Eye on Business
Valrico State Bank FishHawk Blvd. recently hosted a Smart Women Finish Rich seminar. The seminar encourages financial freedom and is the first step towards managing one’s own finances. For more information, contact Anita Silverstein at Valrico State Bank in FishHawk at anita.silverstein@valricostate.com.
Jaymer-Que Celebrates Anniversary & Grand Opening of Ms. Cyndi’s Cafe On December 3, head over to Jaymer-Que Southern BBQ and Ms. Cyndi’s Corner Café for a third anniversary/grand opening celebration. Customers bringing in three non-perishable items for the Bell Shoals Baptist Church food pantry will receive one free pork sandwich from the restaurant which’s menu features a wide range of BBQ dishes and sides from ribs and chicken to beans and potatoes. Ms. Cyndi’s Corner Café, which recently opened, is Jaymer-Que’s sister restaurant offering homemade soups, sandwiches and more. For more information, call Jaymer-Que at 6JQ-4BBQ. Both restaurants are located in the Albertson’s Plaza on Lithia Pinecrest Rd., just north of the intersection with Bloomingdale Ave.
After Image Salon Celebrates Ribbon Cutting Located at 15258 FishHawk Blvd., Ste. 500, After Image Salon recently celebrated its membership in the Greater Brandon Chamber of Commerce with a ribbon cutting. The salon, owned by David and Donna Froncillo, offers a wide range of spa and salon services including hair, massage and facials with current specials for military and a $99 spa package. For more information, call 653-7727.
Local State Farm Agent Supports Safety Belts If you have driven by Newsome High School (NHS) recently, you may have noticed a severely wrecked car sitting on the corner. This is just one way that State Farm Agent Melissa Snively and NHS student government are trying to get the attention of students and faculty. This campaign is part of a countywide contest called “Battle of the Belts” to get high school drivers and their passengers to wear safety belts. “Battle of the Belts” is coordinated by the Hillsborough County Traffic Safety Team (CTST) and dedicated to all Hillsborough County teens who lost their lives in a car crash because they were not wearing a safety belt. “Car accidents are the number one cause of death for teenage drivers in the U.S.” says Snively, citing the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. “If we can save lives by simply wearing our safety belts, it would just make sense to promote regular use among all drivers, especially teenagers.” Newsome High School was the 2007 winner of the “Battle of the Belts” competition for highest percentage of students wearing their safety belts. The school hopes to hold the title again for 2008. A safety belt survey will be conducted sometime after the November campaign at each high school in the county. The NHS Student Government has taken an active role during November to create awareness of the contest among students. They hope to convince their peers to always wear their safety belts. Supporters of this contest include The Katie Marchetti Memorial Foundation, St. Joseph Children’s Hospital of Tampa, Heads Up of Safety and State Farm Insurance. For more information about “Battle of the Belts” and any of the supporting organizations, please visit www.battleofthebelts.com or call 727-579-2000. To reach Snively, call 662-3622.
D.R. Horton, Inc. Announces New Single Family Community A new community of single-family homes in Plant City, built by highly-acclaimed national builder D.R. Horton, is welcoming families with open arms and the key to a comfortable, neighbor-friendly lifestyle with Whispering Woods. Whispering Woods features 143 single family homes, each backing up to conservation area and ponds for the ultimate in non-invasive living. The homes are based on seven new floor plans with four optional elevations per plan, including but not limited to stone accents and front porches. These one- and two-story homes are built to suit every level of buyer at every stage of their life-from those needing a minimal 1,749 sq. ft. of living space to those who wish to sprawl out in 2,879 sq. ft. of living space. Within that living space, residents will be enveloped in minimum 9-ft first floor ceilings, ceramic tile in all wet spaces and wall-to-wall plush carpeting in common areas, and beautiful maple-look cabinetry that exquisitely accents GE® appliances. And for storage needs, spacious closets are in every room, and a 2-car garage is included. Amenities include a pool, cabana, tot lot and a hiking trail that the whole family can enjoy together. Sales of Whispering Woods open to the public on Saturday, December 13 at 10 a.m. at D.R. Horton’s Magnolia Green Sales Office, located at 3207 Azalea Blossom Dr. For more information on Whispering Woods, or any other D.R. Horton communities, call the Magnolia Green Sales office at 717-7501 or visit http://tpa.drhorton.com.
Edward Jones to Host Holiday Open House Elijah Heath, a local financial advisor for the financial services firm Edward Jones, invites the public to attend a Holiday Open House at 4-7 p.m. on Thursday, December 18 at 16132 Churchview Dr., Suite 201, Lithia. “We are happy to be part of the Lithia community and would like to express our appreciation for the confidence and support we receive year-round,” Heath said. Edward Jones provides financial services for individual investors in the United States and, through its affiliates, in Canada and the United Kingdom. Edward Jones is headquartered in St. Louis. For information, call 657-2078 or www.edwardjones.com.
BNI Helps Business Owners The Valrico Money Source Chapter of Business Networking International (BNI) is hosting an open networking meeting on December 4. This informative meeting will demonstrate recession-proof marketing ideas and concepts for small business owners and will begin at 7:30 a.m. at the River Hills Country Club in Valrico. A meeting fee of $5 is charged to cover room and breakfast fee. Interested parties need only e-mail Teresa Rojek at trojek@rojekhomeservices.com to reserve a seat and for additional information or directions (reservations required). For more information, call Rojek at 833-0223 or visit www.bniwcf.com.
Pinch A Penny Celebrates Two Years Pinch A Penny Boyette/FishHawk, located at the intersection of Boyette Rd., Bell Shoals Rd., and FishHawk Blvd., is celebrating two years in business this month taking care of residents swimming pool needs. “We are proud to be a Florida state contract licensed Pinch A Penny, offering not only supplies and expertise at our retail store, but on-site repair and cleaning at your swimming pool with skilled technicians,” said owner Kim Zerr. Hours are Mon.-Sat. 9 a.m.-6 p.m. and Sun. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. For more information, call 657-1054.
Business Hosts Retirement Seminar What are you doing now to secure your financial future? Plan Retirement is hosting a retirement seminal on Tuesday, January 13, to help residents learn the best ways to financial stability . The program will reveal proven techniques to help residents preserve capital, decrease risk exposure and reduce tax burden. There is not charge or obligation, just information that can help you choose appropriate financial options if you are retired or preparing for retirement. The event will take place at 7 p.m. at Delaney Creek Lodge, Brandon. For more information, call Marsha at 263-7611.
Resident Earns Professional Designation The slumping Real Estate market in Florida has homeowners searching for ways to help bring a profit in the sale of their homes. Home Staging® has become one such tool. By properly cleaning, de-cluttering and preparing a house for the market before it is listed homeowners have a better chance of selling their home in record time and for more money, in fact an 80 percent better chance according to nationally collected statistics found on Stagedhomes.com. Bloomingdale Teresa Rojek, accredited as an Accredited Staging Professional (ASP®) in 2006, is now serving the Tampa Bay area as an Accredited Staging Professional Master (ASPM®). Teresa is among 350 Master Stagers nationwide. The ASP and ASPM designation are the only Staging designations recognized by the National Association of Realtors (NAR). Rojek, owner of Rojek Home Services received hands-on instruction from the creator of Home Staging, Barb Schwarz. For more information about Home Staging in the Tampa Bay area, contact Rojek at 833-0223 or trojek@rojekhomeservices.com.
