press release

Posted by Don Ashley on January 18, 2010 · Leave a Comment

press release

Riverview Press Releases

Meetings

SouthShore Library’s Announcements
The SouthShore Regional Library, 15816 Beth Shields Way, Ruskin, announces the following free events:
Puppet Show: Why Mosquitoes Buzz in People’s Ears, celebrating Black History Month, will be performed by the City of Tampa Creative Arts Theater throughout January. For times, call the library.
A creativity seminar, led by Anne Walker, a professional creativity consultant, will be held on Tuesdays, January 5, 12, 19 and 26, at 6:30 p.m. Participants are asked to bring a journal. Call to register.
Wii Gaming for Seniors will be held on Saturday, January 9, at 3:30 p.m. and Thursday, January 21, at 4 p.m.
Chess Master Battle Royal will take place on Thursday, January 14, at 5 p.m. Internationally-rated Chess Master Mark Ritter will be playing against 25 teen opponents at once.
The Teen Talent Show will be held on Saturday, January 16, from 3:30-5:30 p.m. Anyone age 12-18 may register to perform.
For more information or to register, call 273-3652 or visit www.hcplc.org.

Riverview Library Celebrates 30 Years
On Saturday, January 30, at 11:30 a.m., the Riverview Branch Library 30th Anniversary Celebration will be held at Riverview Branch Library, 10509 Riverview Dr., Riverview. The Friends of the Riverview Branch Library will present Burgert Brothers photographs to the branch and light refreshments will be served.
For more information, call 273-3652 or visit www.hcplc.org.

Experimental Workshop at Center Place
Center Place, 619 Vonderburg Dr., Ste. B, Brandon, presents the Experimental Watercolor Workshop, led by Sue Allen, on Saturday, January 9, from 9 a.m.-12 Noon. The cost is $20 for members or $25 for non-members.
For more information, call 685-8888.

Veterans Invite All to Remembrance Ceremony
The Hillsborough Veterans Council will be conducting its quarterly Field of Honor Remembrance Ceremony at 10 a.m. on Saturday, January 9, at the Veterans Memorial Park and Museum, 3602 U.S. Hwy. 301 N., Tampa, welcoming residents to remember all who have lost their lives during operations Enduring Freedom and Iraqi Freedom. Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 787 and AMVETS Post 44 will co-host this event. The Riverview Detachment of the Marine Corps League will provide a color guard, firing detail and a bugler, while the Ye Mystic Air Krew will do a fly over in the missing man formation. During this ceremony, the names of each service member who has died in the past three months is read aloud and a flag is planted in the ground in their honor. The public is invited to assist in planting those flags. Currently there are more than 5,000 flags in this field.

Winners of Boat Parade Revealed
The Apollo Beach Chamber and the Tampa Bay Sailing Squadron announce the winners of this year’s 26th Annual Lighted Boat Parade:
Powerboat Under 30 Feet: First Place – Brian Wohlwend
Second Place – Wortner
Third Place – Mike and Jordan Seymour/Palzer
Powerboat Over 30 Feet: First Place – Tim and Val Dickson
Second Place – Scott Jones
Third Place – Tim and Pam Anderson
Sailboats: First Place – Sea Explorers Ship 185
Second Place – Vivian Challen
Third Place – Donald Schwartz
Best of Show: Otis and Terri Montiero
2009 Best Chili in Apollo Beach Award: Toni Armstrong, Dog Breath Chili
For more information, call 645-1366.

KHCB Cleans Up Wimauma
Keep Hillsborough County Beautiful volunteers joined hands with Home Depot and the Sun City Center “Team Depot” to clean up and spruce up Bethune Park in Wimauma in December. The project included painting, planting, mulching and cleaning the park and the surrounding community. Volunteers included residents from South County Career Center-JROTC, Robinson High School, The Florida Aquarium, Hillsborough Community College, Southwest Airlines and Boy Scout Pack 603.
For more information, please call 960-5121 or visit www.khcbonline.org.

Free Shots for Pets
Free rabies and distemper shots will be provided on Saturday, January 9, from 9 a.m.-1 p.m. at Wimauma Civic Center, 5705 Hillsborough St., Wimauma. Pets must be 8 weeks or older to receive DA2PP/FVRCP vaccine and 3 months or older to receive the rabies vaccine. Cats must be in carrier; dogs must be on leash.
For more information, email Evelyn Lunsford at cfgscc@cftampbay.org.

Restaurant Collects Toys for Tots
In December, S & S Tacos/Pizzas & Stuff, 10664 U.S. Hwy. 301 S., Riverview, kicked off its first ever Toys 4 Tunes drive in support of the Toys for Tots charity drive. With a packed house and live entertainment from acoustic duo Zebron & James, it overfilled the toy donation box with new unwrapped toys for children of the SouthShore area. S & S is looking forward to making this an annual event.
If you would like S & S to host a charity event, please call Mike at 677-8226, and for booking information on Zebron & James, please call Sandy at 672-1517.

ABWC Lends a Hand to Families in Need
The Apollo Beach Woman’s Club (ABWC) members purchased gifts of clothes, shoes and toys for two families, one with children at Apollo Beach Elementary School, and the other with children at Doby Elementary, also located in Apollo Beach. More than 65 packages were wrapped and delivered to the December ABWC meeting. In addition, some members contributed gifts of cash, which were used to purchase supermarket gift certificates for the two families. On Wednesday, March 3, at the Riverside Golf and Country Club, 2550 Pier Dr., Ruskin, a fundraiser will be held. The show will feature a trunk show by Accessories and More of Sarasota with clothing items available for purchase. The event will also include a silent auction, vendor tables and catering by Riverside Bar and Grille. Tickets are $25 and can be purchased by calling Marianne Blanchard at 641-7448.
The club’s next meeting will be held Wednesday, January 13, at the Summerfield Crossing Golf Club, 13050 Summerfield Blvd., Riverview, beginning at 11:30 a.m., featuring retired newspaper columnist Judy Hill. Luncheon tickets are $16.
For membership information or for contact information, call 746-1072 or e-mail judypeck@tampabay.rr.com. For further information, please call Barbara Lamneck at 641-7469.

Knights’ Christmas Party a Success
In December, the Knights of Assembly 1850 and their families and friends visited James A. Haley Veterans’ Hospital in Tampa to share the good tidings of this Christmas season with our veterans. There were more than 40 wheelchair-bound men and women in attendance. These brave vets were given presents and pizza and a really good show. The number of items donated were 982, with a total cost value of $1,714.25.
For more information, e-mail VAVS Chairman Herbert Swoope at hswoope@msn.com.

Holidays Bring Joy to CARE’s Homeless Pets
This holiday season, donors of Critter Adoption and Rescue Effort, Inc. (CARE) bought $5-10 bulbs or ornaments to honor or memorialize their current or past pets or those of their loved ones. The proceeds of these sales went directly to supporting the pets awaiting adoption, and all the pets were provided toys and treats as a result of the fundraiser. People looking for a canine or feline addition to their families are encouraged to stop by the shelter, 1528 27th St. SE, Tuesday-Saturday between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. There are always 40-50 pets looking for new homes, and they all give out a big lick-and-purr “thank you” to all those individuals who made their holiday special.
Please call the shelter at 645-2273 for more information.

Religion

Conference to Build Leaders Announced
Simmons Loop Baptist Church, 6610 Simmons Loop, Riverview, will be hosting a Church Leadership Conference on Saturday, January 30, from 8:45 a.m.-2:30 p.m., themed, “Strengthen the Church’s Mission Through Leadership.” The purpose of the leadership conference is to introduce new church ministry leaders and strengthen existing leaders in leadership qualities, identify/confirm the call to ministry and ministry longevity/survival in today’s society. The conference will reiterate the importance of Christian education and the biblical tools necessary and available in achieving these goals.
Please contact the conference coordinator, Brother David Jasper at 672-9897 or church secretary Glennise at 677-9310 for more information. Residents can register at www.simmonsloopbaptistchurch.org.

Schools

Families Invited Out for Winter Fun
On Saturday, January 30, from 10 a.m.–2 p.m. Symmes Elementary, 6280 Watson Ave., Riverview, will host its 2010 Winter Carnival. The event will have a magician, games, food, local vendors, face painting, Locks of Love and much more. Money raised at this year’s event will be used for various events supporting the school’s development and will directly benefit the students and teachers.
For more information, call 740-4182.

Sculpt Clay at Center Place
Center Place, 619 Vonderburg Dr., Ste. B, Brandon, is hosting Kid’s Clay for ages 5-13, led by instructor Anita Devine, on Tuesdays, January 12 and 26, from 5:15-6:15 p.m. The cost is $20 for members or $25 for non-members.
For more information, call 685-8888.

Camp Bayou Celebrates 10 Years and Announces Photo Winners
The Camp Bayou Holiday Open House and 10th Anniversary Celebration was held in December which included a tour of the native people’s camp, a trail ride on a seven-passenger cart, a fossil dig, a Letterboxing treasure hunt and the Member Appreciation Lunch, which welcomed new and renewing members. During the Member Lunch, the winners for the photo contest were also announced. All photos were required to have been taken at Camp Bayou sometime in the past 10 years. First place went to Nanette O’Hara for her close-up photo of a dragonfly. Second and third place went to Dotty Guerrera. Bruce Fallender won Honorable Mention. Also announced was the new Speaker’s Bureau, coordinated by Diane Alvarez, which offers over a dozen interesting topics from a variety of speakers for a nominal speaker’s fee. Open from Thursday- Saturday from 9 a.m.-2 p.m., with free admission, Camp Bayou is located at 4202 24th St. SE in Ruskin.
For more information, visit www.campbayou.org.

County Updates

Service-Disabled Veterans Now Have Preference for County Contracts
Hillsborough County commissioners recently voted on giving service-disabled veterans who own small businesses in Hillsborough County preference for county contracts. Championed by Hillsborough County Commission Chair Ken Hagan, this program will take effect in January 2010. Commissioners voted on this initiative during a regular board meeting that took place in December. Existing preferences for county contracts include minority, disadvantaged, women-owned and small businesses. To be eligible, military veterans must be at least 10 percent disabled, according to the U.S. Veterans Affairs Department, and must own a small business based in Hillsborough County. The small business must also have been in existence for at least one year, have gross receipts not exceeding $2 million (averaged over three years) and no more than 25 employees.
For more information, call 914-4028 or visit www.hillsboroughcounty.org/econdev.

Hillsborough County Mobility Fee Policy Meetings
Hillsborough County is holding a series of open facilitated meetings to discuss the county’s proposed Mobility Fee policy for transportation concurrency for new development and to develop a recommendation for the County Commission. Meetings are scheduled on Fridays, January 29, at 9:30 a.m., February 19, at 1:30 p.m. and March 26, at 1:30 p.m. in the County Center, 26th Floor Conference Room A & B, 601 Kennedy Blvd. E., downtown Tampa. The meeting is open to the public and an opportunity to comment will be provided.
For more information or to provide comments or ask questions, call 276-8428.

County Receives $4.8 Million in Housing Funds
Hillsborough County’s Affordable Housing Department recently reported that it had met and exceeded the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development’s (HUD) deadline to disburse and commit HOME Investment Partnership Program funds that it had received. Additionally, this year the department has received approximately $4.8 million in additional federal and state government funding for homeless prevention programs, first-time homebuyer programs, affordable housing building projects and property rehabilitation efforts.
The complete quarterly report and Strategic Plan are available at www.hillsboroughcounty.org/affordablehousingoffice/ by clicking on “Publications.”

Energy Management and Sustainability Forum Announced
Hillsborough County Commissioner Rose Ferlita has announced plans for a regional Energy Management and Sustainability Forum to be held Friday, January 29, in Tampa. The forum, E3: Energy, Environment and Economics, will be held at the St. Pete Times Forum. The E3 forum will provide regional fleet managers and facility managers an environment for sharing best practices and practical ways to save energy. There will also be discussions about carbon credits that communities and businesses can earn based on current green activities. These credits can be sold through an exchange to industries needing improvements in greenhouse gas reduction. The fee for registration is $25 and covers parking, morning snack and lunch.
Go to www.hillsboroughcounty.org for registration.
1Caption: Hillsborough County Commissioner Rose Ferlita has announced plans for a regional Energy Management and Sustainability Forum to be held Friday, January 29, in Tampa.

County Receives Strong Credit Rating for new ELAPP Debt
Three international credit rating agencies, Standard & Poor’s, Fitch Ratings and Moody’s Investors Service have issued credit ratings of AAA, AA+ and Aa1, respectively, for the county’s proposed new ELAPP bonds that will be used for acquisition and preservation of environmentally sensitive lands in Hillsborough County. In addition Standard & Poor’s affirmed the county’s AAA general credit rating and Fitch Ratings affirmed the existing “A” rating for the county’s solid waste and resource revenue bonds.
For more information, visit www.hillsboroughcounty.org.

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Press Releases

Posted by Don Ashley on January 2, 2010 · Leave a Comment

Press Releases

Meetings

FishHawk Road Race Announced
The 13th Annual FishHawk Road Race will take place on Saturday, February 6, at Park Square in FishHawk Ranch, 16144 Churchview Dr., Lithia. The 5K and 10K will start at 8 a.m., and the Kids’ Race will start at 9:30 a.m. Early registration fees for adults are $25. The day of the event, fees will be $30 for adults. Kids are $15.
For more information, call 685-7500 or register at www.active.com.

Teach Your Dog Manners
Dog Obedience classes (8-week course) will be offered at the Brandon Recreation Center, 510 Sadie St. E., Brandon, starting the week of Monday, January 11. Basic is taught on Mondays or Tuesdays; Sub-Novice is Wednesdays or Thursdays; and all classes are 7-8 p.m. The registration fee is $80.
For information and pre-registration, call 689-0731 or email sibesite@tampabay.rr.com.

Group Home’s Barbeque Fundraiser a Success
New Horizons Group Homes’ barbeque fundraiser was a great success, raising more than $10,000 between its barbeque, ornaments and silent auction. There were more than 45 businesses and restaurants that provided items for the silent auction. First Choice Southern Bar-B-Que provided the event’s food. Ornaments are still available for purchase.
For more information, call New Horizons, 109 Clay Ave. E., Brandon, at 571-2690.

2Captionforpicture: FishHawk Ranch resident Robert Gallo, 15, won second place for his light display, set up in honor of his sister, the late Jessica Rose, who passed away from cancer in February of 2009. His mother, Maureen Massari, will kick off a foundation for her beloved daughter on Friday, February 6, at Sunset Bay Chapel, located at 6026 Churchside Dr. in Lithia. To learn more, visit www.jessicarosefoundation.org.

Paint Wildlife
Center Place, located at 619 Vonderburg Dr., Ste. B, in Brandon, will host Oil Portraiture – Wildlife Painting (all levels), led by instructor Debra Bryant, on Tuesdays, January 5, 12, 19 and 26, for $48 per member or $58 per non-member per month.
For more information, call 685-8888.

Plant Lovers Welcomed to Clinic
Master Gardener Jim Hawk presents Dooryard Fruit for Central Florida at the Bloomingdale Library, located at 1906 Bloomingdale Ave. in Valrico, on Wednesday, January 6, from 7-8 p.m.
For more information, e-mail vaw1@aol.com.

Residents Keep Roadways Clean
Area residents took to the roadways of the 19-acre parcel of land bordered by Lithia Pinecrest, Brooker and Valrico roads, beautifying the area that is up for rezoning. With plans sought to turn an ASC-1 cow pasture into 99,500-sq.-ft. retail commercial space, residents are asking for neighboring residents to attend the Tuesday, January 12, meeting at 9 a.m. to let the Board of County Commissioners know where they stand, held at the County Center, 2nd floor, located at 601 Kennedy Blvd. E. in Tampa.
For more information, call Lynea D’Angelo at 661-8397.

Networking Social for Leadership Alumni Announced
The Leadership Brandon Alumni Planning Committee would like to invite all Leadership Brandon Alumni to the first Networking Social of the 2010 year on Friday, January 15, from 5:30-7 p.m. at Barnacles, 926 Providence Rd., Brandon. Come have some light hors d’oeuvres, “happy hour” beverage specials and social other Alumni members.
For more information, please contact Crystal Colegrove at 689-1221, ext. 8824.

Chai Group Unveils Wardrobe Party
Brandon’s Hadassah Chai Group invites residents to a Wardrobe Party on Sunday, January 17, from 3-6 p.m. at Westfield Brandon’s Chico’s, 415 Brandon Town Center, Brandon, which will provide refreshments and personalized service. Ten percent of all sales will be donated to Hadassah.
Reservation can be made by contacting Janice at chinadolljp@verizon.net or 571-2029.

Resident Receives Recognition for News
In October, Stephanie Farmer, associate publisher of Farm & Ranch News, received Florida’s highest award for agriculture journalism. She received the Ag Journalist of the Year Award from Florida Farm Bureau. This is quite an honor, especially since Farm & Ranch News is not a Farm Bureau publication. Normally, recipients do not speak at this ceremony, but John Hoblick, president of Farm Bureau, said he was proud to accept Stephanie’ request to speak. A large variety of people from all walks of life congratulated her that day, including Congressman Adam Putnam. Special thanks to Duval and Pasco County Farm Bureau’s who nominated her for this prestigious award.
To learn more about Farm & Ranch News, visit www.farmandranchnews.com.

Watch the Game at Formaggio’s
Come find out why Formaggio’s was voted the best pizza in Brandon. Join residents every Monday to watch Monday night football. The doors are open from 4 p.m. until the end of the game. It is located at 5622 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. in Lithia.
For more information, call 643-1418.

The Farm Welcomes All
The Farm, 7818 Lithia Pinecrest Rd., Lithia, welcomes all to its grounds for food, fellowship and music the last Friday of the month. On Friday, January 29, Richard Kiser, a world famous guitarist, will be in concert; Friday, February 26, welcomes New Artist of the Year 2008 Danny Ray Harris; and Friday, May 28, Rockabilly Gospel artist Jayc Harold will be in attendance. Admission is free. A donation box is available.
Visit www.TheFarmUSA.com for more information.

Religion

Announcements for St. Stephen
St. Stephen Catholic Church, 5049 Bell Shoals Rd., Valrico, will host the following events: Join Friar Bill for his Pastor’s Open House for the latest on the new church on Sunday, January 10, after the 5:30 p.m. Mass in the multi-purpose room; celebrate Mass in honor of the victims of abortion and their families on Wednesday, January 20, at 7 p.m.; Matthew Kelly is coming on Sunday, January 24, at 7 p.m. Donations will be accepted and a gift will be given with each donation; and lastly, join the church for XLT Adoration on Sunday, January 31, at 6:30 p.m.
For more information, call 689-4900.

Renew Your Vows in 2010
Visit Sunset Bay Chapel, located at 6026 Churchside Dr. in Lithia, for a day to remember God’s blessing on your vows again (pictures and cake), taking place Sunday, ___, at 10 a.m. at FishHawk.
For more information, call 661-7105.

Jewish Tradition Revealed at Mall
Chabad of Brandon, 3005 Waylon Ln., Valrico, held its Third Annual Chanukah Wonderland at Westfield Brandon at which a crowd of more than 100 enjoyed the kindling of Brandon’s first Balloon Menorah and Rabbi Mendel Rubashkin’s telling of the story of Chanukah. For more information, call 657-9393.

Come Sing at Bell Shoals
The South Shore Sound Chorus performed at Emmanuel Baptist Church in Parrish in December. Residents are invited to join the chorus on Mondays at the Bell Shoals Church of Christ, 2908 Bell Shoals Rd., Brandon, from 7-9:30 p.m. For more information, call 1-866-730-7464 or visit www.SouthShoreSound.org.

