org.

Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition

December 2022

Page 7

MAY THE FORCE INSPIRE YOU TO MAKING GIFT-GIVING LISTS HELP GIVE BACK DURING THE HOLIDAYS CREATE STRESS-FREE HOLIDAYS

By Libby Hopkins

By Erica Burruezo, Orderly Owl Organizing

Jessica and Brylight display websites, ant Bell are originally including The Holiday from New Jersey but Atlas,” Jessica said. moved to Lithia five “We spent our nights years ago. The couple and weekends updatgrew up loving the ing and improving the Star Wars movie franshow throughout that chise. “We both grew entire season. By the up on the Star Wars end of the 2020 holfranchise and are then iday season, we had we raised our boys to verbal commitments love and appreciate it from about 75 percent the way we do,” Jessi- Lithia couple Jessica and Bryant Bell host of our cul-de-sac to ca said. “I also have a a yearly Star Wars-themed Christmas light participate the followminor obsession with show, Merry Sithmas. This year, their light ing year.” show hopes to help raise money for victims Christmas decor, trees With the recent of Hurricane Ian. in particular. I have 12 damage Hurricane Ian fully decorated trees in my house at Christ- caused to many areas of Florida, the coumas time, so this was a natural progres- ple decided they wanted to do some good sion.” during the holidays for those who were In 2019, the couple discovered that their affected by the hurricane. “This year, we new neighbors had the same Star Wars- are supporting the Florida Disaster Fund, themed Christmas decorations, which led which is run by Volunteer Florida,” Jessito a conversation about coordinating their ca said. “We have a GoFundMe set up to displays. “We came home one night and benefit them directly. There is no fee to see saw our neighbors’ had an AT-AT Walker in- the display; however, we are strongly enflatable, with his legs tied up on the ground, couraging donations towards our charity and we looked at each other and said, ‘I this year if people enjoyed the show. We think we found our people,’” Jessica said. are very aware of how lucky we were this “Fast-forward to 2020, socializing with year after Hurricane Ian while many of said neighbors, all of our normal Thanksgiv- us have friends and family who were not ing travel plans were canceled and we were so lucky, so, in the spirit of the season, we looking for a creative outlet. My husband, really hope to raise a lot of money for this Bryant, said that he would one day love to worthy cause.” They hope to raise $5,000 have one of those Christmas light displays for Volunteer Florida. set to music and our neighbors, Dan Cheney The Bells’ Merry Sithmas show starts and Kelly Cheney, immediately said, ‘We’re on Thanksgiving night at 6 p.m. and runs in!’” nightly at 6 p.m. until New Year’s Day. If As more neighbors noticed the Star you’d like to learn more about the Bells’ Wars Christmas decorations of their fellow Merry Sithmas, you can visit their Facebook neighbors, they wanted to join in with all page @merrysithmasfromquintessalane. If Force fun. “Our first year, we only had three you would like to donate to their GoFundhouses, but we were featured on multiple Me page, visit www.gofund.me/7cce31ca.

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Let’s be real, the holiday season can be stressful. The last few months of the year are packed with a lot of holidays and celebrations. It’s a joyous time of year, sure, but there is so much to do in a short period of time. I would love to share some tips to help you have a smooth holiday season this year and for years to come.

One good thing you can do is to give your home’s holiday hot spots a good declutter before more gifts come in. That will help you keep your belongings at bay. If you have children, take the time to declutter broken or unused toys. New year, new you? Go ahead and get rid of those clothes that ‘new you’ won’t be wearing. Make room for your seasonal favorites in the pantry and check to see if you have that oncea-year ingredient you always accidentally buy a duplicate of. You don’t want to buy a fifth jar of nutmeg when you already have four sitting in the back of your spice cabinet right? While you’re in the pantry, make note of what is needed so you can get it now and not at the last minute.

Throughout the year, try making a list

of who you are buying for, any ideas you might have for them, and budget accordingly. Keep it on your phone for easy access when you may be out shopping. As you purchase gifts, mark off who they were purchased for and what they are. This will keep you from trying to memorize everything and make sure you stay on track with gift giving. We don’t want to miss anyone nor buy duplicates either. Speaking of gifts, spare yourself some headaches and come up with some specific gift ideas for you and your family so when you are asked you can give some suggestions.

Fortunately, this fun will come back around next year. As you clean up and prepare for a new year, take note of what worked well this year and what didn’t. Leave ‘future you’ some nicely organized holiday bins to pull out next year and keep the gift list for next year as a starting point.

If you would like to learn more or would like some professional help getting organized before or after the holidays, feel free to contact us at www. orderlyowl.com.

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Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition

FLORIDA TRADE ACADEMY OFFERS NEW PROGRAMS FOR YOUTHS IN THE COMMUNITY

By Libby Hopkins

Florida Trade Academy welcomed its first cohort of 22 students earlier this month and held its ribbon-cutting ceremony in October.

This past October, Florida Trade Academy launched a pre-apprenticeship program to help open the door for untrained workers entering the construction industry.

Ninety-three percent of construction firms are reported to have open positions, according to a survey taken by the Associated General Contractors prior to Hurricane Ian. The pre-apprenticeship program will help address Florida’s skilled laborer shortage, which was exacerbated by post-Ian rebuilding efforts.

Chris and Bernadette Pello are the couple who started Florida Trade Academy and they are thrilled to see Florida Trade Academy’s pre-apprenticeship program come to life. “Chris and I were honored to have so many people from the community attend our ribbon-cutting,” Bernadette said. “The potential collaborations with community organizations are endless.”

The introductory program combines hands-on training with classroom-based instruction taught both virtually and in-person. Students try out a range of trade specialties before homing in on their chosen field, including electrical, HVAC, plumbing, sheet metal, sprinkler fitting, roofing, car-

pentry and pipe fitting. “There is a growing shortage of skilled workers in the construction industry as many talented individuals struggle to get their foot in the door.” said Chris Pello, CEO of Florida Trade Academy. “This program offers that firststep solution by providing trainees with the skills and connections to find employment and transition into a registered apprenticeship.”

The organization welcomed its first cohort of 22 students earlier this month and held its ribbon-cutting ceremony on October 26 at its East Tampa classroom. Upon completion of the nine-month program, FTA will help place students in jobs in their chosen field where they can then enroll in an apprenticeship, having already completed several prerequisite courses.

Florida Trade Academy is sponsored by the Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC) Florida Gulf Coast Chapter, which operates the apprenticeship program across the Gulf Coast region. “Florida Trade Academy fills an important gap in training the next generation of skilled workers,” said Steve Cona, CEO of ABC Florida Gulf Coast Chapter. “The program is structured to improve productivity, reduce turnover and lower recruitment costs for employers.”

The program is open to high school graduates entering the workplace for the first time, professionals seeking a career alternative and individuals interested in learning technical skills. If you would like to learn more you can visit its website at https:// floridatradeacademy.org/. FTA is located at 410 S. Ware Blvd. in Tampa.

FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS & SANTA’S VILLAGE RETURNS TO COUNTY FAIRGROUNDS ON SR 60

By Meghan Reyes

The Tampa Bay Festival of Lights opened on Thanksgiving Day, and will run until January 1, 2023. Tampa Bay’s Festival of Lights will transport guests into a beautiful winter wonderland with custom light displays and its enchanting Santa’s Village. The festival surrounds guests in over 1 million twinkly lights as they drive 2 miles through a number of various themed light displays.

With fun for the whole family, the elaborate light displays feature everything from clever racoons toasting marshmallows to a giant gingerbread house with candy and cakes, and from a dynamic western display to a Mrs. Claus’ kitchen, the displays are sure to bring magic to everyone’s night. Santa’s Village is filled to the brim with activities and treats for those young at heart. Santa’s Interactive Barnyard features camel rides, crafting sections, hot chocolate, apple-cider donuts and even visits with Santa himself.

A few new additions to Santa’s Village have been made this year. Families can take the plunge on the Arctic Plunge Inflatable Snow Tube, take a spin on the Reindeer Carousel, and take a ride on the special Holiday Train. Those more inclined to explore can take a self-guided walking tour of the enchanting Hometown Hillsborough Historical Village. The

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Volume 21, Issue 12

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village consists of the fairgrounds’ permanent display of antique farming equipment and replicas of buildings from the past, all decked out in traditional decor. Another new addition to the festival is the Holiday Market, where families can find the perfect gifts for those they love. The market will take place on Friday and Saturday evenings.

Along with Santa’s Village and the Christmas light spectacular, a few additional events will take place during this year’s festival. Holiday movies and video shorts will be shown on the big screen, while picnic tables and fire pits have been added to allow for even more seating. Live music featuring Dennis Lee and Tampa artist Katie Lombardo will be available on select dates. Lee will be performing on Friday and Saturday, November 25 and 26 and December 16 and 17. Lombardo will be performing on Friday and Saturday, December 9 and 10.

Further information regarding performances by local organizations and specialty evenings will be announced this month.

Tickets for this year’s event are on sale now and cost $25 per car or $80 per bus. For more information about the festival, please visit www.hillsboroughcountyfair.com.

December 2022

Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition

CARS 4 HEROES BECOME CAR SANTAS FOR THOSE IN NEED

By Libby Hopkins For millions of Ameryears later, Franz icans, the availability got out of Car Biz of public transportaand started Cars 4 tion is the determining Christmas full time, factor in their ability earning him the nickto access jobs and any name ‘Car Santa.’ As care they require. For time would go on, he a lot of those people, saw the need in Kanthey either live outside sas City increasing the range of public more and more, and transit or the places that is where Cars 4 they need to go to are Heroes came from. outside of public tranNow, Car Santa gives sit zones, making them away over 300 cars a miss those opportuniyear just in the Kanties and forcing them sas City metro alone. to walk for miles to “On Veterans Day, Cars 4 Heroes is a Kansas City, Missouget where they need ri-based nonprofit that helps veterans with we awarded nine transportation issues. This past Veterans to go. Since 1996, vehicles in three citCars 4 Heroes has Day, it awarded three Tampa veterans with ies,” Franz said. “We vehicles. been addressing that awarded vehicles to need. “We are trying three local Tampa to raise awareness about our veterans this past Veterans program to hopefully help Day at the American Lemany in Florida in the future,” gion on Kennedy Boulevard said Terry Franz, co-founder in Tampa, and they were of Cars 4 Heroes. “I travel to Natalie Marcano, Jonathan Florida a lot because I love it, Fernandez and Freddy Asenand we also want to make the cio. We have done this for 27 community aware of what we years and award about 300 do for our veterans.” vehicles a year across the nation and now Franz and fellow co-founder Mike Van in Tampa.”

Noy owned Car Biz, a used-car lot in KanCars 4 Heroes’ cause is to repair donatsas City, Missouri. There had been a lot of ed vehicles and provide them to people people looking to purchase a car, only to in need. “We take vehicles of all makes, be turned down by credit companies be- models and ages,” Franz said. “It is easy cause they were out of work due to med- to donate a car, truck or van to Cars 4 ical emergencies, family issues or other Heroes online or by phone.” circumstances in life.

If you would like to learn more about It was Christmas time when Franz and Cars 4 Heroes, you can visit its website Van Noy gave away six cars to families at www.cars4heroes.org or call Franz at that in the past had been denied. A few 913-244-0582.

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Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition

Volume 21, Issue 12

COME SHOP THE HOLIDAY MARKETS AND SEE THE TWINKLING LIGHTS Compiled By Jenny Bennett

Jingle Bell Bazaar In Ybor City

vendors offering every holiday item imaginable, including hot chocolate, tea, coffee, breads, desserts Come and enjoy a and candies, along with handmade free, fun, festive holibath and body products, jewelry, day event in Tampa’s paintings, decorations, candles and historic Ybor City at woodworking items. There will the annual Jingle Bell also be raffle baskets to win. The Bazaar. The Jingle Bell event is free, so come and have a Bazaar is Ybor City’s wonderful day with the family. The largest family holiday event takes place at Lake Wimaufestival with live music ma Convention Center, located at bands, entertainment 5408 SR 674 in Wimauma, on Satperformances, food trucks, face painting, balloon artists as well urday, December 10 from 8 a.m.-1 p.m. as holiday-themed shopping. Santa arrives at 1 p.m. and children get free photographs Tampa’s Holiday Market Includes with him. The event takes place on Sunday, Free Child Care December 11 from 12-6 p.m. at Centennial Shop with local small businesses, artisans Park, located at and crafters 1800 E. 8th Ave. in at the Tampa Tampa. Additional Holiday Marinformation can be ket on Sunfound at its webday, Decemsite, www.jingleber 4 from bellbazaar.com.

11 a.m.-5 p.m.

The event is being held at S’mores & Water Works Stores Event In Park, located at 1701 N Highland Ave. in TamRivercrest Community pa. Parents can shop without worry of their Rivercrest Community in Riverview is hostchildren seeing the gifts by using the compliing its annual S’mores & Stores event on Sunmentary child-care tent. There will also be day, December 11 from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Come food trucks and holiday entertainment while and shop from a wide variety of local venyou shop, children can visit Santa and they dors, enjoy fresh food from food trucks and can have cookies and milk with Mrs. Claus. enjoy your free s’more. A special surprise guest will also be German-style Christmas At making an appearance; can you Old Castle Restaurant guess who? The event is being Sun City Center’s popular German held at 11560 Ramble Creek Dr. restaurant, Old Castle, is holding a in Riverview. Proceeds from the Christmas market in the Home Deevent go to West Florida Foster pot/Lowes parking lot outside the Care Services. restaurant, located at 3830 Sun City Center FishHawk Ranch Holiday Shop- Blvd. in Ruskin. Along with numerous vendors of a wide variety of Christmas items and gifts ping Bazaar for all, there will also be awesome German With over 40 vendors with an array of food, wine, beer wonderful and unique products you are sure and music. The to find something for everyone at the Fishfun starts at 12 Hawk Ranch Holiday Shopping Bazaar. Food Noon on Suntrucks will also be outside in the parking lot day, December so come hungry. This fun shopping experi4 and will run ence is being held in the Palmetto Club Grand until 8 p.m.

Ballroom, located at 17004 Dorman Rd. in Lithia, on Saturday, December 10 from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. The OneBlood Big Red Bus will be C.A.R.E. Gift accepting donations, so please consider do- And Wine Fair The Critter Adoption and Rescue Effort nating blood to those in need.

(C.A.R.E.) Gift and Wine Fair is back again this Christmas In Wimauma Is A Won- year on Saturday, December 3 from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. at Southshore Falls, located at 5831 Casderful Family Day cade Falls Ln. in Apollo Beach. Along with a Christmas in Wimauma, organized by Kitwide selection of vendors that will help you to tie Corral and Lake Wimauma Convention meet your holiday shopping needs, there will Center, is pleased to be bringing you all the also be fabulous items available in the silent fixin’s and trimmin’s, arts and crafts, handauctions and raffle baskets. Plus, there will made goods and so much more. There will be

be free wine tasting. Tickets are $10, with Barrington Oaks Lights Display proceeds going to C.A.R.E., which includes a Each year, Barrington Oaks opens up in the free raffle ticket. For more information, visit spirit of the holiday to share its light display. its website at www.careshelter.org.

The gates will be open from Sunday, December 11 through Monday, December 26, 6-11 Summerfield Community Center p.m. As during this time Barrington Oaks will have many guests in the neighborhood enjoyHoliday Market The Summerfield community will be host- ing the season, it asks that you make a righting a holiday market on Saturday, December hand turn as you enter the neighborhood.

3 at its community center, located at 13011 Summerfield Blvd. in Riverview. The market ‘Enchant’ At Tropicana Field Let Enchant light up your holiday season. will have a wide range of items, including, Bring your friends and family for a magical jewelry, candles, soaps, signs, wreaths, decoevening with over 4 million sparkling lights, rated tumblers, embroidered items and more. its story-themed walk-through light maze, ice skating and so much Tampa Bay Festival Of more. General admisLights sion includes access The Hillsborough County Fairto the complete event, grounds is presenting its upgraded including the maze, holiday light spectacular at Tampa Santa, Village shops Bay’s Festival of Lights and Santa’s and games. Ice skating Village, opened on Thanksgiving though is an additional Day and running through January price. ‘Enchant’ will be 1, 2023. This year’s event features at Tropicana Field in St. a nearly 2-mile drive-through of Petersburg and runs continuous light features, followed now through January by a festive walking visit to San1, 2023. For additionta’s Village. Enjoy a visit with Sanal information and to ta’s favorite animals, camel rides, purchase tickets, visit face painting, holiday movies and its website at www.enholiday treats. The Hillsborough County Fairchantchristmas.com. grounds is located at 215 Sydney Washer Rd. in Dover.

Paloma Glade Christmas Lights Christmas In The Park Light Show And Music Show The Christmas in the Park drive-through light show and outdoor market will take place from Friday, December 9 through Saturday, December 31, 5-9 p.m. The fun for all the family event is located at Masonic RV Park & Youth Camp, located at 18050 U.S. Hwy. 301 in Wimauma.

Hot chocolate and other festive food and drinks will be available.

This year, the Paloma Glade neighborhood has almost 50 homes joining in with its Christmas light and music show. The thing that really makes Paloma Glade’s display special is how you can tune in with your car radio

Christmas Lane Returns To Plant City

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

With more than 1.5 million lights adorning over 200 Christmas trees ranging from 4-40 feet tall, the displays are sure to delight. Make sure that you visit and write your letters to Santa, as well as decorate ornaments and have your face painted.