Snap Fitness Opens in Lithia With the holiday season underway, what better time to start an exercise regime? And the newly opened Snap Fitness on FishHawk Blvd. makes it easy to get in shape. The fitness center, featuring a variety of cardio and exercise equipment, can be accessed 24 hours a day so members can attend at their convenience. Staff are in the location during business hours. Rates start at about $1 a day and members do not need to sign a long term contract and can pay as they go. All members can visit any of the Snap Fitness locations around the country and access bonus online training, nutrition and wellness services. Branches are also expected to open soon in Valrico at the intersection of Brentwood Hills Blvd. and S. Mt. Carmel Rd. and Brandon at Providence Lakes Blvd. and Providence Rd. For more information, call 341-SNAP (7627) or visit www.snapfitness.com.
Cardel Homes Introduces Evening Hours Cardel Homes, the builder of single family, multi-family and resort homes in locations across North America, plans to accommodate homebuyers’ schedules by providing new model home hours. The new hours are as follows: Monday-Friday, 2-8 p.m., Saturday, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. and Sunday, 12 Noon-6 p.m. Having over 30 years in the construction business, Cardel attributes its success to dedication to quality, fairness and community involvement, being an active member of the Tampa Bay community. For more information, visit www.cardelhomes.com.
Lithia Pinecrest Road Widening Public Meeting Draws Crowds
Hundreds attended a recent public meeting concerning the proposed widening of approximately an 11 mile section of Lithia Pinecrest Rd. from its current two travel lane roadway to a six travel lane roadway, affecting the Brandon, Bloomingdale and Lithia communities from S.R. 60 in Brandon to C.R. 39. Read more
Eye on Business Valrico
Sprouts Open on Lithia Pinecrest Good news for parents and children throughout the Valrico area. Sprouts, a play, music and art facility, opened recently on Lithia Pinecrest Rd., just south of the intersection of Lumsden Rd. Sprouts, which opened in the area five years ago, encountered many obstacles while attempting to move into its own freestanding building which kept the business closed for just over a year. “Sprouts is back and stronger than ever,” says Rene Vojnovic, owner and operator. “The new building is designed specifically for the children.” According to Vojnovic, the little white cottage has wall murals throughout, thanks to the work of local mural artist Ann Migowski and is designed for safe play. Classes are offered for children from 9 months to 5 years, with parent/child play-music with colorful, soft play equipment and mats for structured, fun, kid-friendly classes and art classes in a custom-made room with easels displaying the work of the world famous artists. In addition to the Mommy and Me play, music and art programs, Sprouts and Vojnovic obtained child care licensing, allowing Sprouts to offer a new Moms Morning Out each Monday. Children 3-5 years can spend the morning at Sprouts without a parent or caregiver and enjoy music, snacks and art. Sprouts’ classes are already underway. Visit www.sproutskids.com for information including schedule, fees and to register for a free trial play-music class or contact Vojnovic at 653-2233 or 393-9084. Creamery Comes to Valrico Soft serve ice cream fans keep your eyes open in the Lifestyle Family Fitness-anchored plaza at the intersection of Bloomingdale Ave. and Lithia Pinecrest Rd. According to representatives at Toppers Creamery, the soft serve ice cream franchise will be opening a location in the plaza in the next 90 days. Toppers offers high quality chocolate and vanilla soft serve with a variety of toppings to mix in. For more information, visit www.topperscreamery.com and check future issues of the Osprey Observer. Chamber Hosts Business Seminar The Brandon Chamber of Commerce is hosting a seminar this month to help members find balance in their lives during these tough economic times. “Life Balance” is presented by Black Diamond Associates and will be held on October 28, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. in the Chamber’s TECO Energy Board Room. The cost, which includes lunch, is $18 for members, $12 for Elite members, no charge for Platinum Elite members and $30 for prospective members. The following topics will be addressed in this seminar: life balance truths, balance quadrants, formula for success and closing the balance gap. To register for this Biz Ed 101 Session, contact Amy at 689-1221 or via email at abelliveau@brandon chamber.com. Space is limited. Biz Ed 101 is a professional development program of the Greater Brandon Chamber of Commerce, sponsored by Sunshine State Federal Savings & Loan Association. Salon Welcomes New Stylists There are some new faces at the All Me Salon on Kingsway Rd. in Brandon. Talented hair professionals Master Stylist Martie Webb, Advanced Stylist Rachel Weaver, Melissa Haynes and Joe Caglianone, who has 30 years of experience, all recently joined the team at the upscale north Brandon salon. All Me Salon is located at 1263 Kingsway Rd. and can be reached at 651-1213. Hours are Tuesday-Friday, 9 a.m.-8 p.m. and Saturday, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Valrico Resident Promoted at Scottrade Scottrade, a leading branch-supported online investment firm, has promoted Valrico resident Brian Courtney to manage its Tampa branch office, located downtown at 1408 N. Westshore Blvd., Ste. 104. As branch manager, Courtney is responsible for branch operations, managing personnel and providing customer service. Courtney began his career at Scottrade nearly two years ago as a stock broker at the St. Petersburg branch office. He has 10 years of experience in the financial services industry. “Scottrade is focused on customer interaction,” said Courtney. “Working directly with our customers is something that I value.” As a leading online investment firm, Scottrade offers a full line of investment products, online trading services and market research tools to help investors take control of their financial future. Scottrade provides customers the convenience of buying many stocks online at just $7 per trade and the support of the largest branch network among online investment firms, with over 350 nationwide branch offices. Named Highest in Investor Satisfaction by J.D. Power and Associates, Scottrade is dedicated to exceptional customer service and unprecedented value. Scottrade is also one of the FORTUNE magazine’s “100 Best Companies to Work For” in America. For more information, visit www.scottrade.com. New Market Offers Fresh Produce From handmade glass jewelry to homemade fudge, there is something for everyone at the new farmers; market, taking place on Wednesdays from 12 Noon-6 p.m. at the Lancaster’s Hydro Farm Produce stand. Vendors’ items, including organic herbs and plants, artwork, photography, pet portraits, shea butter imported from Africa and orchids will be for sale. In addition, visitors can purchase funnel cakes, popcorn, hotdogs, homemade fudge and Italian ices. The stand is located at 5329 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. Dog Groomer Comes to You Does your dog get stressed out at the thought of a trip to the groomer? Then let the groomer come to you! Valrico resident Joy Simms, owner of Pampered Paws Mobile Dog Grooming, serves Brandon area dogs with services including baths, haircuts, ear cleaning and nail trimming. “Each dog is cared for one at a time, so that your pet does not sit in a cage for six to eight hours until we get around to them,” says Simms, who started her business at the age of 21. “Being in a loud, strange environment for several hours is very stressful for dogs. Our service is far less stressful. The best benefit is that you don’t have to take two trips to the groomer nor have to deal with the hassle of loading and unloading your pet.” For more information, call 562-PAWS(7297). YMCAs Challenge Corporations This year, the Brandon area YMCAs will take participants on a wild adventure full of mental and physical challenges at the 2008 Corporate Challenge: Survivor! fundraising event. Held on Friday, November 7, from 8:30 a.m.