Have Lunch with the Stonecroft Ladies
The women of Stonecroft Brandon Christian Women’s Connection will meet for lunch on Thursday, January 21, at the Bell Shoals Special Events Center, 2102 Bell Shoals Rd., Brandon, at 11 a.m. The cost is $12, with guest speaker Gay Martin.
For information, please call 310-9518.

Schools

Early Bird Leaguerette Girl’s Softball Tournament
The Hillsborough County Leaguerette Early Bird Tournament that kicks off the 2010 girl’s softball season will be held at the Brandon Community Center from Saturday-Sunday, January 2-3, and Friday-Sunday, January 8-10. The girls play in three divisions ranging in age from 6-17. The Brandon Leaguerette program will open its regular season on Saturday, January 16. Past players are invited to attend the league opening day, featuring guest Tony Salidino.
Call 744-5595 for more information.

Teach Kids Manners for the New Year
Manners DO Matter will be holding its four-week program beginning Thursday, January 7. Each session is one hour per week. Session includes introductions, proper handshake, eye contact, power words and rude words, making mistakes, apologizing and much more. Table setting and proper table etiquette will be covered as well as a small celebratory meal at the conclusion of the program.
For more information, contact Lisa Aber at mannersdomatter@verizon.net or 966-9787.

New Offerings at Dance Center
The Dance Center, 161 Bloomingdale Ave. E., Brandon, is offering Mommy & Me classes for mommies and 2-year-olds (Must be 2 as of September 1, 2009). Classes include music, dancing and more, beginning Tuesday, January 5, and Wednesday, January 6, from 10:30-11 a.m.
Also being offered is STOTT Pilates, beginning Friday, January 8, at 4:30 p.m. for students and 5:30 p.m. for adults. It is recommended that each student bring a yoga mat and wear comfortable clothing. A maximum of eight students will be allowed per class, which costs $65 per month.
For additional information call 684-4282 or e-mail dane@brandonballet.org.

Mold Your Own Snowman
Center Place, 619 Vonderburg Dr., Ste. B, Brandon, will host Kid’s Clay for ages 5-13, led by instructor Anita Devine, on Tuesdays, January 12 and 26, from 5:15-6:15 p.m. for $20 per member or $25 per non-member.
For more information, call 685-8888.

Registration for Little League to be Held
Pinecrest Little League’s spring registration will be held on Saturday, January 9, from 10 a.m.-2 p.m.; Monday, January 11, from 6-8 p.m.; Saturday, January 16, from 10 a.m.-2 p.m.; Thursday, January 21, from 6-8 p.m.; and Saturday, January 23, from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Tryouts will be held on Thursday and Friday, January 28 and 29. Coaching applications are now being accepted for the spring season.
For more information, e-mail pinecrestlittleleague@gmail.com.

Sign-Up to Play in the FishHawk League
The FishHawk Youth Baseball League spring 2010 season registrations will be held on Wednesday, January 6, from 6-9 p.m., Thursday, January 7, from 6-9 p.m. and Saturday, January 9, from 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
Please visit www.fishhawksports.org for league boundaries, fees, dates, location and more information.

Girls Softball Registration Open
The Miss Tampa Bay Softball at FishHawk will hold its spring season registration until Saturday, January 9, for girls between the ages of 4 and 16 and does not have any boundary restrictions. In-person registrations are available on Wednesday, January 6, from 6-9 p.m., Thursday, January 7, from 6-9 p.m. and Saturday, January 9, from 10-2 p.m. at the FishHawk Youth Sports Complex meeting rooms, behind the baseball/softball concession stand.
For more information or to register online, please visit www.MissTampabaySoftball.com.

Baseball Tryouts for Bandits
The Bloomingdale Bandits 11U competitive travel baseball team will be holding tryouts for the upcoming 2010 season on Sunday, January 10, at 1 p.m. at Bloomingdale Little League. The player cannot turn 12 years old before Saturday, May 1, 2010.
For more information, please contact banditsbaseball@tampabay.rr.com or Coach D.J. Peña at 230-1874.

Girl Scouts Aid Others
The Junior Girl Scout Troop 5, from Alafia and Brooker elementary, are committed to helping others and have completed three different service projects since Thanksgiving. They made Christmas cards and a banner to send to an Armed Forces unit in Afganistan, held a clothing drive to donate to the Osprey Observer for distribution to the homeless in Brandon and held a food drive to benefit the Women’s Resource Center.
For more information, e-mail msalerno@tampabay.rr.com.

County Updates

County Receives $4.8 Million In Housing Funds
Hillsborough County’s Affordable Housing Department recently reported that it had met and exceeded the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development’s (HUD) deadline to disburse and commit HOME Investment Partnership Program funds that it had received. Additionally, this year the department has received approximately $4.8 million in additional federal and state government funding for homeless prevention programs, first-time homebuyer programs, affordable housing building projects and property rehabilitation efforts.
The complete quarterly report and Strategic Plan are available at www.hillsboroughcounty.org/affordablehousingoffice/ by clicking on “Publications.”

Water Resource Center Moves
Hillsborough County Water Resources Services’ (WRS) Brandon Customer Service Center will move to WRS’ new Brandon Support Operations Complex at 332 N. Falkenburg Rd., just south of the county’s Animal Services shelter.
As usual, bill payments may be made online at www.hillsboroughcounty.org/water or by phone at 276-8526.

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Press Releases

Posted by Don Ashley on December 28, 2009 · Leave a Comment

Valrico Press Releases

MEETINGS

Salon Presents Cash for Your Old Products
Trade in your current shampoo, conditioner and styling aids for Elite Salon Suites’ recommended salon brands and receive 25 percent off already low prices. All collected products will be donated to The Spring Women’s Shelter.
Located at 2064 Badlands Dr. Brandon, the salon can be reached at 833-2278 or visit elitesalons.com.

Merry Makeovers at Westfield Brandon
Merry Makeovers specialists will be available to speak with shoppers on Friday, December 18, from 12 Noon-8 p.m. at Westfield Brandon, near Dick’s Sporting Goods, while receiving helpful tips on determining their personal style, ideas for the best holiday “look” or gift ideas. The mall is located at 459 Brandon Town Center Mall in
Brandon.
For more information, visit westfield.com/Brandon.

Realty Hosts ECHO Holiday Food Drive
River Hills Realty, located at 4316 New River Hills Pkwy. in Valrico, will be accepting donations for the Emergency Care Help Organization (ECHO) in Brandon throughout the month of November and December, this being its second year participating in a holiday food drive for the nonprofit.
Please call the office at 681-3555 or visit for a list of the most needed items. River Hills Reality www.riverhillsrealtyinc.com.

Organization Partners With Bookstore
Volunteers of KarensKause have collected more than 1,000 books for the Karen B. Henderson Memorial Library Program. The nonprofit is partnering with Barnes and Noble for its annual holiday book drive. Until January, Barnes and Noble, located at 122 Brandon Town Center Dr. in Brandon, will be asking every customer that comes in if they would like to donate a book to the library, which, in turn, is distributed to local dialysis clinics.
For more information, call 770-1142.

Break Out Your Paints at Center Place
Center Place, located at 619 Vonderburg Dr., Ste. B, in Brandon, is offering Design and Watercolor with instructor Meletha Everett on Thursdays, January 7, 14, 21 and 28, from
9:30 a.m.-12 Noon for $40 for members or $50 for non-members.
For more information, call 685-8888.

County Presents Animal Angel Tree
Hillsborough County Animal Services, 440 Falkenburg Rd. in Tampa/Brandon, is collecting donations for its Animal Angel Tree. Donations may be placed under the tree in the facility’s lobby. Donors are invited to take home a photo ornament as a keepsake and gesture of thanks. Wish-list items include treats, biscuits, chews, peanut butter; sturdy, water-proof toys for dogs and cats; towels, blankets, pet beds and laundry detergent; gentle shampoos (no flea types), brushes and flea combs; Frontline, Advantage and Revolution; and kitty litter, crates and carriers. Monetary donations are also being accepted.
For more information, call 744 – 5660 or visit www.hillsboroughcounty.org/animalservices.

Holiday Movie Released
On Wednesday, December 16, at 8 p.m., with a pre-recorded encore on Thursday, December 17, the stars of Mystery Science Theater 3000 (MST3K) return to movie theaters across America this holiday season with special guest “Weird Al” Yankovic as they take on the bizarre animated “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer” and other classic Christmas shorts and commercials in RiffTrax LIVE: Christmas Shorts-Stravaganza!, showing at Regency 20, 2496 Brandon Blvd. W., Brandon.
Tickets are available at participating theater box offices and online at www.FathomEvents.com.

Holiday Discount Offered with Flight
Fantasy of Flight, 1400 Broadway Blvd. SE, Polk City, is offering Florida residents a special gift this holiday season with $8 off regular general admission (adult or child). The offer is valid Monday-Thursday, December 14-31. Regular priced admission for an adult is $28.95 and for a child is $14.95. This is not valid with any other offers, discounts or promotions. Proof of residency is required.
For details, visit www.fantasyofflight.com or call 1-863-984-3500.

RELIGION
Local Church Group Hosts Children’s Party
The Tampa Kiwanis and volunteers from First United Methodist Church in Brandon are hosting the Children’s Medical Services Christmas party at the University of South Florida, 4202 Fowler Ave. E., Tampa, on Saturday, December 19.
For more information, call Mark Tubb at 505-0445.

Church Announces Christmas Happenings
The youth of Brandon Christian Church, 910 Bryan Rd. S., Brandon, will perform the Living Nativity on Sunday, December 20, and Monday, December 21. The scenes will be accompanied by a narrative starting at 7 p.m. and 8 p.m. A special Christmas Eve Worship Service will be held in the sanctuary on Thursday, December 24, at 7 p.m. Visitors are welcome.
For further information, please call 689-4021.

Chorus Presents Handel’s Messiah
The Brandon Choral Society will present the Christmas portion from Handel’s Messiah on Sunday, December 20, at 3 p.m. at St. Stephen Catholic Church, 5049 Bell Shoals Rd., Valrico. Advance purchase tickets are $10 at Roydon Music, 939 Oakfield Dr., Brandon or Music Showcase, 1110 Oakfield Dr., Brandon. Tickets will be available at the door for $15 or for $10 if accompanied by a donation of non-perishable canned goods. Children, high school age and younger, will be admitted free. The net proceeds from ticket sales as well as the donated canned goods will be given to Metropolitan Ministries.
For more information, please contact Deidre Young at sawubona@verizon.net or 685-0287 or Mary Lou Danahar at mld1015@yahoo.com or 671-3703.

Bibles for the Bahamas
Bob and Cindy Ackroyd, members of St. Andrew’s United Methodist Church who own a vacation home on Cat Island, will be collecting new and slightly used Bibles for the churches throughout the island which is near the Bahamas. Anyone who would like to donate new or used Bibles may do so by visiting St. Andrew’s United Methodist Church, 3315 Bryan Rd., Brandon, and leaving them in the box marked “Bibles for the Bahamas” through the first week of February.
For more information, call 689-6849 or visit www.standrewsbrandon.org.

Cookie Walk Aids Missions
Central Baptist Church, located at 402 Windhorst Rd. E. in Brandon, will host its Fifth
Annual Mission Cookie Walk on Thursday, December 17, from 11 a.m.-8 p.m. Residents are invited to fill a holiday box with their choice of handmade and decorated holiday cookies and treats for $5 lbs. All proceeds will benefit the Lottie Moon Missions.
For more information, call 689-6133.

Residents Welcome to Meditate
American Buddhist teacher Angus Berry will lead the class, Exchanging Self and Others, an introduction to meditation from the Kadampa Buddhist tradition, at Unity in Brandon, located at 115 Margaret St., on Thursday, December 17, from 7-8:30 p.m. There is a suggested donation of $10.
For more information, call 1-727-797-9770 or visit www.MeditationInTampaBay.org.

Chorus Seeks New Members
The South Shore Sound Chorus, a chapter of the Sweet Adelines International Chorus, is looking for some new members. If you love to sing, become a part of something extraordinary. Practice is on Mondays at 7 p.m. at the Bell Shoals Church of Christ, 2908 Bell Shoals Rd., Brandon.
For further information, visit www.southshoresound.org or call 1-866-730-7464.

Congregation Beth Shalom Announcements
Members of Congregation Beth Shalom of Brandon, located at 706 Bryan Rd., joined together in November for the culmination of a Bat Mitzvah project organized by student Zoe Flaks, 13, to be able to dedicate the congregation’s Genizah (box which holds books that have God’s name written in them). Students and adults placed assorted Jewish prayer books into a hole in the ground that was prepared specifically for this morning and buried them.
Also announced, the church will be hosting a monthly Bingo on the first Saturday of every month. There will be a food concession at 6:30 p.m., with Bingo beginning at 7:30 p.m. The cost is $15 for 20 games.
For additional information, please call 681-6547 or e-mail Rabbi Torop at btorop@verizon.net.

SCHOOLS

Valrico Resident Gets His Wings
First Lt. Eric N. Dorsey, a 2002 graduate of Bloomingdale High School, recently graduated from U.S. Air Force pilot training and is beginning his flying duties at Scott Air Force Base, which is located 22 miles east of St. Louis, Missouri. Dorsey will be flying the KC-135 Stratotanker jet, which is an in-air refueling aircraft. A wing of the KC-135’s is stationed at MacDill AFB, and residents will see them flying periodically over Valrico. Dorsey married Tiffany Fabian, of Valrico, in November of 2009. He is the son of Kevin and Teresa Dorsey, of Valrico.

School of Fine Arts Now Registering
The First Baptist Brandon School of Fine Arts, 216 Parsons Ave. N., Brandon, is accepting applications for the spring session, which begins Monday, January 11 and includes 12 lessons. Private lessons are available for piano, voice, guitar, brass, drums, oboe, violin, flute and clarinet. General Arts and Ballet & Lyrical are offered in one- hour classes on Mondays. Preschool beginner ballet classes for ages 3-4 are offered on Fridays.
For more information, call 689-1204 or visit www.fbcbrandon.org.

Art Creators Welcome
Center Place, 619 Vonderburg Dr., Ste. B, Brandon, is offering Jump Start for Art! with instructor Doreen Donovan on Mondays, January 4, 11 and 25, from 4:30-5:30 p.m. for ages 5-8 for $30 for members or $40 for non-members.
For more information, call 685-8888.

Free Fun at Community Center
The Brandon Family Support & Resource Center, 1277 Kingsway Rd., Brandon, will provide the following free classes: Free Play – Parents and caregivers can enjoy playing with their kids in the colorful and friendly playroom area (for birth to 4 years old) on Wednesdays from 10:30–11:30 a.m.; and Story Time – Families will enjoy listening to interactive stories in a friendly and family oriented atmosphere. This class is for children birth to 3 years old and takes place on Fridays from 10:30–11:30 a.m.. No registration required for either class.
For more information, call 813-740-4634.

Nativity Hosts Open House
Nativity Catholic School, located at 705 Brandon Blvd. E. in Brandon, will host its annual open house on Tuesday, January 5, from 9 a.m.-1 p.m., starting in the Parish Hall.
For additional information, please visit www.nativitycatholicschool.org or contact Karen Heitzmann, director of Enrollment, at 689-3395, ext. 256.

Baseball Tryouts Announced
Brandon Panthers 14U baseball tryouts will be held on Wednesday and Thursday, December 16 and 17, at 7 p.m. at Bloomingdale Little League Field 8, next to the Campo YMCA.
For more information, contact Brian Shinault at 363-8205.

COUNTY UPDATES

County Gains Community Partners for Cell Phone Drive
Hillsborough County is proud to add four new partners for its second annual Cell Phones for Soldiers drive to help the troops serving overseas stay in touch with their families back home. Those partners are: Coca-Cola Global Finance Shared Services in Brandon; Jefferson High School’s Best Buddies Club; 26th Annual Plant City Christmas Parade; and Sun City Center. While these partner locations aren’t community drop off centers, county residents can help by dropping off their unused or outdated cell phones and other portable communication devices at Brandon Regional Service Center, 311 Pauls Dr., Brandon; Plant City Courthouse, 302 N. Michigan Ave., Plant City; and SouthShore Regional Service Center, 410 30th St. S.E., Ruskin through Friday, January 8. Chargers and carrying cases are also accepted.
For more information, contact Community Relations Coordinator Kemly Green at 276-2677.

Filed under Press Releases · Tagged with

press releases

Posted by Don Ashley on December 1, 2009 · Leave a Comment

press releases
MEETINGS

Family Sends Thanks Out to Community
In November, the Graham family, in honor of Kaelyn Graham, and supported by a team of more than 40 members, consisting of classmates, family, friends, neighbors and co-workers, walked in the annual Tampa American Heart Association’s Heart Walk. Graham, 5, was born with a congenital heart defect called hypoplastic left heart syndrome, which basically means she was born with only half a heart, having undergone three open heart surgeries and 17 total surgeries, so far. She is currently in heart failure and her family is so grateful for the support everyone in the community has shown them. Her father is an active duty marine, and the family moved to FishHawk a year-and-a-half ago. Graham attends kindergarten at Bevis Elementary and was thrilled to have her new friends walking and supporting her at this event.
For more information, visit www.caringbridge.org/ca/kaelyn.

Trail Run Benefits Kids
A 5k Trail Run and 3K Fun Walk will be held on Saturday, December 5, in the Bell Creek Nature Preserve, located at 10940 McMullen Rd. in Riverview. Parking will be at Rogers Middle School, located at 11910 Tucker Rd. All proceeds will benefit A Kid’s Place, located on Lithia Pinecrest Rd. in Brandon.
Visit www.aliquity.com to register as a participant or sponsorship. For more information, email dottie@aliquity.com.

Restaurant Offers Added Bonus
Stonewood Grill, located at 612 Bloomingdale Ave. E. in Brandon, is offering a $40 bonus card in addition to the purchase of $250 in gift cards or a $100 bonus card in addition to $500 in gift cards through Thursday, December 31. Now open on Sundays from 12 Noon-9 p.m., the restaurant offers a children’s menu, a gluten-free menu and vegetarian dishes, as well as various drink specials. Call-ahead seating is welcome.
For more information, call 655-9561 or visit www.stonewoodgrill.com.

Live Radio Show Broadcasts at Onething Prayer
Community In Touch with Mike and Sherry Moore will be broadcasting live at Onething Prayer, located at 777 W. Lumsden Rd. in Brandon, on the third Wednesday of every month at 7:30 p.m. Admission is free.
To learn more, visit www.communityintouch.org or www.onethingprayer.com.

Holiday Craft Makers and Seekers Wanted
Staff of Delaney Creek Lodge, located at 320 Lakewood Dr. S. in Brandon, would like to invite the public to a Holiday Gift and Craft Show on Friday, December 4, from 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Come visit more than 50 indoor booths selling unique gifts and handmade crafts. Get your holiday shopping done early and enter to win numerous door prizes. Crafters and vendors are being sought. There is no charge for a booth, just the donation of an item to be raffled off.
Please call Elisabeth or Barbara at 655-8858 or email edraege@yahoo.com.

Family Fest Coming
The FishHawk Holiday Family Evening Fest will be held on Thursday, December 3, from 6-8 p.m. at the Palmetto Club, located at 17004 Dorman Rd. in Lithia’s FishHawk Ranch. There will be food, games, entertainment and prizes. Vendor space is available. For more information, call The Greater Brandon Chamber of Commerce at 689-1221.

