Riverview/Apollo Beach
6 C E L E B R A T I N G
December 2020 Volume 18, Issue 12 Ph: 657-2418 1 8
Y E A R S
O F
P U B L I S H I N G
Dooley Groves Shipping & U-Pick In Ruskin Opens For Its 53rd Citrus Season
By Tatiana Ortiz
N E W S
By Wes Reid
Riverview High School is in the midst of its first season in the Lightning High School Hockey League (LHSHL). Each year, 18 high schools get to participate in the league. While the bulk of team’s players reside at Riverview High School, they are also combined with players from Spoto, Armwood and Robinson High Schools. Riverview’s head coach is Corey Clarks, who relocated from Dallas, Texas to the Tampa Bay area in July of this year. His coaching experience exceeds over 20 years, from squirts to Junior A, and also includes college club level. Coach Clarks brings three assistants with him, Matt Furbeck, Tommy ‘Hootie’ Burgess and Wes Goldberg. Between these coaches, they bring nearly 50 years of coaching experience in both the U.S. and Canada. Riverview’s team manager this season is Michelle Ellington. She is the one responsible for bringing these coaches and this team together. Her efforts have made her the binding glue for the team. Riverview will be fielding a varsity and junior varsity team for the 2020-2021 LHSHL Season. The Ice Sharks varsity program is led by seniors Anthony Boromei (forward) and Kaleb Ellington (goalie). Leading the charge on defense are juniors Zander Badger and Jacob Hill. The Varsity Ice Sharks also have some upstart underclassmen who bring a dynamic style of play, including sophomores Tyler Hoffberg, Brendan Burgess, Patrick Boyle and freshman Alex Smargon. The Ice Sharks won their very first varsity game on October 2 against the Mitchell Mustangs, last season’s LHSHL champions. This was a great way to kick off the season, and it will continue to be
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Individuals 6,500 Honeybell seeking a famitrees open for Uly-friendly, pick from January socially disthrough April. For tanced activity the U-pick, Dooley should visit Groves supplies Dooley Groves baskets and clipin Ruskin, pers. Once the which produce gets reopened on November 19 for its 53rd citrus season. Diane The grandsons of Dooley Groves Houghtaling Owners Mike Houghtaling and his wife, Diane Houghtaling. and her husband, Mike Houghtaling, own the 40picked, acre orange grove offering U-pick and guests fruit sales. are Mike is a fifth-generation Florida charged farmer who loves the business, which by the was first started 53 years ago by pound. Mike’s grandparents and parents and During has been handed down for three genthe season, U-pick is open seven days erations. a week from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Dooley Groves grows fresh, premiIn addition to the U-pick citrus, um citrus fruits and is the largest UDooley Groves offers a retail store with pick Honeybell grove in Florida, and it local items such as unfiltered orange offers several other citrus varieties blossom honey, fruit jams and more. It throughout the citrus season too. also makes freshly squeezed orange To help keep everyone comfortable juice and other products. Furthermore, while at Dooley Groves, the family it can ship fruit all over the United made some adjustments with the UStates and Canada. pick procedures, how it takes shipping “There are not many old-time citrus orders and much more. groves and markets left in Florida, “We feel that one of the best ideas none in Hillsborough County quite like people can do right now is to be outDooley Groves,” Diane said. “For side in the wide-open spaces, getting example, we offer fresh picked citrus vitamin D while getting vitamin C,” varieties that most places do not have, Diane said. like the pink pomelos and more,” she This month, people can U-pick added. Sugarbelles, which is a cross between For more information, visit a clementine, a tangerine and a www.dooleygroves.com. It is located at Honeybell. 1651 Stephens Rd. in Ruskin. Call Dooley Groves has more than 645-3256.
P O S I T I V E
52
Offer Valid through January 31, 2021
an exciting experience for all as the players and coaches gear up for a successful campaign and a run at the Florida High School Hockey Association (FHSHA) State Championship. Player Spotlight: #74 Alex ‘Chevy’ Chevillot is a twoway wrecking ball. A kid his size shouldn’t have his speed and hands. He knows where to be and when to be there. Chevy can see the ice a couple steps ahead of his competition. A word to the wise—do not step in his way when he has the jets turned on. He is also the alternate captain and a certified referee.
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INSIDE: CENTER PLACE TREE.........................PG 4 EYE ON BUSINESS...........................PG 25 TRILOGY SCUBA DIVING .................PG 28 CROSS BAY FERRY...........................PG 31
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Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
Volume 18, Issue 12
December 2020
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Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
Local Seniors Enjoy A ThanksgivingThemed Parking Lot Bingo
By Libby Hopkins
Hillsborough would come daily to County Aging meet friends, take Services is doing classes and participate what it can to in organized activities, keep seniors such as bingo. engaged due to “Since the panthe challenges of demic, Aging Services the pandemic. has been offering creOne of the many ative ways to work with unique activities its clients,” Duran-Brea planned was a said. “Now, Aging socially distant, Services will start offeroutdoor parking ing socially distant, Hillsborough County Aging Services hosted a socially distant, outdoor lot bingo last outdoor parking lot parking lot bingo. month with its bingo for its clients older active adult population. once a month.” The next parking lot “It was our very first themed parkbingo will be held on Thursday, ing lot bingo,” said Hillsborough December 10 at the Town ‘N Country County Aging Services’ Frances Senior Center. It will be ChristmasDuran-Brea. “We had a great turnout themed and we are planning on doing and our guests had a great time and these parking lot bingos monthly at loved that we did this event. Clients different senior centers all over the who got a bingo would blow their horn Tampa Bay area.” to let us know they had a bingo.” Duran-Brea hopes seniors in the Parking lot bingo is for area will want to attend this event and Hillsborough County Aging Services others offered by Hillsborough County clients. Aging Services. “Our seniors were “We allow a total of 20 vehicles thanking us at the bingo and they per bingo event,” Duran-Brea said. were so appreciative for this event. It “Only two people are allowed per made them feel great to get out and vehicle and each participant must have some fun.” wear a mask. Some sit in their vehiIf you are a member of cles and others sit outside their cars Hillsborough County Aging Services in chairs provided by Hillsborough and you’d like to attend its next parkCounty Aging Services or chairs they ing lot bingo, you must RSVP to bring. Aging Services clients must Frances Duran-Brea at RSVP to attend.” duranf@hcflgov.net. If you’d like to Due to COVID-19, Hillsborough become a client of Aging Services, County Aging Services has had to visit www.hcflgov.net/aging or call close its senior centers, where seniors 272-5250.
Volunteer Hosts Book Drive For Guardian Ad Litem Kids By Taylor Wells
The holiday season is meant to be distributed when the holidays are closer. a time of joy and giving, so when local If you want to help get some gifts for Guardian ad Litem (GAL) volunteer these children, visit https://www.amaJessica Engel learned that the toy-count zon.com/hz/wishlist/ls/2OL0RIYO1SBN for children in the program would be V. very low, she decided to raise funds for On what GAL volunteers do, Engel books so these kids could all have explained, “I give a voice to those who something to open usually go up. unheard. The Working with children in our her friend, April foster care sysGolombek, Engel tem that have is hosting a book been either drive with Usborne abused, neglectBooks & More ed or abanwhere people can doned and, at buy books for their no fault of their own kids, and Guardian ad Litem volunteer Jessica Engel is own, have then that money working with Usborne Books & More and Voices found themfor Children, GAL’s sister company, to get books selves in the will go towards purchasing books as holiday gifts for children in the GAL program. care of the state for GAL kids. … Ultimately, our goal is always to try to “I work directly with a lot of these reunite the family; unfortunately, that is kids and I wanted to make sure that not always the healthiest or safest they could have something to open, action we can take. But I make sure the even if it’s not a toy. Every child court knows the child’s wishes as well deserves to have something for the holi- as, based on my experience, what the days,” said Engel. best situation and course of action The GAL kids’ books will be shipped should be for these children.” directly to Voices for Children (VFC) in The book drive is hosted at Tampa, a sister company to GAL. Since w8936.myubam.com/Event/1907116 GAL is a government-run program, it and lasts until Thursday, December 10. isn’t allowed to directly accept donaFor any questions or to learn more, visit tions, so VFC collects toys, books, www.facebook.com/groups/givethankswi school supplies and money for kids in thusborne. the GAL program. If you’re considering becoming a Speaking of, along with the gift of volunteer guardian, visit books, VFC is collecting toys and https://guardianadlitem.org/. To learn games for GAL kids through its Amazon more about Voices for Children, visit Wish List. The purchased gifts will be https://vfcgal.org/.
