Osprey Observer » Riverview – Ruskin – Apollo Beach

Go Hog Wild at Annual Roast

Amy Woodard — Tue, 07 Apr 2009 20:35:07 +0000

Riverview residents Bud and Sandi Hunt talked the Greater Riverview Chamber of Commerce into hosting a hog roast nine years ago.Now it’s an annual event that gets bigger and better with each passing year. The Annual Hog Roast and Silent Auction will be held on Saturday, April 18, at the International Showman’s Association, located at 6915 Riverview Dr. in Riverview. Tickets are $20 per person and can be purchased at the chamber office or at the gate on the day of the event. Children under age 12 are free when accompanied by a paying adult. The event will begin at 5 p.m. and will run through 10 p.m.
Come hungry because the barbecue dinner is catered by Lupton’s and includes all the fixings. You will also want to save room for the roasted corn that is always a big hit with the crowd. Enjoy Budweiser and Bud Light or non-alcoholic beverages while you are entertained by Bill “Elvis” Lindsey. The children will be kept busy jumping in the bounce houses and playing games run by the YMCA. Executive Director of the Greater Riverview Chamber of Commerce Tanya Doran states, “We are looking for people to come out, bring family and have a great time.”
A highlight of the hog roast every year is the silent auction. Some items up for bid this year are a free week of camp at the YMCA, a family beach portrait from Cason Portrait Studio and an autographed picture of Gary Sheffield from the Florida Marlins. Items are still being collected for the auction and donations can be dropped off at the chamber office.
TECO, Mosaic, Chris’s Plumbing Service, Kazbor’s and Adco Printing are helping to sponsor this community event. Sponsorships are still available through the chamber. The proceeds from the Hog Roast benefit the Shriners Hospital of Tampa and the Greater Riverview Chamber of Commerce. Bud states, “The Shriners Hospital is a great charity where 98% of the donated money goes directly to patient care.”
The Greater Riverview Chamber of Commerce is located at 10520 Riverview Drive. For more information contact the chamber at 234-5944.

Mosaic Commits $100,000 to FishHawk Sports Complex

Carisa Biesecker — Wed, 01 Apr 2009 15:27:58 +0000

It’s not everyday that a company just gives away money, but that is exactly the concept behind world-wide corporation Mosaic’s recent $100,000 donation to the FishHawk Youth Sports Complex (FYSC) in Lithia.
Recently, the FYSC, located at 16120 FishHawk Blvd. in Lithia, held its season kickoff, giving recognition to local sponsors: Mosaic, Newland Communities, Trish and Randy Waller of Signature Realty, Bella Garden Boutique, Cardel Homes, CCC Group, Inc., Michael A. Hess, D.M.D., of Hess Orthodontics, Riverview’s Buffalo Wild Wings, Osprey Observer, Pepsico and Dick’s Sporting Goods. During the celebration, a check was presented to FYSC by Mosaic representatives for $100,000, to be dispersed over a number of years at the complex.
According to President of the FishHawk Youth Sports Association (FYSA) Scott Powers, the monies will go towards existing programs at the FYSC, improvements throughout the 65-acre complex and the development of the remaining 20 acres allocated for use by the FYSC.
“It’s great to have a company like Mosaic make that large of a commitment to the park and kids out here,” Powers stated. “We really appreciate them stepping up and helping us in our community.”
Having broken ground in early March in the vicinity of the planned 1,800-unit Circa FishHawk development on eight acres near crossroads Mosaic Dr. and FishHawk Blvd., Mosaic, a company that prides itself on giving back to the community in which it is situated, will anchor Newland Communities’ planned 113,589-sq.-ft. Circa FishHawk Village Center with its Mosaic Florida Headquarters office building. When completed in spring of 2010, the company, one of the foremost distributors of phosphate, potash and nitrogen, will hold 400 administrative positions in the Lithia area, adding to its already established 7,400-employee workforce.
“Mosaic really does support the community near which it operates, and FishHawk is right where we are going to be, right where people live, work and play,” mentioned Mosaic Public Affairs Manager Christine Smith. “There are many families involved in many different activities in that park, so really, it is a good community fit as there are so many people, not just from the immediate area, but from other surrounding areas as well who participate in this complex.” She cites that the youth in these communities, such as FishHawk, are not only communities’ futures but are also perceived as the company’s future workforce.
Having originated last year, FishHawk Youth Sports Complex offers a wide variety of sports to those ages 5-16 upon its eight baseball and softball fields and its two multi-purpose fields, comprising of soccer, football, lacrosse, softball, baseball and T-ball. Registration varies anywhere from $50 to $200, depending on the sport selected. With over 2,000 children being a part of the FYSC, Powers concluded, “It has become an identity for the community.”
For more information on FYSC, visit http://fishhawksports.org. To learn more about Mosaic, visit www.mosaicco.com.