Library Unveils Digital Bookmobile
Bloomingdale Regional Library, located at 1906 Bloomingdale Ave. in Valrico, will host the Digital Bookmobile, an immersive download experience inside a 74-foot, high-tech tractor-trailer, on Friday, December 18, from 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
Library card holders can also check out and download digital titles any time, anywhere by visiting www.hcplc.org.

Bank Collects Toys for Children’s Shelter
Grow Financial Federal Credit Union, located at 604 Bloomingdale Ave. E. in Brandon, is sponsoring a gift drive to benefit The Children’s Home of Tampa, which provides a safe haven for children in need. Employees and members of Grow Financial are encouraged to drop off a new, unwrapped gift suitable for children ages 6 to 17 at any of the 18 convenient Grow Financial branches throughout Tampa Bay. Members can also register to win a guitar autographed by teen idols the Jonas Brothers and Jesse McCartney; a gift donation isn’t required to enter the drawing. The gift donation drive runs through Friday, December 11, and the collected gifts will be presented to The Children’s Home at a special holiday celebration hosted by Grow Financial on Tuesday, December 22.
For more information, call 837-2451 or visit www.growfinancial.org.

Network While Helping Others
The business-minded are welcome to “Come One, Come All,” a great night of networking, on Thursday, December 10, at 5:30 p.m. at Cheddars, located at 11135 Causeway Blvd. in Brandon. The cost is $8 and attendees are encouraged to wear their holiday attire. Proceeds will benefit the Emergency Help Organization (ECHO) in Brandon.
To see more details and RSVP, go to
www.facebook.com/n/?event.php&eid=210141810983&mid=16d2ad6G240353b7G348b83eG7.

Group Hosts Cocktails for the Cure
The Tampa Bay Professionals Group presents Cocktails for Ta-Ta’s, benefiting the Susan G. Komen for the Cure, at GrillSmith, located at 459 Brandon Town Center Dr. in Brandon, on Friday, December 4, from 4-8 p.m. There will be networking, door prizes, complimentary chair massages, $5 appetizers and more.
For more information, call Joan Miller at 645-8660.

SCC Holiday Walk Announced
From 9 a.m. to 12 Noon on Saturday, December 5, the Sun City Center Community Association Central Campus on N. Pebble Beach Blvd. will be buzzing with shoppers, browsers and diners at the 2009 Holiday Walk. A full breakfast—eggs, pancakes, sausage, toast, coffee, juice—will be offered for only $4—a bargain that attracted about 700 last year.
For Holiday Walk information, call 642-2006.

Adults Can Unleash Creativity
Center Place, located at 619 Vonderburg Dr., Ste. B, in Brandon, will host Creative Watercolor, led by instructor Sue Allen, on Wednesdays, December 9 and 16, from 2-4 p.m. The cost is $20 for members or $30 for non-members. In January – 6, 13, 20 and 27 –the cost is $40 for members or $50 for non-members.
For more information, call 685-8888.

Job Fair Held for Veterans
Tampa RecruitMilitary Veteran Opportunity Expo will take place in Tampa on Thursday, December 3, at Tampa Bay Performing Arts Center, located at 1010 N W C MacInnes Pl. in Tampa, from 11 a.m.-3 p.m.
For more information, visit RecruitMilitary.com.

New Movie Releases
Living in Emergency: Stories of Doctors Without Borders is an exclusive, one-night only event, which will be broadcast via satellite from New York University’s Skirball Center for the Performing Arts on Monday, December 14, at 7:30 p.m. at AMC-Regency 20, located at 2496 Brandon Blvd. W. in Brandon.
For more information, visit www.amctheatres.com.

Glenn Beck Hits the Big Screen
On Thursday, December 3, at 8 p.m., followed by a taped encore on Thursday, December 10, Glenn Beck’s personal story of love, faith and family returns this holiday season with a new installment of The Christmas Sweater – A Return to Redemption, presented live at Regency 20, located at 2496 Brandon Blvd. W. in Brandon. The cost is $20.
Tickets are available at www.FathomEvents.com and presenting theater box offices.

Annie to Premier
The Florida Academy of Performing Arts will present the musical, Annie, on Friday and Saturday, December 4 and 5, at 7 p.m. and a Sunday matinee on December 6 at 3 p.m. at Riverview High School Theater, located at 11311 Boyette Rd. in Riverview. Tickets are $12 for adults; $10 for seniors, students and military and can be purchased online at www.musicshowcaseonline.com or www.faopa.org.
For more information, email take2thestage@gmail.com or call 244-8669.

RELIGION

Cabin Fever Transitions
Cabin Fever Open Mic Night, held in a log cabin behind Horizon Christian Church at 1720 S. Saint Cloud Ave. in Valrico, is now moving to the first Saturday evening of each month to better accommodate busy family schedules, having been held on Wednesday evenings originally. It is sponsored by the local Valrico Beef ‘O’ Brady’s, which provides affordable and delicious meals specially designed for the open mic night. On Saturday, December 5, singer/songwriter Melissa Brethauer will be in concert.
Additional information and photos are available at www.cabinfeveropenmic.com. For more on Brethauer, visit www.melissabrethauer.com.

Calling All Singers and Guests
The Brandon Choral Society is looking for singers to join in the presentation of the Christmas portion of Handel’s Messiah on Sunday, December 20, at 3 p.m. at St. Stephen Catholic Church in Valrico. No auditions are required although a familiarity with SATB singing would be helpful. Singers should bring their own copies of the vocal score, but the church will have some available for purchase at $10 each. They will be provided with a practice CD of their parts. Rehearsals will be held on Tuesday evenings from 7:30-8:30 p.m. at St. Stephen Catholic Church, located at 5049 Bell Shoals Rd. in Valrico on November 24, December 1, December 8 and December 15, plus a dress rehearsal on Friday, December 18.
Advance purchase tickets are $10. They may be purchased at Roydon Music, located at 939 Oakfield Dr. in Brandon or Music Showcase, located at 1110 Oakfield Dr. in Brandon. Tickets will be available at the door for $15 or for $10 if accompanied by a donation of non-perishable canned goods. Children, high school age and younger, will be admitted free. The net proceeds from ticket sales as well as the donated canned goods will be given to Metropolitan Ministries.
If you are interested in joining or have any questions, please contact Deidre Young at sawubona@verizon.net or 685-0287 or Mary Lou Danahar at mld1015@yahoo.com or 671-3703.

Residents Invited to Meditate
American Buddhist teacher, Angus Berry, will lead the class, Viewing Others as Supreme, an introduction to meditation from the Kadampa Buddhist tradition, at Unity in Brandon, located at 115 Margaret St., on Thursday, December 3, from 7-8:30 p.m. There is a suggested donation of $10.
For more information, call 727-797-9770 or visit www.MeditationInTampaBay.org.

Community Welcomed To Christmas Band Concert
The community is invited to a free Christmas concert presented by the Eastern Hillsborough Community Band at 7:30 p.m., Thursday, December 17, at Grace Community United Methodist Church at FishHawk, located at 5708 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. in Lithia. Musicians of all ages and levels of experience are also invited to join the new community concert band. The band practices on Thursday evenings from 7-9 p.m. at Grace Community.
For more information, call 864-0287 or email communityband@me.com.

Christmas by Candlelight Held
The music ministries of First Baptist Church (FBC) of Brandon and Tampa Baptist Church are joining together to present Christmas by Candlelight on Sunday, December 6, at 3 p.m. and 6 p.m. at FBC, located at 216 Parsons Ave. N. in Brandon.
For more information, call 689-1204.

SCHOOLS

Etiquette Taught in Time for Holidays
Table Etiquette Boot Camp will take place on Saturday, December 5, from 10 a.m.-12 Noon at All Stars Italian American Grill, located at 15260 FishHawk Blvd. in Lithia. Children ages 6-12 are exposed to the rules of table etiquette through discussion and role-playing activities that include appropriate posture, place setting and acceptable conversation during a meal, plus much more. Reserve your place as seating is limited. The cost is $49 per student. A meal is included.
Contact Lisa Aber at 966-9787 or mannersdomatter@verizon.net for more information.

Book Fair Supports School’s Media Center
Randall Middle School will host a fundraiser Book Fair Event at Barnes and Noble on Friday, December 11, from 6-8 p.m. The school’s band, orchestra and chorus will perform as residents shop for books and gifts for the holidays. Student artwork will also be displayed, along with a craft table, and the Randall Hawk mascot and a photo op with a cut-out of the Wimpy Kid (bring your own camera) will be in attendance. Class wish lists will be available to make purchases for teachers. All money raised will be used to update the Media Center’s reference collection.
A voucher is required for credit to the school and is available on the Randall PTSA Website, www.randallptsa.blogspot.com. and on the Media Center Website, http://randall.mysdhc.org/teacher/3620meginnis/. Use the voucher at Barnes and Noble from Thursday, December 10-Monday, December 14. Any questions, contact Darlene Meginnis, media specialist, at darlene.meginnis@sdhc.k12.fl.us or by phone at 740-3900, ext. 240.

Marching Band Cooks Up Pancakes for a Cause
Newsome High School Wolfpack Marching Band is hosting its Second Annual Pancake Breakfast with Santa at Beef ‘O’ Brady’s, located at 16773 FishHawk Blvd. in Lithia, on Saturday, December 5. Advanced tickets cost $5 for adults and $2.50 for kids under 12; at the door prices are $6 and $3, respectively. A photo with Santa is available for a small fee. There will be multiple vendors available, 10 themed baskets to raffle off and a 50/50 raffle. Proceeds will be used to purchase food and gifts for several families that the band is adopting this year. The band is also accepting canned food and unwrapped toys, too.
For tickets, call 695-0677 or email vmanalang4@verizon.net.

Chorus Members Head to All-State
Five chorus students from Newsome High School have been selected to participate in All-State Chorus performances in conjunction with the 2010 Florida Music Educators Association conference in Tampa. Selected from Newsome for mixed and women’s choirs were Annie Brooks, Cesar Razza, Darby Green and Kaylee Strickland. They will take the stage beginning at 5 p.m. on Saturday, January 9, for concerts at the Tampa Bay Performing Arts Center. A.J. Vaughan qualified for the All-State Reading Chorus, which will perform at 6:15 p.m. Friday, January 8, at the Marriott Waterside Grand Ballroom in Tampa. The next Newsome chorus concert is scheduled for 6:30 p.m. on Tuesday, December 8, in the school auditorium, located at 16500 FishHawk Blvd. in Lithia, followed by participation Wednesday, December 9, in the Candlelight Processional, an annual holiday event at the Epcot theme park in Walt Disney World.
For more information, visit www.newsomechorus.com or call 740-4600.

Kids Become Sculptors
Center Place, located at 619 Vonderburg Dr., Ste. B, in Brandon, will host Kid’s Clay for ages 5-13 with instructor Anita Devine on Tuesdays, December 8 and 15 and January 12 and 26, from 5:15-6:15 p.m. The cost is $20 for members or $25 for non-members.
For more information, call 685-8888.

1Captionforpicture: Sage is a 5-month-old, male, black domestic short hair mix available for adoption at C.A.R.E. in Ruskin, open 10 a.m.-3 p.m. from Tuesday-Saturday. For directions, visit www.CareShelter.org or call 645-2273.

2Captionforpicture: Franklin is a male Chihuahua who was found abandoned in someone’s front yard available for adoption at C.A.R.E. in Ruskin, open 10 a.m.-3 p.m. from Tuesday-Saturday. For directions, visit www.CareShelter.org or call 645-2273.

Wannabe Scientists Welcome
Mad Science will be hosting classes at the Osprey Club in FishHawk Ranch, located at 5721 Osprey Ridge Dr. in Lithia, from 9:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.; 1:30 -4:30 p.m. on Wednesday, December 23, Tuesday, December 29 and Wednesday, December 30. The cost is $45 per day or if all three days are chosen, $30 a day. For ages 5-12.
For more information, call 655-6643 or visit www.madscience.org.

SPORTS

Surprise Guest Instructor Inspires Dancers
The Academy of Dance Dynamics, located at 4383 Lynx Paw Trl. in Valrico, held a hip hop workshop called, Dynamics of Mouse, which featured guest instructor Noel Areizaga, aka “Mouse.” Some of his best credits include playing Ruben on the movie Bring It On 4 and performing with Enigma Dance Kru on Randy Jackson’s America’s Best Dance Kru on season one. He brought his hard hits, pops and lock, which inspired dancers of all ages, signing autographs at the end of the class.
If you are interested in participating in the next hip hop workshop become a fan of Academy of Dance Dynamics on Facebook. For more information, call 655-TAPS (8277).

League Holds Spring Registration
The FishHawk Youth Baseball League will begin registering for the spring 2010 season, with a Veteran’s Early Registration (must have played in the spring 2008 season) on Wednesday, December 9, from 6-9 p.m. and on Saturday, December 12, from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. There will be an open registration for all new and returning players in January for all members who reside in the Newsome High School boundaries. The registrations will be held on Wednesday and Thursday, January 6 and 7, from 6-9 p.m. and Saturday, January 9, from 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
Please visit www.fishhawksports.org for more information.

Softball Team Reveals Spring 2010 Season
Registration for the Miss Tampa Bay Softball at FishHawk’s spring season will begin on Wednesday, December 2, and end on Saturday, January 9. Evaluations will begin on Monday, January 11. The league is open to all area girls between the ages of 4 and 16 and does not have any boundary restrictions. League games will be played at the FishHawk Youth Sports Complex on FishHawk Blvd (across from the Publix). Teams will be selected after evaluations and practices will begin on Monday, January 18. League games will begin on Saturday, February 20, and run until Sunday, May 23.
For more information regarding times and dates or to register online, please visit
www.MissTampabaySoftball.com.

COUNTY

New Regional Park Fees Start
Residents and visitors using Hillsborough County’s Regional Parks will be charged an entry fee and boat launch fee. This is first time these fees have been implemented in the Hillsborough County parks. Entry fee is $2 per vehicle (up to eight people) and the boat launch fee is $5. Frequent users of the parks are urged to purchase an annual pass that is good for one year from the date of purchase and good for any regional park in the system. The annual entry pass is $100 for a family or $50 for individuals. The boat ramp fee annual pass cost $100. For more information or to purchase the passes, visit www.hillsboroughcounty.org/parks or call 635-3500.

Representative Votes Against Health Care Act
U.S. Representative Gus M. Bilirakis (R-Fla.), representing Florida’s 9th Congressional District, voted against H.R. 3962, the Affordable Health Care for America Act, and supports the Republican alternative health care reform bill.
To learn more, visit bilirakis.house.gov.

One Call for Public Works Help
Hillsborough County Public Works Department wants to remind residents in unincorporated Hillsborough County that they can call one convenient phone number – 635-5400 – to request a variety of department services, report a needed repair or find out more information about a Public Works Department project.
To request any of these services, call the Hillsborough County Public Works’ Customer Service Center at 635-5400 from 7 a.m.-5:30 p.m., Monday-Friday.

Comment Needed for Local Mitigation Strategy
The County’s Hazard Mitigation Section in the Planning and Growth Management Department is requesting public input from residents on its draft updated Local Mitigation Strategy Plan. The public can send their comments to Hillsborough County Hazard Mitigation Section, 601 E. Kennedy Blvd., 19th Floor, Tampa, FL 33601.
For more information, visit www.hillsboroughcounty.org/pgm/hazardmit/localmitigation.cfm or contact Hazard Mitigation at 276-8245 or at mandellL@hillsboroughcounty.org.

County to Become IMAGE Certified
Hillsborough County Administration will become the first IMAGE Certified county organization in a 57-county region in the state of Florida by early 2010 – a distinction the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) believes will become an industry standard. Hillsborough County Administration is participating in a voluntary collaborative program, known as IMAGE, with DHS’s U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), to develop a more secure and stable workforce and to enhance fraudulent document awareness through education and training.
For more information, contact George Williams at 276-2758.

New Ordinance With Abandoned Property
Hillsborough County will become one of 13 local governments in Florida that have a new foreclosed property registry on their books. The county’s new Property Registration Ordinance is in effect. The new ordinance requires lending institutions to register all vacant, abandoned and foreclosed properties with Hillsborough County Code Enforcement and provide periodic inspections of the property. Each registration costs the mortgage company $100 per property.
For information, log onto www.hillsboroughcounty.org/hcce.

Bullying Initiative Receives $50,000
Bully Busters, Hillsborough County’s new anti-bullying campaign, received a $50,000 donation from the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office. The donation comes from asset forfeitures seized by the sheriff’s office. The money will be used for services and events for children to help stamp out bullying. The Bully Busters program includes public awareness, education, intervention and community support.

County Unveils Website for Chinese Drywall
Residents concerned about problems associated with Chinese drywall found in some homes can view an online portal of resources by visiting www.hillsboroughcounty.org and clicking on the Chinese Drywall button on the right-hand side of the page. It includes links to federal and state agencies handling investigations and findings, information regarding tax breaks offered by the Hillsborough County Property Appraiser’s Office and recent news coverage about Chinese drywall.

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BRANDON PRESS RELEASES

Posted by Don Ashley on November 18, 2009 · Leave a Comment

BRANDON PRESS RELEASES

MEETINGS

Restaurant Offers Added Bonus

Stonewood Grill, located at 612 Bloomingdale Ave. E. in Brandon, is offering a $40 bonus card in addition to the purchase of $250 in gift cards or a $100 bonus card in addition to $500 in gift cards through Thursday, December 31. Now open on Sundays from 12 Noon-9 p.m., the restaurant offers a children’s menu, a gluten-free menu and vegetarian dishes, as well as various drink specials. Call-ahead seating is welcome.

For more information, call 655-9561 or visit www.stonewoodgrill.com.

Realty Hosts ECHO Holiday Food Drive

River Hills Realty, located at 4316 New River Hills Pkwy. in Valrico, will be accepting donations for the Emergency Care Help Organization (ECHO) in Brandon throughout the month of November and December, this being its second year participating in a holiday food drive for the nonprofit.

Please call the office at 681-3555 or visit for a list of the most needed items. River Hills Reality www.riverhillsrealtyinc.com.

Live Radio Show Broadcasts at Onething Prayer

Community In Touch with Mike and Sherry Moore will be broadcasting live at Onething Prayer, located at 777 W. Lumsden Rd. in Brandon, on the third Wednesday of every month at 7:30 p.m. Admission is free.

To learn more, visit www.communityintouch.org or www.onethingprayer.com.

Holiday Craft Makers and Seekers Wanted

Staff of Delaney Creek Lodge, located at 320 Lakewood Dr. S. in Brandon, would like to invite the public to a Holiday Gift and Craft Show on Friday, December 4, from 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Come visit more than 50 indoor booths selling unique gifts and handmade crafts. Get your holiday shopping done early and enter to win numerous door prizes. Crafters and vendors are being sought. There is no charge for a booth, just the donation of an item to be raffled off.

Please call Elisabeth or Barbara at 655-8858 or email edraege@yahoo.com.

Ladies Invited to a Night Out

Ladies Night at the Rolling Pin is being held on Monday, November 30, from 6-8 p.m. Ladies can shop, sample foods, and wine or just hang out and mingle. There will be door prizes, wine and beer sampling, tasty tid-bits and more, including chair massages from Massage Envy.

For more information, call 653-2418 or visit www.rollingpinonline.com.

Business Seminar Announced

The Small Business Information Center will be hosting the workshop “Doing Business with Government” on Tuesday, December 8, from 10 a.m.-12 Noon at The Greater Brandon Chamber of Commerce, located at 330 Pauls Dr., Ste. 100, in Brandon.

For more information, call 914-4028.