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Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
Volume 18, Issue 12
New Home To Serve Individuals With Disabilities In Riverview
Center Place Brings Back Annual Tree Lighting With Reservations Required
Mark Oliver, Oliver CEO of the brought in a Specially Fit business partFoundation, has ner, Essie been working durWilson, a foring the COVID-19 mer principal pandemic to conand business tinue to advocate owner of K2 for the most vulnerEscape, which able. His foundais an adult day tion serves huntraining prodreds of individuals gram for individhome for individuals with disabilities uals with develwith developmental A new group recently opened in Riverview. disabilities, and its opmental disthe mission is to inspire lifelong learning, abilities in Brandon. She had a desire to provide socialization opportunities and open a group home because of the need amplify knowledge of health and fitness to provide high-quality care to individuals for individuals with developmental disabili- with disabilities. ties through faith, fitness and family. “My drive and motivation came from The Specially Fit Foundation recently having twins of my own with autism, took its outreach to another level by working in the school setting with stuopening a beautiful group home in dents with disabilities and working with Riverview where individuals will live and adult clients who live in group homes,” thrive; this home includes a lakeside view, said Wilson. a fitness room, computer lab and brand“Since starting to work with this comnew furniture in every single room. This munity, I have heard horror stories that household is for individuals who are 18 or broke my heart about some of the condiolder and on the Home and Communitytions this population was living under,” Based Services Medicaid Waiver operatsaid Oliver. “Which is why we hired an ed by the Agency for Persons with amazing staff that is here all the time Disabilities (APD). while our clients are present. This staff is “When COVID-19 began, this comtrained and constantly being challenged munity was heavily impacted and we to increase their knowledge in this field, wanted to provide an opportunity for them keeping up to date with certifications, and on a larger scale than our fitness proundergo Level 2 background checks.” gram,” said Oliver. “We wanted to create There are currently three beds availan environment for them to flourish by able in the house. You can set up a tour being independent, social, having healthy of the home by reaching out to the organfood options, access to activities and ization at experience living in a loving home.” speciallyfitfoundation@gmail.com.
I am thrilled to Cliff Curry of Curry let the Brandon Law Group donated community know the floatation device that Center Place for the tree. Fine Arts and Civic LeAnne’s Cookies Association is and Coppertail back. We have Brewing Co. are two been closed since of the business this past March, sponsors of the tree and a brand-new lighting. “We executive board like helping and myself are our local comCenter Place Fine Arts and working with munity with Civic Association will be Hillsborough events, espehosting its annual lighting County to get the cially during of the Christmas tree on the pond on Wednesday, center reopened these difficult December 9 on the deck at for programming times with the Center Place from 6:30and event rentals. pandemic happening,” said John 9:30 p.m. We will be hosting our annual lighting Zenger of Coppertail Brewing Co. of the Christmas tree on the pond on Patricia Odiorne was the founder and Wednesday, December 9 on the deck at creator of Center Place. Her son, Ryan Center Place from 6:30-9:30 p.m. “The Odiorne, is the president of Center Christmas tree has been a part of the Place’s executive board. “This Christmas Brandon community for more than 30 tree will let the community know that years,” said Center Place board member Center Place is still here,” Ryan said. Mike Owens. “I remember playing base“Even though we went through the whole ball at the baseball field next to Center shutdown because of COVID, we are in Place and seeing the Christmas tree out the process of basically rebuilding Center on the pond. This year more than any Place to make it better and offer more other year, we need to have this tree programming in 2021.” lighting. Obviously, with the holidays, The Christmas tree lighting on the there are a lot of things we can’t do pond has a limited capacity of 50 people. because of COVID, a lot of people are The event is free, but registration is hurting right now financially and spirits are required to attend and masks must be kind of down, and I think that this tree worn during the event. To attend, call symbolizes hope and our community.” 685-8888 to make a reservation. Center The community is coming together to Place Fine Arts and Civic Association is help Center Place make the tree lighting located at 619 Vonderburg Dr., Ste. B in happen. Owens purchased the tree and Brandon, next to the Brandon Library.
Staff Report
By Interim Executive Director of Center Place, Libby Hopkins
December 2020
W W W
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Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
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Stores recently opened include Cigars International, a 6,000plus sq. ft. indoor/outdoor destination featuring over 1,300 cigar brands, a full-service bar and multiple flat screen TVs, all housed under a state-of-the-art ventilation system and located on Palm River Rd. near TopGolf, where plans for its 11,443 sq. ft. putt-putt course have temporarily been put on hold. The Flip Flop Shops in Bloomingdale Square welcomes anyone searching for casual footwear to its location near Bealls. A smorgasbord of new dining choices recently opened, starting with Eggs Up Grill and Wendy’s, both located in Riverview on U.S. 301 near Falkenburg Rd. Donovan’s Meatery in Winthrop Town Centre has been receiving rave reviews along with Gasparilla Pizzeria & Growlers in Bella Plaza on Bloomingdale Ave. Cali Cafe, specializing in homemade Colombian coffee and goodies, celebrated its reopening in Riverview on U.S. 301, south of Boyette Rd. Mandola’s Italian Kitchen introduced its first Florida location on U.S. 301 in Riverview not far from the long-awaited Chick-fil-A near Summerfield Crossing Blvd. Projects coming, but not ready, begin in Seffner on Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd. with a new Marco’s Pizza near the Mango Rd. intersection and Seffner Self
Storage at Kingsway Rd. The two buildings on S.R. 60 near Lakewood Dr. in Brandon will be Bolay and Panda Express with no replacement announced for Lucky’s in that plaza. The land cleared at Lumsden Rd. and Kings Ave. will be a RaceTrac with Walmart on Causeway Blvd. adding a health clinic, a new concept only available at this location. Further west on Causeway Blvd., both Texas Roadhouse and Bubba’s 33 will soon be opening at Falkenburg Rd. Bloomingdale Ave. is seeing two banks with PNC Bank under construction at Providence Rd. and TD Bank breaking ground in front of the Walmart Supercenter along with Heartland Dental and a yet unnamed third tenant. Bloomingdale Square is getting a The UPS Store with LA Fitness’ opening date still unannounced. On Boyette Rd. in Riverview, the two unfinished block structures west of CVS will be a Culver’s and an as yet unnamed daycare with ALDI recently breaking ground on its newest location on U.S. 301 across from Balm Riverview Rd. The Triple Creek area will see a Goddard Daycare off Boggy Creek Dr. with FishHawk getting a new 36,000 sq. ft. medical office built at the Mosaic Dr. and Circa Crossing Dr. intersection.
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Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
Volume 18, Issue 12
Woman’s Clubhouse Has Served Brandon For Over 90 Years: 129 Moon Ave., Brandon Sometimes big things come in tiny packages. That certainly applies to the little building at 129 N. Moon Ave. in Brandon that has had an outsized influence on the community’s life. There you will find the Brandon Woman’s Club, constructed by its members in 1925 and now protected by the Brandon Woman’s Club, 129 Moon Avenue. board of county comal design as one reason for protection. missioners as a local historic landmark. The structure incorporates many characThe Brandon Woman’s Club can teristics of the bungalow style, typical of trace its roots back to 1915, when a the 1920s. This building, however, has group of 14 pioneer women met at the home of Alice Rankin to organize a home been lovingly maintained and cared for by the club’s members. Importantly for hisdemonstration club. The Hillsborough toric preservation, there have been very Historic Resources Review Board few changes to the structure. Its owners (HRRB) approved the landmark designamaintained the building’s basic style and tion, in part, because the club’s formation character, and it looks very much like it serves as an excellent local representadid when first constructed. tion of the development of such clubs From its inception, the Brandon around the nation. Woman’s Club dedicated itself to the For 10 years, the club met at its community of Brandon. The club is wellmembers’ homes and in local schools. In remembered for its support of the 1925, the club, now officially chartered as Brandon School in providing a small the Brandon Woman’s Club, set out to library and hot lunches. In the 1920s, the have a building of its own. Through variclub’s focus expanded to improving the ous fundraisers, it raised the $50 necescommunity’s quality of life, and the listing sary to put down on a lot in Brandon in of its community involvement is enorOctober 1925. It took another two years mous. to raise enough money to begin construcWhen the club reorganized in 1925, tion. On September 6, 1928, the club’s 45 members decided to build a small clubmembers met at their new clubhouse for house that would serve the entire comthe first time. munity. It would be impossible to list all of The county also included architectur-
Expiration 01 /01 /2021
By Charles Nelson
dren overtaxed the small structure, forcing a move to the Brandon Civic Center in the 1960s. In 1960, the club resurrected a library in a corner of its small clubhouse, serving Brandon area library patrons three days a week until the county opened a new library in 1968. The Brandon Woman’s Club generously supported that county effort with its time, talents and books along with a generous monetary donation. Of course, the clubhouse Checking out books at the Woman’s Club Library. Source: Tampa Bay Times, December 20, 1966. also served as the traditional meeting house for its memthe groups, clubs and individuals who bers. From this small structure, the memhave used the building. Girl and Boy bers gathered to socialize and enjoy a Scout troops, medical organizations and covered dish meal. churches and religious groups are just a From here, it also continued to serve small sampling of those that used the the community in significant ways and facility. with a substantial impact on Brandon’s Interestingly, the Hillsborough County well-being. government served Brandon residents by In more recent years, membership in using, at various times, the clubhouse as the Brandon Woman’s Club declined and a polling place, a driver’s licensing facility it eventually disbanded. Fortunately for and a draft board during World War II. us, however, it deeded the “little building Tampa-based newspapers often wrote of that could” to the Brandon Junior private weddings and parties held at the Woman’s Club, which proudly continues clubhouse. to care for this historic building today. In 1936, the club opened a health clinic at the clubhouse that served the Charles Nelson Bio community until the 1960s. Once a Charles Nelson holds a MA degree in History from George Mason University and month, a doctor and nurse from the taught as an adjunct instructor at HCC Hillsborough County Health Service used (Dale Mabry). He is also affiliated with the facility to give babies checkups and Tampa Bay History Center as a volunteer docent, researcher and immunizations while club members community lecturer, with an emphasis on helped by weighing and changing babies. South Hillsborough County history. However, at times, 40 mothers with chil-
Expiration 01 /01 /2021
Expiration 01 /01 /2021
December 2020
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Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
Hillsborough County Plans Water Service Improvements In South County
Feeding Tampa Bay Hosts Mega Pantries In Area Including HCC Brandon
A project to manager for ensure that the Hillsborough growing number of County’s water residents and busidepartment. He said nesses in Southern the increased growth Hillsborough in Southern County have a Hillsborough County steady flow of is driving the need drinking water is in for improving water the works. services and that the In October, the proposed facility will Board of County help. If a water treatment plant is built on the Commissioners “Any drinking south county site, it will be similar to the approved the purLithia drinking water facility located in the water facility conFishHawk area. chase of about 331 structed, whether it’s acres located between Balm Riverview a treatment plant or a transmission facility, Rd. and Balm Boyette Rd., south of the in the south county service area will benBalm Boyette Scrub Preserve, where offi- efit Hillsborough County residents two cials plan to build either a drinking water ways,” he said. “One, it will maintain a treatment plant or drinking water translevel of service and complement existing mission station. ongoing infrastructure projects by the The project is part of a larger effort to department, and two, it will provide susimprove the quality of service in providing tainability for future growth in the south drinking water to Southern Hillsborough county service area.” County customers. The county does not expect to start Drinking water transmission pipes in building the proposed facility until 2026, the south county urban service area are but until then, the site’s landscaping will being upgraded and a $12 million booster be improved to create a 500-foot-wide pump station will be constructed northnatural terrain buffer that will include pine east of the intersection of Balm Riverview trees to keep facility structures out of view Rd. and Big Bend Rd. and opposite of from neighboring properties. Summerfield Elementary School in According to the county’s online inforRiverview. mation about the project, construction will The proposed facility is designated take about two years to complete and the as a county capital improvement project site may eventually include recreational (CIP). These projects address the need to features such as trails. improve, expand or maintain vital infraYou can stay informed about this and structure such as roads, buildings and other Hillsborough County infrastructure utilities. Jason Parrillo is the CIP section projects by visiting hillsboroughcounty.org.
