Vol. 24| Iss. 10| October 2020
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Special Section 2
12 New Dolly Song
14 Kids Craft
Columns: Grace Notes: Hooked On Books: Faith & Footprints: Crafts For Kids
04 09 11 14
ANNUAL FUNDRAISING TEA EVENT HOSTED BY ST. STEPHEN CATHOLIC MOVES ONLINE By Kelly Wise Valdes
St. Stephen Catholic Church in Riverview is hosting its online fundraiser from Sunday, September 27 to Sunday, October 11. All proceeds help support the food pantry and other financial needs in the community.
For 16 years St. Stephens Catholic Church has been hosting Ladies Tea fundraisers through the Society of St. Vincent de Paul. The donations collected from the annual event lend assistance to people in need throughout the community. This year alone, the St. Stephen Conference of St. Vincent de Paul has served more than 1,900 families with food and $53,000 in financial assistance. The Society of St. Vincent de Paul is a nonprofit Catholic organization operated by volunteers. The mission of the Society of St. Vincent de Paul is to serve those in need and promote spiritual growth for the men and women who serve. Due to COVID-19 restrictions, the annual Ladies Tea event will not be held in person this year. However, due to the ongoing pandemic, the need for assistance has grown. Bridget Wray, president of the St.
serving our neighbors in need without ever shutting down,” said Wray. “We see many new faces because of COVID-19 circumstances, maybe loss of jobs or children at home full time, and their needs have become a challenge.” The fundraiser begins on St. Vincent de Paul’s Feast Day on Sunday, September 27 and ends on Sunday, October 11. “Donations from our community enable us to continue providing food and assistance with utilities and rent,” said Wray. “Our community has been very supportive and we need donors more now during this difficult time, especially with the holidays coming.” To make an online donation, visit www.svdpriverviewfl.org. Checks can be made out to St. Vincent de Paul and mailed to St. Stephen Church, 10118 Saint Stephen Cir., Riverview, FL 33569. For information on the St. Stephen Conference and food pantry, email svdp@ststephencatholic.org. The church office can be reached at 689-4900.
Stephen Conference of St. Vincent de Paul, is encouraged that the community will still come together remotely and help support this worthy cause during these difficult times. “Throughout this pandemic, the St. Stephen Conference of St. Vincent de Paul food pantry and financial support has been blessed to continue
NEW HOPE UMC HAS BEEN GOING NUTS FOR PECANS FOR 50 YEARS By Kelly Wise Valdes
The United Methodist Women of New Hope United Meth“Our orders probably will be a little less this year because odist Church are celebrating its 50th year of providing the of COVID, but we have safety measures in place for those best, just-picked-and-shelled, fresh-from-the-grower pewho want to purchase this year,” said Brooks. The pecan orchard picks the pecans on Monday of the cans. Over the last 25 years, this event has raised money delivery week, boxes them on Tuesday and Wednesday and to donate more than $400,000 to local and international then delivers to the church on Friday. They are the freshest missions, such as ECHO, Metropolitan Ministries, Brandon pecans you can get without going to the orchard yourself. Life Care (now Choices), United Methodist Children’s Home, Prices are $46 for a 5 lb. box of pecan halves or pieces Family Promise, Cornerstone Ministries, Mary & Martha and $10 for a 1 lb. bag of pecan halves. Specialty items inHouse, Beth-El Mission, Women’s Resource Center (now Hope for Her), Children’s Home Society and more. clude: 1 lb. bag of chocolate amaretto pecans for $12, 1 lb. Barbara Brooks, pecan committee chairwoman for the bag of praline pecans for $12 and the assortment Christlast 15 years, is excited to host this fundraiser again. “The mas tin of chocolate amaretto, pralines and roasted and best part of the pecan sale is the money we get to contribsalted pecan halves for $25. You can place your order from Thursday, October 1 to ute to local missions,” said Brooks. Sunday, November 1 by calling Mary Baker from 9 a.m.-8 This annual pecan sale has grown to more than 650 cusp.m. at 643-4493 or emailing bjbrooks5@gmail.com. Customers from the Southern Hillsborough County area; however, customers order from as far away as Orlando and tomers can also visit www.pecansale.com to pay by credThe United Methodist Women of New Hope UMC are once again selling fresh pecans in time for the holidays. Lakeland to support this worthy cause. it card. Please make checks payable to UMW and mail to “It’s wonderful to see many of the same customers come by every year and P.O. Box 546, Lithia, FL 33547. Only prepaid orders are reserved. Others will be to catch up with them,” said Brooks. “Customers tend to arrive about the same sold on a first-come, first-served basis. time of day, and our volunteers tend to work the same times each year, so some Pickup is on Saturday, November 14 and Monday, November 16 from 8 a.m.-6 of them really do have a bond. After 15 years, I recognize many of them,” p.m. at the New Hope Life Center on 213 N. Knights Ave. in Brandon (just north Last year, the United Methodist Women sold almost 1,000 of the 5 lb. boxes of pe- of SR 60). Please park on the right side of the building and look for the pecan signs. cans, 450 of the 1 lb. bags plus pralines, chocolate amaretto and the assortment tin.
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October 2020
Volume 24 | Issue 10
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CHAMPION CITY CHURCH IS KNOCKING IT OUT OF THE PARK SERVING OTHERS
By Kelly Wise Valdes
Champion City Church is hoping to raise money to purchase a truck to be able to deliver hope, love, toy, food and other essentials to people throughout the community.
We know in the Bible that Jesus called us to serve others. The congregation of Champion City Church takes this very seriously. Having done things like backpack drives, the Laundromat Takeovers, toy drives and Thanksgiving dinners, the church members are continually thinking of new and inventive ways to serve and meet the needs of the community. “We started an outreach last year called Love The 813,” said Bruce Hall, lead pastor at Champion City Church. “Our goal for has three phases. Phase one is to serve our community, as we’re doing right now.” The church recently sponsored a backpack drive that benefited A Kid’s Place in Brandon. In addition, the members decided to surprise customers at a local laundromat in what they called ‘Laundromat Takeover.’ Recipients were blessed with free clothes washing, drying, laundry detergent, fabric softener, food and drinks. “Phase two goes back to when I delivered packages for FedEx,” said Hall. “I noticed how excited my customers got for packages,” he said. “I told my wife, ‘what if we did the same thing, but we got a truck and used it to deliver hope and the love of Jesus?’” The delivery of ‘love packages’ could range from new warm blankets to hot soup on a chilly evening. In order to do this, Champion City Church is looking to raise money to buy a delivery truck that will be appropriately named ‘Love The 813 Truck.’ Having this truck to be able to make deliveries through-
out the year is instrumental to the mission of the church. “The list of things that we want to do goes on and on because there are so many ways that we plan to deliver love and hope once we get the Love The 813 Truck,” said Hall. The third phase will happen once Champion City Church has a building. “We want to call it ‘The Champion Center.’ The Champion Center will be a food pantry, a place to get clothing, job training, pregnancy crisis center, parenting classes and so much more,” he said. Additionally, one of the things closest to Hall’s heart is the fatherhood legacy classes. “My father was murdered when I was 5 years old and there has been a lot of learning on the job for myself,” said Hall. “We want to provide a place where fathers who never had a father can come and learn through a support group of men who want to see them become champions in parenting.” “God gives because He loves,” said Hall. “It was in love that Jesus gave His very life on the cross. Similarly, we give as a church because we realize that we are never more like God the Father, never more like Jesus, than when we give. Through Champion City Church and Love The 813 we plan to impact our community through our love and generosity.” If people would like to donate, volunteer or get more information, visit www.MyChampCity.com or connect with Champion City Church on social media, including Facebook, Instagram and YouTube.
The United Methodist Church of Sun City Center welcomes back Easy Reflections for a 7 p.m. concert on Friday, October 2.
POPULAR DUO EASY REFLECTIONS RETURNING TO UNITED METHODIST CHURCH OF SUN CITY CENTER
Staff Report
The United Methodist Church of Sun City Center (UMCSCC), located at 1210 Del Webb Blvd. West, welcomes back Easy Reflections for a 7 p.m. concert on Friday, October 2. Easy Reflections is one of the area’s most popular duos, consisting of Don Larson and Maureen Fitzgerald. Both Larson and Fitzgerald are guitarists and vocalists, and Fitzgerald doubles up as their keyboard player as well. They perform a variety of genres, including folk, country, oldies, soft rock, blues and gospel. Larson and Fitzgerald have a great blend in their vocals and bring a natural knack for connecting with their audience. They’ve been known to cover such artists as John Denver, Patsy Cline, Loretta Lynn, Emmy Lou Harris, Arlo Guthrie, Ricky Nelson, Elvis and many others. Since reopening for concerts, UMCSCC
has been employing a number of CDC-approved COVID-19 safety measures, including limited capacity, physically distanced seating, taking temperatures at the door and requesting all guests to wear masks, as well as others. Due to the limited capacity measures being employed, concertgoers are encouraged to arrive early to be sure of being admitted. A donation of only $5 is requested at the door on the night of the concert. For additional information about this and other concerts and recitals at the United Methodist Church of Sun City Center, please contact Kevin Goodenow, concert series coordinator, at 362-0956. To learn more about the United Methodist Church of Sun City Center, please visit its website at www.sccumc.com.
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Grace Notes Stuck In Crete By Debora Coty
“The reason I left you in Crete was that you might put in order what was left unfinished,” - Titus 1:5 (NIV). In New Testament times, the remote island of Crete wasn’t a great place to be. The Apostle Paul lamented that “the people of Crete are all liars, cruel animals, and lazy gluttons,” (Titus 1:12 NLT). Yet Paul left his beloved assistant, Titus, there to sort out the fledgling church’s mess. Squabbles. Angry words. Misunderstandings galore. Similar to what we’re seeing online these days. Not likely a mission Titus would have voluntarily chosen, but Paul, through the Lord’s guidance, chose him intentionally. He had confidence that Titus would positively influence Crete, rather than Crete negatively influencing Titus. The Crete you and I get stuck in today isn’t geographical. No, our Crete is a mindset—a place that may involve isolation, stress or even suffering. A place we don’t necessarily want to be, but our assignment is to stay put until Papa God sends us elsewhere. Does this sound a little like the island you’ve been stuck on during COVID-19 social distancing and workplace shutdowns?
During our time in Crete, the Almighty may want us—like Titus—to clean up unfinished business or accomplish specific tasks before we move on. Or He may be developing within us the patience and trust necessary for us to accept His will in His timing. Other qualities Titus honed while in Crete are described in 2 Corinthians 7-8: hard work, earnestness and taking initiative. Titus proved what he was made of in Crete. Titus was a wonderful role model of how not only to tolerate Crete, but to prosper there. Titus didn’t pout about his ‘unfair’ situation. He realized that his temporary discomfort was allowed by Yahweh to stretch his personal parameters. Titus recognized he was where he was supposed to be and found joy in submission to God’s omnipotent plan, even when that plan was hard to fathom. So my friend, how can you apply Titus’ story to your own COVID-19 experience? During this frustrating, unscheduled assignment in Crete, are you taking initiative to put unfinished things in order? It might be a good place to start.