-2 p.m. at YMCA Camp Cristina, a 65-acre outdoor adventure site in Riverview, the event will put teams of six–10 members from local organizations head to head in a day of healthy team-building competition. The Corporate Challenge Volunteer Planning Committee is comprised of Riverview and Brandon area community leaders, including Tanya Doran of Spacewalk of Brandon, Cathy Middleton, Russ Young of South Bay Hospital, David Van Dyke of Gevity, Tyler Niermann of Wachovia and Melissa Poague of Media General. Sponsorships are available, and team entry is $500, which includes all activities of the day, light breakfast, lunch, and a signature commemorative bandana. All proceeds benefit the YMCA’s Building Strong Kids Campaign, which helps make YMCA participation possible for children and families in the Brandon area regardless of their financial circumstances. For more information, call Bryan Beckham at 677-8400. Photographers Recognized Local photographers Edward Booth and Betty Huth, owners of Huth and Booth Portrait Gallery, recently received the Florida Service Award for service to the profession at the Florida Professional Photographers Annual Convention. “We both were honored to receive the Florida Service Award given for service to the profession,” says Booth. “Receiving this award in just three years is very unusual.” According to the duo, they have worked together for 18 years to create family portraits with the expectation that they will be handed down from generation to generation. “We pride ourselves in providing our clients with exceptional portraiture of families and children,” says Booth. “It’s a pleasure that we continue to strive for, that of seeking excellence in preserving precious memories.” Since moving to the area from California in July of 2005, Huth and Booth have been active members in the Riverview and Greater Brandon area communities volunteering their services to numerous charity organizations, clubs and civic centers. They are also members of the Brandon 86’ Rotary Club. The Huth and Booth Portrait Gallery is located at 11711 Nikki View Dr. in Brandon in Lake Brandon Professional Park. For more information, call 571-2100 or visit www.hbphoto.com. Hospital Welcomes New CNO “Susan Laber, RN, BSN, MHA, CHCQM, has been promoted to the Chief Nursing Officer (CNO) of Brandon Regional Hospital,” says Mike Fencel, the hospital’s chief executive officer, “replacing Cheryl Goforth who was promoted to CNO at Trident Health Systems, in Charleston, South Carolina.” Prior to assuming this role, Laber was the interim CNO for several months, as well as assistant CNO at Brandon from 2006-2008. Since her promotion, Laber and her family have relocated from the Sarasota area to FishHawk Ranch. Laber’s vision for her nursing team can be boiled down to “do what is right for patients first and inspire others to do the same thing. The opportunity lies in providing an environment where patients are the number one priority; use data to make positive changes; challenge the status quo and create a positive culture where nurses want to work.” For more information, call the hospital at 571-5105. Bonefish Grill Awarded Top Honors Consumers have voted and the results are in: Bonefish Grill has been awarded the Platinum Award in the seafood category at this year’s Consumers’ Choice in Chains Awards. Platinum is the highest honor. The annual survey, conducted by Restaurants & Institutions magazine and now in its 28th year, is considered a key measure of success for restaurant chains across the nation. For the 2008 awards, more than 3,100 consumers were asked to rate 120 restaurant brands on eight customer satisfaction attributes: food quality, menu variety, value, service, atmosphere, cleanliness, reputation and convenience. “We are especially thrilled that this award is voted on by consumers,” says John Cooper, president of Bonefish Grill. “It means our customers appreciate the lengths we go to in delivering an exceptional dining experience. Congratulations and thanks go to our teams across the country.” Patricia Daily, Restaurants & Institutions’ publisher, says, “The R&I Consumers’ Choice in Chains Awards is a people’s choice award that conveys to the industry and beyond which restaurants have earned consistent business and guest loyalty and why.” Complete survey results are available through Restaurants & Institutions magazine (www.rimag.com). For more information and sample menus from the restaurant, visit www.bonefishgrill.com. Winn Dixie Helps Hurricane Victims Winn-Dixie Stores, Inc. announced recently that customers can help their neighbors affected by the 2008 hurricane season by simply donating at any neighborhood Winn-Dixie. Winn-Dixie is implementing its “Neighbors Helping Neighbors” program in all of its 521 stores as a way to assist the American Red Cross, which has seen its Disaster Relief Fund depleted after an active year of disasters. The Red Cross provided food, shelter, counseling and other assistance to the communities affected by the storms that battered Florida and the Gulf Coast during the past month. Similar efforts across the country have forced the Red Cross to launch a national drive to raise $100 million to keep the Disaster Relief Fund afloat. Winn-Dixie customers will find “Neighbors Helping Neighbors” donation sheets available at all registers, where they can donate an amount between 0.50 and $500 directly to the American Red Cross. The cashier will scan the Neighbors Helping Neighbors donation sheet, which automatically adds the amount designated by the customer to the total bill. “Our neighbors face a long and difficult recovery process, and we want to do everything we can to help them,” says Terry Grooms Derreberry, Winn-Dixie manager of corporate giving. “Our hearts go out to those who were impacted by these storms.” The American Red Cross provides immediate response in more than 70,000 disasters each year through its Disaster Relief Fund. Disasters include fires, hurricanes, floods, earthquakes, and tornadoes. Contributions to the relief fund are used to provide food, shelter, counseling and other assistance to victims, as needed. The Winn-Dixie in the Bloomingdale Plaza at 179 Bloomingdale Ave. can be reached at 681-7337. For more information, please visit www.winn-dixie.com.
October Eye On Business
Things are getting HOT at the New Fireside Grille and Bar
Located in the heart of FishHawk Ranch’s Park Square Town Centre. Owners Scott and Heidi Shimberg have brought in Executive Chef, Rick Franco, formerly of the Long Boat Key Club, and exciting changes have arrived at the popular neighborhood establishment. Discover nightly specials and exciting menu items that are receiving rave reviews.
Enjoy the Fall weather while watching the dancing fountains of Park Square under the new outside covered terrace.
Belly up to the expanded bar for nightly drink specials, and complete beer, wines liquor selection.
Fireside Grill is located within Park Square at 16132 Churchview Dr. in Lithia. For more information or to make reservations, call 813-661-7755 or visit www.myfiresidegrille.com.
FishHawk Flooring Celebrates Anniversary
FishHawk resident and owner of FishHawk Flooring Jim Branciforte wants to thank his customers for a great first year in business. The flooring company, located in the FishHawk Office Park at 16637 FishHawk Blvd., Ste. 102, has been selling and installing fine woods, Shaw carpets, laminates and tiles to homeowners throughout the area for the last year.
“We realize this is a tough economy and want to thank everyone for spending their hard earned dollars with us,” says Branciforte. “We are proud to be the local flooring store.”
FishHawk Flooring is open Monday-Thursday 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Friday 10 a.m.-7 pm. and Saturday 9 a.m.-3 p.m. For more information, call 600-1788. A Website is also currently under construction at www.fishhawk flooringdesignstudio.com.
Landscape Nursery Opens in Lithia
Long-time Brandon resident Darryl Flint recently opened DCF Landscape at 5329 Lithia Pinecrest Rd., just south of the intersection with FishHawk Blvd., on the property also occupied by Lancaster Farms.