The recent through locations to COVID-19 pandemic 10 to better serve has weakened our those who continue local economy and to struggle with food this has caused insecurity,” Oliviero many people from said. “With that in our community to mind, the team at become unemFTB has launched ployed. Feeding and is testing a new Tampa Bay (FTB) text program, FTBhas been at the foreFYI, to better confront of feeding those nect with those in Feeding Tampa Bay’s goal is to have who are food inseour care.” Tampa Bay hunger-free by 2025. cure in the Tampa Feeding Tampa Bay community even before the pandem- Bay’s communications team is attending ic hit and it has continued to help those in Mega Pantries and personally introducing need since then. those it serves to the pilot program that The goal is to have Tampa Bay will be shared with them in both English hunger-free by 2025. One way the group and Spanish. is achieving this goal is by hosting Mega “Updates will include a peek into Pantries in the Tampa Bay area. FTB culture that relates to those that “While the reopening of our state is we serve, recipes that support grocery on the horizon, the effects of COVID-19 distribution, additional food availability are far from over,” said FTB’s external and resources to help bring comfort in affairs officer, Shannon Hannon Oliviero. these challenges times and any “This crisis has nearly doubled the unem- changes in scheduling that may ployment rate in Florida and placed over occur,” Oliviero said. “We have stood 1.7 million food insecure individuals in our side by side with those that we serve care. To meet this increased need for all along, but now more than ever we food assistance, we have created Mega are committed to connect in a more Pantry distributions.” meaningful way as we all adjust to Mega Pantries are equipped to serve what the pandemic has created as our over 3,500 families at a time with 175,000 new normal.” pounds of food, which is 22 times larger To learn more, visit www.feedingthan their typical Mobile Pantry distributampabay.org. FTB hosts a Mega tions. Pantry in Brandon on Thursdays from “Due to distributing nearly 60 million 4-6:30 p.m. at HCC Brandon at 10451 meals since the pandemic began, Nancy Watkins Dr. in the parking lot Feeding Tampa Bay has now expanded next to softball field on E. Columbus our Mega Pantry program from six driveDr.
By Brad Stager
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Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
e g d o L ew Rivervi ows, Kitten h S s e t a n ore M Do & s ar Calend ed by Jenny Bennoemtt Compil preyobserver.c @os jbennett
divisional win and their first time to advance in the finals. Please contact Team Captain Jane Feeney at jfeeney58@gmail.com or Sharon Pate at patesha1@gmail.com for additional information.
Seasonal Favorites Return To Chick-fil-A Cute Kitten Calendars Help Save Lives
The holiday season has arrived and this marks the return of two favorites to the Chick-fil-a seasonal menu: the peppermint chip milkshake and the chicken tortilla soup. These two items are now available for a limited time at all Chick-fil-A restaurants. In addition to the returning menu items, participating restaurants are also offering a selection of holiday gifts and merchandise, includ-
Local animal charity A Kitten Place has just launched a cute calendar for 2021 featuring cats and kittens that they have saved over the past year. A Kitten Place specializes in rescuing the cats and kittens in most need and nurses them back to health. Barry White, a kitten, was found laying in a gutter and was unable to move due to extreme malnutrition. Barry White after he was nursed back to ing holiday ornaDue to A Kitten health. ments, bottled Place’s diligent sauces and seasonal gift cards. care and unwillingness to give up on These are only available while suphim, Barry slowly improved and is plies last. now a beautiful, young cat enjoying life with his new owners. Calendars Riverview Lodge Donates Shoes are $20 and can be purchased by Riverview’s DeSoto Masonic emailing akittenplace@gmail.com to Lodge’s Order of the place an order. All Eastern Star Chapter proceeds directly celebrated the conbenefit the charity. clusion of an annual For additional children’s shoe drive. information on A For the past three Kitten Place or to years, DeSoto’s view any of its chapter has conductadoptable cats or ed the shoe drive kittens, please visit with over 650 pairs akittenplace.org. being donated, and even with lodge Apollo Beach activities at an Racquet And extremely low level Tennis Club this year, it still manLadies Win 3.0 The championship winners, team aged to meet a goal Championship ‘Beach Love.’ of 100 pairs of The Apollo shoes. The shoes were donated to Beach Racquet and Tennis Club the Mary and Martha House in ‘Beach Love’ ladies just won the Ruskin and the Homeless Education Hillsborough County League Project Heart program in Manatee Championship in the 3.0 division and County. The Mary and Martha House advanced to second place for USTA provides emergency and transitional Florida. The team was formed four housing and support services to years ago and this is their second
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SouthShore Chamber Of Commerce Hosts Halloween Tournament
The SouthShore Chamber of Commerce hosted a spooktacular Halloween golf tournament. The Apollo Beach players Woman’s Club dressed in Continues To Meet costumes and Via Zoom were treated The Apollo Beach to many Woman’s Club continspooky goodues to meet via Zoom. ies throughout Recent meetings have the day. First included a presentaplace and tion by Frank A. bragging Cassell, a historian, rights was author and president won by the and professor emeriFuzzy’s Taco The Fringe Benefits Salon team all tus of the University of Shop team dressed as Minnie Mouse. Pittsburgh at and the best Greensburg. He discussed his book, costume award went to the Fringe Suncoast Empire: Bertha Honore Benefits Salon team, aka Team Palmer, Her Family, and the Rise of Minnie Mouse. Sarasota, 1910-1982. Twenty-two
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participants plus a guest attended the Zoom presentation. The Wednesday, January 13, 2021 program will be the Apollo Beach Woman’s Club Yearly Longevity Membership Awards, which the club hopes to hold in person. Apollo Beach Woman’s Club presentations are open to members and its guests on the second Wednesday of the month at 10:30 a.m. Visit www.apollobeachwomensclub.com for more information or contact Liz Pederson at kenlizpedersen@msn.com for membership details.
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December 2020
Page 9
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition By Libby Hopkins
Hillsborough County Pet Resource Center Held A Doggie Reunion To Celebrate New Beginnings By Libby Hopkins
Last fall, the dogs and Hillsborough adopters. Rather County animal conthan making it an trol officers rescued ugly bureaucratic hundreds of dogs system and sending being kept in officers out to check deplorable condion the pets, we did tions by a local it virtually, asking for breeder. More than photos and stories. 300 of the Diana Our communicaStreet Dogs, as More than a dozen dogs and their owners tions with the gathered in small playgroups at the Pet they came to be adopters led us to Center at 10 a.m. on November known, found new Resource 17 to take pictures, make new memories decide to allow for a homes on and celebrate the dramatic changes in the mini reunion so we dogs’ lives. November 17, could celebrate the 2019 in a mass adoption event that was success and share an update with the so popular, tickets were distributed world that followed their case from the through a lottery system. puppy mill. We intend on having a full“We had a huge adoption event and scale reunion every year once pandemic were so lucky to have great adopters,” restrictions are lifted.” said Scott Trebatoski, director of Dogs that lived their entire life packed Hillsborough County Pet Resources. into kennels for the sole purpose of “Some of these adopters have to live breeding them are rarely social and have through challenges and also costs they not learned ‘normal behavior.’ “Through might not have expected, but the dogs the dedication of our team at Pet have all benefited greatly.” Resources and the wonderful volunteers, More than a dozen dogs and their we were able to work individually with owners gathered in small playgroups at these 350-plus [dogs] to get them to love the Pet Resource Center at 10 a.m. on to interact with people and to at least November 17 to take pictures, make new begin to understand housetraining and memories and celebrate the dramatic other skills,” Trebatoski said. “The result changes in the dogs’ lives. To maintain was an amazing transformation even social distancing, the owners and their those of us who have worked long dogs met each other in several outdoor careers in this industry never expected.” fenced play areas. To learn more about the pets avail“This group of adopters has always able at the Pet Resource Center, visit had a special bond with dedicated www.hillsboroughcounty.org/en/resiFacebook pages and other information dents/animals-and-pets. The center is sharing,” Trebatoski said. “Additionally, we located at 440 N. Falkenburg Rd. in committed to having an annual review of Tampa.