Debora M. Coty is an inspirational speaker and award-winning author of over 40 books, including the bestselling Too Blessed to be Stressed series. Visit with Debora anytime at www.DeboraCoty.com.
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fact, during the week of Thanksgiving, the chain aims to sell 2,500 pies, with pie reservations available in advance. Village Inn also offers a holiday turkey feast for both dine-in guests and for family-sized takeout. The new 55-plus value menu for seniors consists of three components with breakfast, lunch and dinner for various prices. Director of Operations for Village Inn Dean LaFollette stated what makes the By Tatiana Ortiz restaurant stand out. “Our vision is simPie lovers will be ply this: to take care happy to hear that of our guests and two locations of a our team by deliverpopular restaurant ing the best family have even more to ofdining experience so fer this month. that each individual Tampa Bay resident leaves with a sense Danny Lehan recently of well-being and purchased the Bransatisfaction with don and Riverview Vilour great value,” Lalage Inn locations and Follette said. is looking forward to To aid in social Director of Operations for Village Inn becoming involved in distancing protoDean LaFollette (left) and Franchise the community while Owner Danny Lehan (right) recently col, the Riverview continuing to serve presented Amy Scott with the first annual location recently quality all-day breakPinellas County ROSE (Recognition of received a dining fast, the best pie in Service Excellence) award presented by room expansion and America and more. the FRLA. all locations offer Lehan, who also curbside pickup and took over the Land online ordering. Employment O’Lakes Village Inn in July opportunities are also availand is a part franchise ownable; please apply in person at er of existing locations in the locations. Seminole, Largo and St. “Village Inn’s heritage is Petersburg, has served for built on being active in the many years with the Floricommunity,” Lehan said. da Restaurant and Lodging For more information, visAssociation and the Pinellas County Perit www.villageinn.com. The Brandon forming Arts. restaurant is located at 1995 W. LumsVillage Inn is a regional brand that den Rd. and can be reached at 657-7382. offers American comfort food including cooked from scratch pancakes and pies The Riverview location, at 10293 Big made in-house. Pumpkin pancakes and Bend Rd., can be reached at 741-3200. pumpkin pies are available and will con- The restaurants are open Monday-Suntinue to be throughout the holidays. In day, 6 a.m.-10 p.m., and are also open on Thanksgiving and Christmas Day.
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October 2020
SCOUTS PREPARE MEALS FOR FEEDING MINISTRY
Staff Report
NOVEMBERFEST RESCHEDULED TO BE BETTER THAN EVER FOR ‘21 By Kelly Wise Valdes
Scouts with Troop 109 for boys and Troop 901 for girls recently came together to prepare 500 grilled chicken dinners with the Transforming Lives for Christ Feeding Ministry of Holy Innocents’ Episcopal Church in Valrico.
Scouts with Troop 109 for boys and Troop 901 for girls recently came together to prepare 500 grilled chicken dinners with the Transforming Lives for Christ Feeding Ministry of Holy Innocents’ Episcopal Church in Valrico. “It was a combination of the leadership and the Scouts,” Michele Rudacille, the troops’ charter organization representative, said. “They were grilling chicken quarters, and some of the girls were helping make mashed potatoes.” Scouts wore masks to protect both their peers and the patrons of their cookout. Sixty percent of the population of West Central Florida is eligible to receive food stamps, according to Feeding Tampa Bay, and the ongoing pandemic and economic strain have only exacerbated food insecurity for vulnerable populations. According to Holy Innocents’ Episcopal Church, its TLC Feeding Ministry “provides nourishing hot meals to those in need in the Brandon, Valrico and Dover areas of Eastern Hillsborough County.” The units’ leadership said it’s a mission the youth are very passionate about. “It’s just so very encouraging. It’s some-
thing they’re eager to do,” Rudacille said. “They like to put action to things they care about, and helping others is something all of them care about.” Holy Innocents’ Epsicopal Church serves as the chartering organization for both troops. The boys’ troop currently hosts 27 registered youth. As a newer unit, the girls’ troop has 11 and is growing quickly, according to the Greater Tampa Bay Area Council. The Boy Scouts of America announced that it would begin allowing all-girl units in its traditional program, Scouts BSA, in February of 2019. Troop 901 for girls was among the first to charter within that same month, joining their companion Troop 109 for boys, according to local District Executive Clarissa Castillo of the Greater Tampa Bay Area Council. “We could not be prouder of the boys and girls in Troops 109 and 901,” Castillo said. “Cheerful service is one of the most important tenets of the Scouting program, and we are privileged to see our young men and women practice it every day.”
Novemberfest is a time-honored tradition held each year by Nativity Catholic Church and is the third largest annual carnival in Hillsborough County, following the Florida State Fair and the Strawberry Festival. The annual event is reported to attract more than 100,000 people each year and is run by parish volunteers. Unfortunately, due to the continued concerns surrounding COVID-19 and large gatherings, Nativity has decided to postpone this year’s festivities. This would have been Novemberfest’s 51st year of family fun and entertainment as well as Nativity’s largest fundraiser supporting its school and faith formation program. “For the past two months, Nativity Parish’s Novemberfest Committee has been meeting to discuss the viability of our 2020 event,” said Father John Tapp, pastor at Nativity Catholic. “After considering several possibilities/iterations for Novemberfest 2020 and taking into consideration the restrictions which COVID imposes on gatherings like this, we decided to cancel this year’s event. In the meantime, I pray that you and your families are safe and healthy. I am grateful for all you do for our parish community. May God, in his goodness, bring a swift and complete end to this pandemic.” The committee is already planning for
an even bigger and better Novemberfest for 2021. According to Maureen Ringley, principal at Nativity Catholic School, “Novemberfest has a far-reaching impact on the Greater Brandon community in that it brings generations of diverse folks together yearly for a weekend of safe family entertainment with a bonus of great food and fun.” R.J. Brauneker, Novemberfest chairman, knows that this year has been challenging and the cancellation of such important fundraising and community events like this is difficult. But, the church, school and committee are committed to making sure everyone will have a fantastic and safe event to look forward to in 2021. “Novemberfest is a time when our Brandon community comes together to celebrate great food, fellowship and endless family fun. I can’t wait for Novemberfest 2021, which will be here before we know it, and our Novemberfest Committee looks forward to making it the best event yet.” Novemberfest will take place next year from Thursday, November 18 to Sunday, November 21, 2021. Nativity Catholic is located at 705 E. Brandon Blvd. in Brandon. For more information about Novemberfest, visit www.nativitycatholicchurch.org/novemberfest.
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Volume 24 | Issue 10
SOUTH FLORIDA BAPTIST HOSPITAL PLANS TO RELOCATE TO NEW LOCATION IN PLANT CITY
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South Florida Baptist Hospital recently announced plans to build a new hospital and relocate in Plant City.
To improve access to healthcare services for the community it serves, South Florida Baptist Hospital recently announced plans to build a new hospital and relocate in Plant City. The proposed new location is off Exit 22 of I-4, east of the intersection of E. Sam Allen Rd. and N. Park Rd. This is a highly visible location in a high-growth area, less than four miles from South Florida Baptist Hospital’s current N. Alexander St. location. The plan calls for building up to 150 private patient rooms with the ability to add another 30 when needed for future expansion. An 85,000-square-foot medical office building also is proposed at the new location, which will be convenient for both patients and physicians who prefer to work near the hospital. The cost of the project is approximately $326 million. Construction is expected to begin in Summer 2021 and take about 30 months to complete. Since a whole new hospital will be built, there will be no disruption to patients, physicians or staff at the current hospital. “We are committed to providing extraordinary care to our patients and are excited about the opportunity to build a
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Pastor’s Corner Jomo Cousins, PhD
Anxiety And Stress By Pastor Jomo Cousins, PhD
Philippians 4:6-7 (AMP) 6 Do not be anxious or worried about anything, but in everything [every circumstance and situation] by prayer and petition with thanksgiving, continue to make your [specific] requests known to God. 7 And the peace of God [that peace which reassures the heart, that peace] which transcends all understanding, [that peace which] stands guard over your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus [is yours]. You’ll notice how Paul speaks in Philippians 4 about worry, stress and anxiety. God wants us to be anxious for nothing. We are instructed to give everything to God in prayer. After surrendering it all, we then thank God as if it’s already done. The Bible says, “His peace is the peace that surpasses all understanding.” Right now, at this very moment, if you are not living in peace, you have not prayed and surrendered it to God. This verse is a promise of God’s perfect peace. People often say that spiritually giving it to God is easier said than done. “I have physical bills and life issues that I’m facing, I need physical reassurance.” The reality is worry and stress never paid a bill nor healed an ailment. Redirect the negative
energy caused by stress and anxiety and transform it into positive prayer. We must learn to give God everything and worry about nothing. As 1 Peter 5:7 (AMP) states: ...casting all your cares [all your anxieties, all your worries, and all your concerns, once and for all] on Him, for He cares about you [with deepest affection, and watches over you very carefully]. Foundations for Living: Believers, you are at a crossroad, many people quit on themselves before they ever manifest what God has called them to. Napoleon Hill’s book, Outwitting the Devil, says that all of us will have three or four traumatic things that happen in our lives. And the people who are successful are those who persevere and fight. God’s best only comes to those who are willing to push through. The calling on your life is greater than the pain you may be in right now and you will never get past the pain until you step into purpose. If you could identify the purpose in your pain, you’ll find God’s power. Excerpt from Prayer Life: The Conversation, Page 245
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INNA’S ALTERATIONS USES CIRCUS COSTUME EXPERIENCE TO ENSURE THE PERFECT FIT By Amy Schechter Whether you are bridesmaid dress? in need of a wardShirts or pants not robe repair or a cusfitting well? Unitom garment, Inna form is uncomfortLilov, owner of Inably snug or large? na’s Alterations and Come by the store Repair, possesses and it will fix it. unsurpassed talent. Recently, Inna’s Now with over 60 Alterations has beyears of experience, gun making custom Lilov began her work leotards for gymwhen her family was nastics and dance. part of the Moscow It can work with Circus, and she conyou on a design and tinued her efforts include embellishwhen she traveled ments like rhinethe world with the stones on a notoriInna Lilov and Vlasta Weimann of Inna’s Ringling Brothers. ously difficult fabric. Alterations & Repair During her time in It will have you lookthe circus, she designed and constructed ing your best so you are ready to compete, her own costumes and her family’s. Now, go to work, have a night on the town or she decorates her store with pictures celebrate a special occasion. from her time in the circus where she perLilov and staff also want to give back to formed dangerous stunts, like walking the the community by sewing washable, reustightrope and working with bears, lions able masks for both children and adults. and horses, all while looking glamorous in They offer custom patterns and will ship, her custom pieces. but your best option is to come by the She and her staff, Vlasta Weimann and shop because they also have an array of Natalia Vertuozova, offer an array of al- designer dresses, outfits and accessories teration services for men and women. in all sizes priced well below department Her customers come back because of the store prices. quality of their work. One reviewer, Lauren For more information, find it on FaceCohagen, notes, “Inna is great! My moth- book at www.facebook.com/innaalterer ha[d] always gone to her if she needed ation/ or email innasalterations@gmail. something altered, so I went myself when com. Inna’s Alterations and Repair is open my prom dress needed major work. My Tuesday-Friday, 10 a.m.-6 p.m., and Saturdress was too big and too fluffy, but Inna day, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. carefully listened to all my concerns and It is closed on the last Saturday of the made sure she altered it to fit like a glove! month. My dress was even more beautiful thanks For information, call 651-4416. Inna’s to her.” Alterations is located at 1548 BloomingIn need of an alteration for a wedding or dale Ave. E., Ste. 1514 in Valrico.