Products available at DCF Landscape Nursery include plants, palms trees, mulch and sod and services include mulch, plant and sod delivery.
“I grew up in the sod business and saw the opportunity for a nursery in the area,” says Flint. “We are looking forward to growing our services even further in the future.”
For more information, call Flint at 684-9328. The nursery is open Monday-Saturday 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m.
Creamery Comes to Valrico
Soft serve ice cream fans keep your eyes open in the Lifestyle Family Fitness-anchored plaza at the intersection of Bloomingdale Ave. and Lithia Pinecrest Rd. According to representatives at Toppers Creamery, the soft serve ice cream franchise will be opening a location in the plaza in the next 90 days.
Toppers offers high quality chocolate and vanilla soft serve with a variety of toppings to mix in.
For more information, visit www.topperscreamery.com and check future issues of the Osprey Observer.
Fifth Third Bank Launches $250,000 Sweepstakes
Fifth Third Bank is pleased to announce the launch of its Unlock Your Dreams sweepstakes, which will award nearly $900,000 in sweepstakes and scratch off prizes. To participate, customers and non-customers alike may visit any of Fifth Third Bank’s nearly 1,300 branch locations before October 31 to obtain a game piece. The game piece will reveal one of many instant offers including a $10 MasterCard Gift Card (no purchase necessary), 5,000 Bonus Rewards Points with a new Visa Signature Credit Card, $50 deposit into a new Goal Setter Savings account, $50 off Direct Loan closing costs (excludes Fifth Third Equity Flexline),5,300 Bonus Rewards Points with a new Fifth Third Equity Flexline and $50 off Mortgage Loan Application Fee.
Additionally, each game piece will have a “code” that the participant can use to register online at http://53unlockyourdreams.com for a chance to win the grand prize of $250,000 or one of 22 local $10,000 regional prizes distributed throughout the Bank’s 12-state footprint.
For more information, visit the FishHawk Fifth Third branch at 16509 FishHawk Blvd. or call 684-5060.
Strategist Speaks at the Palmetto Club
Mark your calendars for Thursday, October 16 at 6 p.m. when Cassandra Ingraham will sponsor a workshop with Jairek Robbins, a peak performance strategist and national speaker from the Anthony Robbins Company.
According to Ingraham, the workshop, titled Strategies from “Unleash The Power Within,” will provide residents with the same strategies, positive energy and physiology used by the world’s top achievers to attain outstanding success and life fulfillment.
“Those who desire to learn cutting edge tools that will help them overcome challenges and rapidly achieve their personal and professional goals should attend,” says Ingraham, who lists the benefits as improved performance, the power of focus, positive mindset, lower stress, better relationships and higher job and life satisfaction.
The event will take place in Palmetto Club at FishHawk Ranch, which is located at 17004 Dorman Rd. Space is limited so RSVP with name, address and telephone number to Cassandra 4jrobbins@ Cassandra Ingraham.com.
Business Invites Residents to Paint
Are you looking for a way to express your artistic side? Then you might want to check out the new Sketch and Sip classes from Patty Sisco, owner of Gallery Clocks.
The classes, designed for people without a lot of artistic experience, are a fun and unique way to get creative.
“Sketch and Sip is taking art lessons to a whole new level. You paint a picture through a step by step process while enjoying your favorite beverage. That evening, your painting will be ready for you to take home,” says Sisco, who has worked as an artist for eight years and teaches the classes.
For more info about the class, visit www.sketchandsip.com or call 263-4576.
South Bay Installs Mammography Unit
South Bay Hospital is pleased to announce the installation of a new Digital Mammography unit at the South Bay Hospital Outpatient Diagnostic and Rehab Center. Digital Mammography produces a higher quality image than traditional mammography, during a shorter exam time for the patient.
The image produced by the Digital Mammography unit is a high resolution image that can be enhanced and manipulated. This means that the physician can zoom in on questionable areas and make adjustments to the image. This technology expands our ability to detect abnormalities and breast cancer in more women.
Digital Mammography also allows for less time in the exam room and less time waiting on results. Since the image is instantly transferred to a computer, there is no longer the need to wait on film development. This means our patients are able to get their results sooner.
“Waiting for mammography results can be very stressful,” says hospital CNO and breast cancer survivor Terrie Jefferson, RN. “Reducing that wait time for our patients while producing a higher quality image for diagnosis can help ease some of that anxiety.”
For more information about Digital Mammography, contact Melissa Morgan at 634-0496, or to schedule a Digital Mammography, call 642-8468.
Shaughnessy Law Reveals Web Site
Shaughnessy Law, located in FishHawk Ranch, Tampa and Brandon, will hold an open house celebration at its FishHawk location on October 10 from 5–7 p.m. to celebrate its new Website, www.MaraShaughnessy.com.
Since opening in 2006, Shaughnessy Law has helped more than 400 families in the FishHawk area with their legal needs, including real estate law, title and escrow, estate planning, probate, contracts and family law.
“We are excited to offer our community a legal resource,” says Mara Shaughnessy, principal at Shaughnessy Law. “Our clients are now able to receive electronic updates on their case in real time. They will also be able manage their legal documents in their online case file and print them as needed. We are always trying to add more value to our client relationships. We want to be your attorney for life.”
As part of the celebration of its new site, Shaughnessy Law will donate 50 percent of October paid legal fees to the FishHawk Wolfpack when mentioned during your free consultation. To take advantage of this offer, or to RSVP for the open house, contact Shaughnessy Law at 16132 Churchview Dr. at FishHawk’s Park Square, by phone at 657-6700.
Cruise Planners Offers Deals
October is National Cruise Vacation month and Sherry Leybovich ECCS, CTA, owner of Cruise Planners, is celebrating with The World’s Largest Cruise Event, offering clients values and incentives on cruise travel to the world’s top destinations.
“The World’s Largest Cruise Event is a celebration where lucky agents like me get to give the gift of great savings on cruises, and our clients are the guests of honor,” says Leybovich. “Best of all, Cruise Planners is extending what is traditionally one special night into an entire week of offers and incentives, so the gifts will keep coming from October 4 to the 10.”
According to Leybovich, a prize-a-day giveaway has been incorporated into this year’s cruise event week where clients can enter a daily contest for fabulous prizes and ultimately be entered into the week end grand prize of a free cruise.
Cruise Planners will host a cruise night on October 6 from 7-9:30 p.m. at the Palmetto Club located at 17004 Dorman Rd. in FishHawk Ranch where clients can learn more about Cruise Planners and the new Oasis of the Seas, which will be the largest cruise ship in the world when she debuts in December 2009. Representatives from the U.S. Postal Service will be on hand to take applications for passports and to answer questions on the new regulations concerning passports. Lights refreshments will be provided by Bellafia Chocolate Boutique and Lah-Tea-Dah.
Founded in 1994, Cruise Planners is an American Express Travel Services Representative national cruise agency headquartered in Coral Springs, that operates a franchised network of more than 700 experienced travel professionals who independently book cruises and other associated travel. Leybovich has also earned many personal awards and is one of the top franchisees within Cruise Planners. She is currently one of the finalists for home based business of the year through the Brandon Chamber of Commerce.