Break Out the Confetti and Party Hats for Camp Bow Wow Tampa South Shore’s Grand Opening and Adoption Event

Marie Gilmore — Tue, 10 Mar 2009 15:04:17 +0000

Camp Bow Wow® Tampa South Shore Celebrates its Grand Opening and Dog Adoption Event on March 21st from 10 AM- 3 PM Stop By and Get Prizes for Your Pooch with all Proceeds Benefiting Local Rescue Groups and Camp Bow Wow Buddies.
Riverview, FL (PRWEB) March 9, 2009 — Dogs of Tampa, grab your owners and make your way down to this season’s hottest happening- Camp Bow Wow® Tampa South Shore’s Grand Opening and Adoption Event on March 21st from 10AM until 3 PM.
This special event will feature games, prizes and tons of fun for the entire family–not to mention all the guests that will be appearing here including:
– Cruzin’ K9 Cuts Mobile Dog Grooming
– Give A Dog A Bone Dog & Cat Specialty Store
– Sketch a Pet Portrait Artist Joanna Lee Miller
– Rudy from the hit movie Marley & Me
– Almost Home Dog Rescue, C.A.R.E. of Ruskin
– Labrador Retriever Rescue of Florida, Inc, Lost Angels Rescue Group
The Grand Opening and Adoption Event will be held at Camp Bow Wow®’s location in Riverview at 12218 Balm Riverview Rd, just 5.5 miles east of I-75 and Big Bend Road. Come check it out and take a tour while you’re there to see how your pup can enjoy the luxuries of this innovative concept in doggy day care and overnight boarding.
Camp Bow Wow® Tampa South Shore, Bow Wow Buddies® and many animal rescues throughout the Tampa area are combining efforts to ensure that every adoptable dog finds a loving home. In addition to donating all proceeds from the event to this worthy cause, Camp Bow Wow® Tampa South Shore will be fostering dogs needing homes and promoting adoptions at the Riverview campsite all year around.
“We love providing this great service to all of Tampa, and we think every dog deserves the best chance at a life filled with joy and play. We take our responsibility very seriously.” said Terry & Doris Darga, Owners of Camp Bow Wow®. “As part of that commitment, we wanted to hold an event that could help those less fortunate dogs find a permanent home in a casual and fun atmosphere for the whole community by partnering with various local rescue groups.”
Besides their philanthropic commitment, there are many other reasons Camp Bow Wow® is Tampa South Shore’s premier doggy day care; the 9,000 sq. ft. facility incorporates five upscale indoor play areas and 4,500 sq ft of fenced and screened outdoor play areas where your dog will always be free to romp and roam. At Camp Bow Wow® specific ‘walk or play time’ isn’t necessary as your pup enjoys Camp’s All Day Play, Snooze the Night Away® concept with other dogs regardless if they are enjoying day camp or spending the night.
If missing your dog puts a cramp in your vacation, Camp Bow Wow® has the solution. Camper Cams® are strategically placed, allowing you to go online and check on them all day long. After the day campers go home, the overnighters are tucked into private, climate-controlled luxury cabins complete with a fleece lined camp cot and they are given a tasty campfire treat before snoozing the night away in preparation for another tail wagging day. Camp Bow Wow® ensures safety by keeping large, medium, and small dogs in separate play areas designed especially for them under the watchful eyes of Certified Camp Counselors®.
While you’re visiting Camp Bow Wow® for the Grand Opening and Adoption event, set up a free meet n’ greet for your dog to come back and play. The meet n’ greet is a supervised play date with a small number of dogs of the same size and temperament. The meet n’ greet gives your dog a free day of play and a taste of a tail wagging good time.
Bring your kids, cameras, and of course your pups to Camp Bow Wow®’s Grand Opening and Adoption Event, Saturday March 21st from 10:00 AM- 3:00 PM at the campsite. It’s sure to be a tail waggin’ good time!
For more information:
Visit Camp Bow Wow® online at www.campbowwow.com/tampasouthshore, stop by in person or call the Camp at 813- 672- CAMP (2267).