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ChristianVoiceMonthly.com
Volume 24 | Issue 10
Page 9
Autumn—Our Season Of Grace
By Kelly Wise Valdes
Who doesn’t love the beginning of the autumn season? There is a slight change in the cool, crispness of the air and we begin to feel a change in season. Although we typically don’t get quite the ‘change of seasons’ in Florida, autumn is the perfect occasion to take time to reflect, embrace gratitude and savor our families. So, whether or not you are enjoying pumpkin spice lattes, picking out trick-or-treat costumes for the kids or planning a fall getaway, pause and enjoy this season. If you want to curl up on a cool autumn evening and read a good book, consider some of the below selections that will help you celebrate all the goodness of fall. “There is a time for everything and a season for every activity under the heavens,” - Ecclesiastes 3:1.
Devotions for the Fall By Thomas Nelson This is the perfect book to read while curling up with a blanket and a cup of hot tea or coffee. You will be inspired by its 40 devotions, four-color autumn photography, prayers of thanksgiving, inspiring quotations, ideas for fun fall activities and recipes for fall favorites to help readers anticipate and enjoy the season.
Faithful Celebrations: Making Autumn Meditations Time for God in Autumn By Father John Bartunek, LC Edited by Sharon Ely Pearson Holidays and family events are times for celebration, learning, rituals, food and fun. This informative book includes key ideas, activities, materials needed, instructions for implementation, background history and information, music, art, recipes and prayer resources for autumn-related activities.
When was the last time you paused to drink in the colors of the changing leaves of autumn? Fall is a time of renewed activity. While our schedules fill up, we remain in constant motion. We have to make space in our schedules for time to reflect on our faith. These weekly meditations help us reconnect with autumn, a season that reminds us of the struggles we all experience and the virtues we all need to work on.
Pumpkin Spice for Your Soul: 25 Devotions for Autumn By Anna E. Rendell
This faith-based book encourages readers to drink deep and savor this favorite time of year. Each of the 25 days includes a Scripture verse, devotion, reflection question and an ‘extra shot’ (recipes, inspiring quotes and fun autumn ideas) which are like espresso for your soul. Also included are lined pages for autumn reflections and note-taking, and a bonus devotion to begin the season of Advent. Fully experience and take delight in pumpkin spice season.
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Page 10
ChristianVoiceMonthly.com
October 2020
A DOOR OF HOPE OFFERS LOVING CHRISTIAN HOMES TO TAMPA BAY FOSTER CHILDREN
By Gwen Rolling
There is a door in ment coordinator the United States for ADOH, people that most Americans decide to become don’t open. If they foster parents for a did, they would disvariety of reasons. cover some startling “My husband and I statistics about foshad a desire to be ter care: parents, but, due to According to iFosa medical condition, ter in 2019, there are couldn’t make that 440,000 foster youth happen on our own. nationwide; the need The idea of foster for foster parents is care was presented. at an all time high; the We began classes in median age in foster February 2016 and care is 6.5 years old; were licensed by only 5 percent of rural May 2016. We took youth and 21 percent our very first placeof urban foster youth ment of two little report access to a boys ages 2 and 3 computer at home; A foster family after walking through and later adopted 30,000 youth between them and their little A Door of Hope. 18-21 years old age sister in 2018.” out of the foster system annually and exit Weaver explained that the foster prowithout having found a forever home, ne- cess involves filling out an inquiry form cessitating fending for themselves; and at adoorofhope.com, receiving an intake the price of underinvesting in foster youth phone call and attending an orientation results in $1 million in societal costs. followed by professional parenting trainCloser to home in the area surrounding ing. Tampa Bay, an average of nine children are A home study will then be completed. in crises every day and are removed from Once approved, you’ll be licensed. ADOH their homes because of abuse, neglect or will provide support and walk families abandonment. through the process from start to finish. However, there is a special door in the Currently, there are 190 licensed fosTampa Bay area that has opened to re- ter care homes in this area. ADOH has veal an opportunity for those seeking to set a goal of 300-plus homes by 2023. change the present dismal foster care sta- To achieve that goal, only one family per tistics. A Door of Hope (ADOH) offers an church would foster one child in crises, opportunity for kids in crisis to find lov- then every child would have a home. ing homes. ADOH recruits, trains, licenses For information on fostering, finanand supports Christian foster homes in the cial donations ($500 to place a child) or Florida Suncoast region. events in November and Christmas for According to Sarah Weaver, develop- fosters, visit adoorofhope.com.
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Page 11
October 2020
FAITH & FOOTPRINTS
Basilica Of St. Mary Star Of The Sea – Key West, FL By Kelly Wise Valdes
Key West is known for its warm weather, restaurants, live music and fishing; however, it’s also immersed in history and architecture. One notable historic building is the Basilica of St. Mary Star of the Sea Catholic Church. It is one of the oldest Catholic parishes in the state of Florida and the oldest parish in the Archdiocese of Miami. The church is in the Key West Historic District on the National Register of Historic Places. The history of St. Mary Star of the Sea dates as far back as 1566, when the Spanish Jesuits came to Florida and, by 1567, a mission was established on Upper Matecumbe Key to minister to the indigenous people who were soon devastated by smallpox and measles. By 1572, the mission was abandoned and would not return again until 1743, when two Italian Jesuit priest explorers came from Havana, Cuba and opened a mission chapel. As the unrest and struggle between Spanish rule and British rule grew, the Spanish governor was unable to offer the priests any real protection, so he ordered them back to Cuba. The Catholic church didn’t fare well under the new British rule in the late 1700s. However, in 1820, a small Catholic community formed in Key West during the Civil War. By 1851, construction began on the first Catholic Church in Key West on the corner of Duval and Eaton St. This would be the fifth Catholic church erected in all of Florida and the first in South Florida. The church was finished and dedicated in February 1852. Unfortunately, it was destroyed in an arson fire in 1901.
The construction on the new church began immediately and was completed in 1905. This is the church that stands today. It has survived several hurricanes and undergone restoration throughout the last century. The exterior of the church reflects the American Victorian architecture. This is seen in the rounded, gothic arches, louvered shutters and stained glass. The church was designed to be comfortable and cool in a subtropical climate. The exterior bays are defined by high and wide doorways along the east and west walls instead of windows to provide refreshing cross ventilation in the nave. Visitors are welcomed to tour the basilica, grotto, garden and gift shop. Information on a self-guided walking tour of the Basilica of St. Mary Star of the Sea Catholic Church are available at the entrance to the basilica or you can visit the web app at http:// bsmkw.com on your mobile device. For more information, visit www.stmarykeywest. com.
LIVE LIKE YOU MEAN IT ... A Message About Voting
“For the Lord gives wisdom; from his mouth come knowledge and understanding.” Proverbs 2:6 I was going to wait and write this at the end of October, but a couple of weeks ago Rebekah and I cast our ballots. So it’s happening, it will be happening for the next several weeks, and I want you to consider the following. • Please vote. The more people who participate the better off we all are. America is a huge chorus of voices, and the symphony of sound becomes richer, more harmonious, more complex, more resonant and more inclusive the more
completely it represents the rich, diverse, beautiful, impressionistic, polyphonic masterpiece that is our nation. • Vote from your own heart and conscience, not in lockstep with those who want to absorb your free choice into their agenda. • Our government was designed to function best in response to productive compromise. Extreme views can facilitate debate, but it is the moderates who work together to get things done. Let’s encourage cooperation rather than practice divisiveness. • Consider character more than party. America works better when we respect people we disagree with. So common
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threads such as decency, integrity, grace, constancy, compassion, reliability and morality must override party politics.
This is a snapshot of the process I use to help me determine how to vote. The last thing this country needs in this tense, fractious time is for us to abrogate our responsibility to be thoughtful, well-informed and prayerful when casting a ballot. I don’t often do this, but I’d like to pray with you at the close of this column: Loving God, this country we love is in the throes of a contentious election. Help us to honor the calling we have as citizens to be fair, civic-mind-
By Derek Maul
ed, open-spirited and gracious in our dealings with one another. The privilege of being a U.S. citizen comes with commensurate responsibilities, and the blessing of being your children comes with expectations too. Teach us your ways, Lord; and, please, heal our land. Amen. Derek Maul has written for many news outlets, including the Tampa Tribune, The United Methodist News Service, All Pro Dad, FOCUS Magazine, Newsweek, USA Today, The Christian Science Monitor, Presbyterians Today, Guideposts, Chicken Soup for the Soul and many other publications. Read Derek Maul’s daily blog posts at www.derekmaul. wordpress.com
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ChristianVoiceMonthly.com
Page 12
October 2020
HOT OFF THE CHRISTIAN NEWS WIRE
By Kelly Wise Valdes
Samaritan’s Purse, Operation Blessing Head To Gulf Coast To Help Rebuild Following Hurricane Laura
Samaritan’s Purse and Operation Blessing have provided much-needed supplies and help to the thousands of residents in Louisiana who were affected by Hurricane Laura. Hurricane Laura is hailed as one of the strongest hurricanes to have ever hit Louisiana, according to Louisiana Governor John Bel Edwards. According to reports, many residents will be without power for weeks, and some will even be without water. Operation Blessing was quick to arrive on the scene. It gave out supplies to the community to help them get through the terrible crisis facing them until things can be repaired and the elderly residents could be relocated. It also provided counseling and food and water to many who have been affected spanning many areas
where hurricane Laura reached. Samaritan’s Purse also was quick to show up to the scene. It brought in tractor-trailers full of relief supplies for thousands of affected residents. For more information or to send donations, visit samaritanspurse.org. Both organizations have been providing religious counseling and sharing the gospel to the affected residents, a much-needed service as multiple churches have been affected by the storm. For more information or send donations, visit www.ob.org.
Dolly Parton, Zach Williams Collaborate To Make No. 1 Hit Christian Song
Country Music star Dolly Parton has partnered with popular Christian Music artist Zach Williams to make a new hit song titled “There Was Jesus,” a song about hope in troubled times and how Jesus is always there, especially when things seem darkest. The song topped 10.5 million impressions on the Christian airwaves, which put it in the number one spot on Billboard’s Christian Adult Contemporary Chart in September. In a statement to Bill-
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board magazine, Dolly Parton commented, “Having a No. 1 record at any time is a great thing, but having a No. 1 faithbased record during these crazy times is even greater. I feel humbled and blessed to be part of this wonderful song with Zach Williams. It does my heart good to know that we have touched the lives of so many people.” To purchase the song, visit www.amazon.com and search for “There Was Jesus.”
