Volunteers Needed For Daystar Center “I Am Hope” Homeless Café
Volunteers Needed For Daystar Center “I Am Hope” Homeless Café
By Carisa Biesecker
I
Am Hope Café will soon have a third local location on the grounds of Daystar Faith Center in Gibsonton thanks to the partnership of local organizations who gathered together at Riverview’s Resurrection Catholic Church last month.With the numbers of the homeless growing, the Greater Brandon Ecumenical Ministries is aiming to open the third I Am Hope Café in order to provide struggling residents with food and a connection with services provided through the staff of the center. Here, homeless residents would be introduced to a hot meal while having access to clothing, hygiene products, household items, tents, backpacks and the technology to obtain food stamps and a mailing address for their personal use.“I think there’s a tremendous need. It would really complement what they’ve got,” stated Margaret Shaw, a Brandon resident who has spent the past year volunteering at one of the two pre-existing cafes in the greater Brandon area through her church, the Presbyterian Church of Bloomingdale. These cafes are operated out of First Baptist Church of Mango, situated at 11619 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd. E. in Seffner, Monday, Tuesday and Friday from 6-7 p.m. and Saturday from 9-10 a.m. and Brandon Church of the Nazarene, located at 114 Kingsway Rd. in Brandon, every Saturday from 9-11 a.m. Daystar will also be partnering with the Brandon-based nonprofit Cynthia Pinckney Ministries – which also aids residents facing hard times. The facility also expects to begin a GED program, in January. “I feel God is directing us, and this is the right thing to do,” said Ecumenical Ministries, Inc. President Vince Ferraro.The newly formed council welcomes others to volunteer at the cafe, with the group’s next meeting scheduled for Thursday, January 7, at 10 a.m. at Daystar Faith Center, located at 7017 Gibsonton Dr. in Gibsonton. According to Baylife member Christine Hicks, residents can also help by filling their tanks with 10 gallons or more of gas at area Citgo gas stations which, in return, provide customers with a $3 pre-paid phone card which can be donated to homeless residents.For more information, visit www.iamhopecafe.org or call 643-0323.
Kiwanis Clubs Unite To Stuff The Bus
Starting school can be a hurdle for some children, which is why the members of the Kiwanis Clubs of Hillsborough County have announced the Second Annual Stuff the Bus event.
Taking place within the parking lot of Brandon’s Kmart, located at 1602 W. Brandon Blvd., as well as the Staples of Plant City, the Kiwanis Clubs of Brandon, Sun City Center and Plant City will literally stuff Hillsborough County school buses with back-to-school items from 7-9 a.m. on Thursday, August 13. Residents are being welcomed to bring items, such as paper, notebooks, pencils, pens, back packs, scissors, crayons and pocket folders, to aid in the endeavor of filling the bus with back-to-school supplies. Also being collected are teaching supplies, which include dry erase markers, color pens, copy paper, markers, reward stickers and more. Businesses or printing companies looking to rid themselves of unneeded office supplies are welcome to donate any items available. All items donated are tax deductible.
According to Dustie Amatangelo, Brandon foundation president, “A lot of students do not go to school the first day or first week because they do not have the school supplies. This will ready them for learning.”
Having 30 businesses, 26 volunteers and a number of residents attend last year’s event, $6,200 was raised and one entire bus was packed full with school supplies. Because of this effort, 38 schools benefited, helping a multitude of students who were in need. This year, some 45 schools within Brandon, Riverview, SouthShore and Plant City will receive the donations.
“With the state of the economy the way it is and our neighbors and friends losing their jobs and falling on hard times, it is important that everybody pick up a little something extra at the store, as everyone’s help is needed,” comments Amatangelo. “How does that saying go…’It takes a village to raise a child.’ I think in these times, it does.”
For those residents unable to attend the event, some area businesses will have collection bins on-site for donations, such as the Brandon Chamber of Commerce, Kmart, Stingray Chevrolet in Plant City, Network in Plant City, Sweet Bay in Plant City on Alexander, Remax Real Estate in Sun City, South Shore Day Spa in Apollo Beach and South Shore Gallery in Apollo Beach. Monetary donations are welcome at P.O. Box 581, Brandon, FL 33509.
Led by the motto, “Help change the world one child and one community at a time,” the 33-member group, having originated in Brandon some 50 years ago, is enveloped in a variety of subgroups for youth, from elementary school through college. In promotion of its allegiance to the community, it holds a multitude of programs such as Terrific Kids, which recognizes student achievement throughout 28 various elementary schools within Hillsborough County, rewarding an allotted 960 students a month. Focusing on children’s health issues, the group annually provides back-to-school immunizations to almost 3,000 children.
Besides its clubs for the young, the Brandon Kiwanis, one of nine clubs in Hillsborough County alone, holds its own meetings for the young at heart every Thursday morning at Ben’s Family Restaurant, located at 704 E. Brandon Blvd. in Brandon, from 7:45-8:45 a.m. For more information, please call 294-0645 or visit www.brandonkiwanis.org.
Having originated in 1915, Kiwanis spans more than 90 countries, providing 15,000 clubs for those interested in the needs of children to take part. Today nearly 600,000 individuals are members of the group which has the goal of eliminating iodine deficiency disorders (IDD).
FishHawk and Bloomingdale Events – August 2009
Salon & Spa Initiates School Supply Drive
Denise Shadden, of Escape Salon & Spa located at 904 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. in Brandon, is having a school drive for Valrico Elementary School. For a donation of $5, residents will have a chance to receive a $25 gift certificate, or for $1 donation, a chance for a $10 gift certificate with Shadden. The drawing is to be held Wednesday, August 12.
For more information, contact Shadden at 651-0853.
Pet Portraits Available
Pet Photo Day with Flash & Co. will take place at Dog Gone Holistic, located at 5620 FishHawk Crossing Blvd. in Lithia, on Saturday, August 1, starting at 11 a.m. with the summer special (1) 8×10, (1) 5×7 and (4) wallet size photos all for $49.99.
Call 651-0842 to sign up.
Fundraiser Held for Ill Co-Worker
The Oaks Bar & Grill, located at 108 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. in Brandon, will host a fundraiser on Saturday, August 15, for co-worker Breann Fairweather, 27, who was stricken with multiple sclerosis. A live auction will be held, with 100 percent of proceeds being donated to Fairweather.
To provide a donation or for more information, please contact Terri at 310-1208.
Outreach for Homeless Announced
Cynthia Pinckney Ministries is sponsoring a feeding and clothing outreach for the homeless and needy on Saturdays, August 15, and September 19, from 1–3:30 p.m. at Able Body Labor, located at 12006 MLK Blvd. in Seffner. In addition, Cynthia Pinckney Ministries, Inc. is offering a four-hour training class for new volunteers desiring to take part in the annual Thanksgiving and Christmas Dinner, held at Westminster Presbyterian Church, located at 402 E. Lumsden Rd. in Brandon, from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. on Saturdays, August 22, September 26 and October 24.
For more information, email donna@cynthiapinckneyministries.org or call 571–1556.