Encore Residents In FishHawk Provide Free Meals To Fire Rescue Heroes
By Tatiana Ortiz
During the team arranged for months of these restaurants to September and deliver the meals to October, 40 the Encore Oasis FishHawk Ranch Club so they can be residents living at dropped off at Station Encore by David #44 by the residents Weekley Homes who participated. purchased and disPrior to ordering, the tributed a total of 48 menu was brought to grab ‘n go meals as Station #44 so indipart of the Encore viduals could choose Gives Back what they would like ‘Sponsor a Hero’ to eat for dinner. The event on Tuesday meals were delivered evenings to those the following week. working at the Acevedo stated that Kenny Keane and his wife Colleen Keane Hillsborough County the Encore communidelivered the grab ‘n go meals to Hillsborough County Fire Rescue Fire Rescue ty is very close and it FishHawk Station #44. FishHawk Station did not surprise her #44 in Lithia. that they would step up and help. Encore residents Kenny Keane and Kenny shared how grateful he felt his wife, Colleen Keane, came up with about the support from the community. the idea. Kenny is a retired firefighter and “The folks were really kind and grareceived meals where he worked in Palm cious to donate,” Kenny said. “To add, Beach County. He wanted to do the with many of the heroes working double same for Station #44. Kenny reached out shifts, it really comes in handy with the to Encore Oasis Club in FishHawk Ranch meals coming in,” he said. Lifestyle Director Sandy Acevedo, inquir“Overall, we just want to give a huge ing about how they could assist. thank you to this community for all that “Kenny spoke to me about how it they have done,” Acevedo said. would be a great opportunity for the For more information, visit neighborhood to get to know their local www.facebook.com/EncoreOasisClub. fire station,” Acevedo said. Encore Oasis Club is located at 14001 Those who bought the grab ‘n go Swallow Hill Dr. in Lithia. Call 898-8181 meals from several restaurants in the or email Riverview, Brandon and FishHawk areas sandy.acevedo@encoreoasis.com. Fire for the heroes pre-ordered them through Rescue FishHawk Station #44 is located SignUpGenius. The Encore Lifestyle at 3601 FishHawk Blvd. in Riverview.
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Page 10
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
Volume 18, Issue 12
December 2020
Page 11
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
Snowcat Ridge Joins The Tampa Community And Brings Snow To Florida
By Libby Hopkins
The ribbon was Coast, and a member cut on the fresh fallen of the team that Florida snow on helped Nagengast’s November 20 at project come to life, Snowcat Ridge Alpine was on hand at the Snow Park. Yes, you ribbon-cutting. “We read that correctly, really weren’t anticifresh fallen Florida pating to add snowsnow. tubing and snowball Snowcat Ridge is fights to our destinaFlorida’s only alpine tion’s repertoire of snow park with real activities and we are snow. It features a 60- Snowcat Ridge is Florida’s only alpine so excited to have snow park with real snow. foot-tall and 400-footthat in our own backlong snow-covered tubing hill with magic yard,” Thomas said. “If you think about it, carpet lifts, an Alpine Village and a 10,000 what’s more unique than a mouse, a roll sq. ft. snow dome. Snowcat Ridge will coaster and a beach? A snow park in also feature a child-sized snow hill for Florida, how amazing is that?” young riders and a magical music and Since opening, the park has had an light show during the evenings. overwhelming amount of interest and “We have had a tremendous amount guests at the park to the extent that of support on this project and it has been Nagengast’s team is working diligently to a very unique project to bring to Florida,” produce snow for inside the park’s Arctic said Snowcat Ridge’s CEO, Benjamin Igloo. Nagengast. “My family and I have owned “We are working hard on our snow and operated family attractions for the last production efforts so that we have 20 years and so this our new facility, enough snow for everyone to play with, Snowcat Ridge Alpine Snow Park, in the as well as have the bunny slopes operastate of Florida.” tional, to keep up with the overwhelming Nagengast and his team have been demand,” Negengast said. “We definitely working on Snowcat Ridge for the last want to ensure all of the kids and families five years. He selected the sight for that want to see and play in the snow are Snowcat Ridge because it’s adjacent to able to. In regards to Snowy Slopes and his other properties, TreeHoppers and the Alpine Village, which includes a Scream-A-Geddon. “We were able to Christmas Market, these are open, with combine the best of both worlds, which is limited capacity to adhere to the COVIDthe sunshine and the snow,” Nagengast 19 guidelines.” said. “It is no mean feat to be able to For info and tickets, visit www.snowcombine those two aspects.” catridge.com. The park is located at Adam Thomas of Florida’s Sports 27839 Saint Joe Rd. in Dade City.
Hope For Her Schedules Golf Tournament
By Kate Quesada
Get out your golf help. Each woman clubs and enjoy a and child supported round for a great by Hope for Her cause next month. receives one-on-one Hope for Her, a individualized support Brandon organization unique to their situahelping women facing tion. homelessness, hunger, Its work is also job loss, domestic vioguided by God, with lence and other seriChrist and his teachous life issues, is hostings at the heart of its ing a golf tournament mission. at River Hills in Valrico “We are so on Monday, January grateful at Hope for 18, 2021. Her for the overThe event, which whelming love and starts with a check-in prayers,” said at 7:30 a.m. and a Hickman. “Thank you shotgun start at 8:30 to all who partner a.m., includes lunch with us to give hope and prizes for hole-inand invest in changone, straightest drive, ing lives. You are a closest to the pin and blessing to many putting. There will families right here in also be a raffle and our community.” Hope for Her is hosting a golf tournaauction baskets. Hope for Her is ment next month to raise funds to help local women in need. “We are so excitalso hosting a meeted about our 2021 golf tournament,” and-greet for the family and friends of said Cheryl Hickman, executive director. beloved volunteer Peggy Jones on “2020 was a tough year. We reschedSunday, January 17, 2021 from 4-6 p.m. uled the golf tournament a couple times at the River Hills Clubhouse. and now it is finally happening. River The goal of the event is to honor her Hills Golf Club and our community is so with a time of fellowship and rememsupportive of the work we do.” brance. Hope for Her helps approximately “You can be the hope for women 100 women in need in each month, but and children experiencing unimaginable has to turn people away due to a lack of life circumstances in our area,” said funds. The charity takes a big picture Hickman. approach and supports women in every For more information, call Hickman aspect of their lives, including housing, at 309-3357, employment, childcare, food, finances, email info@hopeforherfl.org or go transportation and safety, in an effort to to HopeForHerFL.org.
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County Contact Tracing Guidelines By Libby Hopkins
Contact tracing is the engagement through the proprocess of notifying people vision of education and com(contacts) of their potential munication to increase public exposure to SARS-CoV-2, the awareness of how to protect virus that causes COVID-19, individuals and their commuproviding information about nities, as well as providing the virus and discussing their awareness of how to stop symptom history and other disease transmission. relevant health information. Contact tracing activities Contact tracing gives instrucshould be inclusive of all poptions for self-quarantine and ulations and available to all monitoring for symptoms. It Contact tracing centers communities.” around community also offers the infected perContact tracing can be engagement through broken down into five vital son support and referrals to the provision of testing, clinical services and steps. Step one is case ideneducation and communication to other essential support servtification, prioritization and increase public ices are provided, as indicatsurveillance triage. Step two awareness of how to ed. protect individuals and is case investigation. Step their communities, as three is contact elicitation. For contact tracing to be well as providing most effective, it should be Step four is contact notificaawareness of how to carried out as soon after tion. Step five is contact monstop disease transmission. diagnosis as possible. If you itoring. have tested positive for COVID-19, you “There may be instances when will likely be contacted quickly by a public COVID-19 patients have difficulty health professional to initiate contact trac- recalling close contacts or they are ing. It is important to remember, though, unavailable for inquiry,” Walter said. that not being contacted for contact trac“Social network information, settinging does not mean you did not test posibased investigations and proxy intertive or that you cannot transmit COVIDview methods will be needed to sup19. Proper precautions, such as social plement the contact list. In lieu of the distancing, regular handwashing and ability to speak to the patient, details wearing a mask, should still be taken. to inform case investigation and con“Preventing and controlling COVIDtact tracing may be gleaned from 19 in communities across Florida requires healthcare providers or legal proxies strong collaboration between the DOH as available.” and the many partners involved, directly To learn more about COVID-19 or indirectly, with impacting public health contact tracing or other COVID-19 outcomes,” said Kevin Walter of the information, please visit the Florida Florida Department of Health. “Contact Department of Health’s website at tracing centers around community www.floridahealth.gov.