The Word Of God Through The Power Of Puzzles
Bible Power Puzzles is now available for purchase from Good Books and is filled with 500 Scripture-inspired puzzles for beginners or experts.
This book has something for everyone, including crosswords, word searches, trivia and sudoku, all based on everything from Old Testament Proverbs and Psalms to the parables and miracles of Jesus. Thanks to bold, large print, Christians young and old can complete these fun puzzles and activities. This enormous puzzle book will keep you busy for hours whether you need to occupy your downtime, relax in the evening or entertain yourself and your family on a long car ride. For more information, visit www.skyhorsepublishing.com/ good-books/ and search for ‘Puzzles.’
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ChristianVoiceMonthly.com
Volume 24 | Issue 10
Page 13
ADOPT A FOSTER CHILD THROUGH HEART GALLERY OF TAMPA By Gwen Rolling
sports to chorus and excels in math. He dreams of going to Florida State University. These and all the other children have one thing in common: they are hoping for forever homes. Heart Gallery of Tampa was created to find forever families for Tampa’s foster children who have experienced abandonment, abuse and neglect. Many carry everything they own in a green plastic bag. Children at Heart Gallery of Tampa are waiting for Recently, Heart Gallery of families to view their smiling pictures, read about Tampa expressed gratitude for their goals and dreams and adopt them. Riverview’s local hairdressers who donated time and talents On the website of Heart Gallery of Tampa, there are individual pictures of cute, helping 18 foster children get back-tosmiling, nicely dressed kids like you would school haircuts. With the uncertainties see at the mall, playing soccer in the park surrounding this school year, the haircuts or being dropped off by parents at school. provided some sense of normalcy for these Except, beneath each picture is one of local foster kids. Heart Gallery of Tampa is also grateful these three labels: “Found a Family,” “Pofor financial donations: $1,000 will spontentially Matched” or “Available.” Each smiling picture and short profile sor a child for one year, $500 will sponsor represents a child hoping for a forever a child for six months, $300 provides one birthday party, $200 provides a birthday family: Armani (Found a Family): “Destined for present for one child and $100 provides greatness.” On track for an early gradua- school supplies for one child. Lindsay Hermida, program director, extion and intends to head straight to colplained that 100 children are selected for lege to become an OB/GYN doctor. Aries (Potentially Matched): “My smile the pictorial site and the majority are oldlights up a room.” Loves to play outside, er, part of a sibling group or have special ride his bike, dreams of going to Disney needs. These children need special families World and hopes to wake up with super to open their hearts, homes and lives to adopt them. powers and be able to fly. “The whole focus of our mission is to be Anna (Available): “I like spiders!” She dreams of ice skating outdoors and climb- out in the community to share our mesing mountains, though her ideal day would sage…help spread the word about our kids be at Disney World dressed up as Queen waiting for a place to call home.” For more information, visit www.heartElsa from Frozen. Elijah (Available): “I’m a math whiz!” gallerytampa.org or email Lindsay@ He loves everything from video games to HeartGalleryTampa.org.
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ChristianVoiceMonthly.com
Page 14
The Fruit Of The Holy Spirit
What Is Faithfulness?
October 2020
KIDS CRAFT CORNER OCTOBER - FALL IN LOVE WITH JESUS
By Kelly Wise Valdes By Kelly Wise Valdes
to grow new leaves in the springtime. This is just part of the changing of the season. Just like the fall season, our lives have different seasons too. We may end up changing to a new school, or our families may move, or we may make different friends than the year before. No matter what changes we go through, we have to remember that God is still with us and he will never change. In Hebrews 13:8 we learn, “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever.”
Galatians 5:22-23 tells us, “The Spirit produces love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, humility and self-control.” You may have heard about the fruit of the Spirit and wondered what it is and how it relates our Christian faith. In this series, each fruit will be explored and related to our everyday lives. Just like physical fruit need time to grow, the fruit of the Spirit will not ripen in our lives overnight. As we mature in our faith, all the characteristics of our spiritual fruits will grow as well. The seventh fruit of the Spirit is faithfulness. What exactly is faithfulness? The Holman’s Bible Dictionary defines ‘faithful’ as “steadfast, dedicated, dependable and worthy of trust.” Interestingly, the word ‘faithful’ comes from the same Hebrew root as the word ‘amen,’ which, as Christians, is a word we use frequently to show our belief in God. In the world today, many people may think of faithfulness in human terms,
such as being faithful to our spouse within the bonds of marriage. This faithfulness is certainly necessary for a successful marriage; however, this fruit of the spirit of faithfulness is actually referring to our faithfulness in Christ. It is a foundational Christian character trait that is necessary for a godly life. As Christians we know and see how faithful God is to us and that his Word stands true and that His promises won’t fail. There may be many times when we may not feel God’s faithfulness to us, but we must choose to trust and believe that God is truly faithful. The Bible is filled with God’s promises and examples of His faithfulness in our lives. Because God is faithful to us, we should continue to learn to be faithful to Him. It requires trust and loyalty. Our faithfulness allows us to trust in His promises to us. “Well done, good and faithful servant. You have been faithful over a little; I will set you over much. Enter into the joy of your master,” - Matthew 25:21.
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We are now into the month of October, which is normally the month when we see the leaves changing in many parts of the country. In Florida, we don’t see the leaves change colors quite as much, but many families make trips each year up to other states to see the leaves changing from bright green to beautiful colors of orange, red and yellow. We know that every few months, seasons change—from the cold winter, to the warmer springtime, to the hot summers and then to the cooler autumn season. Although seasons change throughout the year, God never changes. We also know that eventually the beautiful colored leaves will fall from the tree—which is why we use the word ‘fall’ to describe the season. But, the tree is not dead when it loses all its leaves. This is the time that the tree stores its energy
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To celebrate the fall season, let’s make a “Fall In Love With Jesus” craft: Time Needed: 20 minutes Materials Needed: • Construction paper—white, brown, yellow, red and orange • Black magic marker • Pencil • Scissors • Elmer’s Glue Procedure: • Lay your arm and hand flat on the brown construction paper • Have an adult trace your arm and hand, just past your wrist • Cut out the tracing and then glue it to the white construction paper • Use the other colors of construction paper to cut out different leaves • Use the marker to write important things about God on the leaves such as “Forgiving” and “Patient” • Then glue the leaves to the tree You can either write your name on the tree or you can write “Fall In Love With Jesus” on it!
ChristianVoiceMonthly.com
Volume 24 | Issue 10
BAPTIST
St. Matthews Anglican Church 10701 Bloomingdale Avenue, Riverview 813-663-0334 St. Stephen Catholic Church 10118 Saint Stephen Circle, Riverview (813) 689-4900 CHURCH OF GOD Boyette Springs Church of God 12114 Boyette Rd., Riverview (813) 671-0086 Plant City Church of God 2103 Mud Lake Rd., Plant City (813) 752-4591 EPISCOPAL Holy Innocents' Episcopal Church 604 N. Valrico Rd., Valrico (813) 689-3130 LUTHERAN Immanuel Lutheran Church 2913 John Moore Rd., Brandon (813) 689-1787 Living Savior Lutheran Church 2650 Lithia Pinecrest Rd., Valrico (813) 681-2375 METHODIST First United Methodist Church of Seffner 1310 South Kingsway Rd., Seffner (813) 689-3513 Grace Community United Methodist Church 5708 Lithia Pinecrest Rd., Lithia (813) 661-8858 • info@mygraceumc.com New Hope United Methodist Church 120 N. Knights Ave., Brandon (813) 689-4161 Riverview First United Methodist Church 8002 US Hwy 301., Riverview www.riverviewflumc.org Ruskin United Methodist Church 105 4th Ave. NW, Ruskin (813) 645-1241 South Shore United Methodist Church 11525 Big Bend Rd., Riverview (813) 649-9462 NON-DENOMINATIONAL Calvary Chapel Brandon 1331 Kingsway Rd., Brandon (813) 681-5318 Centerpoint Church 1801 S. Miller Rd., Valrico (813) 689-1906
Bay Life Church 1017 Kingsway Ave., Brandon (813) 661-3696 Bell Shoals Baptist - Brandon 2102 Bell Shoals Rd., Brandon (813) 689-4229 Congregación Hispana 2102 Bell Shoals Rd., Brandon (813) 689-4229 ext. 242 Bell Shoals Baptist - Apollo Beach 408 Apollo Beach Blvd., Apollo Beach (813) 641-2222 Bell Shoals Baptist - Palm River 5415 Palm River Rd.,Tampa (813) 621-2058 Bell Shoals Baptist - Riverview 9990 South Hwy 301, Suite 10024, Riverview (813) 689-4229 First Baptist Church of Brandon 216 N. Parsons Ave., Brandon (813) 689-1204 First Baptist Church of Bloomingdale 3303 Bloomingdale Ave.,Valrico (813) 689-3847 First Baptist Church of Gibsonton 9912 Indiana St., Gibsonton (813) 677-1301 First Baptist Church of Ruskin 820 College Ave. W., Ruskin (813) 645-6439 FishHawk Fellowship 15326 Fishhawk Blvd., Lithia, (813) 655-7431 Grace Baptist Church 2909 John Moore Rd., Brandon (813) 689-7190 Journey Church 415 W. Lumsden Rd., Brandon (813) 699-8262 Shiloh Baptist Church 1104 Cason St., Plant City (813) 752-8345 CATHOLIC Nativity Catholic Church 705 E Brandon Blvd., Brandon (813) 681-4608 St. Anne Catholic Church 106 11th Ave. NE, Ruskin (813) 645-1714
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Grace Community Church 1425 N Valrico Rd., Valrico (813) 689-9781 Harvest Bible Chapel Bloomingdale High School 813-699-0517 Love First Christian Center 12847 Balm Riverview Rd., Riverview 813-671-2009 River of Life Christian Center 6605 Krycul Ave, Riverview 813-677-4453 New Life Christian Church 401 S. Saint Cloud Ave, Valrico 813-548-2733 South Bay Church 13498 US 301 S., Riverview 813-677-0721 The Chapel at FishHawk 6026 Churchside Dr., Lithia 813-661-7105 The Crossing Church - Main Campus 10130 Tuscany Ridge Dr., Tampa, (813) 626-0783 The Crossing Church - SouthShore 2409 East College Ave., Ruskin (813) 626-0580 The Palms Church 207 New Hope Rd., Brandon (813) 841-9598 True Sanctuary 6528 US Hwy 301 S., Suite 114, Riverview (813) 319-5862 PENTECOSTAL Destiny Church 2322 11th Ave. SE, Ruskin (813) 645-3337 HighPoint Church of Brandon 2207 Lithia-Pinecrest Rd., Valrico/Brandon (813) 685-4827 PRESBYTERIAN First Presbyterian Church of Brandon -PCUSA 121 Carver Ave., Brandon (813) 689-4597 Redeemer Church-PCA 12404 Boyette Rd., Riverview (813) 741-1776 Westminster Presbyterian Church PCA 402 E. Lumsden Rd., Brandon (813) 689-6541
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ChristianVoiceMonthly.com
October 2020
Clip & Save: Six Ballot Amendments And What They Mean ToByVoters Kathy Collins
This year, as voters head to the polls or send their ballots via U.S. mail or drop-off boxes provided by the Hillsborough County Supervisor of Elections, they will be asked to approve or reject six Florida constitutional amendments. Four of the amendments, numbers one through four, are citizen initiatives, and two, numbers five and six, were referred by the Florida Legislature. The citizen initiatives are subject to a financial impact review. To be approved, a constitutional amendment must receive 60 percent of the vote. Voters are urged to carefully review the complete ballot before casting their vote. Here is a summary of the proposed amendments:
Amendment 1Citizenship Requirement to Vote in Florida Elections
The amendment would add language stating that only United States citizens who are 18 years old, are permanent residents of Florida and are registered to vote may do so.
