Bloomindale/Fishhawk Edition

Redesign In One Day

Imagine waking up tomorrow to find that your home offers a whole new look and feel without having to spend a fortune and a lot of time.

Beth Powell and Cheryl Dossey of One Day Design, Inc. can make that happen for you. "Interior redesign is the perfect solution when you want to save money and are tired of the same old look," Powell says, adding that the decorating concept is based on a formula that decides the placement of furniture, art and accessories, while accenting and displaying your belongings.

Powell, an interior decorator who specializes in home staging and is trained and certified in visual coordination by Carole Talbott, of Home and Garden magazine and Oprah Winfrey show fame, explains that reconstructing the contents of your home, adding inherited items with your current furnishings and redesigning a living space can add life and beauty to a home.

Services can be useful in a variety of situations including to stage a home for sale, set up a new home and alleviate the stress of a move or to transform a living space for a new look or a new season.

"A mistake a lot of people make is pushing all of their furniture up against a wall." Powell offers advice, "Try to create a conversation area so that no matter where someone is sitting they can easily speak with anyone else seated in that room."

Most jobs can be done in a half or full day, Powell says and fees range according to the type of job.

To find out more, call 546-7114 or visit www.onedaydesigninc.com.

Need A Ride?

River Hills' residents J. Warren and Mike Wakefield recently started The Limo Scene Club, Inc. and want to take the hassle out of finding a ride to and from the airport.

Wakefield says his goal is to help business, vacation and frequent fliers who are tired of leaving a car at the airport or making their spouse or neighbor get out off bed at the wee hours of the morning to get them to an early flight. "And worse," he says. "Riding in a dirty unsafe cab that feels like it may not make it."

"Finally," Warren adds, "Brandon, Valrico and FishHawk residents have a choice."

The Limo Scene Club, Inc. offers a clean, private sports utility vehicle or limousine, safety-certified by Hillsborough County, equipped with a GPS, TV, DVD and headphones and driven by a professional chauffeur dressed in a suit and tie.

For a reasonable rate, the Limo Scene Club, Inc. offers on-time pick-up, luggage handled, doors opened, curbside drop-off and check-in and pick-up at baggage.

"All this service to TIA for approximately six dollars more than a cab," Wakefield comments.

To book your pick-up and drop-off dates, call 657-7766.

Sponsors Welcome For Jubilee

Looking to showcase your business to thousands of area residents? Get involved with Spring Jubilee, the family event featuring food, rides, entertainment, a chili cook-off, 5K Race and more, scheduled for April 20-23, 2006 on the St. Stephen school grounds on Boyette Rd. Call 689-7174 or visit www.springjubilee.com to find out more.

Express Oil Change Open In March

As long as the county permits, the recently completed Express Oil Change and Service Center at 3231 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. should be open by March 1, reports Scott Webster, who owns the business with his wife Malinda.

Headquartered in Birmingham, Alabama, this is only the second Florida location for the fast growing Express Oil Change and Service Centerfranchise that began in 1979. Throughout the U.S., there are "159 stores and counting," according to the company's Website.

"Our unique concept brings the convenience of express oil change service with the reliability of a full service repair facility all under one roof," says Scott. He adds that the most important aspect of the new business will be providing great repair service coupled with outstanding customer service.

Services at Express Oil Change and Service Center include tire rotation and balance, air conditioning diagnostics, brake repair, fuel system cleaning, warranty service and much more. Additionally, a 10-minute, drive-through oil change is offered that includes a 15-point safety inspection while the customer waits in the comfort of his or her vehicle.

For all of your vehicle maintenance needs, visit Express Oil Change and Service on Lithia Pinecrest Rd. just north of Miller Rd. Hours are Monday-Saturday, 8 a.m.-6 p.m.

For more details about the company, visit www.expressoil.com. The Valrico location can be reached at 643-7200.

Ribbon Cuttings

Axis Chiropractic owner Sage Campione and Florida Mortgage Connection owner Mike Dischner recently celebrated their companies new locations inside the new Greater Brandon Chamber of Commerce building at 330 Pauls Dr.

Axis Chiropractic offers a blend of chiropractic care, diet, nutrition, exercise and education to help improve overall health. Chiropractic care can relieve headaches, enhance the immune system, improve sleep, increase flexibility and range of motion and enhance athletic performance, among other things. Adult and pediatric care, massage therapy and cranial sacral therapy are some of the services.

Axis Chiropractic is located in Suite 102 and can be reached at 643-1242. A second location is at 4015 N. Armenia Dr. in Tampa. Visit www.axischiro.net.

In conjunction with Axis Chiropractic, Florida Mortgage Connection celebrated its relocation into Suite 101 of the building, with a ribbon cutting ceremony.

At Florida Mortgage Connection, the motto is to "Build Relationships through Financial Solutions." Services include residential and commercial loans, refinancing, interest only loans and more.