There is also live entertainment on select nights. Christmas Lane is open now through Saturday, December 24 from 6-10 p.m. at the Strawberry Festival Fairgrounds in Plant City. Additional information can be found on its website at https://christmaslane.com/.

and have the display synchronized to the music. Teenagers in the neighborhood are also collecting nonperishable food items for local charity Seeds of Hope, such as boxed potatoes, canned veggies, desserts, bread mixes, pasta, mac ’n cheese and soups, so please bring an item to add to the collection for the event’s ham giveaway. Cash donations will also be accepted.

The display started on Thanksgiving Day and runs from 7-10 p.m., and then the regular times are Sunday through Thursday, 6-10 p.m., as well as Friday and Saturday, 6-11 p.m.

The last day of the light show is Saturday, December 31.

December 2022

Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition

Page 11

EXPERIENCE FESTIVE HOLIDAY ACTIVITIES AND EVENTS THIS SEASON Compiled By Jenny Bennett

Busch Gardens Christmas Town

The holidays come to life at Busch Gardens Christmas Town, the park’s award-winning holiday event. Celebrate the year with holiday cheer and create merry memories for the whole family during this seasonal event which is included with park admission. Guests can enjoy holiday traditions with a twist, from millions of sparkling lights throughout the park to holiday shows and visits with Santa and Rudolph the Red-nosed Reindeer. Busch Gardens Christmas Town runs daily now through January 2, 2023. Visit its website, www.buschgardens.com, for more information.

C h u r c h S t r e e t Christmas

Come celebrate the spirit of Christmas and enjoy the sights and sounds of this magical season. All are invited to experience this free annual holiday event along Dade City’s historic Church Avenue, where carolers, choirs, dancers and musicians perform along luminary lit sidewalks and brilliantly decorated homes. The street closes to vehicular traffic from Wednesday through Friday, December 21-23, 7-9 p.m.

For more information, visit its website at www.churchstreetchristmas.org.

as it speaks to all ages from young to old.

Bring your friends and family to see The Ultimate Gift on Saturday, December 17 at 7 p.m. at Love First Christian Center, located at 12847 Balm Riverview Rd. in Riverview.

Tickets are available from www.ultimategiftmovie.com.

Santa Fest Christmas Parade And Tree Lighting

Be part of Tampa’s holiday tradition when

Christmas In The Santa Fest returns to Curtis Hixon WaterWild At ZooTam- front Park again this year. It will open on Sunday, December 4, following the popular pa

It’s the most wonderful time of the year at ZooTampa with the return of Christmas in the Wild, featuring one of Tampa Bay’s largest light displays, delectable holiday treats, amazing wildlife and new festive adventures. This year is bigger, better and brighter than ever with entertainment that the whole family can enjoy, including festive realms, holiday shows and a visit with Santa. Christmas in the Wild runs on selective nights throughout December. Visit www.zootampa.org for more information.

The Ultimate Gift Presented By A Victorian Christmas Stroll The Henry B. Plant Museum in Tampa celLove First Christian Center What do snowstorms, time travel and a stubborn donkey have in common? They are all needed in telling the real meaning of Christmas. The Ultimate Gift is a fantastic journey to find out the real meaning of Christmas. It will bring the family together

lightful themes and displays in each exhibit and Future.’ The best, of course, is saved for room. Decorations include visitor favorites last, as the parade wraps up with a visit from from past years as well as new marvels that Santa and Mrs. Claus. are sure to amaze. The Victorian Christmas Stroll will be available at the Henry B. Plant Tampa Area Lighted Holiday Boat Museum, located at 401 W. Kennedy Blvd.

Parades in Tampa, from Thursday, Tampa’s largest lighted December 1 through Friboat parade will take place on day, December 23, 10 a.m.the Saturday before Christ8 p.m. daily. Its website, mas, December 17, along the www.plantmuseum.com, Hillsborough River in downhas more information. town Tampa. The parade

ebrates the warmth and spirit of an old-fashioned holiday with its Victorian Christmas Stroll. Allowing visitors a glimpse into the magic of Christmas past, this holiday experience is a wonderful way to celebrate all the season has to offer with a variety of de-

parade through downtown Tampa. The parade route steps off at 1:30 p.m. and begins at Morgan Street, travels west on Madison Street to Ashley Drive, turns north and ends at Ashley Drive and Cass Street. After the parade, enjoy the activities and entertainment in Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park and stay for the tree lighting at 6 p.m. followed by a screening of The Grinch movie to end the day.

Lakeland Christmas Parade

Hosted by the Junior League of Greater Lakeland and the City of Lakeland, the Lakeland Christmas Parade will be held on Thursday, December 1 starting at 7 p.m. Participants step off from the RP Funding Center to begin the 1.25-mile course winding through the city’s streets, around Lake Mirror and back down Lemon Street. The floats are decked out to reflect this year’s theme of ‘Christmas Past, Present

begins at the southern tip of Davis Island, travels through the convention center basin and up to the Heights, where the boats will turn around and head to Sparkman Wharf. Public viewing locations include Armature Works, Water Works Park and Channel Drive.

The annual Apollo Beach Lighted Boat Parade takes place on Sunday, December 11. It will leave the south channel at 6 p.m. and proceed towards Lands End Marina before winding around Lake Sunrise Basin, back out around Bal Harbor and then up Flamingo Canal before returning and going around Dolphin House at the end of Grand Kaymen Drive, then up the canal leading to Symphony Isles. Come and meet the members of the Tampa Sailing Squadron before the parade at its clubhouse, located at 1250 Apollo Beach Blvd. in Apollo Beach.

The Alafia Lighted Boat Parade is always very popular with local residents. It will take place along the Alafia River from the Riverview Civic Center to River’s Edge Bar and Grill on Saturday, December 3, departing at 5 p.m.

Page 12

Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition

Volume 21, Issue 12

THE WAY 2 DANCE AND METROPOLITAN MINISTRIES NEEDS CELEBRATIONS VENUE OFFER THE COMMUNITY SUPPORT FOR ITS COMMUNITY MANY WAYS TO HAVE FUN LARGEST MOBILIZATIONS EVER

By Libby Hopkins

Tatyana Frost runs available for a crash two local businesses course on weekto enhance the lives ends,” Frost said. of so many people in “Many students have the area. The Way 2 started to work on Dance teaches salsa, their choreographed ballroom and other dance routines for Tatyana Frost runs two local businesses to entypes of dancing, a Valentine’s Day and Celebrations hance the lives of so many people in the area. The showcase that will Way 2 Dance teaches salsa, ballroom and other Venue provides an types of dancing, and Celebrations Venue provides take place on Sunalternate home for an alternate home for many people to celebrate day, February 5 at many people to cel3 p.m. at our studio. their special day with their friends and family. ebrate their special Nothing is better day with their friends than to learn how to lift and family. “I love beyour partner, dip and ing a part of our comdo lots of fancy moves munity and offering so just for fun. Tickets for SALSA BALLR OOM SWING many dance programs spectators are only $18 at The Way 2 Dance, and I like that people per person. Start dancing today, meet new from our community have a place to host dance friends and add dancing to your exertheir events and family gatherings at Cel- cise routine, all while having fun.” ebrations Venue,” Frost said. “Both of my Celebrations Venue is a very affordable businesses make lasting memories for our event space and is available for rent for guests and this makes me very happy and many special occasions. “It comes with taproud.” bles and chairs designed and setup for your The Way 2 Dance is offering holiday gift event, a variety of lights, Bluetooth speakers certificates for a great price to add a gift un- built into the ceiling, kitchenette with a mider the Christmas tree for your loved ones. crowave, refrigerator and a sink,” Frost said. “‘Don’t think or talk about it anymore, just “The venue is flexible. You just need to bring do it, just dance’ is something I always say,” your decorations, food and have an amazing Frost said. “Dancing is a great way to relieve time with your loved ones. We encourage stress, great exercise and not to mention future renters to contact ASAP if they are fun. I’m not saying I’m Dr. Frost, but many looking for a rental venue because our calenof our clients have said they feel better both dar is already getting full for 2023.” mentally and physically after taking classes.”

If you would like to learn more about eiOne of the latest programs that The Way ther one of Frost’s businesses, you can visit 2 Dance offers is its three-hour workshops their websites at www.theway2dance.com of salsa, bachata, swing and other dances or www.celebrationsvenue.com. The Way that are a great way to learn or improve a 2 Dance is located at 6520 U.S. Hwy. 301, dance in one day. “It really helps a lot of peo- #102 in Riverview and Celebrations Venue is ple that can’t come during the week but are located at 610 Oakfield Dr. in Brandon.

TM

Staff report

The holidays are nity, we are able to do a time for celebrait. The only reason we tion — unless you are able to mobilize don’t have enough to is because of all the eat. This holiday seacollaboration. That’s son, at-risk, hungry what makes it so aweand hurting families some. Everybody from all over Tampa Bay all walks of life coming will need you, your together to help someprayers and your genone that they don’t erosity. even know. It’s very The need continues unifying in the times A Metropolitan Ministries volunteer to be great this year we are in right now.” sorting food donations. with the rising costs To serve the thouof rent, utilities, gas sands of families who and food. For families will reach out to Metropolwho struggle to make itan Ministries for help this ends meet on a day-toholiday season, the organiday basis, the thought of zation needs turkeys, canned not being able to enjoy vegetables and potatoes. Bea holiday meal can be sides the traditional fixings, painful. the organization also likes to include a Metropolitan Ministries has budgeted treat, like a healthy cereal, peanut butto serve 32,000 families for Thanksgiving ter, bread and even dessert, in the holiday and Christmas, but it knows it will serve boxes given to families. more — projections currently stand at Those in need of help can register onover 37,000 families. line (www.metromin.org/holiday-central/ In addition to its main holiday distri- need-help/) or in person. To mitigate adbution tent in Tampa, Metropolitan Min- ditional travel, Metropolitan Ministries istries is setting up pop-up tents in “the has partnered with strategic, like-minded highest areas of need” in Hillsborough, organizations to offer more sites across Pasco and Pinellas counties. Currently, Tampa Bay. 12 pop-up sites are planned, but the total The community can also help inspire could go as high as 17, which will include hope this holiday season by either voltwo in Lee County, in areas that families unteering at the tent, hosting a donation are struggling from the devastation by drive, donating food or toys or donating Hurricane Ian. at www.metromin.org.

“It’s the largest mobilization that MetFor more information on Metropoliropolitan Ministries has ever done in our tan Ministries’ holiday initiative, visit the 50-year history,” spokesperson Justine Holiday Central section of its website at Burke said. “With the help of the commu- www.metromin.org/holiday-central/.

December 2022

Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition

Page 13

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Page 14

Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition

Volume 21, Issue 12

NOTHING BUNDT CAKES OFFERS PERFECT HOLIDAY TREATS FOR EVERY SEASON

Staff Report

classic.

Cakes and festive toppers are available for holiday parties in addition to birthdays, graduations and weddings. Plus, Nothing Bundt Cakes offers online ordering and third-party delivery, making it easy for residents to enjoy.

The holidays are a great time to treat yourself and your friends, and Nothing Bundt Cakes, located in Winthrop Town Centre, has the perfect way to satisfy your sweet tooth.

With 10 delicious flavors and options ranging from single-serving Bundtinis to 10-inch cakes, Nothing Bundt Cakes has something for everyone, even those whose diet is restricted to gluten-free foods.

Owner Rob Shuffield, a Brandon High School graduate, grew up in the area and was thrilled to open the Winthrop location four years ago.

“I love the Brandon community and am proud to offer the quality and flavors of Nothing Bundt Cakes through our store here,” said Shuffield. “Winthrop has been such a great location for us, and we are so thankful to John Sullivan for his vision for such a great community center.”

According to Shuffield, the most popular flavors at the location are chocolate chocolate chip, red velvet and white chocolate raspberry, but he encourages shoppers to look for seasonal choices like peppermint chocolate chip in December — a holiday

As Nothing Bundt Cakes is very popular for gifts and holiday gatherings, Shuffield recommends that residents order online in advance to ensure the availability of their favorite flavors.

The website also offers information on fundraising with Nothing Bundt Cakes and the opportunity to sign up for the Nothing Bundt Cakes eClub, which offers a free birthday treat.

“Stop by and try our products,” said Shuffield. “Our general manager, Noelle, and the team would love to meet you.”

Nothing Bundt Cakes is located at 11238 Sullivan St. in Riverview and can be reached at 813-409-2394. To learn more or order online, visit www.nothingbundtcakes.com.

Its hours of operation are Monday through Friday, 9 a.m.-7 p.m.; Saturday, 10 a.m.-7 p.m.; and Sunday, 11 a.m.-4 p.m.

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December 2022

Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition

Page 15

CASK SOCIAL KITCHEN: BRUNCH, BBQ, ATMOSPHERE, CRAFT COCKTAILS & MORE

By Libby Hopkins

When local executive chef wanted it to show in Chris Burkey, Steve Bishop, the menu items.”

Adam Itzkowitz and Lithia Cask Social is a CPA John Zelatis met to talk product of The Social about barbecue and grilling, Kitchen Company. the meeting turned into an inUnder the direction of stant bonding of friends, busiBurkey, Cask strives ness partners and barbecue. to serve the best in “When Steve Bishop, Adam new American fare Itzkowitz and I get together, and handcrafted it’s a total foodie gathering,” cocktails. Boasting Zelatis said. “You have to see an extensive whiskey us sit down at food tasting, menu, local craft beer it’s the most hysterical thing offerings and handyou will ever see. Then we Craft A’fare Social Kitchen (Cask) is a crafted cocktails, its product of The Social Kitchen Commet Chris this past January bar staff are ready to pany. Under the direction of executo hang out and barbecue. By tive chef Chris Burkey, Cask strives to satisfy any taste. the end of the day, we were serve the best in new American fare Locals from all over spoon-feeding each other. All the bay area can wind and handcrafted cocktails. of us have a lot of passion for down their workdays food.” with Cask’s happy hour It was this food passion beevery week, Tuesday tween the four men that helped through Friday. During to make Craft A’fare Social Cask’s popular Friday, Kitchen (Cask) more than just Saturday and Sunday the number one brunch spot brunch services, Cask in Tampa. They have taken the is the ultimate South restaurant to the Tampa location to eat, next level, which is drink and be social. a dinner destination If you would like to in South Tampa. learn more about Cask “We have always or check out its new been known as the best brunch restaurant menu options, visit https://casksocial.com/. in Tampa,” said Burkey. “On the weekends, Cask Social is located at 208 S. Howard Ave. you couldn’t get a seat in the restaurant, in Tampa. Reservation are encouraged and but during the week it was very slow. Once can be made through Cask’s website or by John; Steve; Cask’s sous-chef, Kyle; and I calling the restaurant at 813-251-0051. got together, we got our inspiration for our The restaurant is closed on Monday. Its new dinner menu from Cask itself. It was all hours of operation the rest of the week are what we feel Cask is about and the vibe of Tuesday through Thursday, 4-9 p.m.; Friday Cask. The name has a Southern feel to it and and Saturday, 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; and Sunday, we’re known for the vibe and feel, so what 11 a.m.-8 p.m.

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Page 16

Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition

Volume 21, Issue 12

BUSINESS ATTORNEY TAKES PRIDE IN COMMUNITY SERVICE

Regular Hours: Mon. - Sat. 11am - 8pm Closed Sunday

The Holidays are about Family!

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

By Libby Hopkins

SOUPS, SALADS and SIDES ENTREES: Roast Pork • Chicken & Yellow Rice • Lasagna Ropa Vieja • Picadillo • Cuban Sandwich Trays Mini Deviled Crab Trays

The Law Office of of Akron School of Jeffrey Dowd, P.A., Law in 1996. In law located in Brandon, school, he focused on is a law firm for small business, corporate businesses, handling and tax law while everything from setworking at a law ting up to selling and firm writing appelso much more. late briefs on workDowd was admiters’ compensation ted to The Florida claims.

Bar in 1996 and has If you ask Dowd experience at all what makes his firm phases of a business different from other with all industries. The Law Office of Jeffrey Dowd, P.A., locat- firms in the area, he He has expertise in ed in Brandon, is a law firm for small busi- will tell you it’s the handling all types of nesses, handling everything from setting up way his firm handles to selling and so much more. issues, including conpricing for its sertracts, employment, vices. “We build our licensing and leasing, services on a flat fee,” franchising and regulaDowd said. “I bill for the tions. service, not the time.

Dowd is passionate Our clients don’t have about business and volto worry about how unteers his time as a much money they are certified SCORE mentor spending because they with the SCORE Tampa already know how much chapter. “I love being a their service will cost business owner in the them upfront.”

Brandon community,” Dowd said. “KeepMeeting his clients’ needs is Dowd’s ing things local is very important to me number one priority. “The hiring of a because most of my customers are lo- lawyer is an important decision that cal business owners. Many of my clients should not be based solely upon adhave become good friends as well, and vertisements,” Dowd said. “Before you that’s what community is all about.” decide, ask us to send you free written Dowd went to college to be an entre- information about our qualifications and preneur and ended up working in a law experience.” firm at the age of 19 to help pay for colIf you’d like to learn more about the lege. He graduated from SUNY College services offered at The Law Office of at Buffalo with a B.S. in business stud- Jeffrey Dowd, P.A., you can visit his ies, but his time working at the law firm website at www.dowdlaw.com or call inspired him to go to law school.

813-773-3529. Dowd’s office is located He graduated from the University at 523 E. Lumsden Rd. in Brandon.