Fundraiser Works Like a Charm

The Greater Brandon Community Foundation recently held its annual fundraiser, The Southern Charm Wine & Food Gala, which was a success. Raffle tickets were sold for a chance to win a 2010 Mercedes Benz or a Camaro and the drawing will be held on February 1, 2010 to see who the winner is. Food sponsors for the event included Floyd’s, Fresh Harvest, Council Oak, Maggiano’s, The Original Leena’s Chocolates, StingRays Grill, The Catering Company, GFS Marketplace, Starbucks, Costco and AJ’s Fine Wine & Liquors.

For more information on The Brandon Foundation, please visit www.brandonfoundation.org.

Association Members Hit the Races

The Brandon Running Association recently sent four runners to compete in the Chicago Marathon in October. Jess Sims completed the marathon with an official time of 3:32:06 and has qualified for the 2010 Boston Marathon. Michael Demko completed the marathon with an official time of 3:12:51 and has qualified for the 2011 Boston Marathon. Jen Morgan completed her first marathon in Chicago with a time of 4:08:26, and Judi Letteri finished with a time of 5:11:38. A total of 15 members headed to the Marine Corps Marathon in Washington, D.C. in late October. In addition, two members, Craig Osborn and David Garrison ran in the New York City Marathon in early November.

3Captionforpicture: Volunteers from Publix give back to Bloomingdale West Park, located at 3940 Canoga Park Dr. in Brandon, during United Way’s 16th Annual Day of Caring. Keep Hillsborough County Beautiful partnered with Hillsborough County Parks and Recreation Department for the planting project at Bloomingdale West Park in Brandon. For more information, call 960-5121.

Newcomers Welcome

The Brandon Newcomers Club welcomes new members, whether you just moved here or have been here forever, to join the group on the third Wednesday of each month at 9:30 a.m. at Center Place, located at 619 Vanderburgh Dr. in Brandon. Everyone is welcome to take part in its different activities, be it Bunco, Bridge, gardening or community projects.

For further information, call Re Dangremond at 643-3281.

4Captionforpicture: Resident Stacy Snow Feiler, former Pioneer nominee, and Pam Iorio, mayor of Tampa, enjoy great food and fellowship at the Annual American Business Women’s Pioneer Awards dinner at the Brandon Elks Lodge in October.

Trail Run Benefits Kids

A 5k Trail Run and 3K Fun Walk will be held on Saturday, December 5, in the Bell Creek Nature Preserve, located at 10940 McMullen Rd. in Riverview. Parking will be at Rogers Middle School, located at 11910 Tucker Rd. All proceeds will benefit A Kid’s Place, located on Lithia Pinecrest Rd. in Brandon.

Visit www.aliquity.com to register as a participant or sponsorship. For more information, email dottie@aliquity.com.

Lighting of the Christmas Tree Announced

The 26th Annual Lighting of the Christmas Tree will be held on Wednesday, December 2, at 7 p.m. at Center Place, located at 619 Vonderburg Dr., Ste. B, in Brandon. There will be performances and a visit from Santa and Mrs. Claus.

For more information, call 685-8888.

Volunteers Need for the Coast Guard

U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary 74 Brandon is seeking volunteers interested in becoming members. Qualified members can assist in conducting various kinds of patrols on Tampa Bay waterways, assist with Homeland Security duties, teach boating safety programs, conduct free vessel safety checks for the public and assist in public affairs and administration. Members must be at least 17 years old and a U.S. citizen.

For information, call 1-800-704-4216 or go to www.cgaux74.org.

Annie to Premier

The Florida Academy of Performing Arts will present the musical, Annie, on Friday and Saturday, December 4 and 5, at 7 p.m. and a Sunday matinee on December 6 at 3 p.m. at Riverview High School Theater, located at 11311 Boyette Rd. in Riverview. Tickets are $12 for adults; $10 for seniors, students and military and can be purchased online at www.musicshowcaseonline.com or www.faopa.org.

For more information, email take2thestage@gmail.com or call 244-8669.

RELIGION

Church Hosts Bake Sale and Craft Show

Holy Innocents’ Episcopal Church, located at 604 N. Valrico Rd. in Valrico, will hold its Second Annual Christmas Whistle Stop Bake Sale and Craft Show on Saturday, December 5, from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Craft, art and specialty vendors will be on-site as well as Spirit FM 90.5. Raffle tickets will be sold for various baskets and show, with the featured item being a handmade quilt. Home-baked treats and other food and drinks will be available for purchase. Proceeds from this event will go to the churches’ various outreach ministries including the Dominican Republic and A Kid’s Place in Valrico.

For more information, visit www.hiepiscopal.org or call 689-3130.

Cabin Fever Transitions

Cabin Fever Open Mic Night, held in a log cabin behind Horizon Christian Church at 1720 S. Saint Cloud Ave. in Valrico, is now moving to the first Saturday evening of each month to better accommodate busy family schedules, having been held on Wednesday evenings originally. It is sponsored by the local Valrico Beef ‘O’ Brady’s, which provides affordable and delicious meals specially designed for the open mic night. On Saturday, December 5, singer/songwriter Melissa Brethauer will be in concert.

Additional information and photos are available at www.cabinfeveropenmic.com.

2Captionforpicture: Seffner resident Brenda Cannon poses in front of her self-decorated table at First Baptist Church of Brandon’s Simply Christmas, being amongst some 400 women in attendance. The group had brunch and heard speaker Sharon Jaynes talk on “Preparing Our Hearts a & Homes for the Holidays.” For more information, call 689-1204.

Calling All Singers

The Brandon Choral Society is looking for people who love to sing and would like to join in the presentation of the Christmas portion of Handel’s “Messiah” on Sunday, December 20, at 3 p.m. at St. Stephen Catholic Church in Valrico. No auditions are required although a familiarity with SATB singing would be helpful. Singers should bring their own copies of the vocal score, but the church will have some available for purchase at $10 each. They will be provided with a practice CD of their parts. Rehearsals will be held on Tuesday evenings from 7:30-8:30 p.m. at St. Stephen Catholic Church, located at 5049 Bell Shoals Rd. in Valrico on November 24, December 1, December 8 and December 15, plus a dress rehearsal on Friday, December 18.

If you are interested in joining or have any questions, please contact Deidre Young at sawubona@verizon.net or 685-0287 or Mary Lou Danahar at mld1015@yahoo.com or 671-3703.

Congregation Beth Shalom Announcements

Members of Congregation Beth Shalom of Brandon, located at 706 Bryan Rd., joined together in November for the culmination of a Bat Mitzvah project organized by student Zoe Flaks, 13, to be able to dedicate the congregation’s Genizah (box which holds books that have God’s name written in them). Students and adults placed assorted Jewish prayer books into a hole in the ground that was prepared specifically for this morning and buried them.

Also announced, the church will be hosting a monthly Bingo starting Saturday, December 5, and continuing on the first Saturday of every month. There will be a food concession at 6:30 p.m., with Bingo beginning at 7:30 p.m. The cost is $15 for 20 games.

For additional information, please call 681-6547 or e-mail Rabbi Torop at btorop@verizon.net.

Residents Invited to Meditate

American Buddhist teacher, Angus Berry, will teach Viewing Others as Supreme, at Unity in Brandon, located at 115 Margaret St., on Thursday, November 26, from 7:05-8:30 p.m. There is a suggested donation of $10.

For more information, call 727-797-9770 or visit www.MeditationInTampaBay.org.

SCHOOLS

Etiquette Taught in Time for Holidays

Table Etiquette Boot Camp will take place on Saturday, December 5, from 10 a.m.-12 Noon at All Stars Italian American Grill, located at 15260 FishHawk Blvd. in Lithia. Children ages 6-12 are exposed to the rules of table etiquette through discussion and role-playing activities that include appropriate posture, place setting and acceptable conversation during a meal, plus much more. Reserve your place as seating is limited. The cost is $49 per student. A meal is included.

Contact Lisa Aber at 966-9787 or mannersdomatter@verizon.net for more information.

Be a Pixie Painter

Pixie Painters, led by instructor Doreen Donovan, will be held from 3-4 p.m. on Mondays, December 7, 14 and 28 and January 4, 11 and 25, for those age 4 at Center Place, located at 619 Vonderburg Dr., Ste. B, in Brandon. The cost is $30 for members or $40 for non-members.

For more information, call 685-8888.

Center Prepares Students for High-Tech Careers

Florida Advanced Technological Education Center, a National Science Foundation regional center of excellence in manufacturing located at Brandon Hillsborough Community College, located at 10414 E. Columbus Dr. in Tampa, hosted an information session highlighting educational and career pathways in robotics and high-tech manufacturing. Programmed for Success – preparing students for robotics and high-tech careers – was held in October and involved parents of middle school students from Hillsborough County who attended FLATE’s robotics camps in 2008-2009. The mood expressed by parents and kids was one of excitement and eager expectation for a 2010 Summer Robotics Camp program.

For more information, call 259-6577 or e-mail barger@fl-ate.org.

2Captionforpicture: Juliet is available for adoption at C.A.R.E. in Ruskin, open 10 a.m.-3 p.m. from Tuesday-Saturday. For directions, visit www.CareShelter.org or call 645-2273.

3Captionforpicture: Buck is available for adoption at C.A.R.E. in Ruskin, open 10 a.m.-3 p.m. from Tuesday-Saturday. For directions, visit www.CareShelter.org or call 645-2273.

Create Your Own Gingerbread House

Rolling Pin Kitchen Emporium, located at 2080 Badlands Dr. in Brandon, will be offering a gingerbread house workshop on Sunday, December 13, at 12 Noon and Saturday, December 19, at 11 a.m. Those in attendance will learn to shape, assemble, secure and decorate a real gingerbread house. Each participant will leave with a completely decorated gingerbread house ready for displaying. Seating is limited, so sign up early. The cost is $30.

For more information, visit www.rollingpinonline.com or call 653-2418.

Celebrate Thanksgiving Amongst Friends

The Brandon Family Support & Resource Center, located at 1277 Kingsway Rd. in Brandon, is hosting the following events: Giving Thanks Potluck on Monday, November 23, at 6 p.m. – Join staff in celebrating Thanksgiving; Also offered is the Grandparents’ Support Group every Friday at 10 a.m. – Grandparents and their grandchildren get together to swap precious memories, discuss fun ideas, socialize and play in the spacious playroom.

For more information, call 740-4634.

SPORTS

Players Club Members Place

The Players Club’s Division 1 U-11 boys Fortal soccer team recently competed in the Braden River Halloween Classic. The team played in the U-12 Bracket with an amazing run that led to playing in the championship game. Having given up a year, the team was still able to finish as runner up. The team plays at 1850 Windingwood Ave. in Brandon.

For more information, visit www.playersclubsoccer.com or call 661-1974.

BSAC Tennis Players Advance

The Brandon Sports and Aquatic Center, located at 405 Beverly Blvd. in Brandon, hosted the BSAC Tennis Local Junior Fall Classic in October, with the HI Performance players advancing to the finals. In the boys 18s, BSAC’s Alex Peckham defeated HI Performance teammate Colin Edwards. BSAC’s Luke Blankenship advanced to the boys 16s finals. The girls 14s found Alaina Ewing over HI Performance teammate Savannah Ewing, and BSAC’s Lauren Dupuis advanced to the girls 12s finals.

For more information, please call 689-0908.

Swimmers Compete for Foundation

IN October, The Aaron Piersol Foundation’s Race for the Oceans and Swim Florida from Ft. Myers hosted an open water event with more than 100 participants. Swimmers of all ages, including Aaron Piersol himself, and some additional Olympians, raced over 1K and 5K courses. Blue Wave swimmers participated in both events with a lot of success. In the 1K race Brittney Butler won girls 15-16s, and for girls 10 and younger, Lindsey Bowden placed second. On the side of the boys in the 10 and younger category, Blake McGovern finished first. His brother, Wes McGovern, won the boys 11-12s. Rudy Felts earned fifth place in the boys 13-14s. In the 5K race, Blue Wave girls dominated. Bailey Bowden (13-14) and Kayley Chevalier (15-16) swam side by side throughout the entire race, with only a second separating them one hour later. Bailey won the girls 13-14s while Chevalier took first for the girls 15-16s. Clare Fleming and Mary Margaret Deedrick finished third and fourth, respectively.

For more information, visit www.racefortheoceansevent.com.

Baseball Players Sought

2009 National Champions Bullets Baseball seeking elite experienced baseball players for the spring season.

For more information, please call 541-7625.

Baseball Minicamps Unleashed

The Thanksgiving Minicamp will be from Monday-Tuesday, November 23-24, from 7:30 a.m.-6 p.m. The Winter Minicamps will run Monday-Tuesday, December 21-22 and December 28-29, from 7:30 a.m.-6 p.m. Baseball instruction will be from 9 a.m.-2 p.m. for all minicamps, all being held at South Brandon Little League, located at 600 Parsons Ave. S. in Brandon. The cost is $80 per camp. Ages 6-14 are welcome.

For more information, please call 684-8226 or visit www.saladinobaseballacademy.com.

COUNTY UPDATES

New Regional Park Fees Start

Residents and visitors using Hillsborough County’s Regional Parks will be charged an entry fee and boat launch fee. This is first time these fees have been implemented in the Hillsborough County parks. Entry fee is $2 per vehicle (up to eight people) and the boat launch fee is $5. Frequent users of the parks are urged to purchase an annual pass that is good for one year from the date of purchase and good for any regional park in the system. The annual entry pass is $100 for a family or $50 for individuals. The boat ramp fee annual pass cost $100. For more information or to purchase the passes, visit www.hillsboroughcounty.org/parks or call 635-3500.

Water Resource Center Moves

Hillsborough County Water Resources Services’ (WRS) Brandon Customer Service Center will move to WRS’ new Brandon Support Operations Complex at 332 N. Falkenburg Rd., just south of the county’s Animal Services shelter.

As usual, bill payments may be made online at www.hillsboroughcounty.org/water or by phone at 276-8526.

Representative Votes Against Health Care Act

U.S. Representative Gus M. Bilirakis (R-Fla.), representing Florida’s 9th Congressional District, voted against H.R. 3962, the Affordable Health Care for America Act, and supports the Republican alternative health care reform bill.

To learn more, visit bilirakis.house.gov.

One Call for Public Works Help

Hillsborough County Public Works Department wants to remind residents in unincorporated Hillsborough County that they can call one convenient phone number – 635-5400 – to request a variety of department services, report a needed repair or find out more information about a Public Works Department project.

To request any of these services, call the Hillsborough County Public Works’ Customer Service Center at 635-5400 from 7 a.m.-5:30 p.m., Monday-Friday.

Comment Needed for Local Mitigation Strategy

The County’s Hazard Mitigation Section in the Planning and Growth Management Department is requesting public input from residents on its draft updated Local Mitigation Strategy Plan. The public can send their comments to Hillsborough County Hazard Mitigation Section, 601 E. Kennedy Blvd., 19th Floor, Tampa, FL 33601.

For more information, visit www.hillsboroughcounty.org/pgm/hazardmit/localmitigation.cfm or contact Hazard Mitigation at 276-8245 or at mandellL@hillsboroughcounty.org.

County to Become IMAGE Certified

Hillsborough County Administration will become the first IMAGE Certified county organization in a 57-county region in the state of Florida by early 2010 – a distinction the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) believes will become an industry standard. Hillsborough County Administration is participating in a voluntary collaborative program, known as IMAGE, with DHS’s U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), to develop a more secure and stable workforce and to enhance fraudulent document awareness through education and training.

For more information, contact George Williams at 276-2758.

Commissioners Seek Applicants for Citizen Boards

Hillsborough County Commissioners are seeking residents to serve on several county citizen advisory boards and councils. Residents interested in seeking appointment must be registered voters in Hillsborough County. These are voluntary positions, and members serve without compensation. The deadline for applying is Thursday, November 19. Appointments will be scheduled for a meeting of the Board of County Commissioners in December.

An application is available in the Commissioners’ reception area on the second floor of County Center, 601 E. Kennedy Blvd. in downtown Tampa, by calling the Boards and Councils Coordinator at 272-5826, or by visiting www.hillsboroughcounty.org.

New Ordinance With Abandoned Property

Hillsborough County will become one of 13 local governments in Florida that have a new foreclosed property registry on their books. The county’s new Property Registration Ordinance is in effect. The new ordinance requires lending institutions to register all vacant, abandoned and foreclosed properties with Hillsborough County Code Enforcement and provide periodic inspections of the property. Each registration costs the mortgage company $100 per property.

For information, log onto www.hillsboroughcounty.org/hcce.

Bullying Initiative Receives $50,000

Bully Busters, Hillsborough County’s new anti-bullying campaign, received a $50,000 donation from the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office. The donation comes from asset forfeitures seized by the sheriff’s office. The money will be used for services and events for children to help stamp out bullying. The Bully Busters program includes public awareness, education, intervention and community support.

County Unveils Website for Chinese Drywall

Residents concerned about problems associated with Chinese drywall found in some homes can view an online portal of resources by visiting www.hillsboroughcounty.org and clicking on the Chinese Drywall button on the right-hand side of the page. It includes links to federal and state agencies handling investigations and findings, information regarding tax breaks offered by the Hillsborough County Property Appraiser’s Office and recent news coverage about Chinese drywall.