Free Summer Concert Series Hits Park Square
The FishHawk Ranch Summer Concert Series at Park Square at FishHawk Ranch, located at 16144 Churchview Dr. in Lithia, provides free performances scheduled from 7–10 p.m. which include: August 7 – BLAST; August 14 – Disco Inferno; and August 21 – The Spazmatics.
For additional information, please visit www.fishhawkconnect.com or call 654-6360.
Workout Membership Specials for Students & Teachers
Snap Fitness 24/7, conveniently located at 16317 FishHawk Blvd. in Lithia, is offering a summer membership special for all high school/college students and teachers. Through Monday, August 31, Snap Fitness will offer students and teachers a summer membership for all four months for only $75. This includes a one-time card access fee of $29.95. Snap Fitness offers the latest, state-of-the-art fitness equipment, including the ever-popular Expresso Bikes and Arc Trainers, in addition to personal trainers who can offer guidance and training on nutrition and exercise. The offer for the summer special membership promotion expires on Tuesday, June 30.
For more information, contact Snap at 685-1568 or visit www.snapfitness.com/lithiafl.
Announcements for St. Stephen Church
St. Stephen Catholic Church, located at 5049 Bell Shoals Rd. in Valrico, will host the following events: celebrate Mass in honor of Michael J. McGivney on Wednesday, August 12, at 7 p.m.; a car blessing and blessing of all drivers on Saturday and Sunday, August 22 and 23; healing for victims of crime on Wednesday, August 26, at 7 p.m.; a ladies tea on Saturday, September 12, starting at 10 a.m. for $16 per person; and join Monsignor Scully and the Legion of Mary any Saturday after 8 a.m. Mass.
For more information, call 689-4900. Call Mary at 684-6617 or Arlene at 689 4547 for reservations for the ladies tea.
Presbyterian Church Hosts VBS
Crocodile Dock will be hosted at Presbyterian Church of Bloomingdale, located at 710 E. Bloomingdale Ave. in Brandon, from Monday-Thursday, August 10-13, for kids ages 4-14, running from 5:30-8:30 p.m. Each day concludes at Firefly Finale—a celebration that gets everyone involved in living what they’ve learned at 8:15 p.m. Kids at Crocodile Dock will join nearly a million children sharing God’s love in a hands-on mission project, helping disaster victims in North America.
For more information, call 654-3699.
Truth Told at Campo YMCA
The Campo YMCA and CBMC of Brandon are teaming up to bring the Truth Project to Campo, located at 3414 Culbreath Rd. in Valrico, meeting Wednesday mornings for 13 weeks. Join any time, as it is a progressive study until Wednesday, September 2, from 6-7:30 a.m. Coffee and a light breakfast will be provided.
Contact Dan Shock at 299-9219 for more information.
Back-to-School Extravaganza Hosted
A Back-to-School Extravaganza will be held at Bay Life Church, located at 1017 Kingsway Rd. in Brandon, on August 22, from 9-12 Noon. The community is welcome to purchase used clothing for back to school students in kindergarten-12th grade. All items are just $1. All proceeds go to benefit missions. Donated items for the sale are being accepted until Sunday, August 16.
For additional information, contact Beverly at 661-3696, ext. 231.
Church Supports Divorced
DivorceCare is a special weekly DVD seminar and support group for people who are dealing with the pain of separation or divorce. FishHawk Fellowship, located at 15326 FishHawk Blvd. in Lithia, will be starting a new 13-week session in the fall. A workbook is required as well as a $12 fee (scholarships are available).
To learn more, visit www.divorcecare.org. To register or for more information, contact Barbara Davidson at 655-7431 or bdavidson@fishhawkfc.org.
Leaguerettes Wanted
The Brandon Leaguerettes, a slow pitch girls softball team in the Brandon, Valrico and Riverview areas, announces its registration for Saturdays, August 8 and 15, from 9 a.m.-12 Noon at Brandon Park, located at 510 E. Sadie St. in Brandon.
Please email blsoftball@tampabay.rr.com for more information.
Softball Season Begins
The Miss Tampa Bay Softball at FishHawk’s fall 2009 season will be starting soon, open to all area girls between the ages of 4-16. League games will be played at the FishHawk Youth Sports Complex on FishHawk Blvd. Online registration will run through Saturday, August 22. In-person registration dates include: Saturday, August 8, at the FANG Back-to-School day at the FYSA fields, Thursday, August 20, 6-9 p.m. at FYSA behind the concession stand and Saturday, August 22, from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. at FYSA behind the concession stand. Practices will begin on Saturday, August 29.
For more information or to register online, visit www.MissTampabaySoftball.com.
Soccer League Announces Registration
Brandon Area Youth Soccer League’s (BAYSL) Coach’s Registration will take place on Thursday, August 13, from 6-9 p.m. at Beef ‘O’ Brady’s, located at 2561 E. S.R. 60 in Valrico. Player Registration will be at the J.C. Handley Athletic Complex, located at 3104 S. Kings Ave. in Brandon, on Wednesday, August 26, from 10 a.m.-1:30 p.m.; Thursday, August 27, from 10 a.m.-1:30 p.m.; and Thursday, August 27, from 6-9 p.m. Two more will be on Saturday, August 29, from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. and Sunday, August 30, from 11 a.m.-4 p.m., both being held at Dick’s Sporting Goods, located at 459 Brandon Town Center Mall in Brandon.
For more information, please visit www.brandonsoccer.com or call 684-5948.
Baseball Tryouts Unveil
The Brandon Panther 10U AAU competitive baseball team will be holding tryouts at the Bloomingdale Little League fields for the upcoming 2009/2010 season. The 10U tryouts (child cannot turn 11 years old before May 1, 2010) will be held Saturday, August 1, at 1 p.m. Players are expected to attend both sessions.
For more information, please contact Jeff Cooper at 787-0369 or at mauiman7@aol.com.
FishHawk Soccer Registers Both Kids and Adults
For those over 25, the adult league will be returning to the FishHawk Soccer Club this fall. Registration will be open through mid-August. The registration period for children will kickoff at the Back-to-School Festival at the FHSC, located at 16112 FishHawk Blvd. in Lithia, on Saturday, August 8, from 9 a.m.-12 Noon.
For more information, visit www.fishhawksoccer.com.
Brandon Events – July 2009
Help Stuff the Bus
The Kiwanis Club will once again be collecting supplies from Monday, July 27-Thursday, August 13, in its Second Annual Stuff the Bus program. A container will be placed within the Greater Brandon Chamber of Commerce’s lobby, at 330 Pauls Dr., Ste. 100, in Brandon, to help with collections.
For more information, call 294-0645.
Expo at Dallas Bull
The Dallas Bull will host an expo on Saturday, August 1, from 11 a.m.-3 p.m., free-of-charge to the general public. There will be a wide variety of vendors onsite, displaying their merchandise to be used for private parties at the venue. Those who attend will get to enjoy complimentary line dancing lessons as well as a chance to test their skill on the club’s infamous mechanical bull. There will be live entertainment as well as an opportunity to win an exclusive party at Bar 9, the club’s private party room. There is still vendor space available for those interested.
For more information, please visit www.dallasbull.com or call 373-0700.