N Zone Set for First Winter Season

Tamas Mondovics — Sun, 08 Feb 2009 20:29:38 +0000

Continuing in its tradition of molding kids into winners who are not recognized only by the goals they kick or the touchdowns they score, but for traits like effort, teamwork and leadership on and off the field, Riverview’s newest addition to its popular youth sports arena, N Zone Youth Sports, is now accepting registrations. Its first winter season flag football, soccer and cheerleading programs are scheduled to run from Saturday, February 7 to Saturday, April 4, at the Summerfield Community Center located at 13011 Summerfield Blvd. in Riverview.

While the number of those registering to participate may change, the quality, commitment, dedication and the willingness to succeed remains as strong as ever on the part of all those involved with the league.

“This includes those who are sort of behind the scene,” said Tony Westbrock, who founded the league, along with his partner Rick Mercilliott.
Westbrock was talking about the hard work done by Denise Westbrock and Coleen Mercilliott, who besides being wives and moms handle the daily operation and administration aspect of the league, including answering all of the phone calls and questions and handling all the registration paperwork, not to mention playing a major role in the league’s cheerleading program.
“Our wives do deserve the credit for the smooth operation of the league,” Westbrock said.
The cost of each nine-week season, which includes the playoffs, is $120 per person, while for Summerfield Crossings residents, the cost is $100. Military families receive an additional $10 discount. Games are played at the Summerfield Community Center and are conveniently scheduled on Saturday mornings.
The N Zone team also hopes that the league’s values and the “every child is a winner” attitude will continue to impress the community as well as the parents, who want to get away from the over-competitive nature of the traditional youth sports arena.
“These values are so often overlooked, robbing the youth sports experience of excitement and character,” Tony said.
For more information and details about the new youth league as well as information about registration and cost, please visit www.nzonesports.com or call 938-4471.