For more information, call at Leybovich 657-0844, or visit www.cruisesforu.com.
Serenity Stream Empowers Women
In observance of Breast Cancer Awareness and Domestic Violence Awareness month, Serenity Stream Yoga & Wellness is beginning a Women’s Empowerment series that will continue on through 2009. Judy Shepherd, licensed clinical social worker, and Ellen MacKay, registered yoga teacher, will join together to promote health and well-being through an hour of education and group discussion and an hour of yoga.
“Empowering women has always been a passion of mine and I am so thankful that I get to share my experiences through yoga to help these women grow and prosper,” says MacKay.
The start-up workshop in October will focus on simplifying life. Appropriately named, “I Have Everything I’ve Ever Dreamed of but Why Am I Still Not Happy?” In this workshop, participants explore why people become dissatisfied with their lives, despite the fact that they are achieving their goals and appear to be successful. This workshop helps participants develop strategies to really simplify and enjoy life. The yoga section of the workshop will involve becoming aware of and enjoying the subtleties of basic yoga postures, breath and meditation.
Monthly workshops will begin in January featuring such topics as, “Are You a Mess from Stress?”, “Relationship Check-Up” and “Creating Joy in Your Life.” Each workshop will include an hour of related yoga postures including focus on balance, stress relief, partner yoga and strength building.
Serenity Stream Yoga & Wellness is located at 11954 Boyette Rd. in Riverview. The class will take place on October 25 from 3–5 p.m. and tuition is $35.
For more information about this workshop and other classes offered, visit www.serenitystream.com or call 368-6546.
Auto Business Celebrates Anniversary
FishHawk resident Kevin Hart has been working on cars for satisfied customers in the Lithia area for two years and is looking forward to many more.
Hart, owner of Fixin’ Your Ride, a MARS International franchise, offers a wide variety of vehicle restoration services including paint touch up, scratch removal, bumper repair, spot blending, odor and stain removal, pin striping, head light restoration, carpet cleaning and paint protection film.
“Most other franchises only offer a select few services, but MARS offers everything under the sun for vehicle restoration,” says Hart, who has been self employed for eight years and came from a sales background. “I only provide the services I am good at.”
According to Hart, MARS International, based in Dallas, recently celebrated its 10 year anniversary and was started by a father and son team.
For more information, call Hart, who is available seven days a week, at 966-7800 or e-mail kevinhart@marsinternational.com.
Equestrian Retail Store Opens in Lithia
From anvils and horse shoes to tacks and racks, Equine Corral, a newly opened equestrian retail store, has everything for the horse enthusiast.
Located at 10419 C.R. 39 S. in Lithia, Equine Corral is open 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday and can be reached at 737-4400.
“Please stop by to say hello and take a look around,” says owner Terry Hunt. “Bring your business cards, flyers and questions. I’m anxious to find out what your needs are, what brands you like and what disciplines you ride or teach. We already have an exciting assortment of stock in the store with boxes arriving daily.”
The farrier supply shop will now be known as Farrier Corral and will remain at the same location, 10427 C.R. 39 S. in Lithia, but the phone number has changed to 737-5400 and the Website is now www.farriercorral.com.
For more information, visit www.equinecorral.com.
Tennis Store Opens at BSAC
The Brandon Sports and Aquatic Center (BSAC) is now home to the Brandon area’s first tennis pro shop, The Tennis Shack of Florida, offering a wide variety of products for every tennis player’s needs, from apparel to custom stringing services.
According to owner Tim Plossl, the store will carry brands including apparel by Adidas and Fila and shoes by Adidas, Fila, Prince and Babolat.
For more information, call 315-9810 or visit www.mybsac.org.
Triangle Resolutions, LLC Opens Doors
Triangle Resolutions, LLC and owner, Damon Dye LMHC, NCGC, hosted a ribbon cutting ceremony with the support of the Riverview Chamber of Commerce last month for the new business hoping to help residents seeking life balance.
Damon Dye, a licensed mental health counselor and nationally certified gambling counselor, started Triangle Resolutions, LLC in July, 2007, and recently began serving the Riverview community from his office at 10014 Park Place Ave. off Gibsonton Dr., between U.S. Hwy. 301 and I-75.
Dye has a Master’s Degree in Mental Health Counseling and is currently pursuing his doctorate in Counseling Psychology. He serves as a primary referral for the Florida Council on Compulsive Gambling, and is Board Certified in Clinical Hypnosis to treat clients dealing with trauma. Dye also has extensive experience counseling children from the ages of 3 to 17.
Triangle Resolutions, LLC is proud to open its doors to offer discreet services for a wide variety of life challenges. Hours include evenings and weekends to accommodate all schedules. Consulting services and workshops are also available.
For more information, call 714-6107 or visit www.triangleresolutions.com.
A Massage and Rehab Clinic Opens in Brandon
A new clinical, medical and rehab massage clinic, A Touch of Wellness, opened its doors recently at 915 Oakfield Drive Ste. A and celebrated with a Greater Brandon Chamber of Commerce ribbon cutting ceremony on Friday, August 15.
“A Touch of Wellness, is a massage and rehab clinic with a softer feel which caters to the diversity that is part of what makes Brandon so great,” says Scott Robinson, L.M.T., owner. “We specialize in auto injuries, sports injuries, and any soft tissue injuries. We also offer nutrition consulting, nutritional supplements, and will be adding a Chiropractor to the practice within the next 45 days.”
The practice’s two massage therapists are trained in a variety of techniques from Neuromuscular Therapy, Trigger Point Therapy and Reiki to Hot Stones and Relaxation massage.
In addition to taking patients at their Brandon office, A Touch of Wellness makes outcalls for any patients are not ambulatory and offers corporate accounts.
For more information, please call Robinson or Sharon Aldrich, L.M.T., M.M.P. at 689-7799.
TherxFitness & Physical Therapy Offers Services
TherxFitness, located at 16637 FishHawk Blvd., Ste. 105 (behind KFC/Taco Bell, across from Newsome High School), now offers registered dietician services to the community. These services include dietary consultation of both healthy and medically complex clients as well as meal plans for weight loss, weight gain, diabetics and cardiac clients. They offer a large menu of dietary services to meet your needs.
TherxFitness now also offers small group personal training. Reserve their private studio for you and up to four friends or you can be grouped with others. Gain the benefits of having your own trainer for a fraction of the cost of private one-on-one sessions. Price determined by group size. Limited to five per group. For more info, call 655-8822.
Resident Opens Design Service
“My passion is to design beautiful, functional interior spaces that promote wellbeing, both physical and psychological, for every inhabitant of that space,” says FishHawk resident and Principal Designer and Owner of Focus Design Services, Kim Albritton. “To do so in a manner that will enable homeowners to use their homes regardless of the curves that life may throw at them, is my ultimate goal.”
Albritton, who operates the business from her home, uses a holistic approach to help her clients, who are mostly older residents and those with physical disabilities, design interior environments that promote independence and exude dignity and style. Through her work with the physically challenged, she came to the realization that people of all types can benefit from her service.