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The Oak Ridge Boys

Willie Nelson & Family

Thu. Mar. 2, 7:30

Front Porch Singin’ Tour Thu. Mar. 2, 3:30 $30

HALESTORM

Fri. Mar. 3, 7:30 $45

Fri. Mar. 3, 3:30 $50

COMING SOON The Gatlin Brothers Sun. Mar. 5, 3:30 $25

Sun. Mar. 5, 7:30

Neal McCoy

Josh Turner

Mon. Mar. 6, 3:30 $30

Root & Boots

Mon. Mar. 6, 7:30 $35

Aaron Tippin, Collin Raye and Sammy Kershaw Tue. Mar. 7, 3:30 $35 Home of OUR

CeCe Winans

Tue. Mar. 7, 7:30 $25

Tanya Tucker

Wed. Mar. 8, 3:30 $35

The Jacksons

Wed. Mar. 8, 7:30 $40

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Lynyrd Skynyrd

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Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition

December 2022

Page 17

2022-2023 BANK OF AMERICA BROADWAY AT THE STRAZ SEASON

Staff Report

The 2022-23 Bank of America Broadway at the Straz season, sponsored in part by the Tampa Bay Times, is back. Going forward, the slate includes Tina — The Tina Turner Musical, Chicago, Harper Lee’s To Kill a Mockingbird, Ain’t Too Proud and Jagged Little Pill and the Tony® and Grammy Award®-winning best musical Hadestown. The season also features Shear Madness in the intimate Jaeb Theater and special return engagements of Hamilton and Wicked.

“Touring Broadway is back in Tampa in a big, big way,” said Straz Center President and CEO Judy Lisi. “We’ve got an astonishing season planned that includes audience favorites, award winners, R&B, rock ’n’ roll and a couple of shows that were originally announced for the 2020-2021 slate and postponed due to the pandemic,” she continued. “This lineup truly is the best of Broadway, and we can’t wait to share it with Tampa Bay area audiences.”

The remaining 2022-23 Broadway season features: Hadestown, Now through December 4 Winner of eight 2019 Tony Awards, including Best Musical, and the 2020 Grammy Award for Best Musical Theater Album, this acclaimed new show from celebrated singer-songwriter Anaïs Mitchell and innovative director Rachel Chavkin (Natasha, Pierre & The Great Comet of 1812) intertwines two mythic tales —that of young dreamers Orpheus and Eurydice, and that of King Hades and his wife, Persephone.

TINA – The Tina Turner Musical, Jan. 31 – Feb. 5, 2023 This new musical reveals a comeback story like no other – of a woman who dared to defy the bounds of racism, sexism and ageism to become the global Queen of Rock ‘n’ Roll. Featuring her much loved songs, TINA

– The Tina TurnToo Proud: er Musical is The Life and written by PuTimes of The litzer Prize-winTemptations ning playwright is the elecKatori Hall and trifying new directed by the smash-hit internationally Broadway acclaimed Phylmusical that lida Lloyd. follows The Chicago, Feb. Temptations’ 21 – 26, 2023 extraordiAfter more nary journey than 25 years, from the Chicago is still streets of the one musical Detroit to with everything the Rock & that makes Roll Hall of Broadway Fame. shimmy-shake: Jagged a universal tale Little Pill, The 2022-2023 Bank of America Broadway at the Straz of fame, forMay 16 – 21, season features Hadestown, Tina — The Tina Turner Musical, tune and all that 2023 Chicago, Harper Lee’s To Kill a Mockingbird, Ain’t Too Proud jazz, with one Joy, love, and Jagged Little Pill, as well as Shear Madness. showstopping heartache, song after another and the most astonish- strength, wisdom, catharsis, LIFE — eving dancing you’ve ever seen. Chicago has erything we’ve been waiting to see in a been honored with six Tony Awards, two Broadway show — is here in the exhilaratOlivier Awards, a Grammy and thousands ing, fearless new musical based on Alanis of standing ovations.

Morissette’s world-changing music. DirectHarper Lee’s To Kill a Mockingbird, April ed by Tony Award winner Diane Paulus 11 – 16, 2023 (Waitress, Pippin, upcoming 1776) with a All rise for Academy Award® winner Tony-winning book by Diablo Cody (Juno) Aaron Sorkin’s adaptation of Harper Lee’s and Grammy-winning score, this electrifyPulitzer Prize-winning masterwork. The ing production about a perfectly imperfect New York Times Critic’s Pick To Kill a Mock- American family “vaults the audience to its ingbird is “the most successful American collective feet.” (The Guardian). play in Broadway history.” (60 Minutes).

Emmy Award®-winning actor Richard The season also features: Thomas will play the role of Atticus Finch Shear Madness, Feb. 15 – April 8, 2023 in the national tour.

This unique comedy whodunit takes place Ain’t Too Proud, May 2 – 7, 2023 today in the Shear Madness hairstyling saNominated for 12 Tony® Awards and lon and is chock-full of up-to-the-minute the winner for Best Choreography, Ain’t spontaneous humor. During the course of

the action, a murder is committed, and the audience gets to spot the clues, question the suspects and solve the funniest mystery in the annals of crime. The outcome is never the same, which is why many audience members return again and again to the scene of the mayhem.

In addition to the eight-show Broadway series, the Straz will present two special return engagements: Hamilton, Dec. 28, 2022 – Jan. 22, 2023 Featuring a score that blends hip-hop, jazz, R&B and Broadway, Hamilton has taken the story of American founding father Alexander Hamilton and created a revolutionary moment in theatre — a musical that has had a profound impact on culture, politics and education. With the book, music and lyrics by Lin-Manuel Miranda; direction by Thomas Kail; choreography by Andy Blankenbuehler; and musical supervision and orchestrations by Alex Lacamoire, Hamilton is based on Ron Chernow’s acclaimed biography. It has won Tony, Grammy and Olivier Awards, the Pulitzer Prize for Drama and an unprecedented special citation from the Kennedy Center Honors.

Wicked, March 8 – 26, 2023 Wicked, the Broadway sensation, looks at what happened in the Land of Oz, but from a different angle. From the first electrifying note to the final breathtaking moment, Wicked — the untold true story of the Witches of Oz — transfixes audiences with its wildly inventive story that USA Today cheers is “a complete triumph! An original musical that will make you laugh, cry and think.”

For more information about the Broadway season, individual shows, other Straz Center events and productions or to become a season ticket holder, visit www. strazcenter.org.

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Page 18

Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition

Volume 21, Issue 12

CIGARS ON THE BOULEVARD TO HOLIDAY MUSIC & PRODUCTIONS Compiled by By Jenny Bennett HOST PROFESSIONAL WRESTLERS Two Evenings Of Holiday Music drew Presbyterian Church, located at 1239 FOR FUNDRAISING EVENT W. Del Webb Blvd. in Sun City Center, on The Eastern Hillsborough

By Lily Belcher

Cigars on the Boulevard will host an autograph and photo session with famous wrestlers at the Apollo Beach store to raise money for the Cauliflower Alley Club on Hector Guerrero Monday, December 5 at 6 p.m.

Fans can pay $20 to receive autographs and photos from all the wrestlers and all profits will be donated to the charity.

Fidel ‘The Cuban Assassin’ Sierra, Haku, B. BriHaku an Blair, Hector Guerrero, Steve Keirn and Kahagas will attend the event, taking pictures with fans who pay the $20 fee. Some of the wrestlers will bring their championship belts for guests to pose with as well.

“It’s an association that wrestlers, boxers and stuntmen from Hollywood movies put together years ago,” said wrestling promoter Hal Jeffery.

The Cauliflower Alley Club aims to support wrestlers, boxers and stuntmen who do not have the financial resources to receive medical treatment or pay off medical bills from their time in the profession.

“The money we raise goes through a private group of our leaders in the club that sipher money off to them to pay

their bills and get the medical help they need,” said Jeffery.

The $20 fee will allow guests to take a picture with all the wrestlers and receive an 8 x 10-inch B Brian Blair photo of each wrestler for autograph.

“We give away thousands a year to help support these retired athletes. It’s a good organization, and most people don’t know about it because they are not Steve Keirn behind the scenes with wrestling or boxing, … but it’s there, and it’s there to help others,” said Jeffery.

The autograph-signing event is being presented in association with Frontier Cigars, which are available at all Florida Tobacco Depot and ABC Fine Wine & Spirits locations.

Cigars on the Boulevard is a clean, upscale cigar restaurant that invites guests to drink and socialize at its Apollo Beach lounge. It has over 130 types of cigars, including traditional and local cigars.

Cigars on the Boulevard is located at 1438 Apollo Beach Blvd. near Lands End Marina and is open from 3-11 p.m. every day. For more information, visit www. caulifloweralleyclub.org.

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Wednesday, December 14 Community Band is presentat 7 p.m. The church asks ing an Evening of Holiday for a donation of a nonMusic. On Tuesday, Decemperishable food item as ber 6 at 7 p.m., the concert admission. will be held at Bell Shoals Church, located at 2102 Bell First Baptist BranShoals Rd. in Brandon. Kings don Presents Its Avenue Baptist Church, loChristmas Musical cated at 2602 S. Kings Ave. Drama in Brandon, will also host it on Thursday First Baptist Brandon is performing its December 15 at 7 p.m. Donations will be Christmas musical drama on Saturday and requested at the door.

Sunday, December 10-11 at 6 p.m., sharTheatre Arts And Dance Alliance ing the greatest story ever told. This year’s Performs The Nutcracker program will consist of some all-time-faTheatre Arts and Dance Alliance’s pro- vorite Christmas songs, from familiar carduction of The Nutcracker includes 100 ols to an army of angels announcing the dancers, 250 beautiful costumes, special birth of Jesus. The First Voice Choir has effects and fantastic lighting and sets, and approximately 70 members from sixth it features premier dance company Tamgraders and up, and the orchespa Bay Dance Theatre. It tra has approximately 30 musihas dazzled audiences for cians. First Baptist Brandon is more than 18 years and is located at 216 N. Parsons Ave. in sure to please audiences Brandon. of all ages. Performances Dancing For A Difference will be held at the RiverAnnie Jr. Performance view High School audiDancing for a Difference is a torium, located at 11311 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization Boyette Rd. in Riverview, with a mission to make dance on Saturday and Sunday, December 17-18 at 3 p.m. Visit www. and the arts available and affordable to tadance.com for more information and to the community. It welcomes dancers with special needs and has a free program for purchase tickets.

Riverside Jukebox Swing Band children in foster care. It is performing Annie Jr. on December 10 at 2 p.m. and 4 Playing A Free Concert p.m. at Bloomingdale High School. There Riverside Jukebox Swing Band formed are two casts, and each cast has about this year to entertain the Southshore com- 40 students starting at age 3 and includes munity with music from the big band era children with varying abilities. To purchase to the 1980s. The band has 17 musicians, tickets, visit https://dancestudio-pro.com/ including three singers who mix vocal tickets/d4d. For more information about numbers into each of the sets. They are Dancing for a Difference, visit its website playing a free Christmas concert at St. An- at www.dancing4adifference.com.

December 2022

Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition

Page 19

PET RESOURCE CENTER CELEBRATES TAMPA ELECTRIC’S AWARD-WINNING MANATEE VIEWING CENTER NOW OPEN 100,000 HOMES FOR PETS FOR THE SEASON

Staff Report

Hillsborough together to build a County recentlifesaving communily celebrated a ty for pets. Among major milestone: the policy and the 100,000th practical changes pet saved at the responsible for the Michael S. Merdramatic improverill Pet Resource ment in live-release Center since Hillrates and accompasborough County nying drop in euthacommitted to Left to right are Pet Resource Center director Scott Tre- nasia are: improving the batoski, Ray Villegas, Hillsborough County Assistant • The creation live-release rate of a pet support Administrator Dexter Barge, Hillsborough County at the shelter a Administrator Bonnie Wise and Hillsborough County team that works to Commissioner Ken Hagan. decade ago. help residents keep In 2012, the euthanasia rate at the shel- their pets rather than turning them over to ter, like at most public shelters throughout the shelter. Team members can help resolve the country at that time, was painfully high. issues with pet behavior, provide food and About 12,000 dogs and cats were eutha- other supplies and even help arrange mednized that year, nearly two-thirds of the pets ical care. brought to the shelter.

• Actively working with more than 300 Today, the Pet Resource Center’s live-re- pet rescue groups. lease rate is above 90 percent, among the • Establishment of a foster program that highest in the nation. Those figures are even allows residents to take pets home for as litmore remarkable because the Pet Resource tle as a week. The program helps clear shelCenter is the only open-admission shelter ter space and provides valuable information in Hillsborough County, meaning it accepts about the pets’ behaviors and personalities. all dogs and cats regardless of age, medical • Establishing pet-enrichment programs, condition or breed. such as dog play groups.

On October 21, county and shelter offi• Quickly spaying/neutering and evaluatcials celebrated that accomplishment and ing pets. recognized the local resident who adopted • Allowing residents to view virtually the 100,000th pet saved at the shelter since all available dogs and cats at the shelter 2012. through an online kennel that includes phoRay Villegas is the proud adoptive parent tos, medical information and behavioral to Milo the dog, the 100,000th pet saved at notes. the Pet Resource Center. “If you have the op• A commitment to matching people with portunity to love an animal and you have the the right pet, which increases owner satiscapability, then please do because it saves a faction and reduces return rates. life and they add to your life,” said Villegas.

• Increasing the number and variety of The policy changes began with a commit- medical issues that can be treated at the ment to trust and rely upon people in the shelter. community — pet owners, veterinarians, For more information or to adopt a furry rescue groups and many others — to band friend, please visit hcflgov.net/adopt.

Staff Report

The Manatee The manatees Viewing Cenhave gathered in ter is the anthe canal to find chor attraction refuge from the for the Florida cold since the C o n s e r vat i o n early 1970s. The and Technology Tampa Electric Center (FCTC), discharge canal which is a pubis a state and lic-private partfederally desigEach season nearly 400,000 visitors are drawn to see nership to shownated manatee the many manatees gathered in the warm waters of the case nature and sanctuary that Tampa Electric discharge canal technology. In provides critical addition to Tampa Electric, the partners in- protection from the cold for these unique, clude The Florida Aquarium and the Florida gentle animals. Each season, the center Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission draws nearly 400,000 visitors — for a total (FWC). of 7 million.

“We’re proud to be the showcase for TamAdmission and parking at the Apollo pa Electric’s commitment to environmental Beach facility are free, and the boardwalks stewardship,” said Stan Kroh, manager of are compliant with the Americans with Land and Stewardship Programs for Tam- Disabilities Act for our guests’ convenience. pa Electric. “The Manatee Viewing Center Contributions are welcomed and will directproves that you can have fun while learning ly support protecting manatees, preserving about the natural treasures of Florida.” their habitats and educating the public.

When the water temperature of Tampa The Manatee Viewing Center’s regular Bay is 68 degrees or colder, manatees gath- hours are 10 a.m.-5 p.m. every day now er in the clean, warm water discharge canal through April 15, except Thanksgiving, of Tampa Electric’s Big Bend Power Station, Christmas and Easter. (The facility closes at sometimes by the hundreds.

3 p.m. on Christmas Eve.) Comfortable shoes Manatee Viewing Center visitors can see and clothing are recommended. Please note the mammals up close from multiple board- that no pets are allowed, only trained serwalks and vantage points. Visitors can also vice animals. enjoy meeting the stingrays, critical animals Visit the center online at www.tampathat rely on a healthy Tampa Bay ecosystem, electric.com/manatee or call 813-228-4289 and even touch them gently as they glide for more information. past in the touch tank. Guests can hike the Tampa Electric, one of Florida’s largest innature trail and take in the vistas from the vestor-owned electric utilities, serves about 50-foot observation tower. Bring a picnic 800,000 customers in W. Central Florida. lunch to enjoy at a table near the base of the Tampa Electric is a subsidiary of Emera Inc., tower. To help support the manatee rescue a geographically diverse energy and services and research efforts, be sure to stop at the company headquartered in Halifax, Nova gift shop on the way out.

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Page 20

Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition

Breakfast In Santa’s Village

T., age 9. Seeds of Hope is a local charity which provides a weekly food distribution.

For more information, visit www.sohopefl.org.

Bingo, Breakfast in Santa’s Village, Tree Lighting & More...

A Kitten Place Bingo Fundraiser At Bullfrog Creek

Compiled by Jenny Bennett jbennett@ospreyobserver.com

South Shore Concert Band To Perform Holiday Concert

The United Methodist Church of Sun City Center, located at 1971 Haverford Ave. in Sun City Center, welcomes the South Shore Concert Band for a holiday concert on Tuesday, December 6 at 7 p.m. It’s the time of year to begin hearing music to get us into the mood for the most wonderful time of the year. What better way to do that than listening to the South Shore Concert Band bringing you your favorites? No advance tickets are needed; a donation of $5 at the door is all you need to start getting into the holiday mood.

Local 501(c)(3) nonprofit A Kitten Place is hosting a bingo fundraiser at Bullfrog Creek Brewing Company on Thursday, December 8, with bingo starting at 7 p.m. All proceeds from this event will go to care for the homeless, orphaned or those in need of medical-assistance kittens that it has in its care. Bullfrog Creek Brewing Company is located at 3632 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. in Valrico.