Amendment 3Establishes an Open Primary System for State Offices Only
Establishes an Open Primary System for State Offices Only This allows all voters to vote in primary elections regardless of party affiliation. The two candidates who receive the most votes would move on to the general election. The change would not affect federal elections. Currently, Florida is a closed primary state, which means that voters must register as a Democrat or Republican to vote in state primaries.
Amendment 2- Raising Florida’s Minimum Wage
The State’s minimum wage would be raised to $15 per hour by the year 2026. Beginning on September 30, 2021, the minimum wage would increase to $10 per hour. Then, it would increase by $1 per year until it reaches the goal of $15 per hour. Thereafter, future minimum wage increases would be adjusted annually for inflation.
Amendment 4Voter Approval of Constitutional Amendments
This would require that any amendments that receive 60 percent of the vote to be placed on the ballot of the next general
election and again receive 60 percent of the vote in order for it to take effect.
Amendment 5Limitation on Homestead Assessments
This would increase the amount of time from two years to three years in which you may transfer Save Our Homes benefits to a new homestead.
Amendment 6- Ad Valorem Tax Discount for Spouses of Certain Deceased Veterans Who Had Permanent, CombatRelated Disabilities
This would allow a homestead property tax discount to be transferred to the surviving spouse of a deceased veteran. For more information and the full text of the amendments, please visit http://www.dos.myflorida.com/elections/.
Be An Informed Voter, Know Where And How To Vote So That Every Vote Counts Voting is a right and not a privilege. In order to exercise this right, every voter in Hillsborough County must be informed and must know where to vote and how to do it. In Hillsborough County, there are three ways to exercise your right to vote: Vote By Mail, Early Voting and Election Day Voting. In order to vote in the general election, set for Tuesday, November 3, you must be registered by Monday, October 5. When you register, you are asked to select a party. The parties are Republican, Democrat or No Party Affiliation. You can also register as a member of a minor political party such as the Green Party of Florida. In a general election, your ballot, or those you vote for, is based upon where you reside. In other words, you vote for officials who represent your area. This year, everyone votes for the office of the president. There are no statewide elections this year as neither U.S. senator who represents Florida is up for election. There are countywide elections, including the office of the Hillsborough County state attorney. You can view a sample ballots for the general election by visiting www.votehillsborough.org. VOTE BY MAIL Vote By Mail is the most convenient method. You do not need an
excuse to choose this option. If you request this method, you will receive your ballot in the mail as early as Thursday, September 24. The deadline to request your Vote By Mail ballot is Saturday, October 24. Using this method allows you to take your time making your voting decision. The Vote By Mail ballot must be received by the Hillsborough Supervisor of Elections Office by 7 p.m. on Election Day. You can mail it or drop it off in person at one of their offices or at an Early Voting site. In order to avoid any delays that may be experienced with the mail and to make voting as easy as possible, the supervisor of elections offers curbside drop-off this year. You must be mindful of the deadlines in order to use this method. You can request your Vote By Mail ballot and track its delivery
Expiration 10/31/2020
by visiting www.votehillsborough.org. “During the primary election, we had curbside Vote By Mail drop-off at each of our 24 Early Voting sites and it was very popular. We expect even more voters to choose this convenient way of voting in the general election. Voters really liked being
able to get their ballots at home and drop them off in person without leaving their car,” said Supervisor of Elections Craig Latimer. “The office plans to have dropoff tents at its four offices seven days a week, starting Friday, September 25, and will expand to the 24 drop-off sites during Early Voting, from Monday, October 19 through Sunday, November 1,” added Latimer. EARLY VOTING Early Voting will take place from Monday, October 19 through
Expiration 10/31/2020
By Kathy L. Collins
Sunday, November 1 from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Early Voting is just like Election Day Voting. You must bring one or two forms of identification with your photo and signature on it. Acceptable forms of identification include a Florida driver’s license, state-issued identification, U.S. passport, student ID, public assistance ID and more. During Early Voting, you can go to any of the 24 sites designated as an Early Voting site. Conversely, on Election Day, you must vote at the precinct designated on your voter registration. ELECTION DAY VOTING Polling places or precincts, noted on your voter registration card, are open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Election Day. This year, the general election day is Tuesday, November 3. You can bring your sample ballot with you and use it while you vote. Latimer said, “We got a lot of positive feedback from our voters and poll workers on the health and safety of in-person voting. Voters appreciated the way we set up our polling places so that everyone could be socially distanced, our poll workers were wearing masks and keeping things clean and we were happy to see that nearly all of our voters wore masks too.” Whichever method you choose, remember that your vote counts. For more information, please visit www.votehillsborough.org.
Expiration 10/31/2020
Andrew Learned, Navy Vet, Brings Small Business Experience To House Race
Business Acumen & Experience Makes Sally Harris A Great Choice For School Board District 7
Andrew Learned, a legislature has been chipU.S. Navy veteran of 11 ping away at our public years and a local small schools, and it’s time for a business owner, has dedicheck on the side of our cated his life to serving students, teachers and his country. Now, he communities so we can wants to serve his comget all of our kids access munity as a representato the education they tive in the Florida House. deserve.” Learned grew up in On the economy, Brandon and, after graduLearned said he has seen ating from the University firsthand the negative of Tampa with degrees in impacts COVID-19 has economics and in governhad on local businesses Brandon native Andrew ment and world affairs, he Learned, a U.S. Navy veteran when he was forced to commissioned as an offi- of 11 years and a local small restructure his company business owner, wants to cer into the United States to go entirely online in the serve his community as a Navy. representative in the Florida wake of shutdowns in House. Over the course of March. three Middle East deployments, he led “The governor can order my busiboarding missions against Somali ness closed in one day, but he can’t pirates and planned missions against sign an order to bring my customers ISIS in Iraq, Yemen and Syria. In 2013, back four weeks later.” Learned said. Learned transferred to the Navy “Parents won’t feel safe sending their Reserves, where he currently serves as kids to in-person tutoring until we get a lieutenant commander, at Special this virus under control. We need a sciOperations Command Central on ence-based response and transparency MacDill Air Force Base. with the community.” Learned has built a life in Brandon Learned also serves locally on the as the owner of GradePower Learning, advisory board for YMCA Camp a tutoring company that helps students Cristina, where he was the 2019 catch up, get ahead and prepare for Volunteer of the Year and is an avid their SATs. He said his experience cyclist and triathlete. He is getting marworking with teachers and students in ried later this year and will be taking on the community has shown him where 8-year-old twins along with his new life. our current school system is lacking. To learn more about Learned, visit “For 30 years the Republican-led andrewlearned.com.
said Harris. Sally Harris is Harris’ running for a experience position on the will allow her Hillsborough to bring a difCounty School ferent perBoard, District 7. spective to This is a countythe school wide seat. She board. Harris would like your explained, “I vote on Tuesday, Sally Harris (shown in the center in black) is a parent, am a busiAugust 18. foster parent, teacher and business owner who will ness owner, Harris, or bring her vast business and life experience to the so I treat the ‘Miss Sally,’ as position of Hillsborough School Board Member, District 7. position just she is known by like a business owner and look at everyhundreds of children and families, is the owner of Circle C Ranch Academy. Harris thing with a microscope.” These are not just empty words. When Harris was on previously served on the Hillsborough School Board from 2014 to 2018 and was the school board, she asked questions like “Who turns out the lights?” The the chair in 2017-2018. superintendent at the time did not know. As a parent, foster parent, teacher As a result of the inquiry, timers and LED and business owner, she knows that the lights were installed and the district saved public schools must have the children as their primary focus. Her three main issues 1.2 million dollars in energy savings. Harris said, “I am good listener. I am in her campaign are higher academics, open-minded and look at both sides. I am vocational training in middle and high also kind. I have 40 employees, some of schools and the safety of the children. whom have been with me for 15 to 20 “I want the Hillsborough County years.” Public Schools to be the cream of the Harris has led a well-rounded life. crop. We need to get them not only to a She is the matriarch of a large family that higher level of academic achievement so includes a son who is a Hillsborough parents do not feel they need their chilCounty Sheriff Deputy and lives in Valrico dren to attend other schools, but also a and a daughter who lives in Seffner. place where all children learn and graduHarris is a longtime member of both ate with a skill. This is why vocational the SouthShore Chamber of Commerce training needs to be put back into the and the Sun City Center Area Chamber middle and high schools, so that children of Commerce. For more information, who do not go on to college have a skill please visit www.votesallyharris.com. and can prosper once they graduate,”
Staff Report
By Kathy L. Collins
Re-Elect Mike Beltran To Florida House District 57 To Continue Fighting For All East Hillsborough Families By Kathy L. Collins
Mike Beltran of ning my law pracLithia represents tice, I studied the Florida State House Constitution with District 57 President Reagan’s (Southeastern solicitor general Hillsborough County) and know how to in Tallahassee. advocate effectively Beltran is a for our district,” said Republican who Beltran. “If you look advocates common at my record, I Mike Beltran, a Republican representative think you are going sense solutions in for Southeastern Hillsborough County, the Legislature. He to like what you shown here with his wife, Hope, and sons, would like your vote see, because I did Michael (5 years old) and Ross (2 years old), is running for Florida State House on Tuesday, everything I promDistrict 57. November 3. ised I would do.” Beltran is a graduate of Harvard Law Beltran is a fiscal conservative who School and attorney in Tampa who helps carefully scrutinizes spending. Beltran families, professionals, and small busibelieves in low taxes, limited government nesses in legal disputes. He has also and reduced regulations. “We need to priserved as a law clerk for a Tampa federal oritize schools, maintain and improve judge. roads and fund public safety,” Beltran Beltran was appointed by Governor stated. He worked to ensure that every Rick Scott to serve on the Judicial dollar is spent wisely. He successfully Nominating Commission (JNC) for the supported the back-to-school tax holiday Thirteenth Judicial Circuit in Hillsborough this year. County and was recently reappointed by “We should reduce waste and continGovernor Ron DeSantis. The JNC interue to spend more money on teachers, views, vets and nominates candidates to supplies and technology to ensure that fill judicial vacancies and has increased students can learn,” explained Beltran. both the quality and diversity of the bench “I will fight for road widening funding during Beltran’s service. Beltran also suc- from the legislature,” said Beltran. cessfully obtained the authorization to hire Beltran’s wife, Hope, was Newsome four new county court judges in High School’s first homecoming queen. Hillsborough County, subject to funding. They have two sons, Michael, who is 5 “Two years ago, the voters deteryears old, and Ross, who recently turned mined I was the best qualified candidate. 2. For more information on Beltran, I have experience as a businessman run- please visit www.electmikebeltran.com.