What’s Your Blood Type And Are You More Susceptible The spread of COVID-19 locally and throughout the country is driving more of us than ever before to ask questions about our health, including “What’s my blood type?” Sadly, many of us don’t know what our blood type is, and it’s a bit concerning because our quality of life depends on it. In a just-released survey of 500 adults (ages 18-64), commissioned by local direct access lab testing company Any Lab Test Now, 37 percent of those surveyed have no clue about their blood type and 58 percent of them have never even thought about it. “Many of our clients don’t know their blood type when they come in for testing,” said Bob Showers, owner of Any Lab Test Now in Brandon. “There are really only four types of blood types, A, B, AB and O. Then you have a positive or a negative of those.” Research is currently being done to see if there is a connection between blood type and your chances of catching and recovering from COVID-19. Does your blood type increase your risk of getting COVID-19 and other serious illnesses like heart disease and some gastrointestinal cancers? “This pandemic has more people than ever before monitoring their health, and thankfully we’re seeing families come into our labs to get a quick and simple screening to learn their blood type to understand their risk for diseases,” said Clarissa Bradstock, CEO of Any Lab
By Libby Hopkins
Test Now. “If COVID has taught us anything, it’s that we need to be vigilant about our health, and a good place to start is with knowing our blood type and the health risks associated with it.” Two studies published on October 14 of this year in Blood Advances suggest, “People with blood type O may have a lower risk of COVID-19 infection and reduced likelihood of severe outcomes, including organ complications, if they do get sick. Blood type O may offer some protection against COVID-19 infection, according to a retrospective study. Researchers compared Danish health registry data from more than 473,000 individuals tested for COVID-19 to data from a control group of more than 2.2 million people from the general population. Among the COVID-19 positive, they found fewer people with blood type O and more people with A, B and AB types. The study results suggest that people with blood types A, B or AB may be more likely to be infected with COVID-19 than people with type O. Since blood group distributions vary among ethnic subgroups, the researchers also controlled for ethnicity and maintained that fewer people with blood type O tested positive for the virus.” Visit www.anylabtestnow.com or call 438-8700. The office is located at 205 E. Brandon Blvd. COVID-19 testing is not offered at this location.
Dentist Office A Safe Bet For Visits Power Disconnect Calls Are Scams By Libby Hopkins
As more not going to your reguCOVID-19-related larly scheduled dentist health issues are appointment for your on the rise, one cleaning can wreak area where health havoc on your teeth and issues have been gums,” Dr. Lynn said. increasing is dental. One in five adults Dentists are now have visited a dentist seeing more office amid the pandempatients who are ic, even though two in experiencing cavifive adults said they’ve ties, tooth decay, had dental issues since Dr. Casey Lynn of Smile Lynn sore jaws and March, according to a Pediatric Dentistry in Apollo Beach said survey released in cracked teeth. dentist offices are safe because they Stress and have been fighting airborne diseases August by Guardian their whole careers. quarantining Life. It said one in four brought on by the pandemic are definitely U.S. adults won't be comfortable going to rough for our mental well-being, but denthe dentist by the end of the tists are seeing more evidence that our year (www.usatoday.com). oral health is suffering too. “People have “Dentists are the most prepared medbeen skipping their dental appointments ical field to deal with airborne diseases and staying home because of the panbecause we’ve been fighting airborne disdemic, which means they are falling eases our entire careers,” Dr. Lynn said. behind on their regular checkups,” said “We are now screening everyone who local dentist Dr. Casey Lynn of Smile comes into our office. We are spacing out Lynn Pediatric Dentistry in Apollo Beach. our appointment times and have slowed “People have also been doing a lot more down our office a little to make sure our stress-eating throughout the day, so I’m patients and staff [are] safe. All of [our] seeing more patients come in with cavipatients’ appointments are now an hour ties. Our cavity numbers have shot long so we have time to make sure the through the roof. We are also seeing a lot exam rooms are cleaned thoroughly in of teeth grinding happening from stress between each patient. Dentists’ offices too.” are safe, so there is no need to skip your Brushing and flossing are down as dental appointments and fall behind on good habits slip and social outings your oral health.” decline. People with tooth pain delayed To learn more about the services going to the dentist, hoping it would go offered at Smile Lynn Pediatric Dentistry, away, which is a bad idea even if there visit www.smilelynndental.com or call weren’t a pandemic happening. 591-3052. Dr. Lynn’s office is located at “Increased sweets and carbs and then 122 Harbor Village Ln. in Apollo Beach.
By Libby Hopkins
The other day while I was no longer in service.” was at work, the phone “We’re not disconnecting rang and it was a recorded people for nonpayment message from TECO. It right now because of the said that “my power at my pandemic,” TECO spokesplace of business was set woman Cherie Jacobs for disconnection in 30 said. “So-called ‘spoofing’ COVID-19 scams are on the scams are common. An minutes” and if I’d like to rise. Never answer robocalls unauthorized person speak to a TECO repreor respond to emails you sentative I could “press makes it look like they’re don’t recognize. one.” calling from a legitimate source and I pressed one and I was connected demands money from a customer. It’s to Diana Rodriguez with TECO’s cusplagued Tampa Electric for the past eight tomer service. Ms. Rodriguez explained years,” Jacobs said. to me that since my place of business Other COVID-19 scams to be aware was closed for three months, due to the of are stimulus check scams. “When stimCOVID-19 pandemic, my place of busiulus checks were being distributed ness’ electric bill was now delinquent and nationwide, we anticipated phone and my power would be disconnected in 30 email scams related to checks and minutes. I asked Ms. Rodriguez if she worked to get ahead of that issue by could pause this disconnection so I could spreading awareness online and through call my boss and see if we could get a PSA,” said Crystal Clark, chief commucaught up on our bill. She said she could nications officer for the Hillsborough pause the disconnection, but I would County Sheriff’s Office. have to pay in cash only. She gave me Be wary even of COVID-19 contact her “direct line” to call back once I had tracing callers, the latest COVID-19 scam. spoken to my boss. According to the Federal Trade When I called my boss, in an Commission’s website (www.ftc.gov/coroabsolute panic, to ask him if we had navirus/scams-consumer-advice), “Learn enough cash to get our electricity caught how to tell the difference between a real up, he informed me that since our busicontact tracer and a scammer. Legitimate ness is housed in a county building, the tracers need health information, not county pays our electricity. He also money or personal financial information. informed me that I had just fallen for a … Ignore offers for vaccinations and mirscam! I was extremely mad. I called Ms. acle treatments or cures. Scammers are Rodriguez back on her direct line and selling products to treat or prevent informed her that the county pays our bill. COVID-19 without proof that they work. She immediately hung up on me. When I Be wary of ads for test kits.” Use called back again, I got a recording saysites coronavirus.gov and usa.gov/coroning, “The number I was trying to reach avirus to get the latest information.
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Page 14
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
Retired Professor Of Engineering In Apollo Beach Publishes Children’s Comic Series On Atoms
By Gwen Rollings
It is not every themselves to day that a recentcreate molecules, ly retired profescompounds and sor emeritus of all small and the College of large things. Engineering at the Book 1 only Pennsylvania introduces the State University is readers to Tomalso the author of the-Atom. In sub22 books in an sequent books, ongoing comic the readers will series for children learn about the Tom-the-Atom is a series of 22 books by a exciting world of about Tom-thelocal author in Apollo Beach. Atom. atoms. When a That is what Dr. MUM did. The concept is simple, it is introduced in a Apollo Beach resident noted, “To be a single book. However, more challenggood engineer or scientist, you need ing concepts are introduced gradually to be an acute observer and a curios- in steps, with a partial explanation ity seeker with a keen sense of comgiven in one book and followed up pletion.” She also believes you must more completely in a later one. find beauty in dark and light in deforBy Book 22, the readers will be mation and perfection to keep a an ‘experts’ in chemistry. Dr. MUM young spirit; it is important to think enthusiastically supports the idea of like a child. teaching science to our children from Dr. MUM recently published a an early age. This way children will new book in the Tom-the-Atom series enter school with an avid taste to and promised that readers will end up learn about nature’s wonders and knowing so much about chemistry sharpen their observational skills. that teachers will be surprised and Dr. MUM invites young readers to parents and classmates will be discover the secrets of nature and dig amazed. into nature’s microscopic world and The series centers on Tom-theinto nature’s secrets. She hopes her Atom as he introduces his brothers, series will help the readers develop a sisters and cousins to his new profound understanding of how friends, Mary and Henry, who learn a nature, objects and man-made things great deal from Tom-the-Atom. They are composed of atoms. find out how everything alive and notInformation about Tom-the-Atom, alive (organic and inorganic) in our for children grades kindergarten to universe is made of tiny atoms which, fifth grade, can be viewed at by shaking hands, form bonds among http://tom-the-atom.com.
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Volume 18, Issue 12
Heart Gallery Of Tampa Helps To Spread Joy This Holiday Season
By Kye Saunders
Children all According to over the Tampa its website, 80-90 Bay area are in children are feaneed of some tured in Tampa’s extra love this Heart Gallery each holiday season year. and Heart Gallery Over the past of Tampa is offerdecade, the Heart ing a way to conGallery has develnect with some of oped larger touring them. and interactive galEstablished leries, expanding in 2001, Heart to hundreds of Gallery of Tampa cities across the was founded by country. Diane Granito. Each gallery Being both a works ceaselessly skilled photograto find each child The Heart Gallery of Tampa is setting its sights on doing good this holiday season. their forever family. pher and adoption worker, Granito fused her two During the holidays, many of the passions together to create a method children featured on the Heart Gallery of introducing these children waiting to website are included in a separate find loving adoptive families in a powarea so that residents can sponsor erful new way by taking her photograthem with a holiday donation. The phy to the public. website features information about “It was almost as if the country each child in addition to his or her was waiting to be told that these chilprofessional photograph, and donors dren are out here because no one have the opportunity to pick the really talked about them before,” said amount of money they would like to Granito. send to the child. Her poignant portraits of older chilDonations can be paid by credit dren and sibling groups were now card and visitors are also able to send viewable in what it is known today as a message to the child they chose. the Heart Gallery. To learn more about adoption and Heart Gallery children represent to sponsor a child for the holidays or a those in foster care who need addition- birthday, visit www.heartgallerytamal support in finding families due to fac- pa.org. The Heart Gallery of Tampa is tors of age, race, being part of large located at 5463 W. Waters Ave., Ste. sibling groups and special needs. 850 in Tampa.