Chick-fil-A Awards Scholarships
Riverview resident Viviana Vargas received $1,000 scholarship from Chick-fil-A at Lake Brandon Village. She is studying Cosmetology at Paul Mitchell The School in Orlando.
To learn more about Chick-fil-A, visit www.chick-fil-a.com.
Auxiliary Hosts Back-to-School
The Brandon Eagles 3566, located at 1810 Front St. in Brandon, will offer the Ladies Auxiliary Birthday Dinner “Back-to-School” on Saturday, August 15, from 6-7 p.m. with music by Tony and Trish. Please bring school supplies to donate to the kids at Mango Elementary School.
For more information and offerings, visit www.foe.com/3566 or call 685-4173.
Adoption Gallery Unveils New Website
The Heart Gallery of Tampa Bay, which hosts an event annually at the Brandon Westfield mall, recently announced its new Website, which features 50 new faces of children now available for adoption, at www.heartgallerytampabay.org.
Brandon Chapter GWRRA Changes Venue
The Brandon Chapter FL1-B of the Gold Wing Road Riders Association has changed its meeting location to Ben’s Family Restaurant, located at 704 E. Brandon Blvd. Meetings are held the second Thursday of each month. Dinner is at 6 p.m. with the meeting to follow at 7 p.m.
For more information, call 654-9325.
Better Your Business
Upcoming seminars at the Greater Brandon Chamber of Commerce, located at 330 Pauls Dr., Ste.100, in Brandon, include: Marketing Series Part I, on Tuesday, August 4, from 10 a.m.–12 Noon; and Marketing Series Part II, on Tuesday, August 11, from 10 a.m.–12 Noon.
For more information, call 689-1221.
Chamber Offers New Savings Program
The Greater Brandon Chamber of Commerce is pleased to announce the second release of the “Dining Dollars” card for $5, which offers cardholders an opportunity to receive discounts at 14 chamber-affiliated restaurants until December. The “Dining Dollars” cards are available at the chamber, located at 330 Pauls Dr., Ste. 100, Brandon, or online at www.brandonchamber.com.
For more information, call 689-1221 or email jnoah@brandonchamber.com.
Advantage Center’s Board Meets
The Brandon Community Advantage Center Board of Directors meets the second Thursday of the month at the Greater Brandon Chamber of Commerce building at 330 Pauls Dr. in Brandon. The BCAC is a freestanding special events center and multi-use facility for the greater Brandon area. Meetings start at 4:30 p.m. and are open to the public.
For information, call 413-8878.
Momentum Festival Searches for Charity
The Momentum Festival is seeking an area charity to be the recipient of the fundraising for the 2010 Momentum Festival. The deadline is Saturday, August 1.
To apply, go to www.MomentumFestival.com. For more information, call Dave Loebig at 685-9206.
Recycle Your Cell Phone for Soldiers
Drop off your unused cell phones at Pak Mail, located at 2420 W. Brandon Blvd. in Brandon, so that they can be recycled. The proceeds from the recycling are used to purchase one-hour phone cards for our soldiers. A free one-hour phone card will be included with any package shipped to an APO or FPO.
For more information, call 643-0405.
Free Car Seat Check-Ups
Babies“R”Us, located at 11201 Causeway Blvd. in Brandon, will host a complimentary Buckle Up & Boogie Workshop on the last Tuesday of every month – July 28, August 25, September 29, October 27, November 24 and December 29 – at 6:30 p.m., where new and expectant parents will learn about the features and benefits of car safety seats as well as how to safely select, properly use and correctly install the seats.
For more information, please call 685-7899.
Westfield Events
Westfield Brandon, located at 459 Brandon Town Center in Brandon, announces Friday Night Live – every Friday night Westfield Brandon will be hosting live music entertainment in The Restaurant Courtyard from 7-10 p.m.
For more information, visit www.westfield.com/brandon.
Come Picnic at Plaza Bella
Picnic at the Plaza will be held at Plaza Bella, located at 1078 Bloomingdale Ave. in Valrico, on Saturday, July 25, from 11 a.m.-3 p.m., benefiting the Emergency Care Help Organization (ECHO). Donations are welcome.
For more information, call 689-0523.
St. Andrew’s VBS a Success
St. Andrew’s United Methodist Church, located at 3315 Bryan Rd. in Brandon, recently drew in some 400 children to its Vacation Bible School in June. Students learned how to go serve, go tell and go lead with God’s help through stories, plays, songs, crafts and activities.
For more information, call 689-6849.
Meditation Class Announced
American Buddhist teacher, Dr. Anika Trancik, will teach Healing the Heart – Taking and Giving Healing Meditations on Thursday, July 23, from 7:05-8:30 p.m. at Unity in Brandon, located at 115 Margaret St. in Brandon. A suggested donation of $10, or $5 for students/low-income residents, is welcome.
For more information, call 727-797-9770 or visit www.MeditationInTampaBay.org.
Presbyterian Church Hosts VBS
Crocodile Dock will be hosted at Presbyterian Church of Bloomingdale, located at 710 E. Bloomingdale Ave. in Brandon, from Monday-Thursday, August 10-13, for kids ages 4-14, running from 5:30-8:30 p.m. Each day concludes at Firefly Finale—a celebration that gets everyone involved in living what they’ve learned at 8:15 p.m. Kids at Crocodile Dock will join nearly a million children sharing God’s love in a hands-on mission project, helping disaster victims in North America.
For more information, call 654-3699.
Back-to-School Extravaganza Hosted
A Back-to-School Extravaganza will be held at Bay Life Church, located at 1017 Kingsway Rd. in Brandon, on August 22, from 9-12 Noon. The community is welcome to purchase used clothing for back to school students in kindergarten-12th grade. All items are just $1. All proceeds go to benefit missions. Donated items for the sale are being accepted until Sunday, August 16.
For additional information, contact Beverly at 661-3696, ext. 231.
Craft Show Announced
Horizon Christian Church, located at 1720 St. Cloud Ave. in Valrico, will host its Second Annual Christmas in July Craft Fair on Saturday, July 25, from 8 a.m.-2 p.m. It is a free event open to the public. Come one, come all to see a showcase of all different kinds of crafts displayed. Vendors are needed for this inside show. Limited space is available, so please call to reserve your $5 table today.
Please call the church office 689-1457 to reserve your table today.
Soccer League Announces Registration
Brandon Area Youth Soccer League’s (BAYSL) Coach’s Registration will take place on Thursday, August 13, from 6-9 p.m. at Beef ‘O’ Brady’s, located at 2561 E. S.R. 60 in Valrico. Player Registration will be at the J.C. Handley Athletic Complex, located at 3104 S. Kings Ave. in Brandon, on Wednesday, August 26, from 10 a.m.-1:30 p.m.; Thursday, August 27, from 10 a.m.-1:30 p.m.; and Thursday, August 27, from 6-9 p.m. Two more will be on Saturday, August 29, from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. and Sunday, August 30, from 11 a.m.-4 p.m., both being held at Dick’s Sporting Goods, located at 459 Brandon Town Center Mall in Brandon.
For more information, please visit www.brandonsoccer.com or call 684-5948.