“My observation has been that the one thing we all have in common, regardless of aesthetic taste or income level, is the desire to remain in our homes as long as we wish, surrounded by loved ones,” says Albritton, who holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in Interior Design and has earned a CAPS (Certified Aging in Place Specialist) designation from the National Association of Home Builders. “Well-designed interiors can empower us to do just that.” For more information, visit www.focusdesignservices.com or to schedule a consultation with Albritton, call 368-7420.
Valrico September Eye on Business
Creamery Comes to Valrico
Soft serve ice cream fans keep your eyes open in the Lifestyle Family Fitness-anchored plaza at the intersection of Bloomingdale Ave. and Lithia Pinecrest Rd. According to representatives at Toppers Creamery, the soft serve ice cream franchise will be opening a location in the plaza in the next 90 days.
Toppers offers high quality chocolate and vanilla soft serve with a variety of toppings to mix in.
For more information, visit www.topperscreamery.com and check future issues of the Osprey Observer.
Tennis Store Opens at BSAC
The Brandon Sports and Aquatic Center (BSAC) is now home to the Brandon area’s first tennis pro shop, The Tennis Shack of Florida, offering a wide variety of products for every tennis player’s needs, from apparel to custom stringing services.
Owner Tim Plossl will showcase his new store on Saturday, September 20 from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. in a grand opening event featuring racquet demonstrations by Babolat, Prince, Yonex, Wilson and Fischer, food, music and door prizes.
Brands available at the store will include apparel by Adidas and Fila and shoes by Adidas, Fila, Prince and Babolat.
For more information, call 315-9810 or visit www.mybsac.org.
New Business Brings Fun to the Streets
Valrico residents James and Josette Delaney are bringing a taste of the tropics to the Brandon area.
The Delaney’s recently opened a franchise of Kona Ice, a travelling Hawaiian Ice van offering 20 flavors of shaved ice and ice cream.
In addition to travelling through local neighborhoods, Kona Ice can be scheduled for private parties or group events.
“Kona has its most fun when they are supporting the community,” says James. “Whether you are a school, a church, or an organization looking for fundraising ideas, Kona Ice is there to help. In a time crunch, don’t worry because under the right conditions we can serve over 200 people in less than an hour.”
For more information, call 484-6595 or visit www.kona-ice.com.
A Massage and Rehab Clinic Opens in Brandon
A new clinical, medical and rehab massage clinic, A Touch of Wellness, opened its doors recently at 915 Oakfield Drive Ste. A. and celebrated with a Greater Brandon Chamber of Commerce ribbon cutting ceremony on Friday, August 15.
“A Touch of Wellness, is a massage and rehab clinic with a softer feel which caters to the diversity that is part of what makes Brandon so great,” says Scott Robinson, L.M.T., owner. “We specialize in auto injuries, sports injuries, and any soft tissue injuries. We also offer nutrition consulting, nutritional supplements, and will be adding a Chiropractor to the practice within the next 45 days.”
The practice’s two massage therapists are trained in a variety of techniques from Neuromuscular Therapy, Trigger Point Therapy and Reiki to Hot Stones and Relaxation massage.
In addition to taking patients at its Brandon office, A Touch of Wellness makes out calls for any patients are not ambulatory and offers corporate accounts.
For more information, please call Robinson or Sharon Aldrich, L.M.T., M.M.P. at 689-7799.
New Store is 4Reel
With fall on the horizon, the temperatures will be just right for outdoor activities like fishing and camping and a new store, 4Reel Fishing and Camping Supplies, which opened recently in the Stein-Mart-anchored Lithia Crossings Plaza makes shopping for those outings a breeze.
From camping lanterns and air mattresses and fishing tackle and hooks, 4Reel has a wide variety of supplies.
“Our store carries something for every person in the family,” says Cheryl Phelps who owns the store with her husband Mike. “We have fishing and camping supplies for the most experienced to the up and coming.”
Valrico residents who grew up fishing and camping on the Alafia River, the Phelps see the Bloomingdale area as a perfect place for the store.
“The area is so family oriented as well as out going and that combination spells camping and fishing,” says Cheryl.
4Reel Fishing And Camping Supplies is located at 3430 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. and can be reached at 651-5151. For more information, visit www.4reelfishingsupplies.com or stop by the store Tuesday-Saturday 10 a.m.-7 p.m.
Aquali Opens In Valrico
With a wide range of services from master technicians, Aquali Salon and Spa opened recently on Erindale Dr. in Bloomingdale.
“All of our stylists are master technicians, many of whom have furthered their skills by becoming educators for product lines, including Alterna, Rusk, Sexyhair and Scruples,” says Stylist Hannah McArty.
The full service salon and spa offers services including hair color, perms, relaxing techniques and hair extensions and spa services including acrylic nails, manicures, spa pedicures, facials and full body waxing.
“Aquali salon and spa is a green friendly environment,” says McArty. “Not only do we recycle, we offer coffee and fruit flavored water in glasses rather than non bio-degradable cups. We are trying hard by taking small steps to preserve our environment just as you are at home.”
Aquali Salon and Spa is located at 3652 Erindale Dr. and is open Tuesday-Thursday 9 a.m.-9 p.m., Friday 9 a.m.-6 p.m. and Saturday 9 a.m.-3 p.m.
For more information, call 661-1414.
Center Has Entertainment for the Whole Family
Looking for a fun location for a family outing? K Breeze Indoor Putt Putt opened recently on Bloomingdale Ave. offering a Playstation 3 gaming center in addition to an 18-hole miniature golf course.
Owned by long-time Valrico resident John Tierney and his 6-year-old son, the center is available for birthday parties and corporate events in a private room, with three different packages available, and offers drinks and light refreshments.
Children under 3 years play for free.
K Breeze Indoor Putt Putt is located at 815 W. Bloomingdale Ave. Hours are Tuesday-Thursday 4-9 p.m., Friday 4-10 p.m., Saturday 11 a.m.-10 p.m. and Sunday 1-6 p.m. Call 315-9813 for more information.
New Team Member and More at Integrative Health Solutions
The summer brought some exciting changes to Integrative Health Solutions, formally Family Care Chiropractic, located in the River Hills Plaza.
“We changed the name to reflect the fact that chiropractic is just a component of the evidence-based, non-surgical health care services that we offer,” says Practice Director Dr. Nicholas Cammarata. “Other services offered include massage therapy, soft-tissue mobilization, rehabilitation and nutritional counseling. In our experience, we have found that integrating these approaches often creates a synergy that leads to better results.”
“We have also brought in an exciting, new, FDA-approved technology for pain relief: Class IV laser therapy,” says Nicholas. “It is fast and painless, and it has applications for many different musculoskeletal conditions.”
In addition, Dr. Andrea Cammarata, Nicholas’ wife, recently joined the staff, having graduated from Palmer College of Chiropractic Florida in 2006. As a native of Valrico, she hoped to return to the area and offer this healing art to her hometown community. Now she is able to do just that, treating patients on Monday and Wednesday afternoons by appointment.
Mother to 19-month-old daughter Mia, Andrea treats all ages, and she especially enjoys working with pregnant moms who need natural forms of pain relief.
Hours are Monday and Wednesday 9 a.m.–12 Noon and 3–8 p.m., Friday 9 a.m.–12 Noon and 3–6 p.m. and Saturday by appointment.
For more information, visit the office at 4341 Lynx Paw Dr., the Website at www.integrate 4health.com or call 868-1138.