December 2020
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
Local First Responder And Healthcare Workers Bring First Eggs Up Grill To Tampa Bay
Staff Report
Riverview serving neigharea residents bors and being a now have a new positive part of place to enjoy the community. breakfast, brunch “Our goal is for and lunch. this Eggs Up Eggs Up Grill Grill to be a hub recently opened for the local comits first Tampa munity, and we Bay area restauare committed to rant at 3920 U.S. finding ways to Eggs Up Grill recently opened in Riverview. 301 in Riverview. give back to The new Eggs Up Grill is owned organizations in town,” said Conyers. and operated by a trio, including a “We know that being part of the comlocal firefighter and two pharmacists, munity is critical to our success, so who love the idea of being entreprewe want to get to know each of our neurs in addition to their careers. guests. When we say ‘thank you for “We have dabbled in small busichoosing Eggs Up Grill,’ we really ness ownership in the past and felt mean it.” we had the experience to try someEggs Up Grill currently operates thing bigger,” said Priscilla Conyers, 43 restaurants in four states— co-owner of the new Riverview Georgia, Florida, North Carolina and restaurant. “With two small children, South Carolina. The new Riverview my husband and I were very attractrestaurant is part of the brand’s ed to the Eggs Up Grill concept. This aggressive expansion plans into is a family restaurant with hours that Florida. do not detract from our own family Eggs Up Grill provides great-tastlife. Born and raised in the Tampa ing, freshly prepared breakfast and Bay area, we believe Eggs Up Grill is savory lunch options, and it is also a perfect fit for this market. Tampa one of the first new restaurants to roll loves a good All-American meal that out mimosa options. At Eggs Up Grill, is fresh and locally sourced, and guests experience delicious food in a that’s what we are bringing to our comfortable atmosphere delivered guests.” with a smile, or on the go with takeWith seating for around 100 peoout and delivery options. The restauple, this 2,800-square-foot restaurant rant serves guests seven days a is designed to make guests feel at week from 6 a.m.-2:30 p.m. home. As Riverview is a city rooted in For more information about Eggs family values with booming growth, Up Grill, please visit www.eggsupthe new Eggs Up Grill is focused on grill.com.
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Page 15
Home Instead And Bealls Outlet Spread Christmas Cheer To Local Seniors
By Libby Hopkins
The COVID-19 ship. pandemic has affect“While the holidays ed the way we celemay look a little differbrate the holidays, ent this year, the proand as Christmas gram’s mission of quickly approaches, spreading joy to Tampa all of us are becomand Brandon seniors ing creative with will be more important ways we can still than ever as many are make it merry. Home Instead is a nationwide business with locations in Home Instead is again partnering with local Bealls Outlet stores to our community that be shopping locations for gifts for provides personalseniors. Kristi Campbell, local owner of Home Instead Senior ized care, support Care of Tampa and Brandon, is and education to thrilled that Scott Craft’s Brandon enhance the lives of Bealls Outlet is one of the many Be a Santa to a Senior wish list aging adults and locations. their families. facing increased isolaFor the past 14 years, the Tampa tion due to COVID-19,” Ingram said. and Brandon community has supported Home Instead is again partnering its Be a Santa to a Senior program. “We with local Bealls Outlet stores to be shopstarted the Be a Santa to a Senior proping locations for gifts for the seniors. “It’s gram locally in 2006 and have grown to easy to help,” Ingram said. “Members of reach more seniors every year,” said the community can visit one of the particiTaylor Ingram of Home Instead. “In fact, pating Bealls Outlet locations and look for we reach more than 1,000 seniors conthe Be a Santa to a Senior tree on dissistently with gifts provided by the genplay. Trees will be up through December erosity of local community members. Be 11. Each tree will be decorated with ornaa Santa to a Senior is a way to give back ments featuring seniors’ first names and to older adults in our community and to gift suggestions. Holiday shoppers can make them feel remembered and cherchoose an ornament, buy the requested ished at this time.” gift and return it unwrapped to the store The Be a Santa to a Senior program with the ornament attached.” spreads holiday cheer and brightens the To learn more or to purchase an lives of older adults who are alone or items off of a senior’s wish list, visit financially challenged during the holiday www.BeASantaToASenior.com or call season, providing gifts and companion684-1972.
Page 16
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
Volume 18, Issue 12
Tech Connect Program Offers Internet Support To Hillsborough County Elementary Students & Families
Forgotten Angels Raffles Off Motorcycle To Provide Support For Aged Out Foster Youths
School closures due “Since launching on October to COVID-19 impacted 5, we’ve received 48 referrals Hillsborough County stufrom public elementary dents, teachers and schools across Hillsborough families in numerous County with more coming in ways, but social and daily. We are working to economic issues quickly enroll as many students and created a digital divide families as quickly as possiand became a matter of ble.” urgency for Hillsborough Funding from the Education Foundation Children’s Board added (HEF). four full-time staff: a According to Kim program coordinator Daniel is one of Hillsborough Jowell, CEO of HEF, Country's Tech Connect stu- and three e-learning coaches. dents who was given a com“Closing the digital Although the grant does puter and internet support. divide for our highest not cover the total cost of needs students has been a top priority internet service, HEF has committed since inequities surfaced during the pannearly $40,000 to ensure more children demic. We launched our new initiative have the tools they need to succeed. The called Tech Connect in October to contin- cost to serve a student with a computer ue our work to create equitable access to and internet for a year is $640 per child. resources and opportunities for all stuEligible students must be referred to dents in Hillsborough County Public this free program by a student’s school Schools.” social worker, instructional staff or adminFocusing on the premise that every istrators. Based on the family’s needs, student should have access and the they may receive a computer, one year of opportunity to benefit from a high-quality internet access and guidance in using eeducation, COVID-19 presented unique learning programs, as well as ongoing challenges concerning disparities that support and training. some families in Hillsborough County Jowell explained, “Families must face by not having internet access, espeweigh a number of personal factors in cially in rural areas, or affording quality making the decision between e-learning internet service. or attending classes at school. HEF’s The Tech Connect program was Tech Connect initiative supports students funded by a grant from the Children’s and families who choose e-learning but Board of Hillsborough County and will aren’t fully equipped with technology to support nearly 300 families of elementary reach their full academic potential.” school students participating in e-learning. To volunteer, donate or for more Mindy Taylor, HEF’s Tech Connect proinformation, visit http://educationfoundagram coordinator, said in early November, tion.com/programs/donate.
Cindy Tilley, presifrom foster care on his dent/founder of birthday, he survived by Forgotten Angels of panhandling and sleepFlorida (FAF), knows ing in the park. FAF firsthand the special provides a light at the birthday present that end of the foster care foster youths receive on tunnel. their 18th birthdays. Youths are referred Statistics reveal that by friends, associated 30,000 youths age out organizations and of the foster care syshomes refusing to keep Congressman Ross Spano recently them after they age out tem annually and are spent time at the Forgotten Angels ushered through a oneof the system. Although of Florida in Brandon. way door that often leads to homelessmainly from Hillsborough and Pinellas ness, lacking necessary life skills and Counties, other youths residing at FAF opportunities to succeed. come from as far away as California. Tilley, once in foster care herself, felt There are few programs like Forgotten led to found FAF in 2015 as a 501(c)(3) Angels and Tilley would like to become nonprofit. She said, “Forgotten Angels is more established throughout the country. different in that we care for every single Committed friends and supporters aspect of our residents’ successful future. can donate food, clothes, furniture and We provide employment opportunities, other items. Although COVID-19 has education and enrichment. Most imporeliminated many fundraising plans, donatantly, we love, respect and care for them tions can be hosted on Facebook. as if they are our own children, not a case Weems Motor Co. number or a dollar amount.” (weemsmotorco.com/raffle) is offering a For those aging out of foster care, raffle to win a motorcycle, and in 2021 an tiny homes in Brandon are provided to actual brick-and-mortar home valued at encourage independence, a sense of $350,000 will be raffled off. self-worth, responsibility, self-esteem and Currently only housing boys, locating some privacy. An assessment is pera property and/or home for girls is on the formed on arrival to determine medical horizon. concerns, education level, legal issues Tilley explained, “These kids need and former agencies to provide approprisomeone there for them who underate assistance. stands their struggles. They deserve so Tilley said residents are at various much more than they have been given in levels of independence. While some can ways of love and support.” cook and clean, one youth said he didn’t For more information or ways to know how to tell time until he was 17. He donate or volunteer, visit http://forgottehad so few life skills that when released nangelsflorida.org.