Office hours are 9 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Monday-Thursday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. on Friday and by appointment only on Saturday. Call 681-2600 toll free 888-881-9900 or visit www.flmortgageconnection.com.

FishHawk Resident Sells Sony Style

Next time you're at the International Mall, stop by the new Sony Style store and say hello to neighbor Andrew Magann, a FishHawk Ranch resident since 1998 and Brandon High graduate.

At Sony Style, the shelves are stocked with the latest in Sony technology products and services. Computers, cameras, camcorders, MP3 Players, DVDs, games and game systems are just some of the items.

"We do not carry the full line of Sony products, but offer a great assortment of the newest products," Magann explains. "We try to educate customers about our products in a more intimate setting versus a big box electronics store."

The store is only one of 28 Sony Style stores in existence. "We do have many benefits of buying from us though," he adds. "We have a very knowledgeable staff and try to offer world class customer service."

Magann states that many recognizable faces shop at his Sony Style, including Derek Jeter of the New York Yankees, Tampa Bay Buccaneer Shelton Quarles and radio personality Todd (M.J.) Schnitt.

The hottest selling items, he reports, are the award winning Grand Vega SXRD TV and Vaio Laptops.

Free delivery in the U.S., no interest financing, extended service plans and accidental damage extended service plans are available options. "We also offer an accidental damage extended service plan on laptops, digital cameras and camcorders," states Magann. "I do not know of any retailer that currently offers this service."

For more information, visit www.sonystyle.com or call 878-2590. The store is located in the International Plaza at 2223 N. Westshore Blvd.

Acupuncture Clinic Open in River Hills

Gilda Kwan, Doctor of Oriental Medicine (DOM), recently opened the Healing Light Acupuncture Clinic offering internal medicine by way of acupuncture, in the River Hills Plaza.

Kwan, who is trained in traditional Chinese medicine, says that she is able to treat a variety of problems and many people do not understand the true benefits of eastern medicine. "Anything you would go to your western doctor for, I can do with needles and Chinese herbs," she says.

Acupuncture can treat a variety of conditions including fibromyalgia, depression, bronchitis, indigestion, headaches, arthritis and many more.

Kwan says she has always had an interest in eastern philosophies and says that acupuncture procedures are something that the Chinese mapped out 5,000 years ago. "I love doing this. I get excited just talking about it," she adds.

Additionally, Kwan offers a limited selection of herbs and healing-type jewelry for sale.

Make an appointment during March for introductory discounted rates.

Healing Light Acupuncture is open Monday-Thursday, from 8 a.m.-5 p.m. and appointments are suggested. Call 657-2460 to find out more.

Get Connected

MetroPCS will open a new retail store in March at 4356 Lithia Pinecrest Rd., across from the River Hills Plaza.

MetroPCS offers unlimited talking without counting the minutes. For one flat rate, MetroPCS customers get all of the minutes they want with no contracts and no activation fees. Additionally, the retail store offers great plans, cool phones, a variety of ring tones and games.

In February, the regional wireless provider reached its two-millionth customer milestone - adding half a million customers in less than a year thanks to the great success that MetroPCS has had in the Tampa and Sarasota markets since launching in October 2005.

The Lithia Pinecrest location also is a payment center for TECO, Verizon Wireless, Dish Network, T-Mobile and others.

Metropcs is open seven days a week. Call 322-3679 or visit www.metropcs.com for further details.

Moran Recognized For Excellence

Laura Harris of Keller Williams Realty in Brandon recently announced that Steve Moran is the number one individual agent in the Brandon/Valrico area for 2005 with more than $21 million in sales, according to the Kenst report.

After 11 years with RE/MAX, Moran joined Keller Williams in 2004 as a business partner. He is set to receive the quadruple gold award at the Keller Williams International convention in Las Vegas in late February. This achievement places Moran in the top one percent in the country.

For further information, call 661-2476 or visit www.stevemoran.com.

Urgent Care Adds Doctors

Late Hours Urgent Care Centers recently added two new doctors. The centers, open seven days a week, including all holidays with appointment needed, offer minor and urgent medical care from highly experienced, Board certified physicians.

X-Ray, EKG, lab services and drug screens can be performed on site.

The Valrico location can be found at 3444 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. behind Chili's and is open from 8 a.m.- 12 Midnight. Call 643-9393 for more information. The other location is at 13162 U.S. Hwy. 301 in Riverview in the new Publix plaza (at 301 and Big Bend Rd.) and is open from 10 a.m.- 12 Midnight. Contact the Riverview Urgent Care at 677-8788.

Hair Salon Gets Face Lift

The Swank Hair Lounge, located just off S.R. 60 on Moon Ave, recently received a new look. Owned by Riverview residents Paula Granger and Allen Sorensen, the salon is located in a renovated home built in 1925 and Granger and Sorensen recently completed a makeover, giving the home a luxurious but relaxed atmosphere.