Step into a winter wonderland at the GFWC Ruskin Woman’s Club Breakfast in Santa’s Village on Saturday, December 10 from 9:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. The event will take place at the club’s historic house located at 503 S. U.S. Hwy. 41 in Ruskin. Besides a delicious breakfast buffet, children can enjoy arts and crafts and play a variety of games where they can win ‘Grinch Bucks’ to use to purchase all sorts of fun gifts. Santa and Mrs. Claus will be on hand for photo as well as carolers.

Tickets can be purchased online at www.gfwcruskinwomansclub.org or by calling 813 296 3900.

Center Place Is Looking For Christmas Tree Lighting Sponsors

Holiday Mini Camp For Artists

Center Place Arts & Civic Association Inc. is hosting a Holiday Mini Camp for children from ages 8-13. The camp is a fun drawing camp where the campers will grow their

Seeds Of Hope Plays Boo With Food

Booing neighbors with Halloween treats has become an exciting holiday trend. Children of all ages enjoy sneaking up to their neighbor’s porch and surprising them with candy and treats. Since 2019, elementary and middle school ages children on Natures Reserve Drive in Lithia have played the game a little differently by using it to collect food for Seeds of Hope. In addition to some Halloween-themed items, food pantry items were also collected and left as donations. “Our game is like typical boo, but you get to buy groceries that feed people,” said Marilynn

Volume 21, Issue 12

Center Place Fine Arts & Civic Association’s annual Christmas tree lighting will take place on Wednesday, December 7 from 6:30-9 p.m. at 619 Vonderburg Dr., Ste. B in Brandon. This is a great event to kick off the holiday season with your family with lots of fun activities, and it is free to attend. Center Place is still looking for sponsors to help cover some of the activities at the event. If you are interested in sponsoring, please contact Libby Hopkins at libby.hopkins@centerplacebrandon.com or call Center Place at 813-685-8888.

Horse’s Touch Christmas Photo Fundraiser

skill set and sharpen their creative vocabulary. It will run Monday through Friday, December 26-30 from 8 a.m.-1 p.m. and the cost is $125; all art supplies are included.

For more information or to register for the camp, call 813-685-8888 or visit its website at www.centerplacebrandon.com. Center Place Arts & Civic Association is located at 619 Vonderburg Dr., Ste. B in Brandon.

A Horse’s Touch will be raising funds this holiday season by having a horse and barn-themed Christmas photograph event and party. Sessions are available on Saturday and Sunday, December 17 and 18 at the barn in Wimauma; they are $25 and include the party. A Horse’s Touch exists to provide therapeutic horsemanship instruction and is affiliated with numerous 501(c)

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Lighthouse Operation Of Hope

The Lighthouse Gospel Mission and Operation Hope of Florida are hosting their annual Christmas of Hope Outreach on Saturday, December 17 at 12 Noon at 7015 Payne Ave. in Gibsonton. This free family event will include free food, clothes and haircuts, as well as face painting, a bounce house and Christmas gifts for the kids. (Children must be present to receive a gift; Christmas gifts are for children between the ages of 2-10.) There will also be prayer, encouragement and most importantly the love of Jesus for everyone. Please join Lighthouse Gospel Mission for this special Christmas blessing.

There’s something for the whole family in celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ.

For more information, visit www.lighthousegospelmission. org/, check Facebook @lighthousegospelmission or call 813-6775220.

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Nekter Juice Bar

La Septima Cafe

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Expires 12/31/2022

702 W Lumsden Rd, Brandon Not Valid with any other discounts, promotions or coupons.

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One coupon per visit. Not valid with Expires 12/31/2022

December 2022

Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition

LOCALLY OWNED EGGS UP GRILL CELEBRATES 2 YEAR ANNIVERSARY

By Sharon Still At Eggs Up Grill Sweet Cream. in Riverview, the “Tampa Bay smells of freshloves a good meal ly brewed coffee, that is fresh and crispy bacon and locally sourced, sweetness hit the and that’s what senses immediwe are bringing to ately upon enterour guests,” stated ing. In addition to Priscilla. a massive menu Reflective of the As they celebrate their two-year anniversary, featuring breakdemands of the lofast and brunch Eggs Up Grill franchise owners John and Priscilla cal foodie commuConyers are grateful for the community support in classics, salads nity, the new menu a time of recovery from a global pandemic. and lunch hot off will also feature the grill, guests can more heart-healthy expect to experience and gluten-free items, genuine hospitality plus an added kids’ from people who live menu. in the community.

Eggs Up Grill also “We are all about offers catering for neighbors serving any size meeting or neighbors,” said franchise owners Priscilla corporate event. A huge variety of catering and John Conyers. options are available for breakfast, brunch The couple celebrated the restaurant’s and lunch, from buffet-style to individual two-year anniversary during the entire boxed meals. Additionally, a private dining week of November 16. “The community suite on-premises dubbed the ‘Community has been so good to us, and we wanted to Coop’ is available for groups of up to 15 pay homage for helping us crack so many guests. eggs,” said Priscilla.

“Let Me Make You Smile”, the company’s “We have an egg counter, and we lit- mantra, starts with warm welcomes by erally track how many eggs we’ve hand- friendly team members and continues with cracked since day one, so it was a super genuine hospitality throughout the dining fun celebration,” she added. experience.

Stop by for breakfast, lunch or brunch; “Service is our passion. We provide real there surely is something for everyone. service for real people and making them Priscilla pointed out that the shrimp-and- smile is job number one,” said John. grits bowl, coastal crab cake benedict and Eggs Up Grill is located at 3920 U.S. Cali mac and cheese bowl are guest favor- Hwy. 301. Its hours are 6 a.m.-2:30 p.m., ites. seven days a week. Stay up to date on speAlong with its two-year anniversary, cial promotions and details on Instagram Eggs Up Grill is rolling out a new, expanded and Facebook @eugriverview and check menu and premiering refreshing signature out the full menu online at www.eggsupdrinks including The Harvest Peach and grill.com.

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OLDER LUNDY

KOCH MARTINO

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Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition

TRUE LIES FISHING COMPANY OFFERS INSHORE CHARTERS & SUNSET CRUISES

By Libby Hopkins

Captain Branden McMcCorkle has his Corkle grew up on the own business, True waters of Tampa Bay Lies Fishing Comin the Ruskin/Apollo pany.

Beach area. Convincing True Lies Fishhis grandmother at 12 ing is an inshore years old that he needcharter company ed a boat, which was a specializing in the 1969 Boston Whaler, Tampa Bay region his summers as a teen with a target catch were spent chasing of snapper, grousnook, trout and redfish per, snook, trout in the back bays and and redfish. “We flats along SouthShore. offer Ruskin, ApolLearning from his dad, lo Beach or Litand some of the best tle Harbor fishing guides in the Tampa Captain Branden McCorkle grew up on the charters and sunset Bay area. “I’ve been waters of Tampa Bay in the Ruskin/Apollo cruises,” McCorkle Beach area. fishing all my life,” Mcsaid. “Quality and Corkle said. “My dad a personalized would take me out experience is our fishing whenever he specialty. Whethcould. I was out there er you are a seawith him inshore, offsoned pro or new shore; wherever we to fishing, this is could find a place to your trip. Getting fish, we would fish.” on the fish and At a young age, McCorkle was certain knowing what the fish want is what we do that fishing and being a charter captain for our customers.” was exactly what he wanted to do. “Since Captain McCorkle feels awesome that I grew up around charter captains,” Mc- he gets to fish every day as his job. “I love Corkle said. “One of the charter captains being around the people who take charter was our neighbor, and I would fish off his with us every day,” McCorkle said. “What dock as a kid. I hung with him a lot as a makes my charter business different from kid too. I saw what he did, and I fell in others is that we fish in a lot of shallow love with it, so I knew it was something I water and we do a lot of site fishing. A lot wanted to do when I grew up.” of our men clients like to get a big group In 2018, he received a job offer from of guys together to have a party and fish Billy Nobles, the captain he grew up idol- all day.” izing, watching on TV and asking as a kid, If you’d like to learn more about True “When can I be your mate?” “That was a Lies Fishing Company, visit McCorkle’s dream come true for me,” McCorkle said. website at www.trueliesfishingcompany.

In addition to working offshore for Nobles, com or call 813-480-5111.

Volume 21, Issue 12

THE COOKIE LADY LAUNCHES FIRST BOOK, GOD HAS A SWEET TOOTH

By Libby Hopkins LeAnne Crabtree her thriving cookie in known in the Branbusiness more sucdon area and beyond cessful. as “The Cookie Lady.”

“When Steve and I She is the owner of met, he told me one LeAnne’s Old Fashion of the requirements Cookies and her rise for all his clients to the prestigious was that they had to title as “The Cookie write a book,” CrabLady” has been quite tree said. “I told him, the journey.

‘I can’t write a book’ As a Finance major and he said, ‘Yes you at the University of can.’”

Central Florida, one Crabtree can now of Crabtree’s required add ‘author’ as she marketing projects just released her was to plan and set LeAnne Crabtree is the owner of LeAnne’s book, God Has a Old Fashion Cookies. She recently wrote a up a business, keep Sweet Tooth. “This book about her journey to be known in the accurate records and book has been in the community as “The Cookie Lady.” report any profits or making for about losses her ‘cookie busithree years,” Crabtree ness’ generated. said. “This is a story of “My cookies were persistence and persean instant hit with the verance in the face of college students, proadversity. It’s a story fessors, neighbors and of holding true to your friends, who were anxious to buy all the faith no matter what may come your way cookies I could make,” Crabtree said. “ and overcoming all obstacles on the jourMy ‘cookie business’ immediately made ney to success.” a profit and the overwhelming demand In God Has a Sweet Tooth, Crabtree for my cookies continued even after my tells the powerful stories of LeAnne’s Old professor gave me a ‘C’ on the project. He Fashioned Cookies and the valuable lesemphatically stated, ‘People are becoming sons learned along the path to building an too health conscious and will no longer eat empire. cookies; therefore, this business will not “This book will inspire you to fight for be a success”. what you desire, love with all your heart Ignoring her professor’s harsh criti- and never give up on your dreams.” cism and the ‘C’ on her project, Crabtree’s If you would like to learn more about “cookie business” has continued to pros- LeAnne’s Old Fashion Cookies or if you’d per for more than 25 years. like to purchase her new book, God Has a Crabtree had attended a few of business Sweet Tooth, you can visit her website at coach, Steve Hooper’s events and she de- www.leannescookies.com or call 1-888cided to have Hooper coach her on making 651-0045.

BE A HOLIDAY LIGHT

There’s a great need for help in our community, and Metropolitan Ministries is here to serve at-risk and homeless families who live closest to you. Help us Inspire Hope this holiday by either volunteering at the holiday tent, hosting a donation drive, donating food or toys, or donating at MetroMin.org. #InspireHope

Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition

December 2022

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

A Kid’s Place of Tampa Bay Holiday Gift Drive www.akidsplacetb.org or 813-381-3839

Toys For Tots Tampa

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

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

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

Improvements inside & out, including the expansive lanai around a refinished pool, enhance this 3-bedroom, 2-bath rental with a 1/4-acre yard in Boyette Springs!

Its Waldorf design features 4 sets of double sliders – from the living room, family room, kitchen & master suite – that throw the home open to the lanai with screened & roof-sheltered sections for all-weather enjoyment. The tree-lined yard behind it is privacy-fenced & gated with a custom-built storage shed. Inside 1,850 SF, you’ll find tile floors in all the main rooms as well as the master suite.

Both baths & the kitchen are upgraded with wood, granite, lighting & fixtures.

Weekly pool care is provided for your convenience. Rent is $2,695 per month.

Here’s another 3-bed, 2-bath rental in Boyette Springs with a list of updates, from a brand-new roof to replaced AC to nicely renovated bathrooms! This lacks the private pool like the home at left, but it boasts a similar lanai -- that screened & roof-covered space of over 500 SF, extended for your enjoyment of a privacy-fenced, 1/4-acre yard. The Waldorf's open dining space beside a front living room has been customized here to a French-doored formal room suitable as an office or den. Boyette Springs is a neighborhood with its own playground park & strong elementary school near other fine schools, shops, restaurants, recreation options & travel routes. Rent is $2,495 per month.

Count on maintenance & convenience at this 3-bed, 2-bath rental in Lake St. Charles! A new roof over head, new vinyl plank floors under foot, & fresh paint all around you provide reassurance this 1,835-SF home is well-maintained. As for convenience, you get a new washer with dryer in a laundry room, owner-paid lawn & landscape care in the privacy-fenced yard, & a great spot on the cul-de-sac street closest to the neighborhood's lakefront pool / recreation center! Lake St. Charles is a master-planned community built around a 70-acre fishing lake with piers, parks, playgrounds, lighted tennis courts & more. There’s no rear neighbor here; the yard abuts a brick community wall. Rent is $2,395 per month.

Just like the home pictured at left, this 3-bed, 2-bath rental in Oak Creek offers lawn & landscape care, washer/dryer & responsive local management! Its wellkept yard is one of the biggest in this portion of the community with newer homes & recreation options that include a pool. The screened & roof-covered lanai in back helps the home live larger than 1,800 SF, & the canopied wooden deck for grilling adds a custom touch.

No carpet inside means better cleaning & breathing for tenants with allergies.

Last & surely not least, like every rental on this page, the location gives you access to countless conveniences in suburban Riverview. Rent is $2,250 per month. Contact me for more details!

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Over $20 million in sales in 2022 RE/MAX Hall of Fame, Top 1% among all agents across Tampa Bay Certified Luxury Home Specialist Newsome High, Riverview High parent “I live here.

I love it here.

And I sell here like no one else!”

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

Page 24

Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition

Volume 21, Issue 12

WE are OPEN Year Round but We Know YOUR Roof May be Closed for the Holidays...

Call Us Today to Schedule Your Roofing Needs for 2023!

813-643-8333

www.CertifiedRoofers.com Family owned business serving our neighbors for 41 years!

Alex (Owner) with his sons...

“Our next generation of roofers!”

Bloomingdale/FishHawk

Vine Vegan Now Open Danielle Stevens, owner and chef of Vine Vegan, learned to cook from her family. As a daughter of a Latino and a Brit, who was born in Hawaii, raised in Europe and an American through and through, Danielle was sure to balance everything when creating the Vine Vegan menu. Her mission is to bring people together, capture the culture of community and use delicious vegan food to do it.

Vine Vegan is located at 2080 Badlands Dr. in Brandon and is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. For more information on opening hours and to view the menu, visit its website at www.vinevegan.com or follow it on Facebook and Instagram @vineveganfl.

Law Office Of Samuel C. Higginbottom Samuel C. Higginbottom is a maritime, insurance and boating injury lawyer who serves individuals and small businesses that rely on the Tampa Bay waterways. His office can be found at 10312 Bloomingdale Ave., Ste. 108-315 in Riverview. With over a decade of experience working at large law firms in the Tampa area, Higginbottom has lots of experience in all types of cases that have involved legal issues, including in the areas of personal injury, insurance disputes, government contracts, professional liability, property damage and maritime law. For additional information, visit its website at www.lawsch.com or call 813-825-1267.

December 2022, Vol. 21, Iss. 12

$39.95

Corbin’s Stamp & Coin Offers Christmas Coins Corbin’s Stamp & Coin has been 209 N. Kings Ave., Brandon, FL 33510 Brandon’s source for 813-651-3266 rare coins and precorbincoin@verizon.net R Processor Mon-Fri 9am - 4pm • Sat 9am - 1pm cious-metal bullion ness AdminInc. Helps You for 30 years. Each year, the store offers silistration. SurTo Process ver Christmas coins that are timeless, unique vivors can get Payments gifts for both collectors and noncollectors. help applying R Processor Corbin’s also buys and sells coins, both old RiverHills Shell station owner Todd Kane was proud to for federal Inc. makes it and new; if you are a coin collector or an inaffordable for present Seeds of Hope founder Leda Eaton with a check for a s s i s t a n c e vestor in physical gold and silver, it has what business owners $3,100 for it’s food bank efforts. The money was rasied by cus- and disaster you want. If you have old coins and don’t tomers during a Drive & Buy community giving campaign. loans, update to collect money. know what they are, Corbin’s can educate Whether you need a point of sales solution applications and learn about other resourc- you about what you have and how much they or maybe a mobile payment option, it has a es available. Assistance is also available on- are worth. Corbin’s is located at 209 N. Kings line at www.disasterassistance.gov, solution for your business. It Ave. in Brandon. Call 813-651-3266. through the FEMA app or by calling allows small to midsize busi800-621-3362. ness owners to streamline Sincerely, Santheir businesses and increase ta Toy Drive Pediatric Care Offered 24/7 At cash flow. Richard Rohde, In partnership HCA Florida Brandon Hospital owner of R Processor Inc., with Sincerely Santa Tampa, Westfield BranFlorida Brandon Hospital is exhas been in the business for don will host its Sincerely, Santa Toy Drive, over 30 years and offers both equipment cited to announce that Johns Hopkins All an opportunity for the local community to and software solutions. To find out more, Children’s Hospital specialty physicians are participate in providing at-risk and undervisit its website at www.richrohde.com or now providing pediatric hospitalist care to privileged kids with items on their Christmas patients admitted to HCA Florida Brandon call 813-405-5210. lists this holiday season.