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Page 20
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
Congestion Relief Is Just Down The Road For Selmon Expressway Commuters
By Brad Stager
Commuters from the labeled Alternative 6, Brandon and SouthShore which provides noiseareas of Hillsborough reducing walls for the County rely on the Lee entire length of the projRoy Selmon Expressway ect and initially widens to provide smooth and the roadway to six lanes, speedy passage eventually widening to between their suburban eight lanes. Another homes and work or option, Alternative 2, inirecreational opportunities tially widens the roadway in Tampa. to the ultimate goal of The Lee Roy Selmon To keep things moveight lanes and provides Expressway provides a vital ing along the east-west for constructing sound transportation link between conduit, the Tampa Tampa and the suburbs to the barriers between the Hillsborough Expressway east. Officials are planning for expressway and adjaan expansion of the Authority (THEA), which expressway’s capacity to move cent neighborhoods only owns and operates the for portions of the project traffic. road, is planning ahead for expanding area. the number of travel lanes available. THEA officials said public input and The South Selmon Project support is important in developing soluDevelopment and Environment Study is tions so that drivers will use the expressunderway to determine a course of way and not neighborhood roads. action to expand a 4.5-mile stretch of the According to Sue Chrzan, director of Selmon Expressway from just northeast public affairs and communications for of its terminus at Gandy Blvd. to Whiting THEA, the initial period for public comSt. in downtown Tampa. The study will ment has passed, but input is still needbe used to learn how neighborhoods, ed as the project moves forward. businesses and the natural environment “Any comments received will still will be affected by a transportation projbecome part of the study’s record and ect. will be considered by the study team,” According to information provided by Chrzan wrote in an email. “We will also THEA, transportation officials expect be holding a public meeting in early eight expressway traffic lanes will be 2021 which will provide another opportuneeded east of Willow St. to Whiting St. nity for the public to make comments.” by 2033 and eight lanes will be needed Details about the South Selmon for the length of the South Selmon projProject Development and Environment ect area by 2046. Study can be found at southselInitial public input on a set of altermonpde.com, which also has a contact native solutions showed that the comportal. You can also email THEA at munity had a preference for the plan info@selmonstudies.com.
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Protecting natuof life. When communiral resources while ty members get promoting an active involved, we can creand enjoyable ate a shared vision lifestyle for people is with realistic goals and a sustainability balactions.” ancing act that Hillsborough becomes a formidaCounty is using a varible task when ety of methods to applied to an area as engage the public in large as Hillsborough examining issues relatCounty—1,266 ed to energy and water How residential and commercial develsquare miles—that opment is balanced against preserving usage, transportation natural resources and green spaces, needs and ways to proalso includes a diverse mix of urban, such as this spot on Springvale Ave. in mote a healthy quality Bloomingdale, is a concern that rural and suburban Hillsborough County is addressing in of life for residents. its sustainability action plan. communities within A series of open its borders. house webinars were held in November In order to assess the interests and and an online survey is available to resipriorities of residents and business owndents until Tuesday, December 1. ers when it comes to sustainability-related People can also hold guided diamatters, Hillsborough County is asking for logue sessions with friends, neighbors their ideas in creating a community susand family members to generate comtainability action plan that will help shape ments and ideas for consideration by policies and determine allocation of action plan developers. For these, the resources by the county. county provides sustainability-related According to Sheila McNamara, susinformation and instructions for the sestainability manager for Hillsborough sions which can be held in-person or County, input from residents is needed to online. Feedback from the communityensure the area continues to be an based dialogue sessions will be accepted attractive place to live. until Sunday, December 13. When com“It takes a community to sustain a pleted, the community sustainability community and Hillsborough County action plan will be presented to the Board wants to know what’s important to our of County Commissioners so it has residents and business owners,” she access to the information and can considsaid. er it as policies are developed. “Many people love living and working For more information, please visit the in Hillsborough and have great ideas on Sustainability & Green webpage at hillsways to protect our resources and quality boroughcounty.org.
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Volume 18, Issue 12
SECOND WEEK W OF ADVENT Feast of the Immac m ulate Conception Tu T uesdayy,, Decemb e er 8 Holyy D aayy ooff O bligation Hol Viggil Mass 7:00 p.m. (Dec 7) 8:00 a.m., 12:000 p.m. & 6:30 p.m. Masses Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe Satur u daayyy,, December 12 5:30 p.m. Ado oration 6:15 p.m. Spanish Rosary 7:00 p.m. Spanish Mass FOURTH W WEEK OF ADVENT Thursdayy,, December 24 8 00 a.m. Mass 8:00 9:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m. Reconciliation The ttiime ooff preepparraattiion ends as w wee wellccome tth he neew wborn K Kiingg.. MASSES fo for the CELEBRA AT TION OF CHRISTMAS Thursdayy,, December 24 3:30 p.m. Choral Singing 4:00 p.m. m Fami m ly Mass 6:00 p.m. Chrristmas Preludes 6:30 p.m. Mass 9:00 p.m. Spaan n sh Mass ni MID DNIGHT MASS 11:30 Christmas Preludes 12:00 a.m. Mass CHR RISTMAS DA AY Y 8:00 a.m. • 10:00 a.m. Masses
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December 2020
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
Chick-fil-A Brings 100 Jobs With Opening Of Newest Riverview Location
Staff Report
Loyal Chick-filPorrata became the A lovers know that franchise owner of traditionally, when his first Chick-fil-A a new store opens, restaurant with 100 lucky residents Chick-fil-A Lakeland receive free food Square in 2017. for a year, but due He looks forto the pandemic, ward to opening this when the doors new restaurant in his opened to the hometown of chain’s new Riverview, where he Riverview location, The Chick-fil-A location in Riverview opened will continue giving in late October, bringing approximately 100 back to the commuthings had to be a jobs to the area. little different. nity and making a Franchise Owner Gabe Porrata positive impact on his team members and decided to give free meals for a year to guests. Additionally, Porrata is excited to local heroes making an impact in provide an innovative dining experience Hillsborough County instead. and encourages guests to download the The restaurant, located at 12810 Chick-fil-A App in order to earn rewards Summerfield Crossing Blvd. in Riverview, with every visit. opened in late October to great local “I am thrilled to bring Chick-fil-A to the excitement and brought approximately Riverview community and can’t wait to 100 full and part-time jobs to the commuwelcome our neighbors to the restaurant,” nity. said Porrata. “I look forward to building Additionally, the Chick-fil-A new relationships and making a positive Foundation partnered with Feeding impact on everyone who dines with us.” America to donate $25,000 to support The restaurant is open from 6 a.m.local communities for every new restau10 p.m., Monday through Saturday. Due rant opening. To aid in the fight against to COVID-19 safety precautions, Chick-filhunger, this donation will go toward A Riverview is open for drive-through, organizations in Riverview that are doing mobile curbside and third-party delivery good work to care for others. services shortly after opening. To prioritize As a resident of the Riverview area the guest experience, the restaurant for more than 20 years, Porrata is excited expanded its drive-through to two lanes. to open the community’s first Chick-fil-A Guests can take advantage of contactrestaurant alongside his wife and three less ordering and payment through the children. Porrata began his career with mobile app. Chick-fil-A as a team member while For more information on Chick-fil-A, enrolled at Riverview High School. visit www.chick-fil-a.com.
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Page 21
Brandon Outreach Clinic Offers Free Medical Assistance For Qualified Hillsborough Residents
By Gwen Rollings
Hundreds of cars pass healthy so they can go to by 517 N. Parsons Ave. work and take care of their weekly in Brandon. There families by managing their is a sign at the end of an conditions, keeping them out inconspicuous strip mall of expensive emergency saying Brandon Outreach rooms and minimizing Clinic (BOC) is located healthcare costs in our comthere. What that sign does munity. not say is that BOC might Although most patients have an answer to the coming to BOC work and healthcare concerns of have incomes at or below many residents of 200 percent of the federal Dr. Stephen Parks opened Hillsborough County who the doors to the Brandon poverty level (for a family of Outreach Clinic in 1989. do not have health insurfour, this is $48,600), their ance and cannot afford jobs do not include access to healthcare, and the clinic affordable health insurance. charges no fees for services to qualified As an income-based clinic, those seeking patients. medical services are asked for donations The vision to create a safety net for to help purchase medications, medical uninsured and underinsured individuals supplies and operating expenses. who were falling through the healthcare The eligibility requirements for pedicracks began in 1987. Stephen D. Parks, atric (infants to 17 years) and adults (18M.D. brainstormed what this clinic might 64 years) are: (1) resident of Hillsborough look like with other medical and commuCounty, (2) U.S. citizen or permanent resnity leaders. When Dr. Parks suggested ident, (3) meet low income guidelines and that someone needed to be appointed as (4) no other medical insurance (including point man, they appointed him. Medicare, Medicaid or other governmentAfter two years of planning, fundraisfunded healthcare.) ing and establishing a grassroots network Dr. Parks established his primary of providers, the clinic opened its doors in care practice in 1983 and has served on April 1989. Staffed entirely by volunteers, boards for six years at Brandon Regional the clinic opened only one evening a Hospital and for 25 years as a medical week. Since then, a collaboration with director at BOC. He said, “The impact of other medical providers and volunteers this clinic goes far beyond just treating has expanded its hours to four days a physical conditions. We hope to positively week. impact individuals, families and our comBOC is a 501(c)(3) organization offer- munity by bridging the gap for the unining diagnostic and primary care and a sured.” three-tiered pharmacy. The goal of BOC For information, visit www.theis to help patients become and remain outreachclinic.com or call 654-1388.