Baseball Tryouts Unveil
The Brandon Panther 10U AAU competitive baseball team will be holding tryouts at the Bloomingdale Little League fields for the upcoming 2009/2010 season. The 10U tryouts (child cannot turn 11 years old before May 1, 2010) will be held Friday July 31, at 5:30 p.m. and Saturday, August 1, at 1 p.m. Players are expected to attend both sessions.
For more information, please contact Jeff Cooper at 787-0369 or at mauiman7@aol.com.
Children Welcome to Doodle
Abrakadoodle, led by instructor Tony Capobianco, is an art education company for children ages 6-11, focusing on different artists, techniques and materials, held on Wednesdays, August 5, 12, 19 and 26, from 4:30-5:30 p.m. at Center Place, located at 619 Vonderburg Dr., Ste. B, in Brandon. The cost is $36 a member or $46 a nonmember.
For more information, call 685-8888.
Learning Center Holds Round-Up
A Children’s Kastle Early Learning Centers, Inc., located at 950 S. Mulrennan Rd. in Valrico, is hosting its fourth Pre-School Round-up for the 2009-2010 school year. Round-up dates and times are: Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday, August 11, 12 and 13, from 10-11 a.m. Families will receive information in the mail with their child’s round-up date and classroom assignment. Round-up dates include all accelerated, enriched and VPK programs.
For more information, call 654-9500.
Robotics Camp Announced
National Science Foundation funded Florida Advanced Technological Education Center (FLATE), Hillsborough Community College and the University of South Florida are hosting three summer camps designed to introduce middle school students to the world of robotics and automation. The Lego Mindstorms Summer Robotics will be held at Hillsborough Community College-Brandon, located at 10414 E. Columbus Dr. in Tampa, in Room 218, on Friday, July 24, at 1 p.m. and Friday, August 7, at 1 p.m.
For more information, call 259-6581.
Head Start Now Accepting Applications
Hillsborough County Head Start/Early Head Start is now accepting applications for 2009/2010. Families may be eligible for this program if they: have a child who is at least 6 weeks of age, but no older than 24 months (for the Early Head Start program); have a child who will be 3 years old before Tuesday, September 1, 2009 (for the Head Start program); are employed at least 25 hours per week or enrolled in school/job training full time; are homeless; receive public assistance (SSI, TANF or Subsidized Child Care); or have a child who has been diagnosed with autism, hearing impairment, mental retardation, orthopedic impairment, developmentally delayed, speech language or any other impairment affecting the child’s learning.
Applications can be downloaded at www.hillsboroughcounty.org/headstart. For more information, residents should call 272-5140.
Informational Meetings Held for BCCS
Brandon Christian Community School (BCCS) will be holding the final informational meeting before the June 30 registration deadline for the 2009/2010 school year. It will be at 10:15 a.m. on Tuesday, June 23, at Oakwood Baptist Church, located at 540 S. Oakwood Ave. in Brandon. BCCS is a hybrid of a traditional Christian school and home school.
Please call 685-2227 for reservations or visit www.bccsonline.net for more information.
Athletes Needed for Triathlon
A free triathlon clinic will be held on Sunday, August 9, from 7:30-10 a.m. at AJ’s Bikes and Boards shop, located at 1538 Bloomingdale Ave. in Valrico. This free triathlon clinic, by Tri-Freddie Coaching, is geared for all level of athletes – from those that have never competed in a triathlon to the experienced athlete. This 2.5 hour clinic will cover all aspects of swimming, biking and running. Nutrition, transition, heart rate training and race strategy will also be discussed. There will also be a “Bike 101″ portion on basic bike maintenance and how to change a flat tire.
RSVP by email at freddie@trifreddie.com or visit www.trifreddie.com for more information on triathlon and run coaching programs.
Riverview Events – July 2009
Water Resource Center Closing
The Hillsborough County Water Resource Services’ SouthShore customer service center, located within the SouthShore Regional Service Center at 410 SE 30th St. in Ruskin, will close. The Brandon office will remain open and is located in the Brandon Crossings Shopping Center at S.R. 60 and Falkenburg Rd., operating from 8 a.m.-5 p.m.
For more information, call 272-6680.
Business Woman Nominated
Mary Ann Wilhelm has been nominated by the SouthShore Charter Chapter of the American Business Woman’s Association as its “Top Ten Woman of the Year” Her entry will be forwarded to ABWA’s National Headquarters for inclusion in its search for the Top Ten Women of ABWA. The SouthShore Chapter of the American Business Women’s Network is seeking new members. Meetings are held the third Monday of the month. The next meeting will be held at Apollo’s Bistro, located at 6520 Richies Way in Apollo Beach, at 5:30 p.m. on Monday, July 20. Dinner will be $16, including tip.
For more information, visit www.sswbn.org.
Rotary Installation Dinner Announced
The Rotary Club of SouthShore will hold its annual installation dinner on Wednesday, July 15, at 5:30 p.m., with the ceremony beginning at 6 p.m. at Ybor Grille, located at 105 E. Shell Point Rd. in Ruskin. The cost per person is $30. Rotarians, their spouses and guests are welcome.
RSVP by 12 Noon, Friday, July 10, to d.madden@verizon.net or call 645-3732.
Business Helps Combat Cancer
If you need any computer work done (virus removal, upgrade), CRT Computers will charge for parts only and all labor charges (donations) go to the Susan Komen Breast Cancer 3 Day. Any profits from newly purchased computers will also go to the Susan Komen Breast Cancer 3 Day. This is a limited time offer, ending Friday, July 31.
Please contact John Delage at 671-1108 for more details.
Cat Lovers Invited
Feline Folks is conducting the free Colony Caretaking program on Tuesday, August 18, at 2 p.m. at the South Shore Regional Library, located at 15816 Beth Shields Way in Ruskin. There will be hands-on humane trap training. Residents are encouraged to bring an unopened can of food or tuna for the Feed the Tuna Chest cat food drive.
For more information, call 944-7651.
Chamber Members Can Facebook
You can now find the Ruskin Chamber of Commerce page on Facebook by simply searching for “Ruskin Chamber” and selecting “request friend.” Located at 315 S Tamiami Trl. in Ruskin, the chamber aims to keep members informed and increase the exposure of its businesses, with a “Business of the Week” being featured, along with other chamber activities.
For more information, call 645-3808.
Pancake Breakfast Kicks Off Mayor’s Race
The Pancake Breakfast/Honorary Mayor kickoff is Thursday, July 9, at Calvary Lutheran Church 5309 N. U.S. Hwy. 41 in Apollo Beach. Tickets are $5 per person and can be purchased in advance at the Ruskin Chamber of Commerce office.
For more information, call 645-3808.
Volunteers Needed at Library
Hillsborough County Libraries have installed automated check-out equipment at most libraries. Located at 15816 Beth Shields Way in Ruskin, SouthShore Library would like to launch a pilot program to train volunteers to assist customers in checking out books and other items from the library. All necessary training will be provided.
Call Jo Combs at 672-1156 or email combsm@hillsboroughcounty.org.