Riverview Names Businesses of the Year

Marie Gilmore — Sun, 08 Feb 2009 20:20:23 +0000

Riverview business owners had a lot to celebrate during The Greater Riverview Chamber Annual Membership and Award Dinner held at the International Independent Showmen’s Association in Riverview. In addition to passing the gavel to 2009 Chamber President Jill Andrew, the chamber announced its new Honorary Mayor, wished former Executive Director Kitty Cunningham well in her retirement and named the Riverview Citizen of the Year.
“This chamber has the biggest heart and this is the hardest decision I ever had to make,” said Cunningham who accepted an honorary chamber membership and a Summerfield Crossings Golf & Country Club membership and is retiring to spend quality time with her grandchildren.
Billie Gordon, 2008 Chamber president, said, “We had a few trying times with the economy, but we made it. The board will do us justice for next year.”
“We currently have 405 members in good standing,” said Gordon. “We have been adding eight to nine new members per month which is not bad at all.”
The Riverview Chamber Awards Included:
The Business of the Year: DeForest Brown of Brown Comfort Systems Air Conditioning Business Person of the Year: Walt Vickers, St. Law Pest Control.
“I take care of people first, business second and my business is thriving,” said Vickers.
Ambassador of the Year Joe Eletto with Pure 4 You., Inc., said, “I look forward to making some great changes and do what we can do to help those business patrons.”
Margy Watkins Volunteer of the Year, Donna Fore with P.F. Auto Glass.
The Riverview Citizen of the Year was named as Jim Johnson, representing Mosaic Fertilizer, LLC, who credits a supportive employer for his community involvement. “One of the best blessings I have is working for a company that encourages community involvement,” said Johnson who also credited his wife for her support.
Riverview Honorary Mayor 2008 Mike Wick introduced the two 2009 Riverview Honorary Mayor candidates: Aaron Fredricks of East Coast Pizza and Christa Jerome of New York Life Insurance. Though a close race and with more than $15,900 raised, Fredricks was announced the winner. The Honorary Mayor of Riverview is an honorary designation for business owners who raise the most amount of money for charity in a designated time. Fredricks donations will benefit the Bloomingdale Library Attack Victim Special Needs Trust whose recipient is currently continuing the road to recovery at home while Jerome benefited the Boys & Girls Club of Riverview.
“The charity wins here,” said Jerome. “Thank you all for donating.”
In addition to saying goodbye to Cunningham, the Riverview Chamber welcomed its new Executive Director Tanya Doran.
The evening ended with the Installation of Andrew and the 2009 Board of Directors including Ed Booth, president-elect, Sherri Walker, treasurer, Billie Gordon past president, Annette Bilyeu, Jeanne Bush, Joe Eletto, Ryan Esto, Donna Fore, Jim Johnson, Dr. Earl Lennard, Diana Niles, Carol Todd and Bert Wallin.
Food was offered by Carrabba’s Italian Grill and served by Oakfield Café and Catering, and desserts were created by Superior Residences of Brandon Memory Care.
Sponsors included Mosaic, TECO, Superior Residences, South Bay Hospital, East Coast Pizza, SunTrust Bank and Valrico State Bank.
For more information, events and activities for the Riverview Chamber, visit www.riverviewchamber.com.

YMCA Plans New South Shore Facility

Tamas Mondovics — Wed, 15 Oct 2008 20:11:51 +0000

It is not the matter of “if,” but the matter of “when” residents of Apollo Beach and the surrounding SouthShore areas have a new YMCA facility to enjoy.
Due to the continued growth in the Tampa Bay area, YMCA officials have begun making plans for a new facility to serve the needs of the SouthShore community.
According to Tampa Bay YMCA group Vice President Cindy Sofarelli, though the actual timeframe of the new facility is not available, the necessary, preliminary work of planning for the new center has begun.
“Of course, there is still a lot of work that needs to be done,” Sofarelli said, but added, “The ball is rolling.”
Sofarelli explained that, so far, a strategic plan has been completed which includes a number of things before specific decisions concerning location, size and function of the future center can be established.
For YMCA officials, the emphasis is on building not a structure but relationships with members of the community and by starting programs which will result in partnerships with local organizations such as church groups, schools and businesses that will help to determine the need of the community.
“We will be conducting a market study starting in 2009 by contacting local residents,” added Sofarelli.
The actual timeframe and the exact location of the new facility is hard to say and has not been determined, although the Big Bend corridor is a very likely possibility.
“All of this, however, has to do with a number of different types of YMCA centers available for residents to choose from. These include a full family center with a swimming pool, or it may be an outdoor type similar to the well-known Camp Cristina facility. The possibility of a smaller, express model is also on the list,” Sofarelli said.
For now, residents are encouraged to focus on taking advantage of the many upcoming events scheduled for the various existing YMCA locations as well as events sponsored or hosted by the organization.
One of these is the YMCA’s fourth Annual 2008 Corporate Challenge fundraising event that is prepared to take participants on a wild adventure full of mental and physical challenges. 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 6 – 10 members from local organizations head to head in a day of healthy team-building competition.
Sponsorships are available, and team entry is $500 which includes all activities of the day, a 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.