Raydiance Offers Tanning and More
The newest location of Raydiance Tanning opened recently on Lumsden Rd. offering seven levels of sun bed tanning, Mystic Tan spray tanning and tanning products.
Founded in 1996, the Raydiance chain has grown from a small nine-bed center to numerous locations throughout Tampa and Brandon including a center at 151 E. Bloomindale Ave.
Trained tanning consultants are always on hand to explain the benefits of tanning, answer questions and help customer chose the right tanning plan and products from an extensive selection.
New customers are eligible for a free introductory tour, skin type analysis and new member special.
The center is located at 942 W. Lumsden Rd. For more information or to make an appointment, call 661-7733 or visit www.RaydianceTans.com.
Mary Kay Rep Attends Conference
Valrico resident Lorraine Meineker joined more than 35,000 Mary Kay independent business owners from throughout the United States and around the world recently at the company’s annual seminar held in Dallas, Texas.
Mary Kay Inc.’s annual Seminar is a business conference held each year in Dallas to educate, motivate and recognize the accomplishments of the rapidly growing Mary Kay independent sales force, which includes more than 1.8 million Independent Beauty Consultants. Mary Kay® products are sold in more than 30 global markets.
Before traveling to Dallas, attendees were encouraged to collect previous pink and platinum Mary Kay® compacts from their customers and bring them to Seminar for recycling. For every compact returned, Mary Kay Inc. will plant a tree, up to 100,000, in the Bitterroot National Forest in Montana and Idaho through a partnership with the Arbor Day Foundation and under the direction of the U.S. Forest Service. According to the Arbor Day Foundation, Mary Kay Inc.’s donation of 100,000 trees is equivalent to half of a forest.
Meineker began her Mary Kay business in 1999 and is currently a team leader. To learn more about Mary Kay, log on to www.marykay.com or call 1-800-MARY KAY (627-9529).
Photo caption: Valrico resident Lorraine Meineker recently returned from the Mary Kay annual seminar in Texas.
Resident Celebrates Memories at Convention
June Murphy of Valrico recently attended the 2008 Creative Memories National Sales Convention, called Showcase, in Minneapolis, Minnesota to discover the latest products, learn new techniques for memory celebration, engage in interactive discussions and celebrate achievements.
“Attending Showcase is one of the best things I can do to help my customers celebrate their memories,” says Murphy, a unit leader. “Every year at Showcase, Creative Memories rolls out the latest and greatest products for preserving and sharing memories and this year was no exception. The new products are wonderful, and I learned lots of new ways to use pictures and tell a story through an album, as a gift or on the walls of a home.”
One of the highlights of Showcase was the announcement that Creative Memories will be supporting the Make-A-Wish Foundation.® Creative Memories Sales Consultants chose the Foundation to be the company’s charitable organization for 2009.
“Creative Memories has always been dedicated to charitable giving, and we are thrilled that our sales field selected the Make-A-Wish Foundation to be our new partner,” says Asha Morgan Moran, Global President.
Contact Murphy at JFMurphy@tampabay.rr.com or 657-8527 for more information.
Publix Promotes Healthy Eating
An educational and fundraising campaign from Publix Super Markets, PBS KIDS and Produce for Kids, an organization that promotes the benefits of healthy eating and supports worthy causes for children, will raise awareness among kids and parents of the role fresh fruits and vegetables play in a healthy diet during the month of September. For additional information on Produce for Kids, visit www.produceforkids.org or to learn more about Publix, visit www.publix.com.
Port Java Auction
A Valrico coffee shop, which opened in September 2006, is the newest victim of a slow economy when it was forced to close its doors last month. The Lithia Pinecrest coffee shop, located at 3330 Lithia Pinecrest Rd., will hold a liquidation auction on Saturday, September 20, at 10 a.m. All auction items will have no reserve. Auction items available for bid include a complete Point of Sale system with printers, monitors, cash drawers, menu board and speakers, microwaves, refrigerators, espresso machines with grinder feeds, vitamat juicer to pots and pans, chairs, stools, tables and more. As an added bonus, the auction will also include a 1978 Ferrari 308GTS, which has less than 12,000 miles and has been stored in a controlled humidity garage.
The public can view auction items at www.kincaid.com. For additional information, please contact John Harris of Kincaid Auction at 784-3926.
Successful Women of Tampa Bay Seminar
The 11th annual Leaders Light the Way seminar, sponsored by six local chapters of the American Business Women’s Association of Greater Bay Area Council, is being held at Banquet Masters in Pinellas Park on Saturday, September 20, from 8:30 a.m.-2 p.m. with a continental breakfast and lunch for $25.
To RSVP and directions, please call Dolores Berens at 634-1418. For more information, visit www.aabwa.org or www.abwassouthshore.com.
Bleu Donates Special Day For Victim
There has been a recent outpouring of support from the community for the East Bay High School student who was attacked at Bloomingdale Library in April. Read more
Community Embraces Events For Victim
There has been a recent outpouring of support from the community for the East Bay High School student who was attacked at Bloomingdale Library in April.
Recently, a benefit was held at the Ruskin VFW (Veterans of Foreign Wars), Read more
Eye on Business
New BBQ place open on Lithia Pinecrest
Debbies’ Classic BBQ, located at the Chevron gas station on the corner of Lithia Pinecrest Rd. and Lumsden Rd., recently opened its doors. Offering BBQ ribs, chicken, pork, sausage and even turkey legs, this new BBQ is sure to cure your cravings. Side items include southern favorites like potato salad, macaroni and cheese, baked beans, chips and Cole slaw. The BBQ joint also offers sweet tea and lemonade as well as cookies and children’s plates. The restaurant opens at 10:30 a.m. daily and is owned by local resident Debbie Poole. Visa and MasterCard are both accepted at this location. For more information, call 813-802-5114.
Instant Replay Sports offers new and used sporting equipment
A new sports store recently opened in the Valrico area. Instant Replay sports, located within the Sweetbay-anchored plaza at 2549 S.R. 60 E., offers new and used sports equipment. It will also buy your used equipment or do a trade with you, said Drew Downs, who co-owns the shop with his father. He said the shop specializes in golf and will re-grip and re-shaft clubs. They have everything from children’s and women’s clubs to clubs for lefties and apparel. Other sporting goods also sold at the store include baseball uniforms and gloves. Downs said he picked this location because he liked it—and its right next door to popular sports bar Beef ‘O’ Brady’s. He also said he chose it because of the growth we are experiencing this side of 60. For more information on this buy, sell, trade store, call 653-GAME (4263) or visit its Website at www.instantreplay-sports.com.
Artist Visits Orange
On Friday, September 5 from 5-9 p.m., Orange Home Accessories in Plaza Bella at the intersection of Bloomingdale Ave. and Bell Shoals Rd. will host artist Pam Smith in an event open to the public. Smith, who specializes in handmade and hand painted imagery art and furniture, currently has work featured in the Tops Gallery in Malibu, California, and in various galleries in Sanibel and Captiva Islands and Key West. She is a resident of Vero Beach and the Bahamas. “Pam allows inspiration and imagination to rule her hand,” says Orange owner Debbie Ploor, who is excited about offering Smith’s work in the store. “Each piece reflects the influence of the colors and wildlife of Florida and the Caribbean. This is functional art at its finest. Art that is fun to look at and fun to use.” Orange is located at 1046 Bloomingdale Ave. and can be reached at 681-8686. For more information, visit www.orangehomeaccessories.com.