Partnerships Formed For HealthFest
Coldwell Banker, Dolphin Realty has combined with South Bay Church and Wholesome Community Ministries to serve the local community with a free Back-to-School Blessings HealthFest, providing various health screening tests, nutritional seminars, hair cuts, backpacks, shoes, socks and much more on Saturday, July 18, from 9 a.m.-2 p.m. at South Bay Church, located at 13498 S. U.S. Hwy. 301. Monetary and physical donations can be dropped off at Coldwell Banker Dolphin Realty, located at 208 Apollo Beach Blvd. in Apollo Beach.
For more information, contact Diane Allers at 545-0267.
Fundraiser Goes to the Dogs
On Saturday, June 13, from 10 a.m.-1 p.m., Give A Dog A Bone, located at 6114 N. U.S. Hwy. 41 in Apollo Beach, will host a dog wash for $5 using all-natural shampoo, with conditioner being $1 extra and nail trimming being $8. Kitty Groomer will be clipping cat’s nails for $8. All proceeds will benefit CARE, an animal shelter in Ruskin.
For more information, call 641-3734.
Wii Gaming for Seniors at Library
The SouthShore Regional Library, located at 15816 Beth Shields Way in Ruskin, will be offering Wii gaming for seniors this summer. Dates and times include: Tuesday, July 14, at 4:30 p.m.; Thursday, July 25, at 2 p.m.; Thursday, August 13, at 4 p.m.; and Saturday, August 29, at 2 p.m.
For more information, please call 273-3652 or visit www.hcplc.org.
Beefs Hosts Summer Fun
Summerfield Beefs, located at 13326 Lincoln Rd. in Riverview, will offer the following free events: Guitar Hero Duals on Mondays at 7 p.m.; Wii Adult Bowling Monday at 7 p.m.; Kids Eat Free every Tuesday from 4-8 p.m.; and Wii Kids Bowling Wednesday at 2 p.m.
For more information, call 672-4277.
Crop for a Cure Announced
A scrapbook crop will take place on Saturday, August 8, from 9 a.m.-7 p.m. at the Bayou Pass Village Clubhouse, located at the corner of 14th Ave. S.E. and 24th St. S.E. in Ruskin. The cost is $35 and includes: raffles, door prizes, vendors, lunch and a donation made in your name to benefit the fight against breast cancer.
Please RSVP by emailing bsgetz@verizon.net.
RUMC Announces Camp EDGE
Riverview United Methodist Church, located at 8002 S. U.S. Hwy. 301 in Riverview, invites all children from 3 years old-fifth grade to attend Camp EDGE Vacation Bible School from Sunday-Thursday, July 12-16, from 6:30-8:30 p.m., with a parents’ program on Friday, July 16.
Registration forms are available at www.riverviewflumc.org. For more information, call 677-5995.
Simmons Loop Hosts Boomerang Express
Simmons Loop Baptist Church Boomerang Express Vacation Bible School will be from Sunday-Thursday, July 26-30, from 6-9 p.m., at 6610 Simmons Loop.
For more information, call 677-9310 or 741-0450.
Church Initiates Christmas in July
The annual Calvary Lutheran Church Christmas in July, to benefit Mary and Martha House and local area schools, will be held Wednesday, July 15, at 6 p.m. at 5309 N. U.S. Hwy. 41 in Apollo Beach with a Christmas dinner and Christmas carol. The cost is $7 per person, $25 per family (immediate members) and open to the public. All proceeds will matched by Thrivent Financial for Lutherans. Attendees are asked to bring a back-to-school item to be placed under the Christmas tree.
Reservations can be made by contacting the church office at 645-1305.
Health Fair Announced
On Saturday, August 8, the First Baptist Church of Riverview, located at 8626 S. U.S. Hwy. 301 in Riverview, will be hosting a health fair from 9 a.m.-3 p.m., partnering with Moffitt’s Community Education and Outreach Department. The event will offer community health screenings and education; and include refreshments, music and other activities.
For more information, email Jeannette.Palencia@moffitt.org.
Teens Summer Art Classes
The John Crawford Art Studio at the SouthShore Regional Library, located at 15816 Beth Shields Way in Ruskin, will offer ages 11-18 the following summer classes: Wednesday, July 22, from 6:30-8 p.m.- Watercolor Pencil; Wednesday, August 12, from 6:30-8 p.m.- Acrylic Painting.
For more information, call 273-3652.
Homeschooled Students Have Options
TechPlayzone, located at 13208 Boyette Rd. in Riverview, announced its home school schedule and will be offering Robotics Level I on Fridays from 9-10 a.m. for $25 per month; Computer Science I (Video Game Creation) on Wednesdays from 9-10 a.m. for $25 per month; Jr. Scientists on Fridays from 10:15-11 for $20 per month; Robotics Level II on Wednesdays from 9- 10 a.m. for $25 per month; Web Design and Animation on Wednesdays from 9-10 a.m. at $25 per month; Computer Science II (Programming Concepts) on Wednesdays from 10:15- 11:15 a.m. at $25 per month. All classes listed will run from September –May, excluding December. Families who enroll in more than one course receive a 10 percent discount. Families with multiple students receive an additional 10 percent off each additional sibling.
To learn more, visit www.techplayzone.com/techplay or call 684-7329.
Camp Offered for Girls
Girl Scouts of West Central Florida (GSWCF) invites girls entering first through 12th grades to discover camp this summer. Space is still available in July at the council’s camp property Camp Dorothy Thomas in Riverview. Camp programs such as high adventure, equestrian, arts, video, swimming, sports, science, photography and more are open to all girls ages 6 – 17, whether or not they are registered Girl Scouts.
Additional information regarding each camp session and online registration is available on the council’s Website: www.gswcf.org.
Special Deals from PlayMania
Join PlayMania, located at 10655 Big Bend Rd. in Riverview, for Family Fun Night, every other Friday evening from 6-7:30 p.m. Check out its schedule to see this month’s themes. Also, the Drop-off Sports Class is coming soon. This class will help your child understand organized sports, including how to have fun, improve or learn skills, numbers, make new friends and, of course, be healthy. Summer camps are almost here. Now is the time to reserve your spot. Check out the summer camp page for more information on dates, themes and pricing.
To sign up or for more information, send an email to info@playmaniatampa.com or call 649-8919.
Troop Revamps Camp Bayou
The Native People’s Camp at Camp Bayou was recently given a facelift by the young ladies from Brownie Troop 1243 and Junior Troop 356, both from Ruskin. The exhibit had been created by three Eagle Scouts a few years ago but had been showing signs of weathering over time. The Native People’s Camp is ready for guests – either free informal visits or formal programs requesting a modest charge per person. In addition, the simulated archaeology dig offers visitors the opportunity to be ‘archaeologist for a morning’- pre-registration required.
If you have a group that would like to schedule a formal program for either the Native People’s Camp or the archaeology dig, please email campbayou@yahoo.com or call 363-5438.
Valrico Events – July 2009
Leadership Brandon Graduates
The Greater Brandon Chamber of Commerce congratulates the Leadership Brandon Class of 2009. Thirty-four class members were recognized after the completion of the year- long program. Graduation ceremonies were held in May at Center Place Fine Arts & Civic Association. University of South Florida Head Football Coach, Jim Leavitt, was the keynote speaker for the event. The Leadership Brandon program is a series of seminars, tours and interactive presentations concentrating on various phases of leadership development and community awareness. The program is open to all. Nominations for the Class of 2010 are currently underway.