Both Granger and Sorensen are licensed masseuses who decided to go into business together eight years ago. They have since revamped The Swank Hair Lounge into a full-service salon with three hair stylists offering a full range of hair services, a licensed aestician providing waxing, facials and skin treatments and manicure and pedicure services.

"We have tried to create a business we would want to go to," says Sorensen. "Our goal is to make everyone feel comfortable here and look forward to coming back, while they receive great services."

Although the face of the salon has changed recently, the faithful customers will keep coming back from all over the Brandon area.

Riverview resident Paul Lingler says, "I love the hip atmosphere, great stylists... and the coffee rocks. It's the best kept secret around."

The salon is located at 135 N. Moon Ave. For more information and a full range of services, visit www.swankhairlounge.com or call 654-9355.

Edward Jones Seminars

Edward Jones investment representative Elijah Heath of Lithia will host a free satellite broadcast titles "Living Retirement to the Max: Your Guide to an Active and Fulfilling Retirement" at 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, March 14 at FishHawk Ranch Park Square.

To reserve a seat or for more information about the Tuesday, March 14 program, call Heath at 657-2078. For those unable to attend, additional viewing opportunities are available.

In addittion, Heath will be hosting a coffee club at 9 a.m. Friday, March 10 at the FishHawk Ranch Park Square.

For more information, visit www.edwardjones.com.

Riverview Edition

Old Kash 'N Karry Finally Being Occupied

Many area residents can't even remember when Kash 'N Karry operated out of the now long-vacated building on U.S. Hwy. 301 north of Riverview Dr. In late March, the Riverview Flea Market will open both inside and outside of the old Kash 'N Karry, hopefully putting to an end, what many described as an eyesore.

Flea market owner Reggie Wood says that the indoor/outdoor flea market will also offer a carnival of amusement rides on the two-acre field next to the building.

The flea market space is already 60 percent leased, according to Wood, and space is available by 10 ft. by 10 ft. increments. A barber shop, cell phone store, nail salon, appliance store and shoe store are among the signed occupants to start. Items available will include Nascar novelty items, official licensed Tampa Bay Buccaneer wear and collectibles, gold jewelry, T-shirts and a variety of foods from popcorn to ribs to Polish sausage. "There will be a little bit of everything," Wood states.

The Flea Market will be open Wednesday and Thursday 10 a.m.-7 p.m., Friday and Saturday 10 a.m.-9 p.m. and Sunday 10 a.m.-6 p.m. On Saturday mornings, there will be an antique auctioneer and also a swap meet from 8 a.m.-12 Noon. The cost for the swap meet is $15 to set up a table.

For more details, call 741-3600.

Country Inn & Suites Opens Doors

Impact Group, the owners of MJ Barleyhoppers, is pleased to announce that the recently constructed Country Inn & Suites on Falkenburg and Palm River roads is now open and accepting guests.

Country Inns & Suites By Carlson is a highly successful international mid-tier lodging chain with more than 380 locations worldwide. The chain is part of Minneapolis, Minn.-based Carlson Hotels Worldwide which also includes Regent International Hotels, Radisson Hotels & Resorts, Park Plaza Hotels & Resorts, and Park Inn.

A stay at Country Inn & Suites offers many upgraded amenities such as complimentary breakfast, in-room hair dryer, coffee maker, iron and ironing board and weekday morning newspaper.

The new location features spacious rooms and suites, complimentary high speed internet in all rooms, a fitness center, outdoor pool and lobby with fireplace. Business services and meeting room also are available. For more details, visit www.countryinns.com.

Target Looking in Riverview

Rumors have been circulating for quite some time that Target will be the next big box retailer to stake claim in Riverview, possibly in the new Riverview Town Centre or at Big Bend Rd. and U.S. Hwy. 301. S.

Riverview Town Centre developer Harry Lerner told the Osprey Observer several months ago that Target was not part of the Town Centre's plans.

Target spokesperson Joshua Thomas reports, "Target definitely has an interest in the Riverview area but there are no immediate plans. It is far too early to speculate.

For more details about Target stores, visit www.target.com.

Get Sweet At Premium Candy

Premium Candy, the newly opened store in the Shoppes of Boyette on Boyette and Balm Riverview roads, recently celebrated its opening with a Greater Riverview Chamber of Commerce ribbon cutting ceremony.

Owner John Caruthers is excited about his new business and says that the store had a very successful Valentine's Day. "The pure chocolates, chocolate covered cherries and strawberries and the gift baskets are the most popular items so far," he reports.

If you have a sweet tooth or are a choc-a-holic, this store is for you. Milk chocolate potato chip clusters and other hand-dipped specialties are featured along with a wide variety of gummies, taffy, sour items, licorice and sugar-free treats. There are more than 50 items to choose from and the selection is constantly expanding.