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Press Releases

Posted by Don Ashley on November 11, 2009 · Leave a Comment

KW Hosts Open Putt Putt Golf Tournament for CharityOn Thursday, November 12, (shotgun start 6 p.m.) local Keller Williams Realty will host a Putt Putt Golf Tournament. Cost is $10 per person. Put together a foursome and come out for some fun. Families welcome as are agents from other companies. Sponsors welcome for $50 per hole. For more info on sponsorship, call Donna Walker at 541-1460 or e-mail donna@donnawalker.net. To participate in Putt Putt tournament, R.S.V. P. to JoyceBarrett2@aol.com by November 10. Summerfield Ladies Club AnnouncementsThe Summerfield Ladies Club will hold its last 2009 meeting on Thursday, November 19, at 11 a.m. at the Community Center, located at 13011 Summerfield Blvd. It will be hosting a Christmas luncheon on Thursday, December 3, at the Freedom Plaza Dining Room in Sun City. Reservations must be made by Thursday, November 19. Thursday, December 17, the club will host a shopping spree and lunch at the Ellenton Outlet Shops. Please gather at the Community Center at 10:30 a.m. for carpooling. If you have no last minute shopping to do, come along and just relax and enjoy the company. For reservations for the luncheon and more information, call Martha at 677-4610. Classed Held to Train Your KittenWant to teach your cat to fetch? Having litter box or scratching problems? On Tuesday, November 10, Feline Folks is giving a “Training Your Kitty” educational program at 2 p.m. in the Community Room at the SouthShore Regional Library, located at 15816 Beth Shields Way in Ruskin. The first 30 people get a free clicker. For more information, e-mail Info@FelineFolks.org or call 944-7651. Civic Association MeetsThe Apollo Beach Civic Association will meet on Thursday, November 19, at 7 p.m. at the Apollo Beach Recreation Park, located at 664 Golf and Sea Blvd. Please e-mail apollobchcivicassoc@tampabay.rr.com for more information.Community Market ReopensThe Ruskin Community Market has reopened for the season. Located across from the Ruskin Post Office, in the 600 block of First Street, NE, new vendors are being welcomed. Proceeds from vendor space rentals will go to fund various Ruskin community projects.Please call 645-6028 to reserve a spot. For more information, visit www.RuskinFoundation.org.Artists Sought for T-Shirt Contest The Apollo Beach Chamber is calling for artists to enter into a competition for its 18th Annual Manatee Festival of the Arts T-Shirt. Artists are asked to submit their minimum sized 12-inch by 14-inch original designs to the chamber no later than Monday, November 16. The winner will receive an honorarium of $100 and will be notified by the chamber around Monday, November 30.Applications can be obtained from the chamber at 137 Harbor Village Ln. in Apollo Beach. For more information, call 645-1366 or e-mail abeachchamber@tampabay.rr.com.Seminars for SeniorsSun City Senior Living, located at 3855 Upper Creek Dr. in Sun City, is hosting the following seminars: Tuesday, November 10, from 10–11 a.m. – Genesis Rehab Services is presenting, The Profound Effects of Therapeutic Massage and Manual Therapies for Seniors; Thursday, November 12, from 9:30–11 a.m. – Pre-Crisis Planning for Caregivers; Tuesday, November 17, from 10–11 a.m. – Diabetic Management; Thursday, November 19, from 10–11 a.m. – Chasing away depression during the holiday season. To RSVP for any of these seminars, call 633-3333.Help a Hero Call HomeSport Clips, located at 10469 Gibsonton Dr. in Riverview, has partnered with VFW Operation Uplink to provide troops free call days on Christmas Day, Friday, December 25, and Memorial Day, May 31, 2010. Through Saturday, November 14, the business will collect donations through check-out and canister, accepting check or credit cards. It will have a national Cut-A-Thon on Veterans Day, Wednesday, November 11. $1 from every haircut service will be donated to Operation Uplink. For more information, call 671-8775. Residents Make Optimism a Lunch DateStacy Self and Jennifer Baker have decided to sponsor a lunch on Mondays and Fridays from 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. at S&S Tacos, located at 10664 U.S. Hwy. 301 in Riverview. The lunch time is a chance for everyone to stop by and spend some time with people that have decided that being positive and being around positive people is a healthy thing to do. So, come one, come all, and bring someone you appreciate so you can spend a bit of quality time with them.For more information, call 677-8226. Toy Run Announced The 16th Down Home Make You Feel Good All Over Cookson Hills Toy Run, benefiting the “forgotten” children of east Hillsborough County and special need individuals, will take place on Sunday, December 6, starting with an auction from 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m., at the Veteran’s Memorial Park, located 3602 U.S. Hwy. 301 N. in Tampa. The Country Ride leaves the park at 1 p.m. and arrives at Evans Park, located at 1104 Kingsway Rd. in Seffner, at 1:45 p.m. Bring a gift for children at the Gift Unwrapping Ceremony at 2:30 p.m. There will be ribs, burgers, hot dogs, sides and more. Santa will be on-site with entertainment and more. For more information, call 643-5758, e-mail Cooksontoyrun@aol.com or visit www.cooksontoyrun.com.Native American Meet ‘N’ GreetNative American Ancestors Roster’s introductory pot luck meet ‘n’ greet will be held on Wednesday, November 18, from 7-9 p.m. at 3318 Acapulco Dr. in Riverview. Meet, network, encourage and gain encouragement from like-minded people who are also researching their Native American ancestors. Please bring some kind of light refreshment and beverage to share with everyone, along with donations of paper plates, napkins, cups and utensils. Bring along a folding chair as seating is limited. RSVP by Tuesday, November 10.E-mail NAAHKITTY@aol.com for more information. Devine Designs’ “One Devine Evening”Divine Designs celebrates 10 years of excellence with “One Divine Evening” on Saturday, November 14, from 5-9 p.m. Join staff for an evening filled with fun, food, and friends. The cost is $25 per person (bring a friend for $20). For reservations, call 661-3737.TADA Presents The NutcrackerThis Christmas, you have the perfect opportunity to start a new family tradition or continue an old one by seeing the holiday classic The Nutcracker, a young girl’s dream of the wonders and magic of Christmas brought to life in music and dance. Theatre Arts & Dance Alliance (TADA) will be presenting a full-length performance of this beloved story at Riverview High School auditorium, located at 11311 Boyette Rd. in Riverview, on Saturday, December 19, at 2:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. Tickets are available at TADA after November 1, Monday-Thursday, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. and Friday 3-7 p.m. TADA is located at 16711 FishHawk Blvd. For more information, call 571-0901.South Shore Arts & Crafts HooplaThe Resort and Club at Little Harbor will sponsor an Arts and Crafts sale event on Sunday, December 6 from 11 a.m.-4 p.m. For vendors, all items must be handcrafted, no commercial merchandise or kits. A $50 registration fee is due at the time of application to reserve a 10-ft. by 10-ft. space. No food vendors. Deadline for entry is Friday, November 13. Please submit a photo of your craftwork with registration application. Space is limited. A portion of the profits will be donated to the Mary and Martha House in Ruskin. For more information, call Lisa Cremeans at 386-846-0876 or Maureen O’Donnell at 386-451-8057.
Revival Held at Simmons LoopSimmons Loop Baptist, located at 6610 Simmons Loop in Riverview, will hold a revival which calls our country back to the Biblical mandate of truth as presented in the Word of God from Sunday-Wednesday, November 15-18. Bob Humphreys, of Brandon, will be the guest speaker during the regularly scheduled worship services on Sunday (11 a.m. and 6 p.m.) and Monday through Wednesday nights at 7 p.m. Everyone is invited. For further information, call 677-9310 or 654-9740. Back to the Future – A Study of Revelation First Baptist Church of Riverview will hold a four night conference on the book of Revelation. Reverend Paul Scott will teach at the 6:30 p.m. nightly sessions which run from Sunday, November 8 – Wednesday, November 11. Scott is a native of Riverview and is currently the pastor of Big Springs Baptist Church in Ellenboro, North Carolina (http://bigspringsbaptist.org). First Baptist Riverview is located at the corner of Balm Riverview Rd. and U.S. Hwy. 301. For more information, call the church office at 677-6377 or visit http://fbcriverview.org. There is no charge. Everyone is welcome. Residents Invited to Share Their GriefSt. Anne Catholic Church, located at 106 N.E. 11th Ave. in Ruskin, will be hosting a GriefShare support group, an ongoing series of weekly meetings consisting of viewing a Christian-based, professionally produced DVD, discussing its contents and sharing current situations, on Thursdays, from 3–4:30 p.m.Please call 645-1714 for further information and to register so that adequate materials can be obtained. Offerings at Resurrection CatholicResurrection Catholic Church, located at 6819 Krycul Ave. in Riverview, will soon begin a set of sessions to share with others the truth of the Catholic faith and the fellowship of the church family, learning what Catholics believe in an open and welcoming environment. Sessions are always held on Monday at 7 p.m. For information, call 677-2175 or e-mail Alarson1@tampabay.rr.com.South Shore Announces Divorce CareSouth Shore United Methodist Church announces Divorce Care, a divorce recovery and support group designed for those who are separated or divorced. The group meets on Tuesday evenings from 6:15-7:45 p.m. Sessions are held at the church office located at 435 Apollo Beach Blvd. Child care will be provided based upon reservation. Divorce Care features nationally recognized experts on divorce and recovery.Call South Shore United Methodist Church at 649-9462.

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Press Releases – Week of November 2, 2009

Posted by Don Ashley on November 5, 2009 · Leave a Comment

Pick’n & Sing’n at The Farm
Residents are invited to bring their guitar, banjo, fiddle or other instruments and join the fun with talented local residents singing about God and country at The Farm, located at 7818 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. in Lithia the last Friday of each month – this month’s being November 27 – at 7 p.m. Donations are appreciated.
For more information, call 967-3046 or visit http://thefarmusa.com.

Delight your Senses at Sweetbay’s Taste of the Holidays
You’re invited to celebrate FishHawk’s Sweetbay Supermarket’s 5th anniversary on Thursday November 5 from 4-7 p.m. Kick off the holidays with a sampling of holiday favorites.

FishHawk Ranch Cultural Festival
Savor the flavor of each country during the global affair at this year’s FishHawk Ranch Cultural Festival on Sunday, November 15, from 11am – 1pm at the beautiful, Palmetto Club.
You may choose to participate in the event as a sponsor, or attend as a guest. We’re looking for examples of music, dance, art, clothing, food and other signature items from different countries. Ultimately, we’d like to create a diverse atmosphere, featuring as many countries from around the world as possible. This is a great opportunity for local restaurants to set-up a table with samples of their finest foods, or beverages. Choose a country to showcase and bring food/beverage samples that are popular in that country. In addition, residents may participate by providing props, stories, crafts, or other items that they’ve collected from traveling (it does not have to be a food/beverage sample).
If you plan on attending as a guest, passports (tickets) are on sale at the Osprey Club. Admission is $5 per person, ages 3 and up. Residents and guests outside of FishHawk Ranch are welcome. If you are interested in participating, email Jennifer Palermo at jpalermo@fhrhoa.com, or call the Osprey Club at 654-6360.

‘Swimmin’ with the Fishes
Ms. Cyndi’s Corner Cafe announces “Fish Anytime”. Building on the success of her Friday Night Fish Fry, Cyndi will now offer Fish ‘n Chips Tuesday-Saturday during normal business hours 11 a.m.-8 p.m. The meal comes with an 8-9oz portion of hand-breaded Haddock, plus your choice of cole slaw, potato salad or fresh-cut fries. Also available is a huge Fish Sandwich for $6 at lunchtime Tue-Sat 11a.m.-2 p.m.
Ms. Cyndi’s, located at 3327 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. in the Albertson’s Plaza, is also open for lunch only on Mondays 11 a.m.-2 p.m. (no fish).

Divine Designs “One Divine Evening”
Divine Designs celebrates 10 years of excellence with “One Divine Evening” on Saturday, November 14 from 5-9 p.m. Join them for an evening filled with fun, food, and friends. $25 per person (bring a friend for $20). For reservations, call 661-3737.

TADA presents “The Nutcracker”
This Christmas, you have the perfect opportunity to start a new family tradition or continue an old one by seeing the holiday classic “The Nutcracker,” a young girl’s dream of the wonders and magic of Christmas brought to life in music and dance. Theatre Arts & Dance Alliance will be presenting a full-length performance of this beloved story at Riverview High School auditorium, 11311 Boyette Rd. in Riverview, on Saturday, December 19th at 2:30 and 7:30 p.m. Tickets are available at TADA after November 1 Monday-Thursday 9-1 p.m. and Friday 3-7 p.m. TADA is located at 16711 FishHawk Blvd. For more info, call 571-0901.

Master Gardner Clinic Offered at Bloomingdale Regional Library
On Wednesday, November 4 from 7- 8 p.m. at the Bloomingdale Regional Library, Monica Brandies, Brandon News garden writer and author of 10 garden books, will present a program on “Easy Ways to Grow and Use Herbs”. The library is located at 1906 Bloomingdale Ave., Valrico.
No pre-registration is required for this informative program. Call 661-8452 for more info.

Shop for the Holidays While Benefiting Organization
Word O Mouth Referrals presents its Holiday Shoppe on Sunday, November 1, from 2-5 p.m. at Music Showcase, located at 402 Oakfield Ave. in Brandon, with proceeds benefiting the Florida Academy of Performing Arts. We will have Mary Kay Cosmetics, Gold Canyon Candles and Just Jewelry and more. Fifteen percent of all sales will go to Florida Academy of Performing Arts.
For more information, email Bonnie Tekampe at bonnie@wordomouthreferrals.com.

Residents Needed to Start Community Garden
Oracle Farms owner Andy Grim is asking those interested in starting a community garden to contact him, with his land, located at 1003 Myrtle Rd. in Valrico, being offered up to create the garden.
For more information, call 689-1814

Operation Holiday Support Announced
October is the kick off month for the Brandon Junior Woman’s Club annual Operation Holiday Support running through Monday, November 30. There are two ways the community can support the troops – drop off items at one of the drop off locations indicated below or adopt a box by donating $12.50, which is price to ship a box to a soldier. Donation checks can be made payable to Brandon Jr. Woman’s Club, P.O. Box 66, Brandon, FL 33509. The drop-off locations for supplies are:
Suncoast Schools Federal Credit Union, 3234 S. Miller Rd., Valrico
Suncoast Schools Federal Credit Union, 1370 Oakfield Dr., Brandon
Berg & Wheeler Law Firm, 217 E Robertson St., Brandon
Tassels Home Decorative Fabric & Trim, 3239 Lithia Pinecrest Rd., Valrico
Pottery Patch, 2551 E. S.R. 60 (Sweetbay shopping center), Valrico
TJ Maxx, 2520 W. Brandon Blvd., Regency Square, Brandon
A comprehensive list of items can be e-mailed by contacting Donna Johnson-Griffin at donnaleegriffin@aol.com. Please indicate Operation Holiday Support 2009 on the subject line. If you have any questions, please call Johnson-Griffin at 244-4758.

Celebrate Boxer Bash
Celebrate family, fun and Fido at the annual Boxer Bash – Wags ‘n’ Wiggles on Saturday, November 7, from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. at Al Lopez Park, located at 4810 N. Himes Ave. in Tampa. Bring your family and Fido and enjoy a day of food, shopping, contests, raffles, silent auction, prizes and a variety of both people and pet related vendors. Meet the Florida Boxer Rescue volunteers and our Boxers. All proceeds go directly to saving the boxers.
For additional information, please visit http://flbr.org/BoxerBash2009.html or call 1-888- 612-5782.

Multi-Platform Show Coming
Fantasy of Flight’s is hosting its Third Annual Roar n’ Soar two-day land, sea and air extravaganza on Saturday and Sunday, November 7 and 8. The All-American-themed, combination air show, classic car show and slalom race, boat show and regatta, water-ski show and extreme sports showcase will be open from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. at the attraction’s spacious lakefront grounds and airfield at 1400 SE Broadway Blvd. in Polk City.
For more information, call 1-863-984-3500.

Musicians Invited to Join Band in Lithia
Musicians of all ages and levels of experience are invited to join a new community concert band practicing in Lithia at Grace Community United Methodist Church, located at 5708 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. in Lithia, on Thursday evenings from 7-9 p.m. Anyone who can read music is invited to join. Musicians should provide their own instruments and music stands, however.
To join, contact Sandy Townsend at 864-0287 or communityband@me.com or Kim McCullers at kmccullers@iqidsales.com.

Chiropractor Trades Services for Food
Brandon Chiropractic Associates, located at 409 W. Bloomingdale Ave. in Brandon, is urging its existing patients to come in on the Tuesday, November 17, to get their treatments in exchange for a bag of food or clothing items to be donated. For the entire months of October and November, new patients will receive up to $225 worth of healthcare for the same donation.
For more information, call 685-7577 or 689-1883.

Brandon Ballet Announcements
Tickets for the Brandon Ballet’s The Nutcracker, taking place Saturday and Sunday, December 12 and 13, are now on sale.
The Barnes and Noble Book Fair is supporting the Brandon Ballet on Saturday, November 7, from 10 a.m.-12 Noon, at the bookstore, located at 122 Brandon Town Center Dr. in Brandon. There will be The Nutcracker story time, tea with the Sugar Plum Fairy, autographs and pictures with costumed dancers and more. Present book fair ID 599100 from Thursday-Monday, November 5-9, and Barnes and Noble will donate a percentage to the Brandon Ballet.
Residents are also invited to Wine Exchange in Hyde Park for an afternoon of fine wine, food and company, on Sunday, November 1, from 2-4 p.m. for $50.
For tickets or more information, go to www.brandonballet.org or call 684-4282.

Poker Run Helps Benefit Guide Dogs
Paws for Patriots Poker Run, sponsored by the Old Town HOG Chapter (Brandon) and Southeastern Guide Dogs, starts and ends at Harley-Davidson of Brandon, located at 9841 Adamo Dr. with registration starting at 8 a.m. on Saturday, November 21. This event will also feature a “poker walk” for those not able to ride, raffles, both a Chinese and silent auction, a swap meet, a chapter challenge, vendors and food.
Contact Cal Reimann for more information at 760-4757 or email fancy55@verizon.net.

Foundation Unveils An Evening of Hope
The Greater Brandon Community Foundation presents An Evening of Hope on Saturday, November 7, from 6-9 p.m. at Bell Shoals Baptist Church, located at 2102 Bell Shoals Rd. in Brandon. Tickets are $50 per person. Corporate tables and sponsorship opportunities are available.
Call 689-6889 for information.

Hall of Fame Dinner Announced
BHSAA Hall of Fame Dinner will take place on Thursday, November 12, at 6 p.m. in the Brandon High School dining hall, located at 1101 Victoria St. in Brandon. Prepaid reservations can be made by sending $15 per meal to Karen Rodriguez, 308 W. Jersey Ave., Brandon, FL 33510.
For more information, call 651-3261.

Flotilla Seeks Volunteers
U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary 74 Brandon is seeking volunteers interested in becoming members to conduct various kinds of patrols on Tampa Bay waterways, assist with Homeland Security duties, teach boating safety programs, conduct free vessel safety checks for the public and assist in public affairs and administration. Members must be at least 17 years old and a U.S. citizen.
For information, or to become a member, call 1-800-704-4216 or go to www.cgaux74.org.

Women’s Connection Hosts Local Talent
The Stonecroft Brandon Christian Women’s Connection announces Jeremy D. and Katie Silverman as the featured performing artists for its only 2009 fundraising event on Saturday, November 7, at 7 p.m. at the First United Methodist Church, located at 120 N. Knights Ave. in Brandon.
For more information, contact Michelle Burgess at 310-9518.
Shop Til You Drop at Nativity
Nativity Catholic Church, located at 705 E. Brandon Blvd. in Brandon, will host Shop Til You Drop on Saturday, November 21, from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. There will be crafts, gifts and holiday decorations. It will be free admission.
For more information, call 689-9101.

Stonecroft Ministries Hosts Several Events
The Stonecroft Brandon Christian Women’s Connection meets for lunch on Thursday, November 19 at the Bell Shoals Special Events Center off Overhill Street at Bell Shoals Boulevard at 11 a.m. Cost is $12. Guest speaker is Mary Ellen House. Mary Ellen is an inspirational speaker and an energetic lady, full of life with a warm and happy spirit.
A Special Event is planned for Saturday November 7 at 7 p.m. to benefit Stonecroft Ministries. Jeremy D. and Katie Silverman will be featured performing artists for our only 2009 fund raising event at the First United Methodist Church, 120 Knights Ave., Brandon. The cost is $10. Jeremy D. and Katie Silverman are acclaimed and award-winning performing artists based in the Tampa Bay area. Jeremy is a nationally-recognized, Grammy-affiliated songwriter and producer who is also popular for his work as an accomplished singer/pianist. Jeremy and Katie will perform a variety of music including Broadway, original compositions, and Christian contemporary selections. They will feature several guest artists. Visit www.JeremyDSilverman.com for more info.
For details and further info, call Michelle at 310-9518.

Bell Shoals Celebrates Veterans and Girlfriends
Bell Shoals Baptist Church, located at 2102 Bell Shoals Rd. in Brandon, will be hosting the following events: Veterans Appreciation Celebration on Sunday, November 8, at 5:30 p.m.; and A Girlfriend’s Christmas on Friday, November 20, at 7 p.m. A dessert reception will be held. Tickets are $15.
For more information, call 689-4229.

Paintball Aids Women’s Center
On Saturday, November 14, the WFC’s Fundraising Paintball Game – Take Back Tampa Bay – will open at 7:30 a.m. for registration and sign-in at the FishHawk Fellowship Church, located on 15326 FishHawk Blvd. in Lithia. The game will raise funds for the Women’s Resource Center of Tampa.
This event is open to the public and pre-registration discounts are available by visiting www.wfcpaintball.com/nov14game.htm or Tiki’s Paintball Shop, located at 428 W. Brandon Blvd. in Brandon.