For more information or to make a nomination, contact Crystal Colegrove at 689-1221, ext. 8824, or ccolegrove@brandonchamber.com. Nomination forms for the Class of 2010 are also available at www.brandonchamber.com.
Mortgage Help Offered
The DCF Office on Homelessness will begin accepting Emergency Financial Assistance for Housing Program (EFAHP) applications in July. The program can pay up to $400 once per year for overdue rent or mortgage payments or for a security deposit for a household that is homeless, being evicted or whose housing has been damaged by fire, a hurricane or other natural disaster.
Applications are available at www.dcf.state.fl.us/homelessness or by calling 1-877-891-6445.
Better Your Business
Upcoming seminars at the Greater Brandon Chamber of Commerce, located at 330 Pauls Dr., Ste.100, in Brandon, include: Smart Start Your Business, on Tuesday, July 14, from 10 a.m.–12 Noon; Marketing Series Part I, on Tuesday, August 4, from 10 a.m.–12 Noon; and Marketing Series Part II, on Tuesday, August 11, from 10 a.m.–12 Noon.
For more information, call 689-1221.
Advantage Center’s Board Meets
The Brandon Community Advantage Center Board of Directors meets the second Thursday of the month at the Greater Brandon Chamber of Commerce building at 330 Pauls Dr. in Brandon. The BCAC is a freestanding special events center and multi-use facility for the greater Brandon area. Meetings start at 4:30 p.m. and are open to the public.
For more information, call 413-8878.
MOMS Club Invites New Members
MOMS Club of Valrico, a nonprofit organization providing support to stay-at-home moms and their children, offers a monthly calendar filled with park days, holiday parties, field trips, Moms Night Outs, weekly playgroups and other activities.
Contact Valrico MOMS Club at valricomomsclub@yahoo.com or call Diane at 661-0860 for more information.
Volunteers Needed
Cynthia Pinckney Ministries, Inc. is looking for storage unit help on Saturdays, August 8, September 5, October 10, November 7, 14 and 21, at Public Storage, located at 1351 W. Brandon Blvd. in Brandon.
For more information, call 657-8770.
Company Needs Your Votes
Marilyn and Brian Custer of Freedom Excursions offer a care-free day on the water to American heroes, taking wounded soldiers from the VA as well as their families on water excursions. Each trip is catered to the physical abilities and desires of the participants. They have been able to offer these wonderful opportunities by volunteering their own time, as well as donations from friends and neighbors. Freedom Excursions has entered a photo contest to win $5,000, with an opportunity to win $10,000. Winners are determined by viewer votes. So, help them by giving them your vote. To vote, please visit www.DiscoverBoating.com, clicking on “Video and Photo Contest,” then “View & Rate Photo’s.” The title of the photo is: “What are you Waiting for?”
To learn more about Freedom Excursions, please visit www.freedomexcursions.org.
Republicans Move Locations
The Hillsborough County Republican Party recently moved locations from 800 W. Lumsden Rd. to 1602 Oakfield Dr., Ste. 207, in Brandon.
For more information, call 657-6499.
Come Picnic at Plaza Bella
Picnic at the Plaza will be held at Plaza Bella, located at 1078 Bloomingdale Ave. in Valrico, on Saturday, July 25, from 11 a.m.-3 p.m., benefiting the Emergency Care Help Organization (ECHO). Donations are welcome.
For more information, call 689-0523.
Chamber Offers New Savings Program
The Greater Brandon Chamber of Commerce is pleased to announce the second release of the “Dining Dollars” card for $5, which offers cardholders an opportunity to receive discounts at 14 chamber-affiliated restaurants until December. The “Dining Dollars” cards are available at the chamber, located at 330 Pauls Dr., Ste. 100, Brandon, or online at www.brandonchamber.com.
For more information, call 689-1221 or email jnoah@brandonchamber.com.
Group Presents Local CEOs
YP Brandon presents CEO Unplugged on Thursday, July 16, from 6-7:30 p.m. at River Hills Country Club, located at 3943 New River Hills Pkwy. in Valrico. Tickets are $10 to attend, with refreshments included.
For more information, contact Amy at abelliveau@brandonchamber.com or visit www.ypbrandon.com.
Recycle Your Cell Phone For Soldiers
Drop off your unused cell phones at Pak Mail, located at 2420 W. Brandon Blvd. in Brandon, so that they can be recycled. The proceeds from the recycling are used to purchase one-hour phone cards for our soldiers. A free one-hour phone card will be included with any package shipped to an APO or FPO.
For more information, call 643-0405.
Free Car Seat Check-Ups
Babies“R”Us, located at 11201 Causeway Blvd. in Brandon, will host a complimentary Buckle Up & Boogie Workshop on the last Tuesday of every month – July 28, August 25, September 29, October 27, November 24 and December 29 – at 6:30 p.m., where new and expectant parents will learn about the features and benefits of car safety seats as well as how to safely select, properly use and correctly install the seats.
For more information, please call 685-7899.
Convoy of Hope Coming
A Convoy of Hope outreach is a special event that will be held at the Florida State Fairgrounds, located at 4800 N U.S. Hwy. 301 in Tampa, on Saturday, August 1, designed to help families in need across the United States.
Churches or organizations that desire to be part of this endeavor, please contact the Cynthia Pinckney Ministries with a list of names of members from your church/organization desiring to participate at cp@cynthiapinckneyministries.org.
To learn more about Convoy of Hope, visit www.convoyofhope.org.
Brandon Christian Hosts VBS
Vacation Bible School “The Boomerang Express-It All Comes Back to Jesus” will take place at Brandon Christian Church, located at 910 Bryan Rd. in Brandon, from Monday, July 27-Friday, July 31. It will begin with dinner at 6 p.m., followed by activities.
For more information, call 689-4021.
New Jewish Course Unveils
At a graduation barbecue held in June, the upcoming course, Soulquest: The Journey Through Life, Death and Beyond, was unveiled through Chabad of Brandon, a local Jewish Learning Institute (JLI) chapter located at 3207 Hurley Grove Way in Valrico. Due to begin in November, the course will address the afterlife and reincarnation according to Jewish tradition and mysticism.
For more information, please visit www.chabadbrandon.org or call 657-9393.
Presbyterian Church Hosts VBS
Crocodile Dock will be hosted at Presbyterian Church of Bloomingdale, located at 710 E. Bloomingdale Ave. in Brandon, from Monday-Thursday, August 10-13, for kids ages 4-14, running from 5:30-8:30 p.m. Each day concludes at Firefly Finale—a celebration that gets everyone involved in living what they’ve learned at 8:15 p.m. Kids at Crocodile Dock will join nearly a million children sharing God’s love in a hands-on mission project, helping disaster victims in North America.
For more information, call 654-3699.
Church Helps Those in Mourning
Presbyterian Church of Bloomingdale, located at 710 E. Bloomingdale Ave., will start a new bereavement support group on Thursdays in July from 6:30-8 p.m. and will meet for seven weeks.