Caruthers, whose experience is primarily in the restaurant industry, became involved in the chocolate business about four years ago. He explains that his family and the Bakers, who started making chocolate in 1987 are longtime friends and he started building equipment and learning how to produce chocolate at a factory in Greenville, Nebraska. Caruthers business venture is the opposite of Bakers as he starts with a storefront and will eventually add a production line.

A fudge maker will be added soon and Premium Confections, the parent company of Premium Candy, will also soon start marketing European-style mints. "The sky is the limit as far as what we can do," he says.

He adds that he searched all over Tampa to find the perfect spot for his new shop and states, "There wasn't a better area than Riverview/FishHawk."

Caruthers is looking forward to the upcoming Easter holiday and says he will offer a full line of Easter chocolates, plus gift baskets and fresh fudge.

Hours are 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Monday-Friday and 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. Call 234-3688 for further details.

Other recently opened businesses in the shopping center include Taste of Europe (see below) and M/I Homes (671-6996). The $1.79 Dry Cleaners (633-0587) is scheduled to open this month.

There are two spaces available at the Shoppes of Boyette, according to developer Mitch Burley. For leasing information, call 689-2015.

Riverview Gets Taste of Europe At New Market

Taste of Europe, an eastern European food market owned by Artur Barnat, is now open at 11246 Boyette Rd. in the Shoppes of Boyette.

The shelves are lined with many items that you won't find in your neighborhood Publix or Albertson's and the market specializes in gourmet food including pierogis, kielbasa, cold cuts, cheese, chocolates and more. Offerings include many items from Poland such as sour cucumber paste, horseradish mustard, garlic in oil with herbs and herring fillets in tomato sauce. There is a large selection of condiments, seasonings, herbal teas, soup mixes and snacks, among other things.

Polish sausage, Danish bacon, veal wieners, smoked mackerel and imported cheeses are among the items stocking the butcher case.

Hours are 10 a.m.-7 p.m. Monday-Friday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. and Sunday 12 Noon-4 p.m. For further details, call 234-3653.

Redesign In One Day

Imagine waking up tomorrow to find that your home offers a whole new look and feel without having to spend a fortune and a lot of time.

Beth Powell and Cheryl Dossey of One Day Design, Inc. can make that happen for you. "Interior redesign is the perfect solution when you want to save money and are tired of the same old look," Powell says, adding that the decorating concept is based on a formula that decides the placement of furniture, art and accessories, while accenting and displaying your belongings.

Powell, an interior decorator who specializes in home staging and is trained and certified in visual coordination by Carole Talbott, of Home and Garden magazine and Oprah Winfrey show fame, explains that reconstructing the contents of your home, adding inherited items with your current furnishings and redesigning a living space can add life and beauty to a home.

Most jobs can be done in a half or full day, Powell says and fees range according to the type of job.

To find out more, call 546-7114 or visit www.onedaydesigninc.com.

Wachovia Open on Big Bend and 301

Wachovia's new Riverview branch recently opened at 13140 U.S. Hwy 301 S. and branch manager Drew Allen, joined by several members of the Greater Riverview Chamber of Commerce, celebrated with an official ribbon cutting ceremony.

Services available include a host of personal finance options, wealth management, commercial accounts, small business tools, asset management, corporate and investment banking.

Wachovia, located in the Summerfield Shoppes, offers lobby hours 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Monday-Thursday, 9 a.m.- 6 p.m. Friday. The drive-through is open 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday-Thursday and 8 a.m.-6 p.m. on Friday. On Saturdays, both the lobby and the drive-through are open 9 a.m.-12 Noon. There also is an ATM and a night depository.

For more information about this branch, call 223-1976.

Second Riverview Location For UPS Store

Jeanette and David Kjosa, owners of the UPS Store on Boyette Rd. in the Goolsby Point shopping center, recently opened a second location in the Summerfield Shoppes on U. S. Hwy. 301 and Big Bend Rd.

The Greater Riverview Chamber of Commerce staff and ambassadors joined the Kjosas for a ribbon cutting ceremony in February.

Both locations offer domestic and international shipping, copying services, document finishing, post office boxes, office and packaging supplies, freight crating and shipping and a whole lot more.

The UPS Store is open Monday-Friday, 8 a.m.-6:30 p.m. Monday-Friday and 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturday. For more information about the Big Bend store and its services, call 741-1140.

Boardwalk Nearing Full Capacity

Construction is almost complete on Boardwalk of Riverview, upscale medical and professional business offices located on Gibsonton Dr. between I-75 and U.S. Hwy. 301. "We are nearly 75 percent leased," Thatcher Properties owner Bryan Thatcher reported at press time. Thatcher also developed the adjacent Park Place of Riverview office park that is home to Century 21 Shaw Realty, Priority Title, Trinity Insurance and other service-type businesses.