Canoe Challenge Hopes for Local Support

Tamas Mondovics — Thu, 28 Aug 2008 20:49:33 +0000

The 10th annual Alafia Challenge – a recreational canoe and kayak race – is scheduled to take place this year on November 8. The all-day event, which will begin at 7 a.m. and ends at 3 p.m., is poised to be a whole lot bigger than last year. But the much anticipated adventure race as well as the before, during and after festivities may not be such a success unless organizers are first triumphant in rounding up some help.
According to Event Organizer Karen Wagner, volunteers and sponsors are a vital part of the smooth operation of the event which began in 1999. Last year, the event welcomed close to 350 peddlers who, besides peddling their way down the 11-mile lower Alafia River track, were served food and drinks along with receiving help transporting their canoes and kayaks to and from the vehicles and the water.
“We are struggling for both sponsors and volunteers,” Wagner said and explained that while normally by this time of year the program would have at least a couple of dozen volunteers, it barely has 10.
Sponsors who support the race by providing breakfast and lunch for the competitors and the visitors, and who also help with some of the other costs associated with the event, are also in short supply. With the current economic woes, many businesses that have been more than ready to support the race before, Wagner said, “May not sign-up this time.”
While the challenge’s organizers hope to receive the help needed before the race, there will be one solid entity that will be on-hand to help with a number of things. John Brill of the Hillsborough County Parks, Recreation and Conservation Department ensured all involved with the race that the county, despite cutbacks, will be on-hand to help with the challenge.
“The department is committed to being present for staging the start and finish as well as the providing of staff for timing, along with the subsequent clean-up of the race.” Brill said.
Meetings for the race are scheduled for 6:30 p.m. at the Riverview Civic Center on Park Rd. in Riverview, on August 21, September 18, October 2 and 23 and November 6.
All those interested in volunteering, sponsoring or signing up to race, please visit www.alafiachallenge.com.

Eye on Business

Kate Quesada — Tue, 12 Aug 2008 00:24:11 +0000

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.

Sharks Face Changes in Coaching Line Up

Tamas Mondovics — Tue, 08 Jul 2008 00:50:03 +0000

“It’s always tough to make a move like this but it has always been a goal for me,” said Jason Stokes, commenting on his decision to leave the Riverview football program and continue his coaching career as the Bloomingdale Bulls new football head coach. The Riverview football program has had its fair share of ups and downs since the school has opened. Every year it has had the potential of going all the way to state but it is something the Sharks are yet to remedy. Stokes, who started his first year with the Sharks as junior varsity head coach and later became influential as the Sharks’ defensive coordinator, a position he has been serving for the last five years. “I had good times at Riverview and will miss the kids and I know they will miss me as well,” Stokes said adding, “You see kids grow on and off the field and it is never easy to move on.”He has been molding the players along side Riverview head coach Dan O’Regan who has reportedly resigned his coaching position but will continue teaching at Riverview High School.Stokes explained that being a head coach was always in the plans for him and Bloomingdale presented the opportunity he has been waiting for. “I did not want to pass up this chance,” Stokes said. “I hope to bring the same work ethics and mold the kids at Bloomingdale as I have been doing for the Sharks for the last five years.”Besides Stokes and O’Regan, Riverview also has to contend with loosing James Grant, who worked alongside and will join Stokes at Bloomingdale as the team’s new offensive coordinator. Stokes will also be the Bulls defensive coordinator.All of this only opens the door for an exciting new chapter for both programs. The Sharks and the Bulls are both facing a shake up in the coaching line, but they are set to give it all they’ve got with new ideas, work ethics, expectations and the aspiration to win.
Photo Caption: Jason Stokes, the Bloomingdale Bulls new football head coach.