To attend, call 654-3699, 416-4202 or email Maryfrances8@verizon.net.
Truth Told at Campo YMCA
The Campo YMCA and CBMC of Brandon are teaming up to bring the Truth Project to Campo, located at 3414 Culbreath Rd. in Valrico, meeting Wednesday mornings for 13 weeks. Join any time, as it is a progressive study until Wednesday, September 2, from 6-7:30 a.m. Coffee and a light breakfast will be provided.
Contact Dan Shock at 299-9219 for more information.
Back-to-School Extravaganza Hosted
A Back-to-School Extravaganza will be held at Bay Life Church, located at 1017 Kingsway Rd. in Brandon, on August 22, from 9-12 Noon. The community is welcome to purchase used clothing for back to school students in kindergarten-12th grade. All items are just $1. All proceeds go to benefit missions. Donated items for the sale are being accepted until Sunday, August 16.
For additional information, contact Beverly at 661-3696, ext. 231.
Church Opens Food Pantry to Community
New Berean Baptist Church, located at 740 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. in Brandon, welcomes residents to its food pantry and clothes closet on Wednesdays from 10 a.m.-1 p.m. All those in need can get one bag of food and clothing.
For more information, call 643-7600 or visit www.newbereanbaptistchurch.org.
St. Andrew’s Preschool Now Enrolling
St. Andrew’s United Methodist Preschool, located at 3315 Bryan Rd., is now enrolling 3- and 4-year-olds for the 2009-2010 school year. St. Andrew’s Preschool provides a half-day program, which includes a full curriculum with emphasis on readiness skills to prepare children both academically and socially for kindergarten. The school takes pride in its Gold Seal Accreditation.
Call Gwen Taylor at 689-1207 to register or for additional information or visit www.standrewsbrandon.org.
Vendors Wanted for Craft Show
Horizon Christian Church, located at 1720 St. Cloud Ave. in Valrico, will host its Second Annual Christmas in July Craft Fair on Saturday, July 25, from 8 a.m.-2 p.m. It is a free event open to the public. Come one, come all to see a showcase of all different kinds of crafts displayed. Vendors are needed for this inside show. Limited space is available, so please call to reserve your $5 table today.
Please call the church office 689-1457 to reserve your table today.
Soccer League Announces Registration
Brandon Area Youth Soccer League’s (BAYSL) Coach’s Registration will take place on Thursday, August 13, from 6-9 p.m. at Beef ‘O’ Brady’s, located at 2561 E. S.R. 60 in Valrico. Player Registration will be at the J.C. Handly Athletic Complex, located at 3104 S. Kings Ave. in Brandon, on Wednesday, August 26, from 10 a.m.-1:30 p.m.; Thursday, August 27, from 10 a.m.-1:30 p.m.; and Thursday, August 27, from 6-9 p.m. Two more will be on Saturday, August 29, from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. and Sunday, August 30, from 11 a.m.-4 p.m., both being held at Dick’s Sporting Goods, located at 459 Brandon Town Center Mall in Brandon.
For more information, please visit www.brandonsoccer.com or call 684-5948.
Athletes Needed for Triathlon
A free triathlon clinic will be held on Sunday, August 9, from 7:30-10 a.m. at AJ’s Bikes and Boards shop, located at 1538 Bloomingdale Ave. in Valrico. This free triathlon clinic, by Tri-Freddie Coaching, is geared for all level of athletes – from those that have never competed in a triathlon to the experienced athlete. This 2.5 hour clinic will cover all aspects of swimming, biking and running. Nutrition, transition, heart rate training and race strategy will also be discussed. There will also be a “Bike 101″ portion on basic bike maintenance and how to change a flat tire.
RSVP by email at freddie@trifreddie.com or visit www.trifreddie.com for more information on triathlon and run coaching programs.
Mommy & Me Classes Offered & More
Brandon Ballet, located at 161 E. Bloomingdale Ave. in Brandon, offers a fun class that will introduce your child to listening, memorization, musicality and coordination, spanning Tuesdays and Wednesdays beginning Tuesday, August 18. The classes are open to mommies and 2-year-olds (Must be 2 as of September 1, 2009) and run from 10:30-11 a.m. (30 minute sessions).The cost is $27.50 per month.
Ballet Bootcamp will have a ballet class each day. In addition, a specific ballet from the beginning to the end. Daily activities will include: videos, mime, dance history, nutrition, arts and crafts and much more. Tuition for ages 4-5 is $110, age 6 (Ballet 1) and up is $140. All tuition includes a $5 fee for supplies.
For more information, please call 684-4282 or visit www.brandondance.com.
Baseball Tryouts Unveil
The Brandon Panther 10U AAU competitive baseball team will be holding tryouts at the Bloomingdale Little League fields for the upcoming 2009/2010 season. The 10U tryouts (child cannot turn 11 years old before May 1, 2010) will be held Friday July 31, at 5:30 p.m. and Saturday, August 1, at 1 p.m. Players are expected to attend both sessions.
For more information, please contact Jeff Cooper at 787-0369 or at mauiman7@aol.com.
Come Earn a Pokemon Badge
The Brandon Area Pokemon Trading Card Game (TCG) League welcomes players to its free weekly league, meeting at the Bloomingdale Library, located at 1905 Bloomingdale Ave. in Valrico, on Sundays from 2:30-4:30 p.m. New players and experienced players are welcome.
For more information about Pokemon Organized Play, please visit www.go-pokemon.com/op. For information about the league, please contact Teri Smith at tncsmith@mac.com or 436-0206.
Free Events Announced at Resource Center
The Brandon Family Support & Resource Center, located at 1277 Kingsway Rd. in Brandon, will host the following free events: Back-to-School Block Party: There will be various school supply giveaways, refreshments, face painting and more. Community kids will receive the necessary tools for entering school, with the event being held on Saturday, July 18, from 10 a.m.–12 Noon; Bike Rodeo: This event includes safety information, an obstacle skills course, helmet giveaways (while supplies last), bike inspections and more, taking place on Saturday, July 18, from 10 a.m.-12 Noon; and Kindergarten Transition: This two-hour orientation will teach the child and their family the transition and orientation to kindergarten, being held on Tuesday, July 21, from 5:30– 7:30 p.m.
For more information, call 740-4634.
Local Veterinarian Has Vision For Executive Park
Residents may have noticed that Bloomingdale Ave. has a development trend on its pavement, with the newest addition coming in the form of a 52,500-sq.-ft. professional park by the name of Executive Park of Valrico.
Located adjacent to Plaza Bella, near the intersection of Bell Shoals Rd. and Bloomingdale Ave., Executive Park of Valrico will be offering those with a professional background the option to choose amongst three elevations: the Ashton, the Biltmore and the Carlton. Each building averages 3,500 sq. feet, but if clients choose, the building can be altered to accommodate just 1,750 sq. feet, being shared with another tenant, or increased to span some 10,500 sq. feet. An estimated 15 business spaces are planned to be constructed, with five parking spaces allocated for every 1,000 sq. feet.