Boardwalk of Riverview consists of four, 4,500 sq. ft. buildings offering units from 1,250-3,500 sq. ft. One unit also features five individual offices to meet small business needs.

Signed tenants include The Law Offices of George Hunter and John Sisco, A Bloom Spa, Vicki Diaz Insurance, Summit Construction Management, House Meter, Riverview Law Firm, Dr. P.C. Camposan , Flagship Title, TamLin Homes, United States EnviroFuels, LLC and Beta Dry Wall.

For leasing information, Thatcher Properties can be reached at 677-5055.

MJ Barleyhoppers Celebrates One Year

Riverview's MJ Barleyhoppers International Ale House & Grille will celebrate its one year anniversary in March with the unveiling of a new menu, a golf tournament and St. Patrick's Day bash.

The festivities for the anniversary celebration will kick off with a MJ Barleyhoppers first annual golf tournament on March 12 at the Sandpiper Golf Club in Sun City Center. The four-person scramble will begin with a 12:30 p.m. shotgun start. The cost is $65 per player and includes a ribeye dinner with fries and salad served at MJ Barleyhoppers immediately following the tournament.

On Friday, March 17, MJ Barleyhoppers will be celebrating St. Patrick's Day with two, back-to-back live band, green beer, corned beef and cabbage, bagpipers and more, beginning at 6 p.m. There also will be a $75 for the best green costume.

MJ Barleyhoppers is located in Winthrop Town Centre at the corner of Bloomingdale Ave. and Providence Rd.

Hours are 11 a.m.-12 midnight, seven days a week. To find out more, visit www.mjbarleyhoppers.com or call 341-8333.

New At Winthrop

H & R Block and First Choice Hair Cutters recently opened in the Winthrop Town Centre.

Just in time for tax season, H & R Block (657-7406) is now open and offering all the services residents need to complete their taxes including online tax preparation, tax software, tax filing help, tax calculator and preparation advice. Office hours are 9 a.m.-9 p.m. Monday-Friday and 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday.

First Choice (662-0890) offers cuts, colors, perms and more for men, women and children. The salon is open 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Monday-Friday 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Saturday and 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Sunday.

Additionally, Chicken Kitchen, a restaurant owned by Moe's Southwest Grill, should open in the late spring, according to franchise co-owner Tony Friel. Chicken Kitchen is a rapidly expanding franchise that features marinated grilled chicken, boneless pita "pocket" chicken breast sandwiches, unique Chop Chop entrees, freshly prepared "homemade" side dishes, and special proprietary sauces. The key to the success of Chicken Kitchen is the emphasis on high quality, fresh, natural and healthy food. Visit www.chickenkitchen.com for further information.

Apollo Beach's Exit Realty Welcomes Two New Associates

Exit Realty Apollo Beach is proud to announce the addition of two new associates to their sales team. Michele Turner and Bill Richardson are both area residents with several years of experience in the Apollo Beach and Riverview residential markets. They are excited about being able to offer their clients committed and responsive service backed by Exit Realty's professional reputation. To contact Michele Turner or Bill Richardson, please call Exit Realty Apollo Beach at 676-9010 or you can read more about them by visiting www.Exitrealtyapollobeach.com.

Exit Realty Supports Haley House

Members of the Exit Realty Apollo Beach team recently attended a ribbon cutting ceremony for the Haley House held at the Greater Brandon Chamber of Commerce. The Haley House program provides support and temporary lodging to family members of veteran and active duty soldiers while they receive treatment for their service related injuries. Many of those attending the ceremony donated funds, 99 percent of which go directly to support the soldiers and their families. Sharon Sauls, broker associate pledged $125 from each of her closings for the entire year to the Haley House Fund, Henry Brosnaham, broker owner agreed to match whatever Sauls donated. They presented the Haley House Chairman with the first donation of the year for $750. If you would like more information about this very worthwhile charitable organization please visit the Haley House website at www.HaleyHouseFund.com.

Laser Strike Offered At Ice Sports Forum

Laser Strike, the ultimate in laser tag, recently opened in the Ice Sports Forum on Falkenburg Rd. north of S.R. 60. The ultramodern laser tag center at the Ice Sports Forum in Brandon is the premier laser center in the Bay area. "Our LT-11 Phasers are unlike any in the state of Florida," comments the arena's marketing director Chris Hammel.

The Ice Sports Forum in Brandon, located at 10222 Elizabeth Pl., is a facility consisting of two National Hockey League (NHL) regulation ice rinks which are utilized for USA Hockey programs and figure skating events. The Ice Sports Forum is the official training facility of the Tampa Bay Lightning and is host to many of the NHL teams that visit Tampa Bay.

Laser Strike is open Wednesday 5-9 p.m., Friday 4-11 p.m., Saturday 11 a.m.-11 p.m. and Sunday 11 a.m.-5 p.m. For additional information or directions, please visit www.laserstrike.com or call Chris at 684-7825 ext. 230.