Yard Sale Benefits PTA
The Lithia Springs Elementary PTA will host a yard sale on Saturday, November 7, at 7 a.m. at the school, located at 4332 Lynx Paw Trl. in Valrico. Residents can rent a space for $10 or donate items for the group to sell. All proceeds go to the Lithia Springs Elementary PTA to benefit its students.
For more information or to rent a space, visit www.lsespta.com or contact Ivette Bauers at tbauers@tampabay.rr.com.

Openings Available at Life Academy
Children’s Life Academy has openings in its preschool, located at 3120 S. Miller Rd. in Valrico, open from 7 a.m.-6 p.m., Monday – Friday for ages 2-5. It will be starting a free VPK program in November and any child who will begin kindergarten next year is eligible.
Please call 657-4802 or childrenslifeacademy@hotmail.com for more information.

Boot Camp Formed For Etiquette
Manners DO Matter is offering a two-hour etiquette boot camp starting in November at Sunset Bay Chapel, located at 6026 Churchside Dr. in Lithia, where children, ages 5-12, are exposed to the rules of table etiquette through discussion and role-play activities that include appropriate posture, place settings and acceptable conversations during a meal plus much more. Daytime and evening sessions are available, costing $29 per child, with a sibling discount available. The cost of the workshop includes a meal.
For more information, call Lisa Aber at 966-9787 or email mannersdomatter@verizon.net.

Kids Sculpt Clay
Kid’s Clay, for ages 5-13, will be led by instructor Donna Hall at Center Place, located at 619 Vonderburg Dr., Ste. B, in Brandon, on Tuesdays, November 3 and 17, from 5:15-6:15 p.m. The cost is $20 for members or $25 for non-members. Supplies are included in price per month.
For more information, call 685-8888.

School Celebrates Fall Festival
Pinecrest Elementary, located at 7950 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. in Lithia, is having its annual Fall Festival on Friday, November 13, from 6-9 p.m., celebrating its third annual chili contest. There will be a silent auction, raffle items, games, bounce houses and lots of food. Entry is free. A $10 armband will be available for midway fun, which includes games, prizes and bounce houses. Children 4 and under are free.
For more information, call 744-8164.

Kids Welcome To Santa’s Workshop
The Second Annual Santa’s Holiday Workshop will be held at Center Place, located at 619 Vonderburg Dr., Ste. B, in Brandon, on Saturday, November 14, from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. for children grades kindergarten-fifth. Each child will receive a bag lunch and small gift. The price of admission to this event is two canned goods or one new toy that will be donated to a needy family that Center Place will sponsor for the holidays through the Cynthia Pinckney Ministries. A ticket is required.
Call 685-8888 for more information.

Tea Party Celebrates Book Series
Grace Christian School, located at 1425 N. Valrico Rd. in Valrico, will be hosting a Girls ‘n Grace Tea Party with the creator and author of the Girls ‘n Grace dolls and book series Pam Davis on Saturday, November 7, at 12 Noon. There will be a fashion show of the girls with the dolls and their clothes. Adults cost $15 and children $10.
Please call the office at 689-8815 for reservations.
3POSTER

Performing Arts Academy Started
Brandon’s theatre and arts offerings are about to reach a whole new level with the arrival of the Florida Academy of Performing Arts. The academy will initially lease rehearsal and performance space from Music Showcase, located at 402 Oakfield Dr. in Brandon, offering classes and programs in acting, film, television, musical theatre, orchestra, rock band, jazz band, chorus, showchoir and public speaking, as well as education in the business of entertainment, planning a performing arts career, audition and casting workshops and an exciting new WebTV show featuring local actors.
For more information, contact Janet Frenkel at 244-8669 or visit www.floridaacademyofperformingarts.org.

Durant Drama Opens Season
The Durant High School theatre department opens its 2009 – 2010 season with “A Night of One Acts.” Drama students from Durant, Plant City, Valrico, and Lithia will be staging a night of three one act plays. “The Legend of Sleepy Hollow,” “In the Wings,” and “Forbidden Broadway.” The show features the talents of Chris Tousignant and Mackenzie Jenkins of Valrico and Amanda Zappia and TyLynn Eben of Plant City. A Night of One Acts goes up November 5, 6, & 7 at Durant High School Auditorium. Curtain is at 7 p.m. Cost of admission is $5. Reservations can be made by contacting Mason at 813-757-9075 ext 280 or online at www.theatredurant.com.

Football Enthusiasts Welcome
Located at 6026 Churchside Dr. in Lithia, Sunset Bay Chapel’s First Annual Turkey Bowl will be held on Saturday, November 21, at 2:30 p.m., starting with games. There will be a gigantic blow up “Big Kahuna” slide and obstacle and a seven-on-seven touch football tournament for all ages. Champions of turkey bowl receive great prizes. The barbeque will begin at 5 p.m. The event is free. Residents must register by Wednesday, November 11.
For more information, contact Kody Kirchhoff at 210 0609 or email highschool@sunsetbaychapel.com.

Girls Basketball Tryouts Held
The East Tampa Thunder will be holding open girls basketball tryouts on Sundays, November 1 and 8, at the Barrington Middle School outdoor courts, located at 5925 Village Center Dr. in Lithia, from 4-6 p.m. All sixth, seventh and eighth grade girls are invited to tryout.
For more information, please call 753-9174.

CAMPO YMCA Offers Competitive Youth Volleyball Team Coached by Olympian Keba Phipps
Rising youth volleyball stars can now train with two-time Olympian Keba Phipps at the Campo Family YMCA. Tryouts for the YMCA’s two 2010 competitive volleyball teams will be held on November 1 at the Campo YMCA from 1-3pm (14’s team) and 4-6pm (15’s team).
Athletes should arrive 15 minutes prior to their scheduled tryout time to register. Tryout fee is $40 per athlete, which is due on the day of tryouts. A USAV membership card is required at tryouts. For more information, call Christy Lowe at 684-1371 or email camposports@tampaymca.org.

Register Now for FishHawk Coyotes Lacrosse
Registration is currently underway for the spring program. “We had a very successful inaugural season last year and our expansion with the fall program this year was just as successful.
With the explosion of interest in the Coyotes lacrosse program, they are proud to announce the addition of a Middle School team (7th & 8th graders), as well as their Youth (5th & 6th graders) and Rec (1st – 4th graders) teams this upcoming season. Registration started last month and is full steam ahead, as 3 teams are already full. But space is still available on a first come first serve basis and you can register up until November 13. Practice will begin in December and the season runs January through April. For full details and to register your son or daughter today, check out the Coyotes website at www.fishhawkcoyoteslacrosse.com, or call Brian Lemon at #813-689-2070.
The fastest growing youth sport in America, lacrosse, has certainly found a home in Lithia at the FishHawk Sports Complex – home of the FishHawk Coyotes.

Filed under Press Releases · Tagged with

BRANDON PRESS RELEASES

Posted by Don Ashley on October 29, 2009 · Leave a Comment

BRANDON PRESS RELEASES

MEETINGS

Make Cards for Troops
Join 2009 Brandon Honorary Mayor Connie Smaldone in the Second Annual Christmas Cards for the Troops on Saturday, October 24, from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. at Campo Family YMCA, located at
For more information, contact Jeri Fontana, Stampin’ Up!® demonstrator, at 684-3415 or email at JeriFontana2001@yahoo.com.

Open House for Pilots
CAMS Flight, Inc., a Cessna Pilot Training Center at St. Petersburg/Clearwater International Airport, will hold its annual Open House on Saturday, October 17, from 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Lunch is free and you can register for door prizes.
For directions and more information, call 727-507-8881.

Willy Wonka Visits Chocolate Store
Willy Wonka will be at the Original Leena’s Chocolates, located at 3476 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. in the Lithia Crossings plaza, the weekends of October 17, 24 and 31, from 12 Noon-1 p.m. Free chocolates and samples will be available.
For more information, call 643-8500.

Ranch Hosts Halloween Party
R&R Ranch, located at 9805 Bryant Rd. in Lithia, is hosting its annual Horsey Halloween Party on Saturday, October 24, from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. There will be hay rides, pony rides, pumpkin decorating, cart rides, games, prizes and more. Adults are free and children pay $7.50 each.
For more information, visit www.rrranchlithia.com.

Music Series Kicks Off at Westfield
Westfield, located at 459 Brandon Town Center in Brandon, will host its Fall Music Series within its Restaurant Courtyard on Saturday, October 24, from 6–8 p.m. There will be live music, family events and activities. The first 500 shoppers to register in the Restaurant Courtyard each weekend will receive a $5 restaurant gift card to one of the following restaurants: California Pizza Kitchen, The Cheesecake Factory, GrillSmith (opening fall 2009), Panera Bread, Ruby Tuesday or Siniqual Contemporary Mexican Cuisine.
For more information, call 661-MALL or visit westfield.com.

Seffner Chamber Hosts Fest
The Greater Seffner Area Chamber of Commerce and Service 1st Credit Union are proud to host the second annual Veterans Day Seffner Fest on Sunday, November 14, from 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Admission is free. This event is located on MLK Blvd., half block east of Broadway on MLK.
Sponsorship and vendor opportunities are available by calling 627-8686.

Live Radio Show Broadcasts at Onething Prayer
Community In Touch with Mike and Sherry Moore will be broadcasting live at Onething Prayer, located at 777 W. Lumsden Rd. in Brandon, on Wednesday, October 21, at 7:30 p.m. Admission is free. The live broadcast is planned to continue on the third Wednesday of every month.
To learn more, visit www.communityintouch.org or www.onethingprayer.com.

Free Chick-fil-A
The Chick-fil-A® restaurant located at 1504 E. Brandon Blvd. in Brandon will offer a complimentary Chick-fil-A® Chicken Biscuit to customers each Tuesday in October from 6-10:30 a.m. No purchase necessary, limit one free item per customer per day.
For more information, call 661-2300.

Commissioner Beckner Visits Community
Hillsborough County Commissioner Kevin Beckner, District 6, Countywide, is hosting office hours in the community on Friday, October 23, from 4–6 p.m. at the Brandon Regional Service Center, located at 311 Pauls Dr. in Brandon.
To learn more, go to www.hillsboroughcounty.org/bocc.

2Captionforpicture: Brandon resident and Staff Sergeant Carols Rodriquez, a Local-National Force-Protection escort assigned to the 455th Expeditionary Civil Engineer Squadron, directs a convoy of trucks on the flightline in Bagram, Afghanistan. For more information, visit www.bagram.afcent.af.mil.

Rotary Sponsors International Grant
The Rotary Club of Brandon recently acted as host partner club to complete an international grant to purchase a vehicle suitable to be used as a bookmobile for children in outlying areas of Cochabamba, Bolivia. The bus is estimated to reach some 1,500 children by the end of the year who have no access to a library.

Coastal Cleanup a Success
More than 3,000 volunteers picked up litter and debris along shorelines, rivers and lakes during the 24th Annual International Coastal Cleanup in September. Volunteers cleaned 40 sites and approximately 148 miles throughout Hillsborough County and collected an estimated 52,707 lbs. of trash and 3,230 lbs. of recyclables.
For more information, visit www.khcbonline.org or call 960-5121.

Salon Supports Locks of Love
New Identities Hair Studio’s Locks of Love charity event(s) held at the Westfield Brandon mall amassed 41 ponytails through 41 charity haircuts. All together, over the past few months, the salon has collected 124 ponytails for Locks of Love.
Located at 10639 Big Bend Rd. in Riverview, New Identities can be reached at 741-1177. For more information, visit www.locksoflove.org.

Seminar Held for Businesses
Biz Ed 101: Human Resources and Employment Law Issues will be presented by Clark, Campbell, of Mawhinney & Lancaster, P.A. on Tuesday, October 27, from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. at Buca di Beppo, located at 11105 Causeway Blvd.
For more information and ticket prices, call 689-1221, ext. 8815.

Luncheon Discusses Mass Transit Issues
The Greater Brandon Chamber of Commerce Membership Luncheon will take place on Tuesday, October 27, at 12 Noon to discuss “The Reality of Rail: A Discussion of Mass Transit,” held at Embassy Suites – Tampa/Brandon, located at 10220 Palm River Rd. in Tampa.
For more information and ticket prices, contact Crystal Colegrove at 689-1221, ext. 8824.

Halloween Parade Coming
The 12th Annual Halloween Horribles Parade will be held on Sunday, October 25, from 3-4 p.m. at Center Place, located at 619 Vonderburg Dr., Ste. B, in Brandon.
For more information or free tickets, call 685-8888.

Meet and Greet at Resource Center
The Brandon Family Support and Resource Center, located at 1277 Kingsway Rd. in Brandon, will be holding a meet and greet on Saturday, October 24, from 11 a.m.-1 p.m.
For more information, call 740-4634.

Garage Sale Held for Bo
A community garage sale will be held in the parking lot of Hot Locks, located at 106 E. Bloomingdale Ave. in Brandon, on Sunday, October 25, from 7 a.m.-1 p.m. to aid Bo, who is suffering from stage III non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma and lost his job, vehicle and income.
For more information, call 684-3099.

Coin Collectors Invited
The Brandon Coin Club is pleased to announce its next Coin, Currency & Stamp Show on Saturday, October 24, from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. at the Brandon Elks Lodge, located at 800 Centennial Lodge Dr. in Brandon.
Contact Mark Palermo at 361-0740 for more information.

Military Welcome to a Pancake Breakfast
Are you a military family member affected by a deployment? Then come to a
Pancake Breakfast on Saturday, October 24, from 8:30-11 a.m. at the MacDill
Family Resource Center, located in the Credit Union Building at 710 Oakfield Dr., Ste. 153, in Brandon.
Please RSVP by calling Gayle Cook at 655-9281 or Kris Keyser at 828-0122.

Collection Held for Metropolitan Ministries
The Brandon Credit Union Service Center, located at 710 Oakfield Dr. in Brandon, is collecting monetary and canned goods for Metropolitan Ministries. The barrels will be picked up on Monday, October 26.
For more information, call 247-4414.

Save the Date for Corks & Forks
The South America at 2009 Corks & Forks: Viva Carnivale! will be held poolside on Saturday, November 21, at the Campo Family YMCA’s Family Fun Pool, located at 3414 Culbreath Rd. in Valrico. Tickets are $50 for YMCA members and $75 for non-members.
For more information, call Mags Oldman at 684-1371, ext. 208. Tickets are also available at www.tampaymca.org/corks.

RELIGION

FAITH Riders Fight Against Pediatric Cancer
FAITH Riders of Bell Shoals Baptist Church in Brandon invite bikers to participate in the Ride for Kids on Sunday, November 1, starting at 9 a.m. at the Sarasota County Technical Institute, located at 4748 Beneva Rd. in Sarasota, to raise funds for the Pediatric Brain Tumor Foundation. There is a $35 donation fee.
For more information, please contact 1-800-253-6530 or go to www.riderforkids.org.

St. Andrew’s Kids Present Musical
Located at 3315 Bryan Rd. in Brandon, St. Andrew’s United Methodist Church’s 18th annual children’s musical “Hurry on Down” will take place on Sunday, November 22, at 7 p.m. Admission is free.
For more information, please call 689-6849 or visit www.standrewsbrandon.org.

Bingo Coming To Congregation Beth Shalom
Starting Saturday, December 5, bingo will be held on the first Saturday of every month at Congregation Beth Shalom, located at 706 Bryan Rd. in Brandon. The cost is $15 for 20 games. There will be door prizes, two specials with cash prizes, a 50/50 ticket collection. Doors and the food concession will open at 6:30 p.m. There will be a dinner special every month. Bingo starts at 7:30 p.m.
For more information, call 681-6547.

Auction Aids Missions and Children
St. Mark United Church, located at 2914 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. in Valrico, will hold a benefit auction on Saturday, November 14, at 7 p.m. to benefit the work of St. Mark United Church in missions and outreach programming. Ten percent of all proceeds will go to the Brandon Guild of All Children’s Hospital.
For more information, call 685-0998.

Buddhist Meditation Offered
American Buddhist teacher Angus Berry will instruct Learning to Cherish Others, an introduction to meditation from the Kadampa Buddhist tradition, at Unity in Brandon, located at 115 Margaret St., on Thursday, October 29, from 7:05-8:30 p.m. Donations of $10 are welcome.
For more information, call 727-797-9770 or log on to www.MeditationInTampaBay.org.

Church Changes Locations
Ministerio Transformando Vida Asambleas de Dios Inc. will be relocating from 3805 Turkey Creek Rd. in Plant City to S.R. 60 in Valrico, hosting its first service on Sunday, November 1, at 10:30 a.m. Services include: Tuesday at 7 p.m. for prayer service, Thursday at 7:30 p.m. for worship service, Sunday at 9:30 a.m. for Bible study and 10:30 a.m. for worship service.
For more information, call 707-9674.

St. Stephen Announcements
St. Stephen Catholic Church, located at 5049 Bell Shoals Rd. in Valrico, announces the following events: Mass for Expectant Mothers is on Saturday, October 24, at 4 p.m.
Contact is Rosie Bridges at rbridges@ststephencatholic.org or 671-4434.
Angels Among Us is taking place on Saturday, October 24, at the Pepin Hospitality Center. Tickets are $75. The evening includes dinner, open bar, plenty of fun and fellowship.
If you have a donation that needs to be picked up, call Mel Williams at 597-8550. If you would like information on sponsorship, call Dena Craig at 767-4571.
XLT Adoration will take place on Sunday, October 25, from 6:30-8 p.m. All Souls Day Remembrance Mass will be held on Monday, November 2, at 7 p.m.
For more information, call 689-4900

SCHOOLS

4Captionfor picture: The Varsity Turkey Creek Trojans, of the local FYFCA football and cheerleading league that plays in Brandon, showed their support for Breast Cancer Awareness Month in October, wearing pink socks, pink shoelaces, pink sports tape, pink wrist bands and even pink gloves. For more information, visit www.turkeycreektrojans.org.

Leaguerettes Hold Registration
The 2009-2010 Brandon Leaguerettes Girls Slow Pitch’s registration will be held on Saturday, October 24, from 9 a.m.-12 Noon at the Brandon Sadie Park, located at 510 E. Sadie St. in Brandon. The sign-up fee is $135. There are divisions for ages 5-17. New players need to bring their birth certificate.
For more information, call 689-6189 or visit www.brandonleaguerettes.com.

Scrapbook for Education
Scrappin’ 4 Education, a scrapbooking event to benefit Brandon High School PTSA, will take place on Saturday, November 7, from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. at Brandon High School’s cafeteria, located at 1101 Victoria St. in Brandon, The fee is $25, with $5 off with a BHS PTSA card. The student fee is $10.
To register, contact Asunta Blanchard at asuntab13@hotmail.com or call 684-7528.

1Caption for picture: Rabbi Menachem Mendel Rubashkin visited the Jewish Community Center Preschool Brandon, located at 706 Bryan Rd., recently to teach the students about Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year. He taught the 3- and 4-year-olds how to make a Shofar, an ancient musical horn made from the horn of a ram. For more information, call 643-0522.

2Caption for picture: First grade student Noah Hamrick is surrounded by his grandparents as Bell Shoals Academy, located at 2102 Bell Shoals Rd. in Brandon, celebrated grandparents in the month of September, with more than 500 grandparents coming out. For more information, call 689-9183.