Chad Chronister Focuses On County Growth In Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Race
Staff Report
For almost 30 a body-worn camera years, Sheriff Chad program to increase Chronister has been both accountability and working to keep transparency. He overHillsborough County saw a gun buyback prosafe at the Hillsborough gram that has, to-date, County Sheriff’s Office. removed over 4,000 Appointed by Governor unwanted firearms off Rick Scott and subseHillsborough County quently elected in 2018, streets and out of the Sheriff Chronister has hands of criminals. kept his agency focused He also instituted on law and order while the Veterans evolving the agency to Resurgence Program to better meet the changhelp veterans who ing and growing needs Sheriff Chad Chronister is up for break the law find a re-election after serving Hills. of Hillsborough County. trade and get the menCounty for almost 30 years. For starters, the tal healthcare they Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office is need to return and become productive now the most diverse it has ever been. members of society. Sheriff Chronister believes that Sheriff Chronister has earned many deputies should better reflect the comcommendations. His civic associations munity they serve and that our diversity include board membership positions is a strength, not a weakness. As a with Boys & Girls Clubs of Tampa Bay result, the command staff of the and Metropolitan Ministries. Sheriff’s Office is also the most diverse A native of York, PA, Sheriff it’s ever been—the county now has its Chronister is married to Nicole first female chief deputy and its first DeBartolo and has two sons, Asher and African American colonel. Zack, and two dogs, Cali and Oreo. He Some notable changes to the enjoys spending time with his family the Sheriff’s Office under Sheriff Chronister most. include a new district to increase To learn more about Sheriff response times, double-digit drops in Chronister, visit his website at chadthe crime rate for consecutive years chronister.com. To keep up to date with and a deputy of Sheriff’s Office has the sheriff in the community, find him on trained security personnel in every pub- Facebook at lic school. www.facebook.com/SheriffChadChronis More recently, the sheriff instituted ter/ and Twitter @ChadChronister.
Third-Generation Tampa Native Mike Perotti Runs For State Attorney
Sandra Murman Brings Experienced Record Of Accomplishments To County Race
Mike Perotti ties for others. is a third-generHis unique ation Tampa experience with native, a Tampa every aspect of Jesuit High our criminal jusSchool gradutice system has ate and a proud given him Double Gator, unparalleled having earned insights into both his bachewhere it works, lor’s and law where it doesn’t degrees from and where he the University of can improve it. Mike Perotti is running for state attorney. Florida, but most Perotti has— importantly, he’s an experienced former and always will—gone above and prosecutor who began his career right beyond to defend the rule of law in here with the Hillsborough County State order to keep our families safe and proAttorney’s Office. tect the rights of all. Perotti then joined the Hillsborough Perotti is not a politician. He is a County Sheriff’s Office as legal counsel servant leader who believes in accountin 2001, where he led with a fearless ability and transparency. He is a local work ethic and a drive to find solutions son who has built his reputation on dedfor the most complex of problems. His ication and integrity. From taking down tireless work ethic and unquestioned dangerous drug dealers and thieves to integrity led Sheriff Gee to ask him to championing women’s empowerment join his command staff, first as major, efforts against sexual assault, he was a then colonel, then under Sheriff Chad steadfast prosecutor who ensured jusChronister, before rotating again to legal tice was done and victims were protectcounsel. He has dedicated his career to ed. His experience as an effective litigakeeping our communities safe. tor has allowed him to achieve countOver his 16-plus years with the less victories for his clients across a Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office, broad spectrum of our legal system, Perotti has been a proven leader who including matters of civil rights, personal has focused on incarcerating dangerous injury, supervisory negligence, false criminals who threaten the safety of our arrest, excessive force and criminal law. children and families while providing To learn more, visit www.mikeperottreatment and developmental opportuni- ti.com.
Sandra Murman during some tough is a “Get It Done” budget discussions,” leader for South she said. “It was a County. First elected priority for you, and to the Hillsborough it was a priority for County Commission me. And we got it representing District 1 done!” in 2010, due to term Murman also limits, Murman is now worked tirelessly to running to represent secure a grant to the residents of help widen and District 6. reconstruct Big “I have common Bend Road with the sense, a great work result of $25 million ethic -- and a soft to address congesheart,” she says. tion and safety After 10 years on problems on Big Due to term limits in District 1, Sandra the commission and Bend Road as well Murman is hoping to represent District 6. eight years serving in as at the I-75 the Florida House of Representatives, Interchange. Murman’s list of accomplishments is “Now, resident and workers alike will long. have better, easier traveling time,” she “From the Firehouse Cultural Center explained. and the Waterset Sports Complex to criti“But I did not stop there,” explained cal stoplights, crosswalks, and crossing Murman. “I love to roll up my sleeves guards at busy intersections near and figure out even tougher challenges. schools, I make things happen,” she Over the last three years, I have worked said. “I am dedicated to staying in touch night and day to get all developers to pay with you so that everything I do makes their fair share, nearly doubling developer sense for your family and daily life – not fees and taxes to get to the heart of the just what works for downtown.” problem: control growth, build new Recently, Murman was instrumental schools and fix congested roads.” in reopening the Apollo Beach Nature To learn more about Murman, visit Preserve, complete with a first-of-its kind www.sandymurman.com. “When it observation tower and a rehabilitated comes to fighting for you, I am the only seawall. one you can trust to get it done,” she “I worked hard to protect that funding said.
Staff Report
Staff Report
US House Of Representatives District 15
Alan Cohn (D)
Alan Cohn, a Democrat, is running for U.S. House in District 15. Cohn received his bachelor’s degree from Hofstra University in 1985. His professional career includes working as an investigative reporter, and he was awarded the Peabody Award. Cohn was a 2014 Democratic candidate who sought election to the U.S. House to represent the 15th Congressional District of Florida. Visit https://alancohnforcongress.com.
Scott Franklin, a Republican, is running for U.S. House in District 15. He was a naval aviator in the U.S. Navy for 26 years and he has owned and operated a small business in Lakeland for 20 years. He and his wife of nearly 30 years, Amy, have three adult children: Amanda, Will and Sarah. Scott is dedicated to his community, and he is involved in a number of organizations. Visit Scott Franklin (R) https://www.votescottfranklin.com.
US House Of Representatives District 16
Margaret Good (D)
Margaret Good, a Democrat, is running for U.S. House in District 16. Good is a member of the Florida House of Representatives, representing District 72. She received her law degree from the University of Florida. Her career experience includes working as an attorney and at the Florida Agricultural Center, and she has served as the Democratic Ranking Member for the Health Market Reform Subcommittee. Visit https://margaretgood.com.
Vern Buchanan, a Republican, is the current U.S. House Representative for District 16. Buchanan has represented the district since 2013. He is a self-made businessman. Buchanan is a senior member of the House Ways and Means Committee, a chairman of the Tax Policy Subcommittee and he also serves on the subcommittees that oversee Social Security and Medicare. Visit https://www.vernbuchanan.com. Vern Buchanan (R)
Florida Senate District 19 Christina Paylan, a Non-Party Affiliated candidate, is running for state senate to represent District 19. She is a plastic and reconstructive surgeon who was born in Istanbul, Turkey. She earned her medical degree from the University of Southern California and is trained as a trauma surgeon and then later as a plastic surgeon. She came to the United States when she was a child. Visit https://www.paylan4statesenate.com.
Darryl Rouson, a Democrat, is running for state senate re-election in District 19. Rouson has represented the district since 2016. He has a passion for reforming the criminal justice system in Florida, increasing funding for substance use and mental health issues and creating innovative solutions to transportation issues. Rouson is an attorney with the Rubenstein Law Group. He is married and has five sons. Visit https://darrylrouson.com. Darryl Rouson (D)
Christina Paylan
Florida Senate District 21 Jim Boyd, a Republican, is running for state senate to represent District 21. Boyd served for eight years in the Florida House. Boyd is CEO of Boyd Insurance and Investment Services. He is a graduate of Florida State University. He and his wife of 37 years, Sandy, live in Bradenton, and their adult children, Ansley and Austin, both reside in Manatee County with their families. Visit www.boydforflorida.com.
Anthony Eldon, a Democrat, is running for state senate to represent District 21. He is a public school teacher and business owner. His platform includes attracting small businesses and entrpeneurs by offering statewide grants. A portion of the statewide funding will be dedicated specifically to Black and Brown Floridians as well as expanded Medicare. Visit https://tonyforflorida.com/. Anthony Eldon (D)
Jim Boyd (R)
State Representative District 57 Mike Beltran is a Republican running for re-election to represent the residents in Florida House District 57. Beltran is a practicing attorney. After graduating from Harvard Law School, he served as a law clerk for a federal judge. He also serves on the Judicial Nominating Committee for the Thirteenth Judicial Circuit. He is married to Hope and together they have two sons. Visit https://electmikebeltran.com. Mike Beltran (R)
Scott Hottenstein, or Mr. H as he is known, is a Democrat running to represent District 57. Hottenstein graduated from the Naval Academy and served a number of years and was deployed several times. Hottenstein is a middle school civics teacher. He is married to Laura and they have two sons. Visit https://www.mrh4fl57.com. Scott Hottenstein (D)
State Representative District 59 Andrew Learned is a Democrat running to represent District 59. Learned is a small business owner, veteran Navy officer and a Brandon native. Learned continues to serve as a reservist with Special Operations Command Central out of MacDill Air Force Base. He is an active volunteer with the Camp Cristina YMCA. Visit https://andrewlearned.com.