Upcoming Ribbon Cuttings

The Greater Riverview Chamber of Commerce will help welcome the following new businesses to the community with official ribbon cutting ceremonies. The businesses include DaSilva's Coffee House & Roastery, located at 11226 Boyette Rd., on Friday, March 3, at 6 p.m.; Precise Engraving, located at 104 Mason St. in Brandon, on Tuesday, March 7 at 8:30 a.m; and, at H & R Block in Winthrop Town Centre on Friday, March 17 at 11:30 a.m. For information on the chamber and its events, call 234-5944.

Relay Chairs Vow to Shave Heads

By Sharon Still

The South Shore Relay For Life scheduled to kick off Friday, April 7 at 6 p.m. and last until Saturday, April 8 at 12 Noon, will be an event to be remembered.

Relay For Life, an annual event put on throughout the U.S. and other countries, is an annual overnight event put on by the American Cancer Society, in an effort to celebrate survivorship and raise money for research and programs of the organization. During the event, teams of people gather at schools, fairgrounds or parks and take turns walking or running laps. Each team tries to keep at least one team member on the track at all times.

The South Shore Relay For Life will be held at East Bay High School, located at 7710 Big Bend Rd. in Gibsonton and if team chairs Ron Proulx and Jim Johnson get their wish of raising $100,000 for the event, the two will dye their hair purple and shave their heads, a promise they made several months ago when presented the challenge.

More than 20 years ago, one man took it upon himself to raise money to support the efforts of the American Cancer Society. Today, more than three million Americans participate in Relay events nationwide. Relay offers something for everyone, from the newly diagnosed, to caregivers and friends, to long-term survivors. Relay For Life represents the hope that those lost to cancer will never be forgotten, that those who face cancer will be supported, and that one day cancer will be eliminated. To get involved, visit www.cancer.org or attend the event.

Prior to the event, you can support the Tampa Tribune/Serenity Meadows team while enjoying great country music by Bill and Harold Floyd at the Ruskin VFW, 5120 U.S. Hwy. 41 N., on Saturday, March 11, 7-10 p.m.

Tickets are $20 and benefit the upcoming American Cancer Society's Relay For Life. All donations are tax deductible.

For tickets, call Carla Floyd at 657-4505 or attend the event.

Valrico Edition

AJ's to Hold Ribbon Cutting

Ajay Jambhekar, owner of AJ's Fine Wine & Liquors, is hosting a ribbon cutting and networking event March 16 from 5-7 p.m. in the store located at 3451 Lithia Pinecrest Rd., in the Publix-anchored Shoppes at Lithia plaza.

The event will feature drinks from Idol Vodka and Wine from Plant City and a range of food including Indian specialties and Italian bread.

AJ's offers a full range of premium, domestic and imported beers, wines and liquors.

For directions and more information, call 654-6488.

Massages for Health Holds Egg-stravaganza

From March 15-April 15, Massages for Health, located in the River Hills Plaza off Lithia Pinecrest Rd., is offering a special Easter deal. After every treatment, customers are invited to pick an egg from a basket and receive a special surprise gift.

Gifts include coupons for $5 and $10 off services and 10-20 percent off products. There also will be one free 30-minute relaxation massage and free products and chocolates.

For more information or to book your next treatment, call 643-8266 or visit www.massagesforhealth.com.

All Children's Opens Brandon Center

Now Brandon-area families do not have to travel for specialized children's health care. All Children's Hospital recently opened its new Brandon Center and celebrated in early March with grand opening including visits from animals from Lowry Park Zoo, ice cream, Chick-fil-A treats and various games and giveaways. Tours of the center were also offered all day.

All Children's Specialty Care of Brandon is located on a five-acre site on Parsons Rd. south of S. R. 60. Construction on the project began in May of 2005. With more than 21,000 sq. ft. of space and the latest equipment and technology for pediatric outpatient care, the $3.9-million center is now home to pediatric rehabilitative services in physical, occupational and speech therapy as well as audiology services. There is even space for an outdoor occupational and physical therapy area. The new center also provides clinic space where pediatric specialists from the St. Petersburg campus of All Children's Hospital can see Brandon-area patients much closer to home. The first patients began receiving services at the Brandon center on Monday, February 13.

For more information, contact All Children's media relations manager Ann Miller at (727) 767-8592.

Tint Center Finds Permanent Home

With summer creeping upon us, now is the time to start thinking about tinting your car to keep out those bright rays. The Tint Center, owned by Brandon resident Jeff Gomez, offers a full range of window tinting in addition to detailing, alarm installation, dent removal, windshield repair and car stereo work and is conveniently located at the intersection of S.R. 60 and Valrico Rd., adjacent to Splash Carwash.