BSAC Announcements
The Brandon Sports and Aquatic Center, located at 405 Beverly Blvd. in Brandon, will host a self defense class, taught by martial arts Black Belt Itamar Eylon, on Wednesdays from 7:15-8 p.m. The cost is $10 per person.
For more information, please call 689-0908 or 728-4275.
Also, the Battle of the Backyard Champions will take place on Saturday, October 24, from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. with an awards dinner immediately following. Master of Ceremonies Ernest Hooper, of the St. Petersburg Times, will be in attendance. Competitive levels include: Youth 8-14, Teens 15-18, Adults 18-40 and Wise Warriors 40-plus.
For more information, contact Lori Bukaweski at 361-7450 or lbukaweski@mybsac.org.

Swim Team Celebrates 20 Year Reunion
The Blue Wave Swim Team at the Brandon Sports and Aquatic Center celebrated its 20 year reunion at the facility in September. Peter Banks, now High Performance director of Swim Ireland, was in attendance for this special event.
If you are an alumni of the Blue Wave Swim Team or are seeking more information about the Blue Wave program, please call 689-0908.

2SportsCaption: Misty is available for adoption at C.A.R.E. in Ruskin, open 10 a.m.-3 p.m. from Tuesday-Saturday. For directions, visit www.CareShelter.org or call 645-2273.

3SportsCaption: Dingo is available for adoption at C.A.R.E. in Ruskin, open 10 a.m.-3 p.m. from Tuesday-Saturday. For directions, visit www.CareShelter.org or call 645-2273.

Semifinalists Announced for Merit Scholarship
Homeschooled student Ian Hanchett is a semifinalist in the 2010 National Merit Scholarship Program.
To learn more about the scholarship, please go to www.nationalmerit.org.

COUNTY UPDATES

County Unveils Updated Ecotourism Guide
Hillsborough County’s SouthShore: What a Difference a Bay Makes Ecotourism Guide, has been released. The brochures may also be picked up at the Apollo Beach Chamber of Commerce, located at 137 Harbor Village Ln. in the New Mirabay Village shopping plaza.
To view the guide, log onto www.hillsboroughcounty.org/econdev/tourism

Funds Available for First Homebuyers
Hillsborough County’s Affordable Housing Department will be releasing $716,000 to help eligible residents buy their first home in unincorporated Hillsborough County, Temple Terrace and Plant City through its Florida Homebuyer Opportunity Program. The program provides a loan of up to $8,000 in down-payment assistance to income-eligible first-time homebuyers. These funds can then be paid off by the federal income tax refund available to homebuyers under the federal First-Time Homebuyer Credit program.
Additional program details can be found at www.hillsboroughcounty.org/afforablehousingoffice by clicking on “Florida Homebuyer Opportunity Program.” For more information, contact Judy Jones, Housing Programs, at 274-6680 or via email at jonesj@hillsboroughcounty.org.

Bully Busters Bus Bench Kicks Off Campaign
Hillsborough County and the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office officially kicked off the new anti-bullying initiative, Bully Busters, this morning with the unveiling of the first Bully Busters bus bench. The bench is one of 50 that will be placed in strategic locations around the county that are frequented by children and teenagers. In addition to the bus benches, the county is also distributing 10,000 Bully Buster bookmarks and 500 posters. Hillsborough Television (HTV) has also produced public service announcements that are airing on HTV, as well as several cable channels including Animal Planet, the Cartoon Network, Discovery Channel, MTV and Nickelodeon. The project is funded through state justice grants.
For more information, contact Jan MacLeod, Hillsborough County Criminal Justice liaison, at 276-2539.

Changes for Hillsborough County Services
The following departments will be affected by change in hours of operation or locations, and/or new fee schedules: Animal Services; Library Services; Parks, Recreation & Conservation Services; and Veterans Affairs. In addition, Hillsborough County offices will close during the five furlough days that have been scheduled throughout the next fiscal year:
Friday, Oct. 30, 2009
Friday, Jan. 15, 2010
Friday, April 2, 2010
Friday, June 18, 2009
Thursday, Sept. 9, 2010
Emergency services, wastewater plants and some children’s services will not be affected by these furlough closures. Closures will affect all other Hillsborough County services, including Head Start centers, libraries, parks and recreation centers, neighborhood service centers and senior centers. In addition, book drop-off stations at libraries will not be in service.
For more information, the contact information for each department has is listed: Animal Services: 744-5660 or at www.hillsboroughcounty.org/animalservices; Parks, Recreation & Conservation Services: 635-3500 or visit www.hillsboroughcounty.org/parks; Library Services: 273-3652 or visit www.hcplc.org; Solid Waste: 272-5680 or visit www.hillsboroughcounty.org/solidwaste; and Veterans: 975-2181 or visit www.hillsboroughcounty.org/veteransaffairs.

October is Head Start Awareness Month
As part of October is Head Start Awareness Month, many of Hillsborough County’s 24 Head Start/Early Head Start centers will host individual events to highlight what this unique program offers.
For a listing of all awareness events, visit www.hillsboroughcounty.org/headstart and click on “Latest News.” To find out about the nearest Head Start/Early Head Start center, residents should call 272-5140.

Filed under Press Releases · Tagged with

Press Releases Oct 20, 2009

Posted by Don Ashley on October 20, 2009 · Leave a Comment

Valrico Press Releases

MEETINGS

Garage Sale Announced
The Buckingham Community Yard/Garage Sale, located south of Lumsden Rd., at the intersection of St. Cloud Ave. and Cliffdale Dr. in Valrico, will take place on Saturday, October 17, from 8 a.m.-1 p.m.
For more information, call Charlotte Sims at 655-6266.

Garage Sale Aids Schools
A garage sale, put on by a local ladies bowling league, will be held Saturday, October 17, from 7:30 a.m.-2 p.m. at 5306 Durant Rd. in Dover with all proceeds going towards area schools in Hillsborough County.
For more information, email BeansGravy@aol.com.

Ladies Night Out
South Florida Baptist Hospital invites all ladies to its series of educational seminars on health issues unique to women on Thursday, October 15, 6-8 p.m., held at the South Florida Baptist Hospital in the Administration Conference Room (2 North), located at 301 N. Alexander St. in Plant City.
Reservations are required and can be made by calling 754-4444. Visit www.southfloridabaptist.com.
Mobile Meals Adds New Restaurant
Mobile Meals, a delivery service, is now offering Bonefish Grill within its delivery of participating restaurants. Other participating restaurants include California Pizza Kitchen, La Septima Café, Kabuki Japanese Restaurant, Olive Garden, First Choice Bar-B-Que, Pita’s Republic, Cherry’s, Tokai Japanese and many others. Mobile Meals is open for lunch and dinner Monday-Friday, 11 a.m.-1:30 p.m. and 5-9 p.m.; Saturday, 5-9 p.m. and Sunday, 12 Noon-9 p.m.
For more information or to place an order, call 907-MEAL (6325) or visit www.mobilemeals.com.

SBYA Gala Coming
On Thursday, October 22, the Small Business of the Years Awards Gala will take place starting at 6 p.m. at the Crowne Plaza Tampa East, located at 10221 Princess Palm Ave. in Tampa.
For more information or to register, please contact Jamie Reid at 689-1221, ext. 8843.

Poker Run Helps Benefit Guide Dogs
Paws for Patriots Poker Run, sponsored by the Old Town HOG Chapter (Brandon) and Southeastern Guide Dogs, starts and ends at Harley-Davidson of Brandon, located at 9841 Adamo Dr. with registration starting at 8 a.m. This event will also feature a “poker walk” for those not able to ride, raffles, both a Chinese and silent auction, a swap meet, a chapter challenge, vendors and food.
Contact Cal Reimann for more information at 760-4757 or email fancy55@verizon.net.

1Caption for picture: After learning his mom’s friend was diagnosed with breast cancer, Valrico resident Tyler Cesky, 11, grew his hair out for two years, recently donating 10 inches to Locks of Love after getting a haircut at hair salon Dennis Et Al in Brandon.

Rotary Cleans Park
The Brandon Rotary Club ‘86 will be cleaning the All Children’s Park, located at 730 Parsons Ave. in Brandon, on Saturday, October 10, from 8 a.m.-12 Noon. The park will be closed during this time for safety reasons.
For more details, email tina4womenscare@verizon.net.

Oktoberfest Networking Event
The Oktoberfest Networking Event is being held to benefit the Emergency Care Help Organization (ECHO) on Thursday, October 15, from 5-7 p.m. at Executive Park of Valrico, located at 1102 E. Bloomingdale Ave. Donations of $5 will be matched by Valrico Executive Park and nonperishable food items will be collected.
Please RSVP to echodirector1@verizon.net.

Chili’s Offers Fundraisers
Chili’s is offering Restaurant Nights with the local schools, where the restaurant gives the schools 10 percent back on the sales that they bring in to the restaurant on their particular day. The restaurant will be holding a fundraiser for Paws for Patriots on Tuesday, October 20, which funds the training of the Southeastern Guide Dogs for Veterans.
For more information, contact Managing Partner Cheryl Hammond at 653-7375.

Center Recognizes Breast Cancer Month
The Brandon Family Support & Resource Center, located at 1277 Kingsway Rd. in Brandon, invites residents to attend its upcoming Breast & Cervical Awareness meeting.
Call the center for more information at 740-4634.

Foundation Hosts Fall Fancy
The South Florida Baptist Hospital Foundation’s Fall Fancy will take place Sunday, November 15, from 12 Noon–3 p.m. at the home of Mayor Rick and Diana Lott in Polo Place, Plant City.
Any organization wishing to add their company to the sponsorship list should contact Judy Martin at 757-8478.

RELIGION

Women’s Connection Hosts Local Talent
The Stonecroft Brandon Christian Women’s Connection announces Jeremy D. and Katie Silverman as the featured performing artists for its only 2009 fundraising event on Saturday, November 7, at 7 p.m. at the First United Methodist Church, located at 120 N. Knights Ave. in Brandon.
For more information, contact Michelle Burgess at 310-9518.
1Caption: Jeremy D. Silverman and wife Katie will perform at the Stonecroft Brandon Christian Women’s Connection fundraising event on Saturday, November 7.

Pink Ribbon Tea hosted at St. Andrew’s
On Sunday, October 4, from 1-3 p.m., a Pink Ribbon Tea will be hosted by St. Andrew’s United Methodist Church, located on 3315 Bryan Rd. in Brandon. Funds from the Pink Ribbon Tea will be donated to the Susan G. Komen for the Cure foundation.
For more information, contact Lynn Nankervis at 689-6849, ext. 207, or email Lynnleigh6@aol.com.
2Caption: Members of St. Andrew’s United Methodist Church welcome residents to a Pink Ribbon Tea on Sunday, October 4, from 1-3 p.m.

Church Aids Homeless
Family Promise of Brandon will present “What We Can Do for Homeless Families in Our Community” at First Presbyterian Church, located at 121 Carver Ave. in Brandon, on Tuesday, October 20, at 7 p.m.
For information, please call 689-4597.

Meditation Offered
The class, entitled Learning to Cherish Others, will be presented to American Buddhist teacher, Angus Berry, on Thursday, October 22, from 7:05-8:30 p.m. at Unity in Brandon, located at 115 Margaret St. A suggested donation of $10 is welcome.
For more information, call (727) 797-9770 or log on to www.MeditationInTampaBay.org.

St. Stephen Announcements
St. Stephen Catholic Church, located at 5049 Bell Shoals Rd. in Valrico, announces the following events: Theology of the Body for Teens will be held on Sunday, October 18, from 1-5 p.m. The cost is $25; and God’s Plan for Love, Life and Family will be held on Sunday, October 18, from 7-8:15 p.m. Donations accepted.
For tickets or more information, contact Cindy Wood at cwood@ststephencatholic.org or call 728-2056 or 671-4434.
Mass for Infertile Couples will be held on Wednesday, October 21, at 7 p.m.; Mass for Expectant Mothers is on Saturday, October 24, at 4 p.m.
Contact is Rosie Bridges at rbridges@ststephencatholic.org or 671-4434.
Angels Among Us is taking place on Saturday, October 24, at the Pepin Hospitality Center. Tickets are $75. The evening includes dinner, open bar, plenty of fun and fellowship.
If you have a donation that needs to be picked up, call Mel Williams at 597-8550. If you would like information on sponsorship, call Dena Craig at 767-4571.
XLT Adoration will take place on Sunday, October 25, from 6:30-8 p.m. All Souls Day Remembrance Mass will be held on Monday, November 2, at 7 p.m.
For more information, call 689-4900

Organizations Welcome Residents to Luncheon
Join Christian Concierge and All Pro Pastors at Carrabba’s Italian Grill, located at 801 Providence Rd. in Brandon, on Saturday, October 17, for a luncheon hosted by Travel By Horizon.
For more information, check out http://tinyurl.com/yb3nz9v.

SCHOOLS

NEW

School Hosts Fall Festival
Cimino Elementary’s Fall Festival will take place on Friday, October 23, at Cimino Elementary, located at 4329 Culbreath Rd. in Valrico, from 4-8 p.m. The event will include games, prizes, bounce houses, a dunk tank, lots of great food, a fabulous silent auction and many other fun activities. Wristbands will be available for $10.
Call 740-4450 for more information.

Resident Advances to Semifinals
The Brandon Sports and Aquatic Center’s Kara Cecil, 18, advanced to the semifinals at the Summer Smash Regional Championship Junior Tennis Tournament, hosted by the city of Del Ray, with a score of 6-4, 4-1. She trained in the HI Performance Junior Tennis Program at The Brandon Sports and Aquatic Center, located at 405 Beverly Blvd. in Brandon, under the direction of Coach Alex Golub, and recently graduated from Durant High School, signing with Ohio State University.
For more information, please call 689-0908.

2SportsCaption: Georgia is available for adoption at C.A.R.E. in Ruskin, open 10 a.m.-3 p.m. from Tuesday-Saturday. For directions, visit www.CareShelter.org or call 645-2273.

3SportsCaption: Tiger is available for adoption at C.A.R.E. in Ruskin, open 10 a.m.-3 p.m. from Tuesday-Saturday. For directions, visit www.CareShelter.org or call 645-2273.

COUNTY UPDATES

Filed under Press Releases · Tagged with

Press Releases

Posted by Don Ashley on October 9, 2009 · Leave a Comment

MEETINGS

Dentist Collects Candy
Hess Orthodontics, located at 11970 Boyette Rd. in Riverview, will buy back residents’ Halloween candy for $1 a lb. on Thursday, November 5, from 8 a.m.-7 p.m. and Friday, November 6, from 8 a.m.-5 p.m. All candy will be donated to our troops.
For more information, call 645-4377.

Bridal & Fashion Show Unveils
Gulf Coast Weddings & Events presents the Fall Bridal & Fashion Show on Sunday, October 4, from 12:30-4 p.m. at the Bradenton Municipal Auditorium, located at 1005 Barcarrota Blvd. in downtown Bradenton.
For more information, call 941-746-8787 or visit www.gulfcoastweddingsandevents.com.

Music Series Kicks Off at Westfield
Westfield, located at 459 Brandon Town Center in Brandon, will host its Fall Music Series within its Restaurant Courtyard on Saturdays, October 10 and 24, from 6–8 p.m. There will be live music, family events and activities. The first 500 shoppers to register in the Restaurant Courtyard each weekend will receive a $5 restaurant gift card to one of the following restaurants: California Pizza Kitchen, The Cheesecake Factory, GrillSmith (opening fall 2009), Panera Bread, Ruby Tuesday or Siniqual Contemporary Mexican Cuisine.
For more information, call 661-MALL or visit westfield.com.

Bridal Show Announced
Getting Married? Looking for a unique venue to host your wedding and reception? Then check out the Bridal Show taking place at Cross Creek Ranch, located at 12950 E. Wheeler Rd. in Dover, on Sunday, October 4, from 6-8 p.m. The show will feature Cross Creek Ranch’s experienced team of designers, caterers, florists, DJs, photographers, hair stylists and make-up artists.
The event is free, but reservations are required. For more details and to RSVP, please call Nancy at 651-0934.

Edward Jones Financial Advisor Hosts Broadcast
Edward Jones Financial Advisor Elijah Heath, of Lithia, will host a free broadcast titled, “Cutting through the Noise: A Market Update,” at 11:30 a.m. on Tuesday, October 13, at 16132 Churchview Dr., Ste. 201, in Lithia. During this interactive program, Alan Skrainka, Edward Jones’ chief market strategist, will discuss the current state of the economy and financial markets and provide strategies to help investors keep perspective.
To reserve a seat or for more information, call Heath at 657-2078.

Golf Tournament Helps Deter Crime
Crime Stoppers of Tampa Bay will host its Ninth Annual Charity Golf Tournament on Thursday, October 29, with registration at 11 a.m. and a shotgun start at 1 p.m. at the River Hills Golf & Country Club, located at 3943 New River Hills Pkwy. in Valrico. The cost is $90 per player or $95 after Thursday, October 15.
For more information, visit www.crimestopperstb.com.

Golf Tournament Benefits Canines
Old Town HOG Chapter in Brandon is hosting its Second Annual Paws for Patriots Golf Tournament with Southeastern Guide Dogs on Monday, October 12, at 8:30 a.m. at the River Hills Golf and Country Club, located at 3942 New River Hills Pkwy. in Valrico.
For more information, visit www.oldtownhog.com.

Walkers Welcome for Pink Event
The Second Annual Plaza Bella Goes Pink is taking place on Saturday, October 10, with registration at 8 a.m. and the walk to begin at 9 a.m. The registration fee is $30 per person or $25 per person in teams of five. Residents are welcome to participate in the walk against breast cancer.
For more information, call 685-9494 or 681-8686.

Chocolate Lovers Welcome
Brandon Chai Group of Hadassah invites residents to a decadent chocolate celebration of its six year anniversary, as the group honors past presidents and lifetime members. The celebration will take place on Sunday, October 25, from 1-3 p.m. at the clubhouse at Savannah Landings, located at 3604 Grand Magnolia Pl. in Valrico, with guest speaker, Susan Lafer, executive vice president of the Tampa chapter. Bring your favorite chocolate dish to share.
RSVP by Monday, October 19, to Meral Ginsberg at meralg@comcast.net or 412-7032 or to Anita Hoffman at 943-6260.

Center Aids Military Families
The MacDill Family Resource Center, located at 710 Oakfield Dr., Ste. 153, in
Brandon, provides services to military members (active duty or retired) and their ID cardholding family members. As a satellite office of the Airman and Family Readiness Center, services are offered in many areas including employment (civilian and federal), financial, counseling, parenting and more. Additionally, legal assistance, free computer technology classes, playgroup and Mom/Spouse social group is offered as well. Military ID card is required for service. Military families living in FishHawk Ranch are invited for coffee and doughnuts on Friday, October 9, at the Osprey Club from 9:30-11 a.m. to learn about available services.
For more information, please log onto www.macdillfrc.com or call 655-9281.

Rotary Hosts Casino Night
Brandon Rotary is inviting the community to join in and raise money for local charities like Rotary’s Camp Florida, where children with disabilities can enjoy a typical camp experience, as it hosts its annual Casino Night on Saturday, October 3, from 7-10 p.m. at the Best Western Brandon Hotel and Conference Center, located at 9331 Adamo Dr. Texas Hold ‘em will be available to 40 players playing tables of eight with a $200 donation. Cash payout to the final four will be determined by the professional running the tournament, with the club keeping 10 percent less the expenses of the tournament.
Brandon Rotary is celebrating its 47th year of service. The group meets Tuesdays at 12 Noon at Center Place, located at 619 Vonderburg Dr. in Brandon.
Visit www.BrandonRotary.org for additional information or contact Rotary President-Elect Mike Fencel at 571-5100 or Michael.Fencel@HCAHealthcare.com.