Mike Owen is a Republican running to represent District 59. Owen is a small business lawyer with a focus on small business, property and estate planning law. He grew up in the Brandon area, and he serves on several local boards, including Center Place Fine Arts and Civic Association. Visit https://votemichaelowen.com. Mike Owen (R)
Andrew Learned (D)
Hillsborough County Tax Collector Nancy Millan, a Democrat, is running to become the Hillsborough County tax collector. Millan has worked in the Tax Collector Office for 30 years. She is a Certified Florida Collector Assistant with several certifications, the chairwoman of the Florida West Coast Credit Union Board of Directors and a member of the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Hispanic Advisory Council. Visit https://votenancymillan.com. Nancy Millan (D)
T.K. Matthew, a Republican, is running for the position of Hillsborough tax collector. Matthew is a businessman with 20 years of experience. In addition to working in business, Matthew worked for four years in the Tax Collector Office. Matthew is active in the community. He is married and has two sons. Visit http://www.tkmathew.com. T.K. Matthew (R)
Hillsborough County Sheriff Chad Chronister, a Ron McMullen, a Non-Party Republican, is running for reAffiliated candidate, is running to election as the Hillsborough become Hillsborough County County Sheriff. Chronister is a Sheriff. McMullen is a 30-year veteran law enforcement offiveteran of the Tampa Police cer who has served the comDepartment. McMullen is the munity at the Hillsborough president of the Fraternal Order County Sheriff’s Office since of Police, Lodge 27. He lives in 1992. FishHawk Ranch. https://chadchronister.com. Chad Chronister (R) Ron McMullen (NR) https://ronmcmullen.com.
Gary Pruitt (D)
Gary Pruitt, a Democrat, is running to become Hillsborough County Sheriff. Pruitt is a seasoned law enforcement professional who retired after 25 years of dedicated service with the Tampa Police Department. Since retiring in 2015, he has devoted his retirement to trying to make Hillsborough County a better place. Visit https://www.votegarypruitt.com.
Hillsborough County Property Appraiser
Bob ‘Coach’ Henriquez (D)
Bob ‘Coach’ Henriquez, a Democrat, is the Hillsborough County property appraiser running for re-election. Henriquez is a fifth-generation Floridian who was born and raised in Tampa. Prior to becoming the Hillsborough County property appraiser, he served as a member of the Florida House of Representatives from 1998 to 2006. Henriquez is married to Carrie and they have one son and two daughters. Visit http://www.vote4coachbob.com.
D.C. Goutoufas, a Republican, is running for the position of Hillsborough County property appraiser. Goutoufas was a banker, entrepreneur and an adjunct professor with the University of South Florida. Goutoufas has very deep roots in Tampa and is a fourthgeneration Tampa native. He is committed to the community and has served on several government and nonprofit boards. Visit https://goutoufas.com.
D.C. Goutoufas (R)
County Court Judge Group 7 Bill Yanger is running for the position of county judge in Group 7. Yanger has spent the last 34 years serving his community and the residents of Hillsborough County. He is a graduate of the University of Florida and South Texas College of Law and is the founder of Yanger Law Group, P.A. He was born and raised in Tampa, where he and his wife, Sherry, raised their children. Visit https://yangerforjudge.com.
Monique Scott is running for the position of county judge in Group 7. Scott has worked as a teacher, a law enforcement officer and prosecutor, and she is active in both professional associations and as a volunteer with local organizations. She is a graduate of the University of South Florida and Stetson Law School. She is married and has one son. Visit https://scott4judge.com. Bill Yanger
Monique Scott
Board Of County Commissioners District 1 Scott Levinson, a Republican, is running for a seat on the Hillsborough County Board of County Commissioners in District 1. Levinson is a Tampa native and small business owner with over 20 years of experience. He is an active volunteer in the community and has served as the executive director of Tampa Bay Youth Football since 2016. Visit http://votelevinson.com.
Harry Cohen, a Democrat, is running for a seat on the Hillsborough County Board of County Commissioners in District 1. Cohen served for eight years on the Tampa City Council. Cohen was born in Tampa and he has dedicated his life to a career in public service. A lawyer, Cohen served as the chief deputy clerk of the Circuit Court of Hillsborough County from 2005-2011. Visit https://www.harry2020.com. Harry Cohen (D)
Scott Levinson (R)
Board Of County Commissioners District 6 Sandra Murman, a Republican, is running for a seat on the Hillsborough County Board of County Commissioners in District 6. Murman currently serves as a member representing District 1. Due to term limits, Murman cannot run for that seat. She was first elected to the County Commission in 2010. Murman served in the Florida House of Representatives from 1996-2004. www.votesandymurman.com
Pat Kemp, a Democrat, is running for re-election for a seat on the Hillsborough County Board of County Commissioners in District 6. This is a countywide seat. Kemp has more than three decades of public service in Hillsborough County and she is an attorney. She worked in private practice and for Bay Area Legal Services. As a journalist, she served as a news director and a radio talk show host at WUSF and WMNF. Visit https://votepatkemp.com. Pat Kemp (D)
Sandra Murman (R)
Hillsborough County School Board District 7 Lynn Gray is running for re-election on the Hillsborough County School Board in District 7, a countywide seat. Gray has been an experienced teacher and instructional leader for over 26 years. Gray also owns her own business called Take…The First Step, and is the president of a nonprofit youth/adult fitness advocacy club called Take…The First Step Club. Visit https://lynngrayforschoolboard.com. Lynn Gray
Sally Harris
Sally Harris is running for a position on the Hillsborough County School Board in District 7, a countywide seat. Harris previously served on the school board from 2014-2018. She is the mother of four children and raised over 30 foster children. She has operated a nationally accredited preschool for more than 30 years and was a career occupational specialist for Hillsborough County Public Schools for 18 years. Visit https://www.sallyharris.com.
Hillsborough State Attorney Andrew Warren, a Democrat, has been the Hillsborough State Attorney since 2016. Prior to being elected, Warren served as a federal prosecutor with the United States Department of Justice. His mission as Hillsborough State Attorney is to build a safer community while promoting justice and fairness for everyone. He has fought to reform the local criminal justice system to make Hillsborough safer. Warren is married and has two children. Visit www.andrewwarrenfl.com. Andrew Warren (D)
Mike Perotti (R)
Mike Perotti, a Republican, is a third-generation Tampa native. He has worked as a prosecutor and in private practice and he has worked for the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office for over 16 years. He achieved the rank of colonel and has managed an annual budget over $40 million dollars and supervised a staff of over 1,600. He is married and has two daughters. Visit https://mikeperotti.com.
Mike Owen Wants To Give Back To The Community In Florida House Of Representatives By Kathy L. Collins
Mike Owen, a background has preRepublican, is a small pared me for the diffibusinessman running to cult times we are facrepresent the residents ing.” who live in Florida House He added, “I have of Representatives been a part of the fabric District 59. Owen was of this community since raised in Brandon and 1976, so the issues that attended Burns Middle our district faces are School and Bloomingdale personal to me. I will High School. aggressively fight for Owen said, “Our our community regardcommunity helped raise less of anyone’s party me and I want the affiliation. I feel led to Owen, a local small business run and am not running opportunity to give back. Mike professional, is running to repreI have operated a small to be the next career sent the people of District 59. Owen is a candidate for Florida business in our commupolitician. I have deep House District 59. nity for 15 years, which roots in our community, has been dedicated to helping individuals attend ARISE Church in Brandon and and small businesses navigate difficult have been blessed with a wonderful famitimes. Many of those experiences have ly.” shaped me into who I am today.” In addition to running a small busi“I am the only candidate in this race ness, Owen finds time to give back to the with significant business experience,” said community. He has served on the boards Owen. of several local organizations, including When asked how his professional the Center Place Fine Arts and Civic experience has prepared him for the job Association Board of Directors, Angel of representing the residents of District Foundation Advisory Board, Center State 59, Owen explained, “I have a focus on Bank Advisory Board and the Tony and small business, property and estate planBertha Saladino Tournament Committee. ning law. I have handled many consumer Owen said, “If elected, I will serve protection issues and have been at the honorably, I will make common sense forefront of many serious issues our residecisions, I will listen and not finger point, dents and small businesses have faced I will always put our community first and I through good and bad economies. I have will not be a career politician.” worked hard and treated people how I For more information, please visit would want to be treated. I believe my https://votemichaelowen.com.
Monique Scott Brings Versatility And Experience To Group 7 County Judge Run
Staff Report
Probation Division, Monique Scott is Drug Division, a former law enforceCriminal Felony ment officer, teacher, Division and prosecutor, first genEconomic Crimes eration American and Unit. Tampa native looking The versatility to share her experiin Scott’s tenure as ence as a a prosecutor is Hillsborough County exemplified by her judge. experience in prosScott received her bachelor’s Tampa native Monique Scott is running for ecuting a variety of Hillsborough County judge. criminal cases, degree at the including DUIs, traffic, misdemeanor University of South Florida and upon offenses, family/domestic violence offensgraduation moved to Washington D.C., es, white collar crimes, drug trafficking, where she interned with the Public firearm charges, violent felony offenses Defender’s Service. Upon returning to Tampa, Scott was recruited by the Tampa and punishable-by-life felonies. Scott is married to Justin Scott, also Police Department as a sworn officer. a Tampa native, and they have one son Scott’s career was cut short due to who currently attends Jesuit High School her medical disability, epilepsy. She then as well as two dogs. began a career in teaching while attendScott is active both within the legal ing Stetson Law School within the partcommunity and the Hillsborough County time program. She had the honor of community at large. She is a member interning with Judge Gregory Holder and completing two Certified Legal Internships and serves as a committee chair for the Florida Association of Women Lawyers, in both the Hillsborough and Polk County Hillsborough County Bar Association, State Attorney’s Offices. Florida Bar, Criminal Law Inn of Court After graduating from law school, Scott began a career as a prosecutor with and Hispanic Professional Women’s Association and currently serves on four the Hillsborough County State Attorney’s boards: the Sheriff’s Hispanic Advisory Office. She successfully litigated numerCouncil, Hillsborough Association of ous jury trials, non-jury trials, depositions Women Lawyers, Tampa Hispanic Bar and argued countless motions. During Association and Epilepsy Services her tenure at the State Attorney’s Office, Foundation. To learn more, find Monique she practiced in a variety of divisions: the Scott For Judge on Facebook or visit County Criminal Trial Division, Domestic www.Scott4Judge.com. Violence Trial Division, Violation of
Political advertisement paid for and approved by Monique Scott for Hillsborough County Court Judge Group 7
Vote For Scott ‘Mr. H’ Hottenstein Ready To Serve In Florida House District 57
Dr. Christina Paylan Wants Your Vote To Represent District 19 In Florida Senate
Representatives. Scott Hottenstein, We at VoteVets are known as ‘Mr. H’ by his always so proud to students, is a candisee veterans like date for Florida House you committed to District 57. He is pascontinuing their sionate about serving service after the unithe public by advocatform,” wrote Jon ing for the health, eduSoltz, Iraq War vetcation and safety of his eran and chairman community. of VoteVets PAC, Hottenstein takes pride regarding in his original 24-year career in the United Scott Hottenstein, known as ‘Mr. H’ by his Hottenstein’s camstudents, is a candidate for Florida House paign. “In these turStates Navy, which District 57. bulent political began when he was 17 years old, and in his second career as times, our veterans, communities and country need leaders like you who will a Hillsborough County Public Schools continue to serve the nation and put the civics teacher. He has literally been in country first.” public service his entire adult life. A 1992 Alongside his endorsement from graduate of the U.S. Naval Academy and VoteVets PAC, he has also received an 2019 Hillsborough County Teacher of the Year finalist, he seeks to translate the val- endorsement from the Everytown for Gun Safety Action Fund, the largest gun vioues he learned during both careers into lence prevention organization in the counmuch-needed legislative change. try. As a trained volunteer, Hottenstein Hottenstein retired from the Navy in has led several Be SMART presentations 2012 after numerous deployments and throughout the community. The program leadership positions, with a highlight of focuses on the open discussion of gun leading 450 sailors in a combat zone and safety hazards, the proper securing of bringing them all home safely. Now, he firearms and gun suicide and accident has set his sights on serving in a new prevention. way: by representing his community in Hottenstein understands the importhe Florida legislature. Hottenstein has tance of putting his country and commureceived endorsements from multiple nity first. After an outstanding military national organizations, such as VoteVets career and passionately educating the PAC. community’s youth, he seeks to serve a “I am honored to support your camthird time. Vote for Scott Hottenstein for paign to serve your fellow citizens of the Florida House District 57. 57th District in the Florida State House of
Dr. Christina because lawyer after Paylan is a registered lawyer is elected to govRepublican. However, ernment instead of you will see her listed everyday citizens like as an NPA (No Party soccer moms, accountAffiliation) on the balants and waiters,” Dr. lot for the upcoming Paylan explained. general election. “I do “I have already not believe in party proven myself to be a labels,” explained Dr. leader. I created the Paylan. East Tampa Chamber of Dr. Paylan is runCommerce to bring busining for a seat in the nesses together under Florida Senate in one umbrella to better Dr. Christina Paylan, a plastic sur- serve the communities District 19. The disgeon, is running for a seat in the trict covers Florida Senate to represent the resi- in East Tampa,” said Dr. Hillsborough (East Paylan. “I have begun dents who live in District 19. Dr. Paylan will be listed as an NPA (No mentorship programs in Tampa, Riverview, on the ballot for the Gibsonton, Brandon, Party Affliation) South St. Petersburg general election. Apollo Beach and and East Tampa. These Ruskin) and Pinellas Counties (South are designed to eliminate the pipeline to St. Petersburg and Gulfport). prison. I also started a first-ever system Dr. Paylan is a plastic surgeon. She that will allow 70 percent ownership in is the daughter of immigrants, having the economically deprived Black and come to the U.S. at the age of 8, and Brown communities,” added Dr. Paylan. she came to Florida in 2001. She “My core platform issues relate to earned her medical degree from the the court system. I believe that whether University of Southern California and is you are a small business owner or an trained as a trauma surgeon and then individual, the court system has grown later as a plastic surgeon. She completso corrupt that it has now become proed her fellowship training in plastic surhibitively costly to society. It is inefficient gery and then later in critical care at and self-serving. I vow to drain the Tampa General Hospital. Dr. Paylan swamp in the court system that is so opened her private practice in 2004. prevalent in both Hillsborough and Dr. Paylan is a first-time candidate. Pinellas Counties,” said Dr. Paylan. “I am not your everyday politician. I For more information on Dr. Paylan, believe that there is gridlock in governplease visit ment and a lack of representation www.paylan4statesenate.com.