After 20 years in the mobile detailing business, Gomez recently moved into the store located at 113 S. Valrico Rd. and is looking forward to offering Valrico residents high quality car work at low prices.

"After 20 years in the business, I know that we offer the highest quality and a wide range of options," says Gomez, who adds that a popular choice at this time of year is hurricane safety film, which can be added to car windows.

The Tint Center is open seven days a week from 9 a.m.-6 p.m. and although appointments are preferred, walk-ins are welcome. For more information, call 662-7125 or visit www.thetintcenter.com and sign up for a free quote.

Redesign in One Day

Imagine waking up tomorrow to find that your home offers a whole new look and feel without having to spend a fortune and a lot of time.

Beth Powell and Cheryl Dossey of One Day Design, Inc. can make that happen for you. "Interior redesign is the perfect solution when you want to save money and are tired of the same old look," Powell says, adding that the decorating concept is based on a formula that decides the placement of furniture, art and accessories, while accenting and displaying your belongings.

Powell, an interior decorator who specializes in home staging and is trained and certified in visual coordination by Carole Talbott, of Home and Garden magazine and Oprah Winfrey show fame, explains that reconstructing the contents of your home, adding inherited items with your current furnishings and redesigning a living space can add life and beauty to a home.

Services can be useful in a variety of situations including to stage a home for sale, set up a new home and alleviate the stress of a move or to transform a living space for a new look or a new season.

"A mistake a lot of people make is pushing all of their furniture up against a wall," says Powell. "Try to create a conversation area so that no matter where someone is sitting they can easily speak with anyone else seated in that room."

Most jobs can be done in a half or full day, Powell says and fees range according to the type of job.

To find out more, call 546-7114 or visit www.onedaydesigninc.com.

New Owners at Bloomingdale Pet Supply

There are some new friendly faces at Bloomingdale Pet Supply on Lithia Pinecrest Rd. FishHawk residents Dana and Carl Gandolfo recently purchased the store and are enjoying helping customers with their pet care needs.

Dana, who worked in investment banking for 30 years, is a long-time animal lover who discovered the store when volunteering with Cat Call, which runs adoptions on site. "We have always wanted to own our own business and being big animal lovers, this was the perfect fit," says Dana, who adds that her husband is still working in the corporate world for CitiGroup, but enjoys the time he can spend at the store.

Bloomingdale Pet Supply offers a wide range of animal foods and products, focusing on natural, holistic food for dogs and cats.

"When our cat was sick, I learned a lot about the importance of what you feed your pets," she explains. "You pay for buying cheap food with more expensive vet bills down the road."

Located at 3110 Lithia Pinecrest Rd., Bloomingdale Pet Supply is open MOnday-Friday 9 a.m.-6 p.m., Saturday 9 a.m.-4 p.m.. For more information, call 662-9296.

Need A Ride?

River Hills' residents J. Warren and Mike Wakefield recently started The Limo Scene Club, Inc. and want to take the hassle out of finding a ride to and from the airport.

Wakefield says his goal is to help business, vacation and frequent flyers who are tired of leaving a car at the airport or making their spouse or neighbor get out off bed at the wee hours of the morning to get them to an early flight. "And worse," he says. "Riding in a dirty unsafe cab that feels like it may not make it?"

"Finally," Warren adds, "Brandon, Valrico and FishHawk residents have a choice."

The Limo Scene Club, Inc. offers a clean, private sports utility vehicle or limousine, safety-certified by Hillsborough County, equipped with a GPS, TV, DVD and headphones and driven by a professional chauffeur dressed in a suit and tie.

For a reasonable rate, the Limo Scene Club, Inc. offers on-time pick-up, luggage handled, doors opened, curbside drop-off and check-in and pick-up at baggage.

"All this service to TIA for approximately six dollars more than a cab," Wakefield comments.

To book your pick-up and drop-off dates, call 657-7766.

Express Oil Change Open in March

The recently completed Express Oil Change and Service Center at 3231 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. should be open by is open.

Headquartered in Birmingham, Alabama, Express Oil Change and Service Center, this is only the second Florida location for the fast growing franchise that began in 1979. Throughout the U.S., there are "159 stores and counting," according to the company's Website.

"Our unique concept brings the convenience of express oil change service with the reliability of a full service repair facility all under one roof," says Scott Webster, who owns the business with his wife Malinda. He adds that the most important aspect of the new business will be providing great repair service coupled with outstanding customer service.

Services at Express Oil Change and Service Center include tire rotation and balance, air conditioning diagnostics, brake repair, fuel system cleaning, warranty service and much more. Additionally, a 10-minute, drive-through oil change is offered that includes a 15-point safety inspection while the customer waits in the comfort of his or her vehicle.

For all of your vehicle maintenance needs, visit Express Oil Change and Service on Lithia Pinecrest Rd. just north of Miller Rd. Hours are Monday-Saturday, 8 a.m.-6 p.m.