Hospital’s pediatric unit 24 hours a day, sevGuests can sponsor a letter to Santa writDisaster Recovery Center Opens In en days a week. “We are pleased to have the ten by a local child in need, purchasing the Johns Hopkins All Children’s specialty physiRiverview items listed and bringing the unwrapped The state of Florida and FEMA have opened cians here to support our inpatient services gifts back to the Sincerely, Santa booth in an additional disaster recovery center at for children and provide highly specialized the Dillard’s court. The event is now through HCC Regent, located at 6437 Watson Rd. in care for our pediatric patients,” said Tripp Sunday, December 18, 10 a.m.-8 p.m. in the Riverview, it is open from 8 a.m.-7 p.m. dai- Owings, chief executive officer at HCA Bran- booth at Westfield Brandon, located at 459 ly. Disaster recovery centers provide disas- don Hospital. “Through this partnership, pe- Brandon Town Center Dr. www.westfield. ter survivors with information from Florida diatric patients now have access to expert com/brandon/event-detail/sincerely,-sanstate agencies, FEMA and the Small Busi- care at any time of day.” ta-toy-drive.

Gift Boxed or Ornaments

CORBIN’S Stamp & Coin

Riverhills Shell • 4330 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. • Valrico, FL 33596 VETERAN OWNED & OPERATED

813-643-7809 • riverhillsshell@gmail.com •

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Page 26

Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition

CHRISTMAS TOWN AT BUSCH GARDENS CELEBRATES HOLIDAY CHEER WITH NEW SHOWS, FIREWORKS & MORE Staff Report Celebrating its Returning again 10th anniversais Santa’s North ry, Busch Gardens Pole Experience, Christmas Town represented by Coturns as the longest ca-Cola, a unique holiday celebration experience where in the Tampa Bay jolly elves guide area offering brandguests to interact new experiences with Santa in his to celebrate the workshop. Holiday holidays and create tales come to life memories to cher- Busch Gardens Christmas Town is back with both for Storytime with new and returning experiences for everyone. ish for a lifetime.

Mrs. Claus, and Christmas Town Rudolph the Redjoyfully bundles millions nosed Reindeer is joined of twinkling lights, upliftby Clarice and Bumble at ing shows, iconic holiday Rudolph’s Winter Wonlight displays, culinary dederland. lights and award-winning Also returning are attractions such as Iron Gwazi every day ‘Christmas on Ice’ at the Moroccan Palace now through January 9, 2023. Running for Theater, the home of Busch Gardens’ lon57 consecutive days, the beloved event is in- gest-running holiday show, Elmo’s Christcluded with park admission. mas Wish in the Sesame Street Safari of Several all-new activities make this year’s Fun area of the park and Three Kings JourChristmas Town its biggest celebration yet. ney, the musical tale of the three wise men’s A reimagined Holiday in the Sky fireworks famed journey to Bethlehem, at Dragonfire show comes to life with a colorful display Grill during select nights now through Janof festive fireworks while an added spec- uary 8, 2023. tacular water fountain show dances to the The Holly Jolly Express is back to transrhythm of a reimagined soundtrack with port guests into the celebration as they loop classic holiday tunes. Holiday in the Sky will around the park aboard this sing-along jourtake place on the Festival Field on select ney playing the favorite songs of the season. event nights. A new mesmerizing and enDelicious eats and specialty cocktails chanting musical light and projection show await all guests at this year’s Christmas will adorn the Serengeti Overlook building, Town. running daily every 15 minutes starting at The absolute best way to experience the 6 p.m. Christmas with the Celts is a won- jolliest of all seasons at Busch Gardens is derful combination of Christmas Carols and with a Christmas Town Sampler Lanyard.

Irish dance that will captivate guests. The Starting at $40 and redeemable at the nurenowned group of vocalists, musicians and merous cabins located throughout the endancers will perform live at Stanleyville The- tire park, samplers offer the best value for ater’s stage on Friday, Saturday and Sunday guests and will be available in quantities of from Friday, December 16 through Sunday, five and 10. An exclusive 12-item sampler December 25. for the same price as a 10-item is available In Land of the Sweets, guests will find for all pass members. Guests must be 21 the Sugar Plum ballerina stilt walker and years of age or older to consume alcoholic her Cavalier soldier, the newest characters beverages. to join the Sugar Plum Princess in her magGuests are encouraged to please check nificent new realm. And, right in the heart Busch Garden’s website at www.christmasof Jungala, guests will be in awe with a new town.com before visiting to learn which 32-foot-tall Christmas tree surrounded by a event components are available at each red-and-white winter wonderland. date.

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Volume 21, Issue 12

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December 2022

Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition

DROP OFF LETTERS TO SANTA AT HIS SPECIAL OUTPOST LOCATED AT THE REGENT By Kathy L. Collins The Regent, ecutive officer for The located at 6437 Regent, “This event Watson Rd. in started in 2020 as a Riverview, is once safe, kid-friendly activity again keeping during COVID, and it has alive the much becontinued to grow.” Keil loved tradition of added, “We love seeing writing letters to the kids drop off their letSanta. The mailters and the excitement box at the special they have on their faces.”

North Pole dropThe Reoff location will be gent is the available the week primary of Thanksgiving. sponsor of A life-size Santa the event. will be stationed Ta m m y at the door closest Holmberg, to the mailbox so Beginning the week of Thanksowner/ children can see giving, children can mail letters o p e ra t o r him watching as of Chick-fil-A at Lake to Santa at the very special North Pole they drop their let- outpost at The Regent, conveniently located Brandon Village, is also a ters into the spe- in Riverview. Letters received by Thursday, sponsor. Keil said, “TamDecember 15 will get a special response cial mailbox. This my is always ready to crafted by Santa’s helpers. is also a great phohelp out the community. to opportunity. There will be other spots We love having Chick-fil-A partner with around the building that will be good for us.” photo opportunities.

The Regent was once again named the Children whose letters are received number one wedding venue in Tampa Bay.

by Thursday, December 15 will receive a Keil said, “We love our community, and we specially drafted personal response from are very happy to be the place where peoone of Santa’s helpers before Christmas. ple celebrate the great moments in their In addition, they will receive a special life.” gift courtesy of Chick-fil-A. Teachers who The Regent is home to many commuwant to use this as an opportunity for a nity-centric events including weddings, class project, and who are not providing fundraisers, galas, retreats and sweet 16 addresses, must have the letters delivered celebrations. The Regent is a place for diat least one week before school lets out verse interests to come together and build for the winter holidays in order to get the connections and a sense of civic pride. responses.

For more information, please visit www.

According to Shannon Keil, chief ex- experiencetheregent.com.

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Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition

Volume 21, Issue 12

Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition

December 2022

Page 29

GET THE DIRT:

BY MICHAEL MURPHY

HOLIDAY GIFT IDEAS FOR THE GARDENERS IN YOUR LIFE

BY LYNN BARBER, FLORIDA-FRIENDLY LANDSCAPING™ AGENT

Fishing in Tampa has posure as to absorb and been getting hot with retain that radiant heat the temps beginning from the sun as the day to drop. The tides are progresses. beginning to get lower Snook bite remains at the same time. This hot and consistent on affords the opportunity the bars and cuts in to locate those deepmangrove areas. They may start to transition er holes during the low into more of the backtides, and it becomes shooting fish in a barwater flats and residenrel. Artificial baits have tial canals as the water been working very well, temps fall. including soft plastics, Redfish have been on suspended hard plastics the prowl but not so and topwater plastics. much in big schools like Work them over the the months prior. Trout deeper pockets of wabite is great on the artiter where visible tidal ficial baits, and we will flows are evident. Bait begin to get into the seahas been getting a little son where live shrimp tricky with the weather will be the go-to bait of change and some slow choice for all the target tide days. With the respecies. Locate some of the remaining grass duced bait, don’t be flats and drop-offs in the afraid to break out the mangrove areas and resartificial baits and catch those few golden hours idential canals. Grouper in the morning before will close at the end of the temps really fall. the month and snook are When the water bealready closed for the season, so keep that in comes really chilly, the mind when making you fish may become a little shut-mouthed and hard to get a bite fishing adventure plans. They can still from. Those days, you want to find areas be caught in good numbers, but all catch with darker bottoms and a southern ex- and release.

WELCOME TO OUR NEWEST MEMBERS: Onyx Scrubs and Accessories RE/MAX Executive Realty Riverhills Shell Spartan Group Realty, Inc. START YOUR NEW YEAR OFF BY JOINING THE CHAMBER! VISIT WWW.VALRICOFISHHAWK.ORG AND SIGN UP TODAY!

WE WOULD LIKE TO WISH OUR MEMBERS AND THE COMMUNITY A MERRY CHRISTMAS AND HAPPY HOLIDAYS! THANKS FOR A GREAT YEAR!

as a hedge or g ro u n d c o v e r , With Christand it’s beautiful mas and the in mass plantNew Year right ings or as a specaround the corimen plant. See ner, it’s time to http://edis.ifas. ponder what to ufl.edu/pdffiles/ gift to your garE P/E P 33 8 0 0. dening friends. pdf.

The classic holiFor the garday plant gift is a deners in your poinsettia. HowAmaryllis life, they may ever, this article well want nonwill focus on two plant-gardenother great holiing-related gifts. day plants, such Consider giving as amaryllis and items such as gardenia. knee pads, a Amaryllis is garden cart, a a bulb that prosaw or pruner, duces large, gloves, seeds, trumpet-shaped bulbs, pots, flowers. It is also mulch, potting a good containsoil, perlite, comer plant and can post, plant hangreach a height ers, composting and spread of bins, compost1-3 feet. This ing worms, a mibulb needs wellcroirrigation kit, drained soil, has garden sculpmedium drought tures, garbage tolerance and cans (I only have low to no salt tol11 and could erance. It makes use more) and a great impact dozens of other when planted in items gardeners terraces, at gate want or need. entrances or as Gardenia The University a border plant in of Florida IFAS Extension Bookstore, http:// groups of 10 or more. Plant this bulb beifasbooks.ifas.ufl.edu/, has an amazing setween September and January. Amaryllis lection of gardening, health and nutrition, performs best in partial shade and well in sun. Propagation is from seeds, cuttings homes and home maintenance, health and and smaller bulbs attached to the ‘mother’ nutrition, natural resources and wildlife and bulbs. You can leave bulbs in the ground so much more. Logo items include clothing, for years or dig them up and replant them umbrellas, key chains, hats, children’s books, during September and October. Blooms last toys and more. What a place!

Offer your labor for a specific number of for several weeks. For more information, see hours or tasks to perform for your friends http://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/fp255. who may not want or are not able to do Gardenia produces fragrant white flowthem.

Tasks could include weeding, planters and has glossy, dark-green leaves. This ing, pruning, watering, propagating, fertilplant can reach a height and spread of 4-8 izing, mulching, relocating plants and more. feet. Full sun to partial shade provides the Please come outside and garden so you can best flowering. Well-drained soil that has check things off your list, enjoy the outdoors been amended with organic matter is preand frolic with nature. ferred. This large shrub has medium drought For information about upcoming horticultolerance and low to no salt tolerance. It tural programs, visit our website, http://sfyl. should be fertilized two or three times each ifas.ufl.edu/hillsborough/, and check out our year. After flowering has been completed, it calendar of events at http://sfyl.ifas.ufl.edu/ can be pruned. However, if you prune after October 1, blooming the following year will hillsborough/upcoming-events/. Wishing all be decreased. You propagate this plant by of you safe and wonderful holidays.

Contact Barber at labarber@ufl.edu. grafting or cuttings. Gardenia can be used

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Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition

Volume 21, Issue 12

Performance Care to Maximize Your Athlete’s Abilities As the only species of bird endemic to the state, the Florida scrub jay is a rare and delightful sight to behold.

Their exclusivity to Florida makes them unique however they are also federally listed under the Endangered Species Act as a threatened and protected species. These beautifully muted blueand-gray birds with long tails are closely related to blue jays, crows and magpies.

An easy way to distinguish them from the common blue jay is that the scrub jay lacks a crest atop their head.

Florida scrub jays are distributed around distinct parts of the state, and they prefer open habitat that contain an abundance of oak shrubs, sand pines and flatwoods. Their habitat tends to fall in the dryer and more low-growing parts of the state which we refer to as the Florida scrubs. In fact, prescribed burns in these areas are a key factor in their conservation efforts.

Scrub jays forage in flocks, on the ground and in trees. Their omnivorous diet mainly consists of acorns, insects, snails, eggs, berries, seeds and small vertebrates. An interesting behavior is that Florida scrub jays nest in groups and often have other birds helping them raise their young. This is referred to as cooperative breeding and usually includes family members. The pairs average two to six eggs per brood, having a clutch once or twice per year. Mating typically occurs

from March through June. Scrub jay chicks fledge their nests around 3 weeks of age and often stay near their flock to help with the next hatch.

Florida scrub jays are also interesting because they are considered homebodies that do not migrate.

Rather, they stay close to where they hatched and spend their lives in one area, with very little movement from their homes. They routinely protect their same nesting area year after year. This preference is to their detriment, as these birds suffer greatly from habitat destruction, habitat fragmentation and habitat loss.

Land clearing for agricultural purposes as well as development are also massive threats to the species.

It is estimated that the Florida scrub jay population has tragically declined by 90 percent in the last decade. This has catalyzed a myriad of efforts to save the Florida scrub jay. Efforts in preserves and parks are focusing on habitat restoration, public awareness, strategic conservation efforts and increased prescribed burns in their preferred locations. These efforts are an important beginning to helping the Florida scrub jay recover and thrive.

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

FINANCIAL FOCUS

COLA IS SWEET FOR SOCIAL SECURITY RECIPIENTS If you receive Social Security, you’ve probably already heard that your checks in 2023 will be bigger – considerably bigger, in fact. How can you make the best use of this extra money?

Here’s what’s happening: For 2023, there’s an 8.7% cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) for Social Security benefits – the largest increase in 40 years. Also, the monthly Medicare Part B premiums are declining next year, to $164.90/month from $170.10/month, which will also modestly boost Social Security checks for those enrolled in Part B, as these premiums are automatically deducted.

Of course, the sizable COLA is due to the high inflation of 2022, as the Social Security Administration uses a formula based on increases in the Consumer Price Index for Urban Wage Earners and Clerical Workers (CPI-W). So, it’s certainly possible that you will need some, or perhaps all, of your larger checks to pay for the increased cost of goods and services. But if your cash flow is already relatively strong, you might want to consider these suggestions for using your bigger checks: • Reduce withdrawals from your investment portfolio.

When you’re retired, you will likely need to withdraw a certain amount from your portfolio each year to meet your expenses. A boost in your Social Security may enable you to withdraw less, at least for a year.

This can be particularly advantageous when the markets are down, as you’d like to avoid, as much as possible, selling investments and withdrawing the money when investment prices are low. And the fewer investments you need to sell, the longer your portfolio may last during your retirement years.

• Help build your cash reserves. When you’re retired, it’s

a good idea to maintain about a year’s worth of the amount you’ll spend from your portfolio in cash, while also keeping three months’ of your spending needs in an emergency fund, with the money kept in a liquid, low-risk account. Your higher Social Security checks could help you build these cash reserves. (Also, it’s helpful to keep another three to five years’ worth of spending from your portfolio in short-term, fixed-income investments, which now, due to higher interest rates, offer better income opportunities.)

• Contribute to a 529 plan. You could use some of your extra Social Security money to contribute to a tax-advantaged 529 education savings plan for your grandchildren or other family members.

• Contribute to charitable organizations. You might want to use some of your Social Security money to expand your charitable giving. Your generosity will help worthy groups and possibly bring you some tax benefits, too.

While it’s nice to have these possible options in 2023, you can’t count on future COLA increases being as large. The jump in inflation in 2022 was due to several unusual factors, including pandemic-related government spending, supply shortages and the Russian invasion of Ukraine. It’s quite possible, perhaps even likely, that inflation will subside in 2023, which, in turn, would mean a smaller COLA bump in 2024.

Nonetheless, while you might not want to include large annual COLA increases as part of your longterm financial strategy, you may well choose to take advantage, in some of the ways described above, of the bigger Social Security checks you’ll receive in 2023.

When opportunity knocks, you may want to open the door.

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It’s common for us to have athletes come into our office to get an injury treated, but more often than not, a non-traumatic injury is the result of body mechanics not functioning appropriately. This means that if we were to just treat the injury itself and then send that athlete back to the sport that caused the injury in the first place, they would likely end up injured again. This is why in all of our treatment plans we perform a head to toe joint evaluation.

From your neck down to literally how your big toe is functioning, we evaluate how that joint is performing when you run, pitch, jump, etc. Not only does this approach keep our athletes out of injury, but it can make them to pitch faster, run harder, and jump higher.

Generalized training and conditioning with the team or even sport-specific with most trainers does not account for every athlete’s individualized anatomical abilities. They train for the sport requirements and not what that athlete may be able to safely perform, so ultimately, it ends up training compensation patterns that result in injury or decreased performance.

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Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition

December 2022

FLORIDA SPECIAL OLYMPICS RECOGNIZES

MARY FRANCES SMITH FOR HER

EXTRAORDINARY ACCOMPLISHMENTS

By Lily Belcher

Mary Frances one can acSmith, a Brancomplish. Spedon resident, cial Olympics has been an has given Mary active and deFrances the opvoted member portunities to of the Florida excel and the Special Olymconfidence to pics since she accomplish so was 9 years old. much. She is an Now, 24 years inspiration to later, she coneveryone she tinues to serve meets,” said the organization Judith Moore Mary Frances Smith was named Florida Special Olymand won the on her nomipics Athlete of the Year because of her dedication to the program and her teammates.

Florida Special nation form for Olympics Athlete of the Year award for her the Athlete of the Year award. efforts.