Eye On Business Riverview

Kate Quesada — Tue, 08 Jul 2008 00:46:31 +0000

Eye on Business
By Kate Quesada
Bibzees Fashion bibsBibzees is a home-based online baby boutique started by local Mom, Beth Powell. She had a second baby with a drool problem and reflux; he was constantly donning a bib. “The problem was I had quite the trendy wardrobe for him and was covering up his little graphic tees and onesies with pastel blue and green bibs that said ‘I Love Daddy’,” said Powell continuing, “I began a hunt for trendy bibs and couldn’t find any that would work with his outfits.”Powell said she felt like she was sitting on this great idea and that she needed to follow through with it. She started purchasing baby blank products to find a good quality bib and onesie. Next, Powell found a dye company in the Los Angeles garment district to dye and vintage wash the product. Then, she set out to find a screen printer that would use water based inks that were safe for the baby and the environment. “Finally,” she said “And the fun part, I came up with some trendy designs to put on my bibs. Thus Bibzees was born early 2008.” The great part about Bibzees is that they come as a set, with one bodysuit and two coordinating bibs. For example if you order Surfer Dude, you get a custom dyed blue bodysuit and two blue bibs, one with a surfer and one with a shark. Bibzees carries 3 piece bodysuit and bib sets and has just added Toddler Tees for 12 to 18 month olds. Powell’s latest designs, “Baby Ink” are tattoo designs. The current products range from $13.50 to $26.95 (excluding tax). Powell has lived in Brandon, Riverview, Tampa and is moving a few miles back to Brandon in September. For more information visit Powell’s Website, www.bibzees.com. Apollo Beach Florist moves to RiverviewRuskin resident Jan Crosby is moving her business of 15 years to the Riverview area. Located at 9405 U.S. Hwy. 301 S., where All-American Florist used to be, Crosby will offer a full service floral salon. With 25 years of floral design experience, Crosby will provide services like corsages, weddings and funerals. They can also send/deliver flowers locally as well as world-wide. Crosby said she plans to join the local chamber and host a ribbon cutting for her new business, which is already open. The hours are Monday-Friday 9 a.m. – 5p.m. For more information, call 677-9700.Click Photography Ribbon CuttingOn Wednesday, June 4, with 50 people in attendance a Ribbon Cutting and Website Launch was held for Click Photography in Apollo Beach. Holding the ribbon are Jennifer Gordon, owner Click Photographer and Nelson Ferrar owner of N2N Graphics- the web designer for the new Ruskin Chamber of Commerce website. For more information, visit www.ruskinchamber.org.Ali Lassen’s Leads GroupThe Southshore Professional chapter of the Ali Lassen’s Leads Club is a structured referral environment where members meet weekly over lunch to pass hot leads to other members. The group meets at Freedom Plaza in Sun City Center every Wednesday at 11:45 a.m. Each member exclusively represents his or her industry in the group and this chapter is looking for new members.For more information, contact Penny at 454-5406 or by e-mail at psmith@hrblock.com. Wilhelm wins Ruskin RunaroundWilhelm Heating and Air Conditioning placed first in he Ruskin Chamber of Commerce’s “Ruskin Runaround” held on May 31, 2008. The 14 Participating teams stopped at 22 area businesses and collected cards at each venue. The Wilhelm Heating and Air Conditioning Team of Donna Kelly and Judy Hamp had the best hand at the end of the event. The photo shows (from left to right) Donna Kelly, Anne Madden and Judy Hamp. Madden and Mary Ann Wilhelm stayed at the Wilhelm office during the event to man their business “stop” on the route. For more information on Ruskin chamber events call 813-645-3808 Sumatra Coffee Reopens Its Doors After closing for nine days, they have reopened their doors to the community. Sumatra is simplifying and refining its service and products. They will not be offering sandwiches but focusing on coffee and pastries. Sumatra will keep its coffee menu and going back to the roots of a traditional coffee shop-style. The shop will be operating on a temporary schedule, and will expand hour as business grows. The current