Benjamin Moore Moves To New Home
Fine Designs design center and Benjamin Moore paint distributor recently moved to a new location in the Badcock Furniture-anchored Clayton Plaza on S.R. 60 in Brandon between Parsons and Kings avenues. The store, previously location on Lithia Pinecrest Blvd. in the Publix-anchored plaza, is a signature store for Benjamin Moore paints and offers customers complete design services including color selection, decorative consultations, window treatments, fabrics, wallpaper, accessories and furniture. Our new location is a one stop shopping experience,” says owner Brant Wensloff who explains that the plaza also includes Bay Area Kitchens and Baths, Home Accessory Center and K&K Flooring in addition Badcock Furniture. For more information, call the store at 657-9822 or visit www.finedesignstampa.com.
Local Bounce Business Recognized
Space Walk of Brandon owners Bill and Tanya Doran were recently recognized by Space Walk President Frank Scurlock at the annual Space Walk partner meeting in Daytona Beach. The local franchise owners, members of the FishHawk Area Networking Group (FANG), were named the 2007 Markerters of the Year, were runners up for the 2007 Rookie of the Year award and won the bronze medal for total yearly rentals. “In addition, we were the branch with the highest percentage of customer’s e-mail addresses,” says Tanya. Space Walk, one of the first inflatable amusement rental companies in the United States, has 202 branches around the country. For more information, visit www.herecomesfun.com. To contact Space Walk of Brandon, call 681-8722.
Chamber Hosts Seminar
The Brandon Chamber of Commerce has partnered with the Hispanic Business Initiative Fund in providing free, Spanish spoken business seminars for the Hispanic community in the Greater Brandon area. The seminar will be held on Wednesday, August 27 from 10 a.m.-12 Noon, at the Greater Brandon Chamber of Commerce. The ‘How to Start a Business’ seminar will offer attendees the information necessary to start a business or improve an existing one. Participants may register by contacting Venessa Loredo at 689-1221, Ext. 16 or vloredo@brandonchamber.com.
Resident Starts Dog Walking Business
Do you leave your dog at home all day when you go to work? Twin Lakes resident Denelle Christensen recently opened Happy Hounds Dog Walking L.L.C., a company which, in addition to pet sitting and training services, offers daily dog walking. Christensen has completed a Red Cross Pet First Aid course, volunteered with Basset Rescue in three states, served as a foster home for several rescue dogs over the years and is a member of the National Association of Professional Pet Sitters. She also carries $1,000,000 in liability insurance to protect clients and offer peace of mind. “My goals for the business include helping my clients to enjoy a rewarding, stress free relationship with their companion dogs, assisting my four-legged clients to become healthier, happier, more balanced dogs through regular exercise and stimulation,” says Christensen, who welcomes all breeds of dogs and has specialized experience with large breeds including German Shepards, Labs, Rottweilers and Basset Hounds. For more information, visit www.happyhoundswalking.com or call 759-3802.
Resident Starts Baby Boot Camp
For many new moms, finding time to work out and get their body back in shape is difficult. But Riverview resident Chantel DiMuzio, franchise owner and instructor for Baby Boot Camp Brandon East/Apollo Beach has come up with the perfect solution. Baby Boot Camp is a national franchise with over 100 locations nationwide where moms don’t have to find someone else to look after the baby while they squeeze in some time to work out. “Our tagline line is: “Bring your Baby, Get Fit!” which pretty much says it all,” says DiMuzio, a certified fitness instructor and mom to 16-month old Anthony. “Baby Boot Camp is a stroller based exercise program for new and expecting moms. Anyone with stroller aged children can attend. Classes are designed to help moms get back their pre-baby bodies, only better.” Ffter a grand opening celebration on September 8 from 9:30-11 a.m., classes will be held Monday, Wednesday, and Fridays at the Campo Family YMCA in Valrico. Class start time will be 9:30. In addition, DiMuzio plans to open a second location in the Riverview area in the near future. For more information, e-mail DiMuzio at chantel.dimuzio@babybootcamp.com or call 600-5057. For more information on Baby Boot Camp, call 1-888-990-BABY or visit www.babybootcamp.com.
New Pet Grooming Studio
The new Pickled Pink S’Paw Grooming service is now open and ready to pamper your dog. From bathing with natural organic shampoos (gentle herbal formulas for any skin type) and breed specific styling with hand scissoring by certified groomers to doggie facials and gland expressions, Pickled Pink S’Paw has something for every canine. “Let us find the right style for your special pet that is a maintainable fit to your families’ lifestyle,” says owner Jennifer Rathert, a retired veterinary technician with 20 years of experience. In addition, the studio, located at 2619 S.R. 60 East, between Miller Rd. and St. Cloud, offers doggie daycare services with a variety of membership options and indoor and outdoor activity areas. As retired veterinary technicians, with over 20 years of experience, we are motivated to provide caring company for canines with welcoming arms and kindness. Hours of operation are Monday–Friday, 7 a.m.–6 p.m. To schedule an appointment or for more information, call 657-SPAW.
Ms. Cyndi’s Corner Café Coming Soon
Using the property next door to her husband’s Jaymer-Que BBQ, Cyndi Holcombe will offer two new services. Ms. Cyndi’s Corner Café will serve sandwiches, soups, salads, desserts, coffee, etc. The sandwich and deli meats will be smoked at Jaymer-Que which Holcombe believes will give them a unique product from the start. “We will also be highlighting our soon-to-be-famous Smoked Chicken Salad. So far I am the only one that knows the recipe and I have to say it is pretty good,” says Holcombe. “No one around here has anything like it.” Although Holcombe says the menu is not quite finalized, she explains the café will offer a great café type menu and dessert menu (cakes, cheesecakes, pies, etc.) with coffee and soft serve ice cream. “We will be open later than Jaymer-Que with a limited menu mainly for the dessert and coffee crowd,” she says. In addition, the space will be used for Jaymer-Que Pit-Side Pick-Up. “Customers will now be able to call in their order and utilize the drive-thru between the two buildings to pick-up their food,” says Holcombe. “No more having to get out of the car with the kids to come in and get dinner to take home, we’ll bring it right to the car.” The restaurant will be opening soon. The phone number for Pit-Side Pick-Up is 689-PITS.
Realtor Joins Prudential Tropical
Connecting people to their dreams is what Renee Gregory enjoys most about her career as a real estate professional. She believes that the most important thing she can do is to provide the kind of knowledge and personal attention customers need when making a decision about such a big investment. “My business is more than helping people buy and sell property,” says Gregory, who credits her personal attention and years of experience with her success. “My business helps turn dreams into reality.” A real estate professional since 1987, Gregory regularly attends seminars and continues her education on pertinent topics affecting the real estate industry. She has a thorough understanding of local trends, pricing strategies and negotiating techniques and an in-depth knowledge of the area’s communities, acquired as a native of the Brandon/Riverview area. For more information, contact Gregory at 643-9977 or e-mail rgregory@prutropical.com.