For more details about the company, visit www.expressoil.com. The Valrico location can be reached at 643-7200.

Hair Salon Gets Face Lift

The Swank Hair Lounge, located just off S.R. 60 on Moon Ave, recently received a new look. Owned by Riverview residents Paula Granger and Allen Sorensen, the salon is located in a renovated home built in 1925 and Granger and Sorensen recently completed a makeover, giving the home a luxurious but relaxed atmosphere.

Both Granger and Sorensen are licensed masseuses who decided to go into business together eight years ago. They have since built The Swank Hair Lounge into a full-service salon with three hair stylists offering a full range of hair services, a licensed aestician providing waxing, facials and skin treatments and manicure and pedicure services.

"We have tried to create a business we would want to go to," says Sorensen. "Our goal is to make everyone feel comfortable here and look forward to coming back, while they receive great services."

Although the face of the salon has changed recently, the faithful customers will keep coming back from all over the Brandon area.

Riverview resident Paul Lingler says, "I love the hip atmosphere, great stylists... and the coffee rocks. It's the best kept secret around."

The salon is located at 135 N. Moon Ave. For more information and a full range of services, visit www.swankhairlounge.com or call 654-9355.

Ribbon Cuttings

Axis Chiropractic owner Sage Campione and Florida Mortgage Connection owner Mike Dischner recently celebrated their companies new locations inside the new Greater Brandon Chamber of Commerce building at 330 Pauls Dr.

Axis Chiropractic offers a blend of chiropractic care, diet, nutrition, exercise and education to help improve overall health. Chiropractic care can relieve headaches, enhance the immune system, improve sleep, increase flexibility and range of motion and enhance athletic performance, among other things.

Adult and pediatric care, massage therapy and cranial sacral therapy are some of the services available.

Axis Chiropractic is located in Suite 102 and can be reached at 643-1242. Office hours are Monday-Friday. A second location is at 4015 N. Armenia Dr. in Tampa. Visit www.axischiro.net.

In conjunction with Axis Chiropractic, Florida Mortgage Connection celebrated its relocation into Suite 101 of the building, with a ribbon cutting ceremony.

At Florida Mortgage Connection, the motto is to "Build Relationships through Financial Solutions." Services include residential and commercial loans, refinancing, interest only loans and more.

Office hours are 9 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Monday-Thursday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. on Friday and by appointment only on Saturday. Call 681-2600 toll free 888-881-9900 or visit www.flmortgageconnection.com.

Acupuncture Clinic Open in River Hills

Gilda Kwan, Doctor of Oriental Medicine (DOM), recently opened the Healing Light Acupuncture Clinic offering internal medicine by way of acupuncture, in the River Hills Plaza.

Kwan, who is trained in traditional Chinese medicine, says that she is able to treat a variety of problems and many people do not understand the true benefits of eastern medicine. "Anything you would go to your western doctor for, I can do with needles and Chinese herbs," she says.

Acupuncture can treat a variety of conditions including fibromyalgia, depression, bronchitis, indigestion, headaches, arthritis and many more.

Kwan says she has always had an interest in eastern philosophies and says that acupuncture procedures are something that the Chinese mapped out 5,000 years ago. "I love doing this. I get excited just talking about it," she adds.

Additionally, Kwan offers a limited selection of herbs and healing-type jewelry for sale.

Make an appointment during March for introductory discounted rates.

Healing Light Acupuncture is open Monday-Thursday, 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Appointments are suggested. Call 657-2460 to find out more.

Get Connected

MetroPCS will open a new retail store in March at 4356 Lithia Pinecrest Rd., across from the River Hills Plaza.

MetroPCS offers unlimited talking without counting the minutes. For one flat rate, MetroPCS customers get all of the minutes they want with no contracts and no activation fees. Additionally, the retail store offers great plans, cool phones, a variety of ring tones and games.

In February, the regional wireless provider reached its two-millionth customer milestone - adding half a million customers in less than a year thanks in part to the great success that MetroPCS has had in the Tampa and Sarasota markets since launching in October 2005.

The Lithia Pinecrest location also is a payment center for TECO, Verizon Wireless, Dish Network, T-Mobile and others.

Metropcs is open seven days a week Monday-Thursday 9 a.m.-8 p.m., Friday and saturday 9 a.m.-9 p.m. and Sunday 12 Noon-6 p.m. Call 322-3679 or visit www.metropcs.com for further details.

Moran Recognized For Excellence

Laura Harris of Keller Williams Realty in Brandon recently announced that Steve Moran is the number one individual agent in the Brandon/Valrico area for 2005 with more than $21 million in sales, according to the Kenst report.

After 11 years with RE/MAX, Moran joined Keller Williams in 2004 as a business partner. He is set to receive the quadruple gold award at the Keller Williams International convention in Las Vegas in late February. This achievement places Moran in the top one percent in the country.