hours are Monday – Saturday 7 a.m. To 1 p.m. And on Sunday 7 a.m. To 12 Noon. Sumatra will continue to be a meeting ground for the arts, ideas and a second home for the greater Riverview/Apollo Beach area. You can contact Sumatra Coffee at 671-6875 or e-mail at sumatracoffee@drinksumatra.com. IC Electronic ComponentsIC Electric Components has in business under the name InstoComp, Inc. DBA IC Electronic Components for more than five years and at their new location in Riverview at 10018 Park Place Ave., for over a year. Their location is approximately 1,800 sq. ft. and they are looking to hire sales people to service a worldwide market as they are in growth mode. They will hire no more than 15 people at this location. “We offer a great compensation package and are willing to train people about our products and services,” said owner Glenn Nichols. IC Electronic Components is an Independent Distributor of production quantities Hard-to-Find Electronic components. “We sell Obsolete Discontinued by the original manufacturer Electronic Components (Memory, SDRAM, DDR, NAND, Flash, modules, Logic , logic , FPGA’s, CPLD’s, Micro controllers, Semiconductors, IC’s, high / low frequency RF, Power products, Capacitors, Transistors, Diodes, Connectors, Crystals, Relays, Resistors, Switches, semis, semiconductors and more),” Nichols said. “Focus manufacturers include Motorola, Maxim/Dallas, Analog Devices, Intel and more; Nitch in RF/Microwave power transistors.”Nichols said they sell to a broad base that includes small electronic repair shops to the U.S. Government. Some devices are priced under a penny others can cost over $2,000 each.Standard hours for IC Electronic Components are Monday – Friday from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. For more information, visit them on the Web at www.icelect.com or www.riverview.icelect.com or e-mail at sales@icelect.com or call 672-8300.Dawn’s water safetyDawn Blake, a resident of Riverview who has lived in the area since 2004, has been providing swim lessons throughout the Riverview, Brandon, Valrico, Sun City center, Ruskin, and Tampa area. Currently she only provides one-on-one private swim lessons for infants to adult ages. She has been a Red Cross certified water safety instructor for five years. Prior to moving to Riverview, Blake was employed by YMCA of Clearwater and tarpons springs to perform lifeguard, swim instructor and water aerobics instructor duties. Her swim lessons also include teaching children how to don a life vest, provide assistance in water emergencies and prevent potential injuries by following rules while in the pool or any water source.She also instructs parents on how to assist in their child’s learning and how to be observant while around the water. Blake said she is able to provide a pool for my students if they do not have access to their own. If you have any questions about my business please feel free to call me at the provided number above or at (727)204-6790. Blake provides lessons year around but often by September due to the decrease in temperature and the commencement of school she does not have much continued interest. The peak season is April to August. She also provides all the necessary equipment. Currently Blake receives referrals through the www.clubswim.com Website or through previous students. Galish Grand OpeningPlease join The Galish Group Insurance Agency as the staff celebrates its grand opening and ribbon cutting with the Greater Riverview Chamber of Commerce, clients, friends and family. The fun-filled event is scheduled for Wednesday, July 23, 5-7 p.m. At the Galish Group’s new office at 10849 Park Dr. (behind the Handy Station on Balm Riverview Rd.) And will include light appetizers, beer, wine and other refreshments, door prizes donated from local businesses and more. Stop by to meet owner, Glenn Galish; Tampa region director of operations, Sharon Still; and Pinellas County agent, Jeanette Lawrenson. The Galish Group offers home, auto, life, health, flood, motorcycle insurance and more. Companies represented include Progressive, MetLife, Universal Property & Casualty, Humana, Travelers and others.Prospective clients can use the no-pressure health insurance comparative rater online at www.tophealthcompanies.com, which allows individuals to