The vision for the park came from the mind of Dr. Jim Antunano, owner and veterinarian of Animal Medical Diagnostic Center which is housed directly next to the land – approximating nine acres – at 1102 E. Bloomingdale Ave. in Valrico. Having purchased the land in 1994, Antunano always wanted to develop a professional park in the area.
“All the businesses here are going to benefit from it,” he says. “It will have a positive impact.”
Having started construction some four years ago, Executive Park of Valrico was constructed by CBG Contracting, Inc., with contractor Bernie Gifford citing a past portfolio of clients which includes Riverview’s Tokyo Japanese Steakhouse and Weecare for Kids, as well as Brandon’s Play N Trade and Spun Gold Jewelers. Antunano is offering competitive pricing for these units, with costs starting at $350,000 for the 1,750-sq.-ft. building, offering a build-out allowance of $40,000, and continuing upwards to $615,000 for the 3,500-sq.-ft. structure, which comes with a build-out allowance of $85,000.
“The executive park maintains a great value of ownership versus renting,” concludes Antunano.
To inquire about these new listings, please contact Charlie Malone, broker of CHM Real Estate, Inc., at 843-2002.
Nominations Sought For Small Business Of The Year
Is there a business out there that has made an impression on you? If so, then you may want to nominate it for this year’s Small Business of the Year Awards, made possible by the Brandon Chamber of Commerce.
In its 29th year, the annual Small Business of the Year Awards gives recognition to those businesses in the community which have proven leadership, positive growth trends and a commitment to the community. Categories to be awarded include: Home-Based and Minority or Women-Owned – both of which require a minimum of three years in business, and One-Five Employees, Six-15 Employees and 16-Plus Employees – all of which require the business having been in operation for the past five years. The only other requirement falls within the Minority or Women-Owned category, with the business having to be owned 51 percent by a woman or minority. Fifteen finalists will meet with judges for interviews and once again onsite at the finalists’ business. All finalists will then be invited to the Small Business Gala on Thursday, October 22, with details yet to be revealed.
Sponsored by Bank of Tampa – Brandon Division and the Osprey Observer and ACH Payroll, the event is said to provide “great exposure as a finalist. It created a huge boost to our business,” says Small Business of the Year Awards Committee co-chair Mary Owens, co-owner of Black Diamond Associates, LLC which took home last year’s Home-Based category. She adds, “This credential has opened doors that may have taken us longer to navigate.”
Last year’s winners also included: Brandon Montessori School at Riverview for the Women or Minority-Owned category, Huth & Booth – The Portrait Gallery for the One-Five Employees category, i9 Sports Corporation for the Six-15 Employees category and ServiceMaster 24 Hour for the 16-Plus Employees category.
“Just being nominated was such a great privilege. It means that someone you know holds you in high regard,” concludes Owens.
Nominations are being sought until Friday, June 19. Residents are welcome to make an unlimited submission of recommendations by contacting Reid at 689-1221, ext. 8843, or jreid@brandonchamber.com. Nomination forms are also available for completion on the chamber’s Website at www.brandonchamber.com. Business owners are welcome to nominate themselves and membership with the chamber is not required.
Residents Designate The Best Tastes Of Brandon At Expo
Drawing some 2,000 residents to its festivities, the 2009 Brandon Business Expo & Taste of Brandon was a success, electing Giordano’s of Brandon and Sweetie’s Delights as its winners.
In its 21st year, Brandon Business Expo & Taste of Brandon played host to a multitude of businesses, with contestants Beef ‘O’Brady’s at Best Western, Bob Evans,
Buffalo Wild Wings, The Catering Company & Oakfield Café, 3 C’s Catering/Cheddar’s Casual Café, Chick-fil-A at Lake Brandon Village, Cork & Olive, Costco Wholesale, GFS Marketplace, Giordano’s of Brandon, Hooters, Hungry Howie’s Pizza & Subs, Italian Kitchen Cafe, Jaymer-Que Southern BBQ & Catering, Land & Sea Market, LeeAnn’s Old Fashioned Cookies, Mango’s at Embassy Suites, Mimi’s Café, Moe’s Southwest Grill, Ms. Cyndi’s Catering Co. & Corner Café, Planet Smoothie, Publix Supermarkets, Bakeries & Deli, Red Rose Inn & Suites, Rolling Pin Kitchen Emporium, Shane’s Rib Shack, Sinigual Mexican Cuisine, Sweetie’s Delights, Sweet Tomatoes Restaurant, Tio’s Bakery & Kitchen, Tres Amigos Cantina and Zaxby’s.
Hosted by the Greater Brandon Chamber of Commerce in May, the event was held at the Florida State Fairgrounds with 200 vendors and 34 restaurants onsite. Best Booth went to both the Italian Kitchen Café, located at 6915 S. U.S. Hwy. 301 in Riverview, and Mid-America Apartment Communities in Tampa in the form of a tie.
Those residents who came out to sample the fare were given the chance to rate the contestants for the title of the Best Taste of Brandon and the Best Dessert Taste of Brandon.
Giordano’s of Brandon, located at 11310 Causeway Blvd., took claim of the Best Taste of Brandon designation, with 3 C’s Catering/Cheddar’s Casual Café, located at 11135 Causeway Blvd. in Brandon, coming in as runner-up. Giordano’s Manager Brenda Crawford states, “Having come in second place last year, we said this year we were going to win it. It was a very exciting thing for all of us, from management to our busboy…everyone has done 100 percent in quality work. This is the type of thing you get back in return.” She mentions that the event has brought many newcomers to the restaurant as well and attributes the win to the restaurant’s loyal customers, saying, “Our customers really came through for us.”
Those with a sweet tooth nominated Best Dessert Taste of Brandon as Sweetie’s Delights, with Publix Supermarkets, Bakeries & Deli accepting runner-up. Located at 1050 Bloomingdale Ave. in Valrico, this is the bakery’s second year in a row receiving the honor. Co-owner Karen Gramlich said, “We weren’t really surprised,” about winning, adding, “It was pretty cool to put that much time and work into it and get recognized for it. We are very grateful and thankful.” Known for its Whippy Dip secret family recipe, the bakery recently celebrated its one year anniversary in April. In regard to the business’ first win, Gramlich adds, “It’s definitely impacted our business, big time.” But this local doesn’t let it get to her head, knowing that the bakery’s loyal customers always had the family-owned business’ wellbeing at heart.
The event’s sponsors included: Bright House Networks, Renaissance Consulting & Development, LLC, Brandon Regional Hospital, Metro PCS, Tranquility Lake Apartment Homes, TECO Energy, Gentle Dental, Iguana Graphics, Railroad Industrial Federal Credit Union, The Brandon News & Tribune/The Tampa Tribune, WFLA and Radio Mas Que Musica.
For more information, contact Jamie Reid with the Greater Brandon Chamber of Commerce, located at 330 Pauls Dr., Ste. 100, in Brandon, at 689-1221, ext. 8843, or jreid@brandonchamber.com. For more information, call Sweetie’s Delights at 662-5671, Giordano’s at 655-2828, Italian Kitchen Café at 671-0953 and Mid-America Apartment Communities at 961-5600.