By Sean Crumpacker
By Kathy L. Collins
A Call To Serve As A County Court Judge Group 7 Was Drawn From Tragedy For Bill Yanger
Bob ‘Coach’ Henriquez Wants To Continue To Serve As Hillsborough County Property Appraiser
Since 2001, The call to serve Yanger has manthe community comes aged a successful to people in different law practice. His ways. When a lawyer extensive experidecides to run for ence has taught him judge, it might have a lot. “I have learned been a lifelong dream something from or because of a perevery court appearsonal experience. ance I have had in Bill Yanger, who the last 34 years,” is a candidate for said Yanger. county court judge in Yanger was Group 7, decided to Bill Yanger is running for county court run for judge after the judge in Group 7 on Tuesday, August 18. born and raised in Yanger brings both professional and life Tampa to parents tragic loss of his 22experience to the bench and as such year-old daughter, believes he will serve as a compassion- who were also born ate and empathetic judge. here. He raised his Rose. “We lost Rose on August 24, 2016 to a violent homicide three children in Tampa. He is a member of several area Chambers of Commerce, in Broward County, a case that remains open and uncharged to this day. I tell this including the Greater Brandon Chamber of Commerce. “As a member, board story not for sympathy but for context. member and chair of the South Tampa Rose’s loss was a clarifying moment, a Chamber of Commerce, I have been desperate and heartbreaking moment that focused my attention on what I want- active in many collaborations with area chambers, including the Greater ed and needed to do with my life,” Riverview Chamber of Commerce, parexplained Yanger. Yanger has practiced law for over 30 ticularly between our respective military affairs committees,” said Yanger. years. “I have been practicing for 34 “We want our judges to be capable years all over the state. I have fought in of the mechanics of the job. Voters criminal, family and state federal civil deserve a say in selecting a judge with court trenches for teachers and profesempathy forged from life's joys as well as sors, single mothers and desperate its heartaches. Voters deserve the perfathers, injured and broken workers, son in the black robe to have lived an world boxing champions, teenage rockexpansive life. I have lived one,” said ers and small business owners,” said Yanger. Yanger. “I am prepared to wear the robe For more information on Yanger, in whatever capacity I am asked to serve please visit www.yangerforjudge.com. by the Chief Judge,” added Yanger.
first took office, but Bob ‘Coach’ there is still so much Henriquez is running more we can do for for re-election as the people of this Hillsborough County county,” said property appraiser in Henriquez. “New the general election on technologies and Tuesday, November 3. new ideas are When Henriquez was always being introelected to the position duced and we in 2013, his mantra should never rest on was to “Rethink, what we have Reinvent and Bob Henriquez, Hillsborough County achieved so far. Reinvigorate.” This property appraiser, is active in the comHenriquez required a detailed munity and often speaks to groups about look at how his office property issues (shown here speaking to brings years of a group of realtors in South Hillsborough experience to the performs all of its County). job of property statutory duties and appraiser. He served in the Florida State responsibilities. Legislature as a state representative for Henriquez has done this and has four terms. completed multiple tasks, including Moreover, his work with the adding internationally recognized appraisHillsborough Planning Commission has al staff to his senior staff. He completed given him a unique insight on the needs an overhaul of the office’s website to of residents who live in unincorporated ensure greater transparency of real and rural areas of Hillsborough County. estate and tangible property data. He “As a result of that experience, and what I reduced the cost of property assessment have learned since, I know how to fairly by implementing software that utilizes and equitably apply property valuation to aerial images. He reviewed all business those areas,” explained Henriquez. processes to achieve the most cost effiInterwoven within his public service is cient and responsible practices. his tireless work to help mold the lives of This process of rethinking how his young men as a football coach. He office operates is a neverending one. served as Tampa Catholic’s head football Through new technologies and practices, Henriquez wants to continue in his role as coach from 1990 to 1999 and again from Hillsborough County property appraiser in 2005 to 2012. Henriquez is married to Carrie and order to better serve the taxpayers of they have one son and two daughters. Hillsborough County. Visit www.vote4coach.com. “We have achieved so much since I
By Kathy L. Collins
By Kathy L. Collins
Nancy Millan, For Tax Collector, Has The Experience To Hit The Ground Running If Elected
Commissioner Murman Hosts Virtual Job Fair By Kathy L. Collins
By Kathy L. Collins
Nancy Millan, a becoming the next 30-plus-year veteran Hillsborough of the Hillsborough County tax collecCounty Tax tor. Collector’s Office and The Tax a Democrat, is runCollector’s Office is ning to become the the funding engine tax collector. She will powering virtually be on the general all local governelection ballot and ment and collecting would like to ask for and distributing With over 30 years of experience in the your vote. Hillsborough County Tax Collector’s Office, revenue for many Nancy Millan will need no Millan started as other public ention-the-job training. an entry-level clerk ties, including over 30 years ago. She worked diligently school boards, ports and mass transit and is now a member of the senior staff systems. The Hillsborough Tax Collector’s as the director of community relations. Office generates over $2 billion dollars Millan said, “I know this department and annually and handles over one million this department knows me. I require no motor vehicle, vessel and mobile home on-the-job training because I have done transactions. this work for over 30 years, and as Millan said, “I am proud of our initiaHillsborough County’s next tax collector, I tive to establish self-service kiosks at sevam ready to lead this office on day one.” eral participating Publix locations in the “As a senior leader in the organizaGreater Brandon area. Self-service kiosk tion, I have been a part of modernizing is one way of making the Tax Collector’s and transforming the way we provide Office more accessible to our residents.” service to our customers. Our hard work Millan added, “The Hillsborough County to remake the organization resulted in the Tax Collector’s Office also opened a Tax Collector’s Office becoming an Brandon area branch that includes a award-winning organization that is a role road-testing range and is an important model for government agencies in asset to the community.” Hillsborough County and throughout the “My vision is to build upon the office’s state of Florida,” added Millan. prior success to ensure our office Millan is a certified Florida collector becomes more accessible and more effiassistant and has worked with the city, cient,” said Millan. county and state agencies. She is wellFor more information, please visit prepared to take on the responsibility of https://www.votenancymillan.com.
Hillsborough County Commissioner Sandra Murman has hosted numerous job fairs over the years. This year’s job fair set for Thursday, October 8 will be no different despite the need for it to be held virtually.
Hillsborough County Commissioner Sandra Murman of District 1, in partnership with CareerSource Tampa Bay, is hosting her annual County Job Fair. This year, due to the circumstances we live in, there is a twist to the job fair: it will be held virtually. Do not let that stop you from participating, as both potential employees and employers will be able to interact live during the job fair. The job fair will be held on Thursday, October 8 from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Employers can register at bit.ly/3ig8qQU. Organizers expect to have 50 employers participating with a variety of different positions. Job seekers can register, create a profile and download a resume or fill out application at bit.ly/2R9DyFP. There are also helpful YouTube tutorials for both employers and job seekers. While this is a virtual job fair, the platform being used will make participants feel as though they are at a job
fair in person. Both employers and job seekers will be live. When you enter the website, you will enter a lobby and see a list of employers. You can click on the employer. It will then take you to their virtual booth where you can then see what jobs they have available. You can then apply for the job you like. Each employer will have people online that you can message and then have a live conversation with the
employer. Commissioner Murman said, “This virtual job fair offers both employers and job seekers across the county more opportunities and options.” She added, “With many of our residents out of work and the challenge of face-toface meetings, this will be another way to connect employers with potential employees safely.” Commissioner Murman has held many job fairs over the years. Over 285 employers have provided opportunities for residents to find jobs. Over 2,400 job seekers have participated over the years. Both employers and job seekers have been complimentary on the ease of navigating the job fairs. Organizers expect this year to have a similar outcome, only in a different type of venue. For more information, please call Commissioner Murman’s office at 2725470.
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Osprey Observer Who’s Got Your Vote
Volume 24, Issue 10