Outside of her involvement with the Spe“The way she goes about the competition cial Olympics, Smith is active in her comand the playing and the interacting with munity, serving in TRIDENT and the Nativother athletes [has impressed me most]. ity Catholic Church PB&J Ministry. One of She encourages everyone to do their best, Smith’s defining qualities is her leadership which is essentially what Special Olympics skills, encouraging TRIDENT classmates to stands for,” said mother Audrey Smith. join the PB&J Ministry and supporting her Smith, who has Down syndrome, joined teammates on the Special Olympics team. the Special Olympics and began participatSmith is learning American Sign Laning in track and field. Smith has also played guage to communicate with her nonvertennis, bowling and swimming with the bal teammates so they feel included and Special Olympics and played soccer with supported in their own accomplishments the TOPS Soccer League. Smith has been through the Special Olympics. She has an active member of Tennis for Fun and has worked to include all her teammates and been involved with the organization since coworkers and support them in their ac2003. complishments as well.

Now, Smith is a part of the University of “You have given me a place where I feel Tampa’s Unified Flag Football team. She is included and respected and I can’t tell you also trained and certified in the Athletic how important that is to me and all my Leadership Program and is a health mes- fellow athletes,” said Smith at the Orlando senger. award gala on October 22.

“Mary Frances is a motivator and an For more information on the Florida Speexcellent example to other [intellectually cial Olympics, visit its website at www.spedisabled] individuals about the possibilities cialolympicsflorida.org.

Page 31

KINGS AVE. WALK THRU BETHLEHEM CARRIES ON ANNUAL TRADITION

By Kelly Wise Valdes Kings Avenue School student and Baptist Church of WTB youth volunBrandon invites teer that is looking the community forward to volunto experience the teering again this true meaning of year. “I help beChristmas at its cause it’s the right 36th annual Walk thing to do to show Thru Bethlehem everyone the amaz(WTB) event. The ing God that we city of Bethlehem believe in,” said Van will once again be Den Bogaert. brought to life at George Mathis this nostalgic, free The community is invited to register to attend Kings one of the WTB Avenue Baptist Church’s 36th annual Walk Thru community event volunteers that Bethlehem event. that has brought helps build the city Christmas joy to scenes and acts as countless families since it first a tour guide on all four days began in 1986. of the event. “The reason why This interactive, famiI do Walk Thru Bethlehem is ly-friendly holiday experience the fellowship and team work transports guests to the anto put on such a true extraordicient city of Bethlehem as it nary story about the very first existed during the time of JeChristmas,” said Mathis. “We sus’ birth. Guests will feel immersed in the also want to keep the tradition going in so WTB experience, such as the town’s realistic many families, and this is the only way a lot backdrop, the authentically dressed towns- of people get to hear about Jesus.” people, Roman guards, potters, shepherds This free event drew more than 3,000 visand live animals. Throughout the 30-min- itors last year, which marked the first year ute guided tour, visitors will see the sights, for the reservation system to streamline the sounds and smells of Bethlehem. The tour tours. Reservations can be made by visitconcludes with a visit to the manger with ing www.walkthrubethlehem.com. Walk-up Mary, Joseph and baby Jesus. spots are available on a first-come, firstWTB Chairman Tracy Hoyt is thankful serve basis, but registration can guarantee for the over 350 volunteers from multi- a tour. ple churches and organizations that help Walk Thru Bethlehem takes place on make this event a success. “American Her- Thursday, December 8 from 6:30-10 p.m.; itage Girls are a huge help in both setting Friday, December 9 from 6:30-10 p.m.; Satup, acting and cleaning up after the event,” urday, December 10 from 3-10 p.m.; and said Hoyt. “We have volunteers from all over Sunday, December 11 from 3-10 p.m. For Florida and other states that come just to more information, call 813-684-9453. Kings help share the story.”

Avenue Baptist Church is located at 2602 S. Destin Van Den Bogaert is a Durant High Kings Ave. in Brandon.

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Page 32

Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition

FISHHAWK LIONS CLUB CELEBRATES RECEIPT OF ITS OFFICIAL CHARTER

By Libby Hopkins The Lions Club believe it. If there first began in 1917 are any other with a mission to like-minded indiempower Lions viduals, this club clubs, volunteers is for you. Come and partners to serve and have improve health fun doing it.” and well-being.

During the It also wanted to charter cerstrengthen comemonies, the munities and supmembers of The FishHawk Lions Club recently port those in need the newly celebrated becoming an official through humanchartered charter of the Lions Club organization. itarian services FishHawk Lions and grants that impact lives globally while Club were presented with their official charencouraging peace and international under- ter. Members of the Brandon Lions Club, standing. Lions strive to be global leaders in who sponsored the formation of the Fishcommunity and humanitarian services.

Hawk Lions Club, and numerous other mem“The Lions clubs are for anyone who is bers representing clubs as far away as Arcaservice minded, basically for people who just dia, Fort Myers and Sanibel were on hand to want to help others but don’t know where to congratulate members of the new club. start,” said LaTonyia Roberson, membership Although only recently chartered, for the chair for the FishHawk Lions Club. “Lions past three years the FishHawk Lions Club Clubs International is the world’s largest has been actively supporting and assisting nonprofit service organization, made up of the Lithia, Riverview and Valrico communearly 1.5 million men and women in over nities, including providing masks during 200 countries. Since 1917, Lions clubs have COVID-19 to numerous groups and facilities, aided the blind and visually impaired and supporting local food banks and shelters as made a strong commitment to community well as instituting and supporting various service and serving youth throughout the grassroots activities, such as luggage and world. Its missions include diabetes, hunger, shoe drives. “Our members worked hard and environment and childhood cancer.” stuck together during some difficult times, The FishHawk Lions Club recently cele- which makes the chartering of the FishHawk brated becoming an official charter of the Lions Club even more significant and shows Lions Club organization. “It feels amazing,” that we will be here for the community for said Roberson. “This club started as an idea many years,” said FishHawk Lions Club Presin a library. We wanted to make difference ident Jack Bello. “This achievement was a in our community and wanted to find good complete group effort by our members.” people who like to serve to help us. It took For information about joining the Fishsome time, but the right people answered Hawk Lions Club, email robersonlatonyia@ the call. These people have pure, full hearts gmail.com or cbogart111817@gmail.com. and love helping people. Sometimes, I can’t Visit www.fishhawklionsclub.com.

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Volume 21, Issue 12

KNIGHTEN PROJECT ACCEPTING SUITCASES TO PROVIDE TEENS WITH A FRESH START

By Madeline Gardner Suitcases are often an Before founding this overlooked element in life, nonprofit, Knighten despite being tools used to sought a way to issue supstore essentials during a few port for these teens after occasions of moving and travrecognizing that many el. But for the 23,000 teens face homelessness, drug transitioning out from the or alcohol abuse and unU.S. foster care system annuemployment upon their ally, luggage is a luxury that transition out of the foster many do not have access to. care system. Rather than Moving forward into the unlet these circumstances certainty of adulthood with- Support for foster teens in need of become an inevitable realout much support, these brand-new suitcases can also be ity for them, the Knighten kids typically resort to using shown by selecting the Knighten Project coordinates donagarbage bags as a means of tions and fundraisers such Project as the charity of choice when shopping on https://smile. as this one to instill faith storing their possessions. amazon.com/.

Intending to help teens that a fresh start for these aging out from the nation’s young adults is indeed foster care system now achievable. through Christmas, the Those wishing to doKnighten Project will be nate to this particular working to provide these campaign can visit the young adults with luggage Amazon Wish List and for the next stage of their Walmart Donation Regislives. Its Packing with Purtry links (which are conpose Suitcase Donation stantly updating) on the Drive encourages members Packing with Purpose of the Tampa Bay communiDonation Drive page on ty to donate either suitcases the Knighten Project webor materials to be stored within the brand- site, where materials are listed and can be new luggage collected by Thursday, Decem- ordered and sent to the organization. Indiber 15. viduals donating can also choose to spon“The foster teen population is an invisible sor a suitcase by selecting one of the three population. You could be walking right by options available for purchase. The Suitcase them in the mall, in the grocery store and package is $40 and provides a brand-new you don’t have any idea that this person is suitcase to a teen in need; the Suitcase Plus homeless. You don’t have any idea that this package is $100 and includes sheets, a comperson doesn’t have loving parents or family forter and a hygiene kit in addition to a new at home. You just see someone walking by suitcase; and the Suitcase Deluxe package you,” said Bernetta Knighten, founder of the is $250 and features a new suitcase fully Knighten Project. “And if I can help them in packed with essentials. any way, we want to do that — to let them For more info, visit https://theknightenknow we see them.” project.org/.

Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition

December 2022

n a Th

C r o h F o u o s ing Y k

Page 33

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Page 34

Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition

Volume 21, Issue 12

SOUTHWEST FLORIDA RHEUMATOLOGY PAIRS CUTTING-EDGE SCIENCE WITH PERSONALIZED CARE

By Madeline Gardner

Finding a medical team who goes beyond just getting to know your condition can be tricky. At Southwest Florida Rheumatology however, professionals such as Dr. Priya Reddy and her staff make it their mission to not only address diseases but also build a connection with their patients through shared decision-making.

“We really want to partner with our patients to make sure we’re not just hitting our targets for improvement but their targets for their lives,” said Dr. Reddy.

Southwest Florida Rheumatology treats common diseases such as gout and osteoarthritis as well as diseases that are not very common among the general population. The path to treatment through Dr. Reddy and her team begins with patient consultations to determine the nature of symptoms before proceeding to labs, X-rays and physical exams that conclude with a solid diagnosis.

The Southwest Florida Rheumatology team also includes Dr. Gina Prakash, Dr. Atefeh Vafa and physician assistant Teena Lukose. Additionally, the scope of their offerings now includes access to point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) examinations, in-office infusions and increased lab biomarkers and diagnostics. The newest development has been Southwest Florida Rheumatology’s involvement in clinical research trials, which are opportunities to collect information about patients with active diseases who have not yet found success with medications currently on the market.

Since opening Southwest Florida Rheumatology in 2010, Dr. Reddy has remained active in the medical community through her work as the faculty and curriculum coordinator for Brandon Regional Hospital Residency Program - USF, giving lectures at the hospital and offering internal medicine residents the opportunity to come to her office to observe physical findings. She is also involved as the president-elect for the Florida Society of Rheumatology (FSR) and is the secretary/treasurer for the Association of Women in Rheumatology (AWIR).

Additionally, her practice is part of the American Arthritis and Rheumatology Associates, (AARA/Bendcare) as she acts as a member of the board of directors. Dr. Reddy maintains that involvement in these other professional roles allows herself and her staff to continue dedicating themselves to helping patients find the best possible solutions.

“I think it’s an honor and a privilege to be a doctor. Patients are very generous in spending that time and sharing these issues that they’re facing with us. I think our patients are really our best barometer of success,” said Dr. Reddy.

For more information, please visit www. swflrheum.com or call 813-672-2243. Located at 11954 Boyette Rd. in Riverview, Southwest Florida Rheumatology is open Monday to Friday, 8 a.m.-5 p.m. More information about its office hours for satellite branches in Sun City Center and Wesley Chapel can be found on its website.

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December 2022

Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition

Page 35

CHECK OUT THE NEW AND IMPROVED RIVER HILLS COUNTRY CLUB

By Libby Hopkins In 1988, the community and to first home was create an amenibuilt in River ty worthy of the Hills. The Rivlush and beautiful er Hills Coundevelopment. Mistry Club was sions of $2 million conceived as a of improvements daily-fee golf fawere initiated cility with amethrough 2020 to nities that far the property to surpassed any in renovate, refresh The team at River Hills Country Club prides itself what was a fairand rejuvenate a on making the club on of the best in the Brandon community. ly remote area private country of Hillsborough club within one County at that time. of the most respectRiver Hills Country ed communities that Club opened the Joe prides itself on exquisite Lee-designed course landscaping, nature and and clubhouse in 1989. protecting the environThe developer realized ment. “Our focus is still that Tampa was a burgeoning market and the same as it was when we started, and built a community that offered a great that is to make River Hills Country Club golf course, superb dining, clay tennis the best country club around,” Brooks courts, Junior Olympic-sized pool and tre- said. “We continue to make improvements mendous value just as it does to this day. to River Hills, and it’s almost as if River “We have a strong bond with our mem- Hills is new and improved.” bers,” said River Hills HOA President Paul Brian McManis recently became the Brooks. “Our members are ambassadors general manager of River Hills Country for River Hills. They invite friends who are Club. “I’m excited to be a part of the not member to come and check out our team,” McManis said. “From the first day amazing facility. We offer membership to I started with the team, I jumped right people who live in River Hills as well as to in on making improvements to River Hills. people who live outside of River Hills. We We are very family friendly, and we pride also offer membership options to fit most ourselves on all of our programming, inbudgets.” cluding our junior programming for golf, When the development was sold out, the tennis and swimming.” developer sold the club to a growing golf If you would like to learn more about course operator in 2000. That ownership River Hills Country Club, you can visit its resulted in multiple sales of the property website at www.riverhillscountryclub. over the past two decades until the River com or call 813-653-1554. River Hills Hills Community Association (HOA) pur- Country Club is located at 3943 New Rivchased the club to enhance home-values er Hills Pkwy. in Valrico.

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Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition

Volume 21, Issue 12

LOCAL 8-YEAR-OLD FUNDRAISES FOR THE RONALD MCDONALD HOUSE

By Ariana Pedraza This month, thing. It was a 8-year-old very supportive Lindsey Baxter environment,” showed that explained Baxit is never too ter’s father. early to start The Rongiving back to ald McDonald the community.

House takes A student in families at Stowers from all over Elementary the world, School, Baxter and meals are started a snow made by the cone stand communities from which all for those stayprofits went to ing. the Ronald Mc- Lindsey Baxter is very grateful to everyone for their support.

Baxter’s Donald House family moved in Tampa. to Florida from The RonVirginia in July, ald McDonald and this is the House is imsecond time portant to Baxshe has hosted ter’s family as a snow cone she was born stand to raise with a heart money.

Last condition called April in Virgincongenital diaia she raised phragmatic hernia, CDH, which means her $311 and this November in FishHawk she heart is on the right side of her body and made $561. She was very excited to be able is flipped in the opposite direction, and it to help others, and even bought the supplies will remain that way for the rest of her life. herself!

Her family took her to the best doctors they Baxter’s mother gushed, “It’s hard to could find in Ohio away from their home and come by that kind of empathy in a kid. It is spent the time that Baxter was in the NICU great to see her be not only a great friend in the Ronald McDonald House. and daughter but also have such a great “The Ronald McDonald House was a place heart.” to rest our heads and recharge before getWhen she is not running her snow cone ting back to her bedside. They did not ask us stand, Baxter enjoys playing with her for a penny, and we were surrounded by par- friends, doing math and tumbling. She plans ents who give up a lot for their kids. Every- on running another fundraiser very soon and one there is there for their child, and regard- is very grateful for all of the community supless of who they are they all want the same port.

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December 2022

Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition

BLOOMINGDALE ART STUDENTS PAINT COMPANY WINDOWS FOR THE HOLIDAYS

By Lily Belcher

The Bloomingshow support to dale High School our local school by Art Club painted showcasing these festive holiday talented students’ designs on the artwork with windows of the hopes that as a reFarmers Insurance sult it helps draw Valentino Agency new potential cuson November 5 as tomers’ eyes to our a service project Seven Bloomingdale High School students painted colorful windows for the students. and draws them fall designs on the windows of the Farmers Insurance Valentino Agency.

Art teacher Painto our office to mela Reeves and hear about our seven of her stuproducts that we dents visited the have to offer,” company on Fishsaid LaRosa. hawk Boulevard in The BloomingLithia and painted dale Art Club has fall designs on the been a part of windows. Art club the school since students painted it was foundpumpkins with ed, but this is the names of the Reeves’ first year Farmers Insuras the teacher. ance agents, surReeves was a rounded by detailed leaves, flowers and a student and vice president of the art club cornucopia on the door. in 1990 when they had a local window “Our FishHawk office understands how painting contest. Now, she is trying to reimportant it is to support local business- vive the program and is hoping to start a es and encourage education so we can be Bloomingdale window-painting contest afsuccessful together as a community,” said ter the new year.

Colleen LaRosa.

“Bloomingdale Art Club has been around LaRosa, Valentino Agency employee and since the start of school. I recently moved mother of an art club student, approached to Bloomingdale to become the art teacher, Reeves with the idea of having Blooming- so we are trying new things,” said Reeves. dale High School students paint the winThe Bloomingdale Art Club is willing to dows in October. The Valentino Agency paint additional windows for companies purchased the art supplies and donated that are looking to bring some holiday to the club before getting their windows cheer to their business. painted by the students.

For more information on the Blooming“It meant so much to me personally that dale High School Art Club or to have comthe Valentino Agency could partner with pany windows painted, email Reeves at pathe Bloomingdale High School Art Club to mela.reeves@hcps.net.

Page 37

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Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition

Volume 21, Issue 12

MUSIC SHOWCASE & FAOPA BRING SHOWS, MUSIC AND EVENTS THIS HOLIDAY SEASON

By Taylor Wells

For more than 25 several muyears, Music Showsical instrucase in Brandon ments, as well has been the preas create and miere location for take home an music, music lesinstrument sons, instruments, craft. repair and suppiles And then, in our community. from Friday Plus, with the onthrough Sunsite Florida Acad- Music Showcase is the go-to for the gift of music, and day, Decememy of Performing it’s got plenty of events for this season with the Florida ber 9-11 and Academy of Performing Arts.