Salon Seeks to Network
Secrets Hair Salon of Brandon, located at 350 E. Robertson St., is hosting a Night of Networking on Monday, October 19, where clients with their own businesses are going to set up tables and do giveaways and raffles to promote their business. Space is available for more vendors to set up.
For more information, email nightofnetworking@gmail.com or call 681-6658.

Changes Come to the Library’s Reference Offerings
The Hillsborough County Public Library Cooperative is pleased to announce new changes to two of its very popular reference offerings, Homework Help (powered by Tutor.com) and NetLibrary. Homework Help now offers:
New videos, sample work sheets, study guides and tutorials.
Proof Point allows a live tutor to review and edit a student’s documents.
New access to graph paper aids student interaction with a math tutor.
The Career Center assists with career paths for young adults or changing careers for older adults by providing help with resumes and cover letters.
Avatars in the upper left-hand corner that represent the tutor and the student.
Students can now email a transcript of their session with their tutor to themselves to reference at a later date.
NetLibrary offers:
Media Center is a new application that makes listening to eAudiobooks easy and simple. Connect, click, listen – the Media Center will transfer your eAudiobooks to your PC or to your portable player with just one-click.
iPod and iPhone compatible audiobooks are now available from NetLibrary. Find compatible titles through “Quick Search” function of the library’s catalog and use the words iPod audiobook or iPhone audiobook, and view a listing of more than 800 titles.
For more information, call 273-3652 or visit hcplc.org.

Casino Benefit Supports Foundation
Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino will host “Keep the Fire Burning,” an evening of complimentary cocktails and appetizers with fine cigars and Carlos Fuente, Jr., president of the Dominican Republic-based Tabacalera A. Fuente y Cia., the world-famous manufacturer of the renowned Arturo Fuente handmade cigars, on Friday, October 9, from 7–10 p.m. Tickets can be purchased at Seminole Hard Rock Retail Store for $150 per person. Proceeds benefit the Cigar Family Charitable Foundation and the Brandon Foundation. Attendees must be 21 or older.
For more information, call 627-ROCK (7625), 1-800-937-0010 or visit www.seminolehardrocktampa.com

Networking Event to Benefit ECHO
An October Fest Networking Event will be held on Thursday, October 15, from 5:30-7:30 p.m. to benefit the Emergency Care Help Organization (ECHO) in Brandon by Executive Park of Valrico, located at 1102 E. Bloomingdale Ave. Join residents for some fun and networking, while helping the needy in our area. Admission cost is a $5 donation to ECHO. Every $5 donation will be matched by Executive Park of Valrico (up to $500). There will be grilled bratwurst, beer, chocolate cake, raffles, prizes and much more. Nonperishable items will be collected for ECHO.
RSVP by email at echodirector1@verizon.net.

ABWA’s Dinner Honors Pioneering Woman
The Brandon Sunburst Chapter of the American Business Woman’s Association will be hosting a dinner on Tuesday, October 6, between 5:30-8 p.m. at the Brandon Elk’s Lodge, located at 800 Centennial Lodge Dr. in Brandon, to honor this year’s Pioneering Woman. The keynote speaker will be Tampa Mayor Pam Iorio and will be emceed by Sandra Murman.
For tickets, sponsorships and business fair tables, contact Grita Perry at 393-7188 or gperry4@verizon.net.

Library Celebrates Hispanic Heritage
To celebrate Hispanic Heritage, students in grades kindergarten-fifth may enter the “Our Hispanic Heritage” Bookmark Contest; adults age 18 and older may compete in the Hispanic Heritage Poetry Contest. Winners will be announced at an awards ceremony at the Town ‘N Country Regional Library, located at 900 Paula Dr. in Tampa on Sunday, November 15, at 2 p.m.
Participants may pick up an entry form at any public library or download one from the library’s Website at www.hcplc.org. Entries must be submitted no later than Sept. 30 at any public library. For more information, call 273-3652 or visit hcplc.org.

Football Player Teaches Success
The “Success On and Off the Field” seminar by Super Bowl Champion Tampa Bay Buccaneer Shelton Quarles is Saturday, October 3, at 11 a.m. at the Best Western Hotel and Conference Center, located at 9331 Adamo Dr. Hosted by the Brandon Foundation Junior Angel Program, this brief seminar will be presented by Super Bowl Champion of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers Shelton Quarles to teach the youth about successful qualities and the importance of giving back to the community. The entry fee is $5 per person.
For further information, contact the Brandon Foundation at 689-6889.

Outreach for Homeless Announced
Cynthia Pinckney Ministries is sponsoring a feeding and clothing outreach for the homeless and needy on Saturday, October 17, from 12:15–3:30 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, September 26 and October 24.
For more information, email donna@cynthiapinckneyministries.org or call 571–1556.

Commissioner Beckner Visits Community
Hillsborough County Commissioner Kevin Beckner, District 6, Countywide, is hosting office hours in the community on Friday, October 30, from 4–6 p.m. at the Brandon Regional Service Center, located at 311 Pauls Dr. in Brandon.
To learn more, go to www.hillsboroughcounty.org/bocc.

RELIGION

Flea Market Unveils
The Disciples Women of Brandon Christian Church will hold their Annual Flea Market on Saturday, October 3, from 8 a.m.-1 p.m. in the Fellowship Hall of the church, located at 910 Bryan Rd. in Brandon.
For additional information, please call 689-4021.

Meetings Provide Connection
Christian Business Men’s Connection (CBMC) announces its weekly men’s business Bible study breakfast meeting, taking place each Wednesday at 7:30 a.m. at the Village Inn, located at 1995 W. Lumsden Rd. in Brandon.
For more information, visit www.tampabayprayerbreakfast.com.

St. Stephens’ Announcements
St. Stephen Catholic Church, located at 5049 Bell Shoals Rd. in Valrico, is accepting donations of underwear, socks and T-shirts for area schools with students in need from Saturday-Sunday, October 3-4.
Also, the church is hosting its Multi-Cultural Picnic on Friday, October 9, at 5 p.m.
To register to bring food to share, contact Cindy Wood at 728-2056.
Each Monday from 7-9 p.m., the church’s staff holds career help sessions ranging from writing resumes to interviewing or simply improving computer skills. All sessions are held at St. Stephen Catholic School, located at 10424 St. Stephens Cir.
If you have any questions about this ministry please contact us at ctministry@ymail.com
For more information, call 689-4900.

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 hosting a new 13-week session on Wednesdays from 7–8:30 p.m. A workbook is required as well as a $12 fee (scholarships are available). Childcare is provided.
To learn more, visit www.divorcecare.org. To register or for more information, contact Barbara Davidson at 655-7431 or bdavidson@fishhawkfc.org.

Sun City Chorus Comes to Area
South Shore Sound, a chapter of Sweet Adelines International, is a dynamic women’s chorus committed to sharing the joy of singing harmony in the barbershop style with women of all ages and backgrounds. The group will be starting its practices at the Bell Shoals Church of Christ, located at 2908 Bell Shoals Rd. in Brandon, from 7-9 p.m. with days to be announced. The group will also be starting a free, four-week vocal lesson program.
For further information, call Terry at 786-9818 or visit www.southshoresound.org.

Ladies Ministry Sells Pecans
The women of Brandon’s First United Methodist Church, located at 121 N. Knights Ave., are selling fresh-from-the-grower pecans again this year. Five lb. boxes of shelled halves (easily frozen for up to a year) will sell for $32. Specialty items – chocolate amaretto pecans, pralines and cashews – will also be available. Place your order by Sunday, November 1, for pick-up at the church gym on Saturday, November 14, or Monday, November 16.
Call 757-0734, 685-5081 or email bjbrooks5@gmail.com.

Group Changes Venue
The Brandon Christian Concierge will now be meeting at Sabor A Mexico Restaurant, located at 706 E. Brandon Blvd. in Brandon, on Thursdays starting at 11:30 a.m. Each individual is responsible for purchasing their own lunch.
For more information, call 654-4900.

St. Andrew’s Readies for Holidays
Preparing for the upcoming holidays, St. Andrew’s United Methodist Church, located at 3315 Bryan Rd. in Brandon, launched a weight loss support group that meets every Monday at 7 p.m. in the church conference room.
For more information, call 369-2262 or you can reach St. Andrew’s Parish Health Coordinator Lynn Nankervis at 689-6849, ext. 207.
Also, the annual pumpkin patch sale begins on Saturday, October 11, and runs through Friday, October 30. Hours of operation are Monday-Friday from 12 Noon-8 p.m., Saturday from 9 a.m.-8 p.m. and Sunday from 12:30-7 p.m. Saturday, October 17, has special family-related activities. Pumpkins range in price from $4 to $20. Proceeds from the sale benefit the youth program at St. Andrew’s UMC.
For more information please visit www.StAndrewsBrandon.org, or call 813-689-6849.

SCHOOLS

Dance School Holds Open House
A free Hispanic Heritage Festival/Open House will be held at Simone Salsa Dance School within Oak Park Plaza at 763 W. Lumsden Blvd. in Brandon on Saturday, October 10, starting at 12 Noon. There will be music, dancing, performances, free classes, ethnic foods, activities for children and much, much more.
For more information, call 391-1056 or go to www.simonesalsa.com.

Shop to Help Schools
Westfield Brandon welcomes elementary, middle and high schools to compete for cash prizes with the “Cash4Class” back-to-school shopping rewards program through Sunday, November 1. Now in its fifth year, Westfield Cash4Class will award prizes totaling more than $50,000 to area schools. Shoppers at Westfield Brandon will earn points for every dollar spent during the program period by presenting receipts to the Westfield Concierge and designating points to the school of their choice. During the two-month promotion, shoppers may earn double points in two ways: purchases made on Westfield Wednesdays or Westfield gift cards purchased any day of the week. Bonus points are also available. Shop at Aeropostale, Books-A-Million, Chick-fil-A, GameStop, Kay Jewlers, LensCrafters, Panera Bread, Sports Fan Attic or Team Choice and receive double points.
At the end of the two-month promotional period, points are tallied and the top three schools from each center will be announced. Three prizes will be awarded by each shopping center: first place – $10,000, second place – $5,000 or third place – $1,500.
For additional details, visit www.westfield.com.

Mommy & Me Art at Center Place
Center Place, located 619 Vonderburg Dr., Ste. B, in Brandon, is offering Mommy & Me, with instructor Donna Hall, on Tuesdays, October 13 and 27 and November 3 and 17, from 9:30-10:30 a.m. for ages 2-5. The cost is $20 for members and $25 for non-members. Supplies are included.
For more information, call 685-8888.

FishHawk Ranch Schools Make the Grade
Several public schools located inside and around FishHawk Ranch have recently been named in multiple “top school” rankings statewide. The rankings, based on test scores and state standards, reinforce the benefits of everything FishHawk Ranch offers children and families. FishHawk Creek Elementary School, Bevis Elementary School, Randall Middle School and Newsome High School all received “A” grades in the recently released state grading evaluation. Additionally, all four public schools designated for FishHawk Ranch students also received a 10/10 rating on GreatSchools.net, enhancing even further the community’s scholastic stature.
For more information regarding the area of FishHawk, visit www.fishhawkranch.com.

Teen Musicians Needed To Compete
SchoolJam USA is a one-of-a-kind battle of the bands competition, where local bands can compete for great prizes for their band and their school music program. From now until Thursday, October 15, any high school student who is in a band, between the ages of 13 and 18, and who has never been signed to a music label can enter. Bands can enter online any style of music, as long as it’s original. Fifty semi-finalists will be posted online and then visitors can vote once a day for their favorite band. The top 10 finalists will then battle it out live at the SchoolJam USA finals in Anaheim, CA this January. Each of the 10 finalists will receive prize money to purchase new gear and so will their school music programs. In addition, the winning band will travel to Europe next March to perform at the 2010 SchoolJam Germany finals in Frankfurt.
For more information, visit musicshowcaseonline.com and click on “schooljamusa” or call 685-5998.

Scouts Replace Fire Station’s Flag
To display a U.S. flag honorably a flag must be replaced when it becomes worn. In August, Cub Scout Pack 826, in Lithia, participated in a symbolic ceremony raising a new flag at the Lithia Fire Station. The Scouts worked hard at a car wash to raise the money to purchase and donate the new flag.

Semifinalists Announced for Merit Scholarship
Semifinalists in the 2010 National Merit Scholarship Program include Newsome High School’s Brett J. Bell, Sydney L. Coates, Ellen M. Paddock and Bloomingdale High School’s Zachary M. Wayson.
To learn more about the scholarship, please go to www.nationalmerit.org.

Boy Scouts Provide Holiday Decorations
Once again, the Boy Scouts of Troop 628 are getting an early jump with the opportunity on satisfying your holiday decoration needs. The troop will provide a variety of holiday wreaths and assorted decorations as part of its fundraising effort. Scouts will be taking your orders through Wednesday, October 28. The delivery will be the first week in December.
You can order your wreaths at the FishHawk Garage Sale, FANG meetings or contact the troop’s Committee Chairwoman, Martha Keller, at 643-3420 for more information.

Schools Unveil Convenient Meal Payment Plan
Hillsborough County Public Schools continue to be a leader in the latest school technology with the use of MealpayPlus, an online prepayment system that allows parents to pre-pay for their student’s meals online. Created by Horizon Software International, LLC, a global leader in technology and services for food service operations, MealpayPlus is an easy, convenient way for parents to pay for – and keep track of – what their kids are spending money on at school.
Parents can log onto their student’s account any time at www.MealpayPlus.com and view what their student has purchased on a specific day.

SPORTS

Intern Sought for Ballet Company
Brandon Ballet, located at 161 E. Bloomingdale Ave. in Brandon, is seeking an intern for the 2009/2010 season. The internship will consist of participating in the aspects of a non-profit ballet company such as marketing, ticket sales, costuming, setting up theaters, handling artist contracts and other duties. This is an exciting opportunity for those who enjoy business/non-profit administration, for those who are in a career transition or for those who simply love ballet. The internship can count for college credit.
Interested individuals should submit a resume to Amber Wisniewski, administrative director, at dance@brandonballet.org. For more information, call 684-4282.

Baseball League Announces Golf Tourney
The FishHawk Youth Baseball league is having its Second Annual Golf Tournament Fundraiser on Friday, November 20, at the River Hills Country Club, located at 3943 New River Hills Pkwy. in Valrico, starting at 1 p.m. Food – sponsored by Beef ‘O’ Brady’s – and a drink will be provided, and there will be lots of great prizes. Residents can sign up for $80 per person or as a foursome for $300. Funds raised go towards the baseball teams and fields of the FishHawk Sports Complex in Lithia.
For more information, go to www.fishhawksports.org.
Newsome Holds Cheer Clinic
Newsome’s First Annual Cheer Clinic will take place Saturday, October 24, at Newsome’s gym from 4-7 p.m. The $30 cost includes a T-shirt and admission for one parent to the football game on Friday, October 30. Deadline is Saturday, October 17. Call Wendy Bartlett at 924-3309 or email wsb34@aol.com for more information.

Animals for Adoption at CARE
Liz is a black female Toy Poodle available for adoption at C.A.R.E. in Ruskin, open 10 a.m.-3 p.m. from Tuesday-Saturday. For directions, visit www.CareShelter.org or call 645-2273.
Howie is one of a circle of shy kitty friends available for adoption at C.A.R.E. in Ruskin, open 10 a.m.-3 p.m. from Tuesday-Saturday. For directions, visit www.CareShelter.org or call 645-2273.

COUNTY UPDATES

Library Cooperative Receives Grant to Host The Big Read
Hillsborough County Public Library Cooperative has received a grant from the National Endowment for the Arts to host The Big Read, which gives communities the opportunity to come together to read, discuss and celebrate one of 30 selections from U.S. and world literature. The Big Read in Hillsborough County will focus on The Joy Luck Club with activities taking place throughout May 2010, including appearances by author Amy Tan.
For more information about The Big Read, visit www.neabigread.org.

Collection Drive of Cell Phones Held for Soldiers
Hillsborough County Security Services Department has kicked off its second annual Cell Phones for Soldiers drive to help the troops serving overseas stay in touch with their families back home. This year, drop-off boxes for collecting the phones have been set up in the following locations around the county: Brandon Regional Service Center, located at 311 Pauls Dr. in Brandon and SouthShore Regional Service Center, located at 410 S.E. 30th St. in Ruskin. You can drop off your unused or outdated cell phones and other portable communication devices through Friday, January 8, 2010, at any of the above locations.
For more information, contact Carol Michel, community relations coordinator, at 272-9515.

County Launches New Census 2010 Website
A preview of the questions on the 2010 census form is available right now on Hillsborough County’s new Census 2010 Website, www.hillsboroughcounty.org/census, which was launched at Hillsborough County’s Census 2010 Kickoff at the University Area Community Center. The census forms can be found in English, Spanish and a number of other languages. Residents can find out about job opportunities with Census 2010, including volunteer needs. Census information helps determine locations for schools, roads, hospitals, childcare and senior citizen centers and much more. Census data also directly affect how more than $400 billion per year in federal and state funding is allocated to communities for neighborhood improvements, public health, education and transportation. More than 200 people rallied at the Kickoff with Commissioner Rose Ferlita to launch the local census effort.
For more information on becoming involved with the 2010 census campaign, contact Joyce Russell, Hillsborough County African American liaison, at 276-2637 or Sandra Sroka, Hillsborough County Americans with Disabilities Act liaison, at 276-2742.
October Brings Changes at Animal Services
Hillsborough County’s Department of Animal Services has revised its hours of operation, and some fees and services, effective Thursday, October 1, as a result of budget cuts. The county animal shelter will close Mondays with modified hours for the following services:
Pet registration tag purchases, adoptions (closes 30 minutes prior to shelter closing), citations, lost pet search; Tuesday – Friday, from 10 a.m.–7 p.m. and Saturday, 9 a.m.–4 p.m. Pets turned in by owners at the shelter’s side gate on Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday from 1–5 p.m. Strays accepted at the shelter’s side gate from Tuesday – Friday from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. and Saturday, 10 a.m.–3 p.m. Dispatch operators and field officers will remain on duty when the shelter is closed Sundays and Mondays. Annual pet registration tag fees will increase $10 for dogs and cats. Both dogs and cats require rabies vaccinations and registration tags, which may be purchased through veterinarians or at the shelter. Registration fees for pets owned by seniors (age 62 and up) will not increase and remain at $5 if their animal is spayed or neutered. In addition, Animal Services will no longer handle calls or activities involving nuisance animal issues, such as barking dog complaints or trapping of stray cats. To help offset proposed budget cuts, county commissioners received input from residents and approved the pet registration fee increase in order to maintain Animal Services’ highly successful pet adoption and cruelty investigation programs. Tags help reunite lost pets with owners to reduce humane euthanasia.
For more information, contact Hillsborough County Animal Services at 744-5660 or log onto www.hillsboroughcounty.org/animalservices.

Representative Goes Against ACORN
U.S. Representative Gus M. Bilirakis (R-Fla.), representing Florida’s 9th Congressional District, remarked on the Association of Community Organizations for Reform Now (ACORN) after sending a letter to President Barack Obama, asking him to end taxpayer funding of the organization. In addition, Bilirakis co-sponsored H.R. 3571, the Defund ACORN Act, which would prevent any federal funding or support for ACORN. Since 1994, ACORN has received more than $50 million in direct funding from the federal government.
To hear Bilirakis’ remarks, visit bilirakis.house.gov.

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