shop online and compare companies’ side-by-side on their own time. For more information, call 924-2460 or visit www.galishgroup.com. The Ruskin Chamber of Commerce welcomes its new members New members include: Cockroach Bay User Group (C-Bug), The Satin Chef, Holiday Inn Express, All Bay Insurance Group, www.ourgv.com/jml, Mango Jo’s South Shore, LLC, Cardinal Roofing, Sunrise Senior Living, Accurate Air, LLC, Cruzin’ K9 Cuts, LLC, K & B Travel, LLC and Sun City Center Flowers & Gifts. The Chamber membership is now up to 307 members. For more information, contact the chamber at ruskinchamber@earthlink.net. Local Businesses Combine Resources to Support C.A.R.E. of Ruskin. Canine Related Business Owners Group Together to Support C.A.R.EGive a dog a bath? Well, yes…and more! Give A Dog A Bone, Cruzin’ K9 Cuts and Camp Bow Wow – Tampa South Shore merged their talents to provide support and raise funds for C.A.R.E. Animal Hospital of Ruskin. On Saturday, June 21, the three local business owners sponsored Suds n Summer, an outdoor doggie day spa (so to speak) that included nail trimming, dog baths and loads of attention for their canine customers. All three business owners believe in giving back to their communities and this was a means of doing just so. They raised over $400 to support C.A.R.E.The dogs were just awesome. They loved all of the attention and their owners enjoyed watching someone else give their pups a bath. The owners were great, too. There were a few times when there were long lines waiting for doggie pedicures (okay, nail trimming) and there was a small weather event. Tried and true, they waited patiently in line and even helped hold up tents during the heavy rains and winds.The Art of Beauty inside and Out On Thursday, July 17 at 6:30 p.m. For a Life Enrichment Series hosted by South Shore gallery entitled The Art of Beauty Inside and Out. Anti-aging and beauty from the inside out. Let Max give your body and mind what is needed to look, feel and live to the MAX! Presented by Lynn Clement, RN MS ANPJennifer Anderson, owner of Skin Chic Inc., will be speaking on the topic of The Art of Mineral Makeup and Color. She is a Paramedical Aesthetician, Professional Makeup Artist and Educator with over 15 years of experience in her field. She will be sharing her expertise in the newest makeup technology using the only patented mineral makeup line in the beauty industry.Come enjoy wine samples provided by PRP Wines.Please RSVP by July 15th.South Shore Gallery is located at 447 Apollo Beach Blvd. In Apollo Beach. For more information, call 645-0483.ABWA-American Business Women of AmericaThis is a “NEW” year for all new and old members as we continue to grow and learn more about each other. The South Shore County Chapter of the ABWA is about women joining forces to further themselves both professionally and personally. Our members get the inside track on the issues facing their local communities, as well as the trends and events that drive today’s National businesses. The ABWA’s next event will be the ABWA 30th Anniversary Celebration Dinner, on July 21 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. in Florida Room of the atrium building.The Atrium Building is located at 945 N. Course Ln., Sun City Center at the center of the Central Campus, the Florida Room. The Atrium includes a large open area containing exhibits of the work of the various arts and crafts clubs. Special dinner invitations will be extended to past members, other chapters, members of the Greater Bay Area Council, spouses, relatives, friends and business associates are encouraged to attend. The cost to attend is $20 per person. Tickets are available at Southern Grace gifts & home accessories located at 301 U.S. Hwy. 41 S. in Ruskin. For more information, call 641-0004 or visit www.southern graceonline.com. For information about the event visit the ABWA Website at www.abwasouthshore.com or contact publicity chair Nicole Vikhlyantsev at Register@leadingtheweb.com.

Photo Captions: Bibzees is a home-based online baby boutique started by local Mom, Beth Powell. Powell has lived in Brandon, Riverview, Tampa and is moving a few miles back to Brandon in September. The great part about Bibzees is that they come as a set, with one bodysuit and two coordinating bibs.