Arts (FAOPA), Mu16-18, there sic Showcase offers programs where kids will be performances of A Christmas can participate in musical theater, class- Story: The Musical, directed by Heather es, workshops and events.

Ochalek and with performers ranging With FAOPA, attendees experienced from 8-year-olds to adults. Based on the the jazzy beats of Disney’s The Jungle beloved Christmas movie, this show will Book KIDS on November 19. The perfor- add a new dimension to enjoy for fans of mance, directed by Rachel Battle, fea- the movie and stand on its own for people tured colorful characters and beloved who haven’t seen it. Regular tickets cost songs from the movie. Regular tickets $15 and VIP tickets cost $20. Showtimes were $10 and VIP tickets, which seated are Fridays at 7:30 p.m. and Saturdays attendees in the front two rows, were and Sundays at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. $12. Tickets were very limited, and sold “We have spent over 25 years building quickly. relationships with families in this comOn Friday, December 2 from 5-10 p.m., munity and we are excited for the seakids ages 5-12 can enjoy Parent’s Night son with A Christmas Story: The Musical, Out. The night includes dinner, snacks, Polar Express, Parents’ Night Out and games, crafts, the movie Polar Express Santa’s Workshop, our annual Christmas and Santa’s Workshop, where they’ll be recital and Amplify performing in the able to make Christmas gifts for friends community. We hope you join us for one and families. Registration costs $35 if not of these events,” said Ochalek, executive currently enrolled in a FAOPA program or director of FAOPA. $30 if enrolled, and siblings are $15 each.

Music Showcase is located at 402 OakAvailability is limited, so register early. field Dr. in Brandon. To learn about its Next, look forward to a free Music gear, lessons and more, visit www.muMakers workshop on Saturday, Decem- sicshowcaseonline.com or call 813-685ber 3 from 9:30-11 a.m. There, children 5998. For FAOPA, visit https://faopa.org/ ages 4-10 will learn about and get to play or call 813-490-2787.

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December 2022

Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition

Page 39

IT IS THE MOST WONDERFUL TIME OF THE YEAR AT TAMPA THEATRE

THE VILLAGE PLAYERS PRESENT FRUITCAKES, A CHRISTMAS COMEDY

Ta m p a 19-22 at 7 Theatre p.m. celebrates Ta m p a the season Theatre with claswill ofsic holiday fer a free films, free screenmovie in ing of A the park Christmas and even Carol on a sockball Tampa Theatre, Tampa’s majestic movie palace, celebrates the season D e c e m with Holiday Classic movies, a free movie in the park and even a fight. Acber 16 at sockball fight right in the middle of the theatre auditorium. cording to 7 p.m. in Jill Witecki with Tampa Theatre, “One of Curtis Hixon Park, located at 600 N. Ashley the brightest and most beloved experienc- Dr. in downtown Tampa, as a part of the es of coming to Tampa Theatre is the tradi- Tampa Downtown Partnership’s Winter tion of sharing favorite holiday films on the Village. big screen with family and friends.”

On Sunday, December 18 at 6:30 p.m., In this year’s Holiday Classics series, you you can see Eight Crazy Nights. can sing along with White Christmas on The Holiday Classics series will conclude Sunday, December 4 at 3 p.m. with a Frozen sing-along on January 8, Then, come see Elf on Sunday, Decem- 2023 at 3 p.m. ber 11. Guests are encouraged donate new, Tampa Theatre is partnering with the Juunused socks. Witecki said, “During the nior League of Tampa to help provide diaepic Central Park snowball fight scene, we pers to those in need. Guests attending the will turn up the house lights for an audi- Holiday Classics movie series are asked to ence-wide sockball fight in the auditorium. bring disposable diapers to donate.

Tampa Laundry Company is donating their Tickets for the sing-along are $14.50, or services to wash the socks, which will ben- $11.50 for Tampa Theatre members. All efit the homeless in our community this other Holiday Classics movies are $10, or holiday season.” $7 for Tampa Theatre members. You can Next, you will have eight opportunities to purchase tickets at the historic theater’s see It’s a Wonderful Life beginning on Fri- box office, located at 711 N. Franklin St. in day, December 16 at 7 p.m. Additional shows downtown Tampa. You can also purchase will be held on Saturday, December 17 at 3 tickets online at www.tampatheatre.org. and 7 p.m.; Sunday, December 18 at 3 p.m.; You should note that a $2 convenience fee and then Monday to Thursday, December applies.

The Village Playmas comedy. It has a ers will present ‘cast of thousands,’ Fruitcakes, a famwhich includes lots ily-friendly Christof children.” mas comedy, this Fruitcakes also December.

Fruitfeatures a bunch of cakes opens with small-town eccenthe first Village trics, including MatPlayers Fundraiser tie Sue, a six-time Dinner Theater in widowed woman two years on Friday, with a heart as big as December 2 at 7 all outdoors. You also p.m. Fruitcakes will have Skeeter, a Harbe performed at vard graduate with a the historic James degree in engineerMcCabe Theater, ing, who spends his located at 506 5th time fishing, using St. in Valrico. nothing but poetry The dinner thefor bait; a group of ater is $35 per perhunters who pray to son and advanced Clyde the hunting The Village Players will present a family-friendreservations are angel; and Mack’s ly Christmas comedy this December called required. Food will Barn becomes the Fruitcakes. be provided by Fat town’s meeting Willie’s Fish Camp place. and will feature Mix this together catfish and/or cod, with a Christmas hushpuppies, coletree farm, thouslaw and grits or sands of outdoor green beans. Drinks Christmas lights, a include iced tea, chickenpox epidemlemonade and ice water. Sodas are avail- ic, two Southern spinsters who bake fruitable for an additional cost. cakes for the whole town, a lost tomcat Performances are on Friday, December named Tutti Frutti, and the Christmas Il9 and 16 as well as Saturday, December lumination with Buster the Christmas hog.

3, 10 and 17 at 8 p.m. Three matinees will Then, add into this Jamie, a city kid who be on Sunday, December 4, 11 and 18 at has run away from home and traveled as 3 p.m. far as his money will take him. At first, he Tickets are $18 for general admission thinks this town’s inhabitants are “nuttier and $15 for seniors and students with ID. than fruitcakes,” but soon he comes to adFor group sales of 10 or more, please call mire, appreciate and adore this nutty little ahead for reserved seating or dinner res- town. ervations. You can call Chris at 813-480Pierce added, “This is a moving story 3147. For other tickets, please visit www. of comedy mixed with alienation, underthevillageplayersvalrico.com. standing and reconciliation. Fruitcakes Fruitcakes is directed by Gail Pierce, provides audiences with a heaping helping who said, “Fruitcakes, written by Julian of warmth and Christmas cheer and a fun Wiles, is a delightful little gem of a Christ- way to start the holiday season.”

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Page 40

Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition

Volume 21, Issue 12

NEWSOME HIGH SCHOOL HAS RECORD NUMBER OF SOFTBALL PLAYERS SIGN LETTERS OF INTENT

By Lily Belcher The Newsome N e w s o m e ’s High School softvarsity softball ball team had team is very a school-record competitive, and number of stufew freshmen dent-athletes earn a spot on sign National the team. HowLetters of Intent ever, four of the from one team signees earned at the beginning that spot on the of November. team four years All seven of its ago because of senior girls comtheir skill and mitted to a colpassion for the lege team, with game. five staying in While each of Florida and two the signees is Newsome High School had a record seven Softball moving out of dedicated and players sign National Letters of Intent. state. skilled, the guidMaria Brooks and Ava Wells will go out ance of coach Allyson Ledenham played a of state to pursue their college dreams at significant role in their success.

Washington University in St. Louis, Mis“Coach Ledenham has supported me souri and Converse University in Spartan- since my freshman year at Newsome. She burg, South Carolina, respectively. is always encouraging me to push myself Samantha Walz and Olivia Feldman will to be a better player than I was yestermove to Tampa, planning to play for the day,” said Grieser.

University of South Florida and The UniLedenham is a former Newsome softball versity of Tampa, respectively. player and is able to relate to the players Emma Edwards committed to Florida while correcting and encouraging them on National University near Miami and Ash- and off the field. She gave each of the athley Grieser and Mia Sanchez will both letes the opportunity to showcase their play at Eastern Florida State College in skills and earn the attention of recruiters.

Brevard County.

“We can’t wait to see all the great “All of the seniors on the Newsome soft- things these ladies will do at the next level ball team signed, and I am actually going and are excited to get their senior season to the same college as one of my best started,” Newsome’s softball team said in friends since sixth grade, Mia Sanchez,” a Facebook post. said Grieser. “… It felt incredible to be For more information on Newsome High surrounded by my closest friends, family School’s softball team, visit newsome. and coaches on the most special day of mysdhc.org or the Newsome High School my life.”

Softball Facebook page.

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December 2022

Page 41

COMMUNITY COMES TOGETHER TO HELP KEEP CENTER PLACE TREE LIGHTING TRADITION ALIVE

FEEL THE HOLIDAY SPIRIT DURING THE ARTS COUNCIL OF PLANT CITY 35TH ANNUAL HOLIDAY HOME TOUR

Thanks to the Os“If you are a local prey Observer and lovendor and want to cal business owners, be a part of Center Center Place Fine Arts Place’s tree lighting & Civic Association’s event, we would love annual Christmas to have you join us,” Tree Lighting will take Hopkins said. “We place on Wednesday, are looking for venDecember 7 at Cendors you can offer ter Place from 6:30-9 our guests hot cocoa, p.m. “Center Place’s Christmas cookies or executive board and I other holiday snacks. are thrilled to have so We are also looking much community supfor vendors to be on port,” said Libby Hophand the night of the kins, Center Place’s event to do crafts Executive Director. with the children who “We are a community Thanks to the Osprey Observer and local will be there having center, and our com- business owners, Center Place Fine Arts & fun.” munity has showed Civic Association’s annual Christmas Tree If you are interestLighting will take place on Wednesday, us so much love, it’s ed in being a sponsor December 7 at Center Place from 6:30-9 overwhelming. Thank of Center Place’s anp.m. The event is free to attend. you to the Osprey nual Christmas Tree Observer for sharing our story of needing Lighting, there are still three North Pole sponsors for our event.” sponsorships for $750 each. This sponLocal businesses Curry Law, ABC Event sorship level covers the mural that will be Planning, Florida Trade Academy, Leg- painted on the windows of Center Place’s ends, Game Over Escape Rooms, RAZZLE- Grand Room and indoor Christmas trees.

DAZZLE Barbershop and 7th Sky Ven- There are also still three Santa Claus tures have all agreed to sponsor Center sponsorships for $500, which will cover Place’s Christmas Tree Lighting. pictures with Santa Claus at the event, Local Brandon residents Kelley Miller and three Elves sponsorships available for and Dorothy Rinaldi have also stepped up $250, which covers snacks for guests of to be sponsors of the yearly event. “We the tree lighting. still have many sponsorships available and If you would like to be a sponsor of Centhere is still time to help us make this a ter Place’s annual Christmas Tree Lightwonderful holiday event for our commu- ing, you can contact Hopkins at libby. nity,” Hopkins said. hopkins@centerplacebrandon.com or call Center Place’s annual Christmas Tree Center Place at 813-685-8888.

Lighting is a family holiday event that is Center Place Fine Arts & Civic Center free to attend. Center Place is working is located at 619 Vonderburg Dr., Ste. B with local vendors to be on hand as well. inside the Brandon Regional Library.

The Arts Counhomeowncil of Plant City ers to decowill present its rate the way 35th annual At they normalHome for the Holly would at idays Home Tour Christmas.” on Sunday, DeThe funds cember 11 from raised at the 1-4:30 p.m. The Holiday Home Holiday Home Tour help the Tour will feature The Arts Council of Plant City is proud to present the 35th Arts Council three festively of Plant City annual At Home for the Holidays on Sunday, December 11. Ticket holders get to tour three private homes and the decorated area provide many homes plus the Sparkman House Luxury Bed & Breakfast. All locations are different profestively decorated and will put you in the holiday spirit.

Sparkman House grams for the Luxury Bed & Breakfast. Tickcommunity. This includes high ets for the event are $25 per school scholarships given to person. four deserving seniors from In addition to the tour, the Plant City High School, Durant Arts Council of Plant City will High School and Strawberry offer refreshments at the Plant Crest High School. Students City Photo Archives, located at must be interested in pursuing 106 S. Evers St. in Plant City. a degree in the arts. ApplicaRefreshments are included in tions can be obtained from the cost of your ticket. each school’s guidance counAccording to Maggie Carlselor in March 2023. Awards isle, chair of the Holiday Home are made at the end-of-theTour, “Each home is festively decorated. All year assembly at each school. of the homes reflect the personality and In addition, the Arts Council of Plant City traditions of the individual homeowners.” is the sponsor of a variety of community Carlisle added, “Each guest tours the homes events. It sponsors among other things, the on their own.” Once you pay for your ticket, annual Seward sculptures, banners on the you will receive a map showing where each light poles in downtown Plant City, Meals home is located. on Wheels, Empty Bowls and a caboose at Last year, approximately 250 people Railfest. toured the homes. According to Carlisle, Additionally, they provide youth develop“People from as far away as Homosassa ment at each of the above-mentioned high Springs come to the tour. We never know schools for drama, band and orchestra. how the homes will be decorated. One year, For more information, contact Carlisle at a dentist’s home featured a tree decorated mcarlisle@trinkle-law.com or Marsha Passwith all types of dentistry tools. We tell the more at mappmore@msn.com.

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Page 42

19

Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition

ANNUAL GOLF TOURNAMENT FUNDRAISER WILL SUPPORT VETERANS HELPING VETERANS

By Lily Belcher

H i l l s b o ro u g h County Veterans Helping Veterans will host their seventh annual golf tournament fundraiser on Saturday, December 17 at Summerfield Crossings Golf Club in Riverview to support veterans and their families.

The golf tournament will begin at 8:15 a.m., with golfer check in starting at 7 a.m. At 1 p.m., Summerfield Crossings Golf Club will host a luncheon and give raffle items to the winners.

While golfer registration is closed, Veterans Helping Veterans is still accepting hole sponsorships for $200. The community can also support the organization by donating raffle prizes or giving financial donations to the organization.

“It’s the gap,” said board of directors member Rick Rohde, “The drop through the cracks stuff we can help fund.”

Veterans Helping Veterans will host approximately 150 golfers and 50 volunteers during the 18-hole tournament.

Each participant will have the opportunity to participate in a raffle, where they can win anything from a synthetic oil change to a boat-ride excursion.

Veterans Helping Veterans currently has over 50 raffle prizes but is looking for the community to donate more.

The fundraiser was originally scheduled for October 1, but Hurricane Ian forced Veterans Helping Veterans to postpone

the event to the middle of December. The December date was the earliest it could book Summerfield Crossings Golf Club after the original date was canceled.

After the hurricane, Rohde and his team were responsible for calling all the golfers, who agreed to still participate on the rescheduled date.

Its goal this year is to raise around $35,000, as the golf tournament is its only big annual fundraiser. Members of the community can help by donating raffle prizes or money to support the organization.

Veterans Helping Veterans is a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting Hillsborough County families. It passionately advocates for members of the veteran community and help the hungry and needy.

For more information on the Veterans Helping Veterans Annual Golf Tournament or to sponsor the event, contact Vince Cardella at 813-335-0308 or vincetechsales@gmail.com For more information on Hillsborough County Veterans Helping Veterans, visit its Facebook page or contact it at 813450-9082 or susiquehelpsvets@icloud. com.

Volume 21, Issue 12

THE FLORIDA ORCHESTRA NAMES NEW CELLO LEAD

Staff Report

For the first time in principal cellist with nearly 35 years, The the Princeton SymFlorida Orchestra has phony Orchestra. named a new principal Before moving to cello. Yoni Draiblate Florida, he was a won the highly comfull-time member of petitive blind audition the Columbus Symand will lead the cello phony Orchestra. section of the largest For more on Draiprofessional orchesblate, visit https:// tra in Florida, under floridaorchestra. the artistic leadership o r g /m u s i c i a n s / of internationally acyoni-draiblate/. claimed music director Draiblate sucMichael Francis. ceeds James ConDraiblate has toured nors, TFO’s esPhoto courtesy of TFO. the United States, Euteemed principal Yoni Draiblate, who was named The Florrope and South Americellist since 1988, ida Orchestra’s new principal cello. Photo ca with orchestras and who is preparing to courtesy of The Florida Orchestra. has appeared on prestiretire at the end of gious stages such as Carnegie Hall in New this season in May 2023.

York, the Royal Albert Hall in London, the TFO will perform more than 100 conTeatro Colón in Argentina, the Philharmo- certs this season in venues throughout nie Berlin and many more. He is one of Tampa Bay, including a wide range of eight new musicians TFO welcomes this classical, popular, film, rock and famseason. The Florida Orchestra employs 71 ily-friendly music. Next up, Maestro full-time professional musicians and con- Francis continues the Hough Family ductors.

Foundation Masterworks series with “I am incredibly honored to fill this role Tchaikovsky’s Symphony No. 4 on Friday in The Florida Orchestra. I’ve lived and through Sunday, December 2-4, featuring performed all over the world, but my col- the world premiere of Michael Ippolito’s leagues here have quickly made me feel at violin concerto, composed especially for home,” Draiblate said. “I am lucky to be concertmaster Jeffrey Multer. The Raypart of an orchestra that values the high- mond James Pops series includes blockest level of excellence, both onstage and busters such as Holiday Pops, Harry Potin our community and schools.” ter vs Star Wars, and the Beatles’ iconic Draiblate is a former principal cellist of Abbey Road album. The orchestra’s 55th the Haifa Symphony Orchestra in Israel, Celebration concert featuring legendary former principal cellist of Symphony in violinist Itzhak Perlman will be on March C in New Jersey and former associate 11, 2023 at the Mahaffey Theater. For principal of the Annapolis Symphony tickets to the concerts, visit https://florOrchestra. He also appeared as a guest idaorchestra.org/.

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December 2022

Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition

HELP YOUR KIDS LEARN TO COUNT AND DREAM OF TAMPA AND CHRISTMAS WITH THESE TWO BOOKS

By Taylor Wells Countdown pirate ship — children’s books representing the are great for bay’s Gasparilla helping kids learn celebration. The count from 10 10 subjects also to 1 and easing make for great them into bedspots to visit time, and two rewith your kids as cently published Dreaming of Tampa and Dreaming of Christmas, il- they learn about

by Arcadia Chil- lustrated by Nathan Heinze and published by Arcadia where they live, Children’s Books. dren’s Books are and there’s a fun perfect for the map at the end Christmas season and the loshowing approximately cal area. Dreaming of Christwhere each subject is. mas and Dreaming of Tampa Heinze, along with beare board books illustrated ing an illustrator, is also a

by Oldsmar resident Nathan writer, designer, fine artist, Heinze, and his creative, coloccasional music producer orful art will inspire wonder and more who’s passionate in children while teaching about all forms of creativthem about Tampa and all ity and is glad to do what the fun and magical parts he loves. While illustrating that make up Christmas. the books, Heinze received With Dreaming of Christmuch help from his daughmas, kids will be counting Nathan Heinze, illustrator of ter, who is very artistic, and Dreaming of Christmas and down to Santa’s visit. From his son gave his opinions as Dreaming of Tampa.

10 caroling carolers to one well, both telling him what twinkling star atop the Christmas tree, they liked most and acting as his editors. His they’ll learn about what makes Christmas children are even featured in the swimming and the leadup to it special — as well as sea creatures page of the Tampa book. take part, such as finding out the names “They were my very small test market, my of Santa’s nine reindeer and baking seven two kids,” Heinze joked. “My daughter got cookies with their parents. This book is the very specific: ‘Yeah, the pink’s a little too hot perfect introduction and gift for a child’s here, you should calm it down,’ or, ‘I think first Christmas, and it’s great for little ones the sun needs to be bigger here,’ … she’s very looking forward to the holiday. particular.”

Dreaming of Tampa is great for anyone To learn more about Heinze, visit https:// wanting to explore and discover the area nathanheinzeart.com/. The Dreaming of with their children. Have fun counting down books are available at www.arcadiapublisharound the town from the 10 rising arches ing.com/, on Amazon and at other places of the Tampa Union Station to one sleepy books are sold.

Page 43

TICKETS FOR THE 2022 UNION HOME MORTGAGE GASPARILLA BOWL ARE NOW ON SALE TO THE GENERAL PUBLIC

Staff Report

With just over a month until the 2022 Union Home Mortgage Gasparilla Bowl, ESPN Events is proud to announce that tickets are now available for purchase to the general public. The 15th edition of the bowl game will take place at Raymond James Stadium on Friday, December 23 at 6:30 p.m. Last year’s in-state matchup between the UCF Knights and Florida Gators hosted a soldout crowd of 63,669 fans.

The Gasparilla Bowl welcomes two teams from among the American Athletic Conference (AAC), Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC), Big 12, Conference USA, Mid-American Conference (MAC), Mountain West, Pacific 12 Conference (Pac-12), Southeastern Conference (SEC) and independent programs, Brigham Young University and Army. The event annually showcases many top college-football players who go on to play in the NFL. The week leading up to the game offers student-athletes and fans a variety of interactive events across the Tampa Bay area to celebrate Bowl Week and get into the game-day spirit. From visits to local sites and attractions to a loud and proud Block

Party at the Tampa Convention Center, Gasparilla Bowl activities honor the rich history of Tampa’s famed Gasparilla Invasion, our community’s rich waterfront and the fun of football in Florida. Stay tuned for more announcements.

Fans can now purchase tickets for the 2022 Union Home Mortgage Gasparilla Bowl tickets with lower bowl seating available starting as low as $40, making it an affordable option for holiday family fun.

Club-level seating and access starts at $75.

Taxes and service gees will apply.

College-football fans who want to catch all of the action with their favorite krewe of 10 or more can purchase discounted group ticket packages by calling 813-301-6900.

Group ticket information is also available at www.gasparillabowl.com/tickets/.

Gasparilla Bowl is owned and operated

by ESPN Events, a division of ESPN with a portfolio of 34 collegiate sporting events nationwide.

For more information on this year’s bowl game and the bowl week events, please visit www.gasparillabowl.com or follow along on social media @GasparillaBowl.

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Page 44

Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition

FRIENDS, SPECIALLY FIT THE HIVE INCLUSIVE AND HUG TEAM UP FOR SPECIAL NEEDS ADULT ACTIVITIES

Staff Report

As a young at 12 Noon. Speadult, it’s taken for cially Fit is also granted that you part of Special can participate Olympics, and in a few rites of its athletes parpassage, such as ticipate in powsocializing with er lifting. Oliver friends, going out also is the owner to dinner and goof several group ing on your first homes, and his date, but for adults Photo courtesy of FRIENDS. residents are part with special needs of FRIENDS dancAdults enjoying a picnic on World Down Syndrome Day in March this year. it’s an entirely difes and parties. ferent scenario.

The Hive InAfter high school, special needs adults clusive’s Tonya Whitlock hosts support have very few choices. Some attend a groups and get-togethers in Tampa. It day program (if they can afford it or are has instructor-led classes, social events on the Medicaid waiver), some are lucky and support groups for individuals with enough to get a part-time job if they find disabilities, caregivers and siblings. RSVP a supportive workplace that will work for events at www.theinclusivehive.org. within their limitations, but most special HUG offers a free website that shares needs adults sit at home, isolated, lone- social events and activities in Tampa Bay ly and shut off from society. If they can that cater to people of all age groups get out, they must rely on their parents that live with disabilities. HUG organizor siblings for transportation. As they es adaptive, inclusive community events get older, some adults move into group from 90+ local organizations in the Pihomes, and it becomes worse as they live nellas and Hillsborough County areas on a very limited income, and the staff into a simple, easy-to-use calendar. The who care for them must look for low-cost HUG website can be used by people with activities that the adults can afford. special needs, parents, caregivers and orFRIENDS (Families, Respect, Inspire, ganizations that host events. Check out Education, Networking, Down syndrome, HUG’s community calendars full of free Special needs) realizes just how difficult or low-cost activities for children, teens it is and has teamed up with Specially and adults with disabilities at www.helFit, The Hive Inclusive and HUG (Help Us pusgather.org.

Gather) to bring special needs adults toFRIENDS offers two dances a month: gether to meet others, make new friends one at the Hilton Garden Inn in Riverview and enjoy time together. and one at the Holiday Inn Express in Specially Fit CEO Mark Oliver hosts a Clearwater. For more information about free weekly exercise program at BayCare FRIENDS, visit www.friendssupport.org. on Bloomingdale Avenue every Saturday

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Volume 21, Issue 12

ICE SKATING AND WINTER VILLAGE RETURN TO TAMPA JUST IN TIME FOR THE HOLIDAYS

By Kathy L. Collins This year, celeter Village. brate the holiday The Tampa Theseason by visiting the atre will offer two Winter Village and holiday movies on its outdoor ice-skatthe lawn on Friday, ing rink. It is a great December 16 at 6 holiday activity for p.m. the whole family. The Back this year is Winter Village is lothe popular Wincated in Curtis Hixon ter Village Express.

Waterfront Park at The family-friendGet into the holiday spirit with a visit to 600 N. Ashley Dr. in the Winter Village located along Tampa’s ly excursion takes downtown Tampa. you from Whiting beautiful riverwalk at Curtis Hixon WaThe Winter Village terfront Park. You can enjoy holiday sights Station, located in is open now through downtown to Ybor and sounds, ice skating and even curling this year.

January 4, 2023.

City, and back on Located along the TECO Line the Tampa RiverStreetcar.

The walk, Curtis Hixon one-hour trip Waterfront Park features a holiis transformed day sing-along, each year with the holiday trivia, sights, sounds and milk and cookies activities of the and added surholidays, which is prises along the great for children way. and adults alike.

New to the holEach year, a giiday celebrations ant ice-skating rink at the Winter is erected on the perimeter of the park. Village this year is curling. This will be You must purchase and reserve tickets available on a first-come, first-serve bafor ice skating in advance. Tickets are sis. Equipment will be available for rent$17, and the cost includes skate rentals. al. There will also be a curling league.

All hours are subject to weather and This is available now through Wednesrink conditions. day, December 28. Games will be played In addition to the 5,000-square-foot every Wednesday from 6-10 p.m. ice-skating rink, the Winter Village feaKatie Collins of Valrico said, “The Wintures random Santa sightings, the Curtis ter Village is truly special. It really puts Hixon Choo Choo, shopping and snack you in the holiday spirit and is a fun way and beverage options. The Curtis Hixon to spend a few hours in downtown TamChoo Choo offers a five-minute ride pa.” For more information on hours and through the park where riders can enjoy rentals, please visit www.wintervillagthe sights, lights and sounds of the Win- etampa.com.

Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition

December 2022

Page 45

SEVEN BLOOMINGDALE STUDENT-ATHLETES SIGN LETTERS OF INTENT

By Nick Nahas

Seven Bloomingdale student-athletes participated in National Signing Day.

Bloomingdale High School hosted another successful National Signing Day, in which seven athletes committed to their future schools. Six baseball players, including Trey Wilson (State College of Florida), Dawson Harman (High Point University), Bobby Rossi (Greensboro College), Alex Vazquez (Greensboro College), Tyler Clinton (Daytona State College) and Jake Magadan (Barry University), as well as girls soccer player Aubrey Cripe (Newberry College), all signed.

Wilson signed with the State College of Florida and will earn his A.A. degree. “I chose that school because I really like the coaching staff there, and when I went on my visit, it was everything I was looking

for. It is in a great part of town, and the location of the school lets me enjoy my hobby of fishing while being close to school,” said Wilson. “I would like to thank my parents and brothers for pushing me through this whole process, my coaches for making me the player I am today, Randy Sullivan, Amy Marsh and all the employees at Florida Baseball Armory for helping me perfect my craft of pitching to make me the best pitcher I can be. Go Bulls.”

Dawson Harman will attend High Point University and major in sports management.

“It was the best feeling of my life,” said Harman. “I had a major setback in my recruiting process sophomore summer and

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that definitely made me work harder on the comeback. I had a chip on my shoulder, and I wanted to prove everyone wrong, so to have done that really makes me feel good, but the grind never stops.”

Rossi chose Greensboro College and will major in business administration and management.

“To achieve my dream almost felt unreal,” said Rossi. “I will be attending Greensboro college. It was the right fit for me because the school was a smaller, beautiful campus and I loved the coaches. I want to shout out all my boys who signed with me. I’ve known all these kids for a long time and I’m very proud and happy for them.”

Clinton signed with Daytona State Col-

lege and will major in business.

“My goals for college baseball next year are to get an opportunity to play at a bigger school after my two years and help my team win,” said Clinton. “My goals for my last high school season are to win a state championship and to get better every day.”

Magadan will attend Barry University and major in sports medicine.

“I felt that all my hard work paid off and I was very relieved to have signed with a college,” said Magadan. “Shout out to coach Wilken and coach Jimmy for helping me along the way.”

Vazquez will join his teammate Rossi at Greensboro College and major in exercise science.

“I would like to thank my parents for helping me through this journey and doing whatever it takes to help me get better,” said Vazquez. “As for my coaches, I would also like to thank you for all the help through this journey and helping me get better as a baseball player and human being. Let’s go Bulls.”

Page 46

Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition

NEWSOME FOOTBALL’S J.C. ROQUE SCORES EIGHT TOUCHDOWNS IN ONE GAME

By Nick Nahas

Newsome The Wolves running back/ slot receiver receiver Juan had a tremenCarlos (J.C.) dous season Roque went overall, scoring out with a a team-leading bang in the fi25 total touchnal game of his downs. He had high school ca964 rushing reer, scoring a yards on 96 s c h o o l - re c o rd carries with 15 eight touchtouchdowns on downs in a 54the ground, 450 43 win over receiving yards Photo courtesy of Newsome Football Program. on 29 catchGaither.

Former Newsome Newsome Wolves slot receiver Juan Carlos (J.C.) Roque es with seven had a tremendous season overall, scoring a team-leadstandouts Contouchdowns ing 25 total touchdowns. ner Powers and through the air Will Worth previously held the record and two kickoff returns for touchdowns with five total touchdowns in one game. on just eight chances.

The senior tallied 15 rushes for 153 “The cool thing about J.C. is that he yards, five touchdowns on the ground, really doesn’t like the spotlight, so he’s four catches for 95 yards and three kind of a low-key guy that just puts his touchdowns through the air. head down and goes,” said Yockey. “He’s The three-year varsity starter said not really going to pound his chest and that this game was easily the most want everybody to look at him. One of memorable of his career, and he knew his great qualities is that he’s just really after the first half that it was going to humble, he does what he’s supposed to be a night for the record books. do and leads by example.”

“I realized it was going to be a special Yockey said that Roque is being renight when we went into halftime and I cruited by several colleges and thinks had three touchdowns,” he said. that he will be a Division I athlete. Roque Newsome football head coach C.J. said that he has several offers, including Yockey said he didn’t know what an one from Stetson University. amazing night Roque was having until he “What I remember most about the heard the PA announcer say that he had game was all of my teammates’ faces six touchdowns during the game. when we won,” said Roque. “The joy and “It just started to snowball after the excitement is just amazing, and it made first half,” said Yockey. “He took a hook- me realize that football is about building and-ladder play for a touchdown with a bond with your team — that makes five seconds left in the half to give us us like a family. I just want to thank my a lead for the first time. We never gave family and the Newsome coaching staff the lead back after that.” for an amazing four years.”

Volume 21, Issue 12

Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition

December 2022

Page 47

NEWSOME HIGH SCHOOL HAS RECORD NUMBER OF ATHLETES SIGN

By Lily Belcher

Each athlete was supported by their family, friends and coaches.

Twelve student athletes at Newsome High School signed letters of intent to play with Division I or II institutions following their graduation on National Signing Day. Newsome hosted the athletes as they signed their National Letters of Intent, committing to play their sport for a particular college following their high school graduation.

Around 300 people attended the event, as the athletes invited family, friends, teammates and the coaches they grew up with to celebrate with them. The gymnasium was decorated with school colors, cakes and balloons to celebrate each of the 12 athletes.

Sydney Warmbier signed with the University of Alabama for rowing. Warmbier swam for Newsome High School, but her passion was rowing, despite Newsome not having a rowing team. Her dedication to her sport drove her to join Plant High School’s rowing team after school while still a student at Newsome. She became one of the team’s best rowers and now has a future at the University of Alabama

as a rower.

S a m a n t h a Swanovich signed her letter of intent to play lacrosse at Rutgers University.

“The signing day was such a fun and memorable experience. So many family members, friends, teammates and coaches were there to support me and all of the other student athletes. I was proud to be one of the athletes recognized that day,” said Swanovich. “Each of us were allowed to make a speech in front of a packed gym of supporters to announce our intent to play our sport in college.”

Kaley Kugler committed to the University of Pittsburgh at Johnstown to play volleyball. In her recruiting profile, Kugler explained it has been her dream to play college volleyball and to follow in her father’s footsteps.

Newsome High School had 12 athletes who signed National Letters of Intent in November.

“My parents were a significant part of my start to volleyball, as they pushed me to the best of my abilities. My father played volleyball and I aspire to follow in his footsteps, and maybe even farther than college playing the sport that I love,” she wrote in her NCSA personal statement.

Newsome’s baseball team had four ballplayers sign as well. Evan Dempsey signed with Florida Gulf Coast University after playing for four years as a pitcher and outfielder with the Wolves. Dempsey started with Newsome early, participating in its summer program to train before joining Newsome’s team in his freshman year of high school.

Brian Young, a pitcher, signed with Capital University in Ohio, and infielder and pitcher Reilly Kuhar signed with Thomas University in Georgia, where they both

plan to continue their baseball careers.

Pitcher and infielder Luke Peterson signed with Coker University in South Carolina as well.

Newsome baseball coach Dick Rohrberg said Peterson knew he wanted to play baseball and Coker, but, instead of waiting for them to come to him, he pursued the offer.

“Luke Peterson kind of came out of nowhere,” admitted Rohrberg as he applauded Peterson for his independence and ambition in pursuing a college baseball career.

Seven softball players signed letters of intent, setting a record for the Newsome team. Samantha Walz, Olivia Feldman, Emma Edwards, Ashley Grieser and Mia Sanchez all signed letters of intent with Florida colleges. Maria Brooks and Ava Wells will continue their softball careers in St. Louis, Missouri and Spartanburg, South Carolina, respectively.

For more information on Newsome High School’s athletics, visit their website at www.nhsboosters.com

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Page 48

Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition

Volume 21, Issue 12