Page 22
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
Volume 18, Issue 12
Maj. Irving Fannell (Ret.), Lennard ROTC, Reflects On A Lifetime Of Service And Teaching
Sincerely Santa Tampa Gears Up For Holidays With Annual Toy Drive
Maj. Irving Fannell et.” When describing (Ret.) explained his the class to a road to teaching at prospective student, Lennard High School he explains what the along with some of his student should expect favorite moments. when it comes to On February 28, marching, their uni1983, Fannell enlisted form and physical into military service as training. He also a “combat medic and explains possible volphysical therapy assisunteer opportunities tant,” then went on to for the student along receive his commiswith Color Guard and sion to become an Raider Competitions. officer in 1996. From “It truly does help Irving Fannell (Ret.) explains his young people to 2008 to 2012, he was Maj. road to teaching at Lennard High the Army healthcare School along with some of his favorite become better citimoments. recruiter in Tampa, zens. It teaches discirecruiting “for doctors, nurses and other pline, goal setting and gives the students allied healthcare professionals.” His last a well-rounded program that is different eight years for the Army was active duty from their other classes,” said Fannell. from July 2012 until 2015. During this Fanell described one of his favorite time, he was assigned as the “personal memories from teaching as the time he officer for the 338th Medical Brigade for helped one of his students realize what over 2,000 soldiers.” This added up to they were truly capable of a few years be 32 years spent in the medical adminago. The student had been struggling istration field for the military. academically and had a long way to go Due to his BS teaching degree in to be able to graduate. However, the stuphysical education and health along with dent eventually began working harder a MS degree in special education, and doing everything needed for them to Fannell turned to teaching after retiring graduate. After graduating, the student from the military. went to an Air Force recruiter and enlist“I have always had a love for teached into the branch. Once they had coming and I thought that teaching Army pleted basic training and advanced indiJROTC would be an excellent way to vidual training, they returned to the give back and help young people,” said school to thank Fannell, along with his Fannell. co-worker MSG Bailes, for “helping them Fanell explained that some of his change their life and guiding them to a favorite topics to teach his students are life that they were happy to be in as they “first aid, nutrition and how to do a budg- felt that this was a pathway to success.”
A group of Hillsborough County children will have a more joyous Christmas thanks to a Tampa nonprofit. Sincerely Santa Tampa has coordinated gifts for underprivileged and at-risk children in Tampa Bay every year since its estabEvery year, Sincerely Santa Tampa distributes gifts to lishment in 1987, providing clothing and toys to a total of hundreds of local children. Last year, first responders and law enforcement members were able to deliver the toys to more than 100,000 children. the children. Each year, those in side kindergarten through third grade get an the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office, opportunity to write a letter to Santa Hillsborough County Fire Rescue, Temple explaining what they would like to have Terrace Fire Department and more to get for Christmas, then the teachers and these gifts processed and delivered. This social workers select the neediest chilyear, due to COVID-19, the organization dren and forward the letters to Sincerely teamed up with the Hillsborough County Santa Tampa. Once those letters get Parks & Recreation centers to minimize reviewed by the Sincerely Santa Elves, contact at a location where families can they are displayed at the Westfield come to pick up the gifts for their children. Brandon mall and distributed to the orgaFamilies will be notified and must provide nization’s corporate partners. identification in order to receive their Civic organizations, mall shoppers packages. and more have the opportunity to Hillsborough County Fire Rescue become a sponsor by choosing a letter or Captain David Raasch stated how he felt letters which include items that could be about all of these efforts from many who bought for the child. The letters can be contributed to Sincerely Santa Tampa located at the Sincerely Santa Tampa over the years. booth inside the Dillard’s at Westfield “I just want to thank the community Brandon from now through Sunday, for 33 years of support,” Capt. Raasch December 20. said. “We are dedicated to giving back to For more information or to donate, the local community we serve as this visit www.sincerelysantatampa.org. meaningful cause brightens the lives of Check out the group’s Facebook page at young children,” said Westfield Brandon’s www.facebook.com/SincerelySantaTamp marketing director, Dawn Arvidson. a, email info@sincerelysantatampa.org or The organization also works alongcall 841-4611.
By Faith Miller
By Tatiana Ortiz
December 2020
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
Page 23
Page 24
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
Volume 18, Issue 12
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Volume 18, Issue 12 Ph: 657-2418
Cali Cafe Celebrates Grand Reopening
Cali Cafe in Riverview opened its doors on January 9. Shortly after its grand opening, the coronavirus pandemic swept the nation, which resulted in the shutdown of restaurants and cafes. With the Riverview community slowly reopening, it celebrated its grand reopening with much confidence and great goals for the future. Cali Cafe specializes in Colombian fare. It serves pastries, breads and savory snacks produced every morning by their personal chef, who has over 50 years of experience. Cali Cafe is also known for its Colombian coffee that is exported directly from Colombia to its store. Cali Cafe is located at 10010 U.S. Hwy. 301 in Riverview, behind Kazbor’s Grille & Bar. For more information, visit https://calicafe-coffeeshop.business.site/, and you can reach it by calling 871-0791.
Brandon Regional Hospital Now Offers Alternative To Long-Term Blood Thinners
Brandon Regional Hospital is pleased to announce that the first hospital in Hillsborough County to offer the latest alternative to long-term blood
Photo courtesy of Leighton DaCosta
thinner medications with a newly designed left atrial appendage closure device. A first-of-its-kind, the device is a proven alternative to blood thinners for stroke risk reduction in patients with non-valvular atrial fibrillation, an irregular heartbeat that can lead to blood clots, stroke, heart failure and other heart-related complications.
Phoenix House Florida Supports Those Struggling With Substance Use
COVID-19 has disrupted routines, created the loss of in-person support meetings and counseling and forced the collapse of other support structures, all of which increase the risk of relapse and overdose. The forced isolation is especially dangerous to those struggling with
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53 Queen Palm Dr. in Tampa. The more-than-30,000 sq. ft. campus will feature modern classrooms and common areas as well as state-of-theart nursing skills labs and simulation learning technology. Enrollment is open immediately, with general education courses beginning The new Herzing University campus in Tampa. in January 2021 and core nursing classes starting later in the addiction and recovery. The National year. For more information about Institute on Drug Abuse estimates that Herzing University - Tampa, visit drug overdoses have increased 30-40 www.herzing.edu/tampa or email tpapercent since the initial outbreak of the info@herzing.edu. virus. Phoenix House Florida is proud to support those struggling with subN Zone Sports SouthShore Opens stance use by providing outpatient and Winter Registration residential services. For more information on the servicN Zone Sports, provider of the ulties Phoenix House Florida provides, mate experience in non-contact youth call 328-3960 or visit sports, has opened its registration for www.phoenixfl.org. the winter 2021 season, which will Herzing University start on Saturday, Opens NursingJanuary 9, 2021. Focused Campus In The league is Tampa open for children of ages 3-17 and includes flag football, Herzing University, an accredited, soccer and cheerleading. N Zone private, nonprofit institution with locaSports encourages your child to get out tions in seven states, announced it will and play. open a new campus in Tampa in early Visit 2021. Herzing’s Tampa campus will https://nzonesports.com/southshore/ab offer several nursing programs and out or call 677-6826 to find out more. pathways that are modeled after the programs at the school’s Orlando camContinued on Next Page pus. The new campus will be at 3632
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Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
Business Column Continued................... Image 360 Mobile Advertising Can Bring Holiday Cheer
Image 360 is Tampa Bay’s premier LED digital mobile advertising truck company. The digital mobile billboard trucks bring innovation and excitement along with the newest technology to any advertising campaign. It is the solution to ensure that you reach the widest audience for your event or campaign, whether it’s an advertisement, concert, conference or fundraising drive. At this time of year, it can also be used to bring holiday cheer to any event or to help celebrate. The screens can be used to play holiday movies, music or family pictures, including outside the homes of loved ones who have been socially distancing. For more information on Image 360 mobile digital billboards, visit www.image360yborcity.com or call 800-7446.
Align Right Realty Riverview Celebrates First Anniversary
Align Right Realty Riverview just celebrated its first anniversary at its office at 11962 Balm Riverview Rd. Align Right Realty Riverview is a fullservice real estate brokerage whose goal is to align every customer with the right home, right realtor and right brokerage. Lisa Tackus, owner/broker of Align Right Realty Riverview, has lived in the area for over 20 years and is an active community member within ECHO, Rodgers Middle School and her community HOA. For more information, visit https://alignrightriverview.com/ or call 310-2333.
Pamper Yourself At CJ Aesthetics Chelsea Johnson is the owner of CJ Aesthetics in Riverview and is a licensed aesthetician with over 20 years of experience and advanced training in chemical peels, dermaplaning, dermalinfusion and microneedling. Johnson is dedicated
By Jenny Bennett
to making flawless skin possible with medical-grade treatments, and as a mother of three boys, she knows the importance of achieving amazing results but also the feeling of being pampered. Chelsea loves to educate clients and help them feel comfortable with individualized programs that bring out the best in their appearance as well as their overall skin health. CJ Aesthetics is located at 12950 U.S. Hwy. 301, Ste. 137 in Riverview and is open by appointment only. Visit cjaesthetic.com to view the services she provides and to make an appointment or call 269-365-3359.
Mandola’s Italian Kitchen Opens In Riverview
Mandola’s Italian Kitchen recently opened at 12926 U.S. Hwy. 301 S. in Riverview and celebrated with a ribbon-cutting attended by the founders of the Mandola’s fastcasual concept, Damian and Trina Mandola, and close family members and friends. Mandola’s Italian Kitchen is an authentic Italian grocery and eatery that exudes great food, a bustling atmosphere and warm hospitality. For more information, visit https://mandolas.com/ or call 755-3587.
A Party 2 Remember Celebrates 16-Year Anniversary
A Party 2 Remember is a traveling business specializing in a variety of quality bounce houses and inflatable rentals for children’s parties and all types of family-friendly events. No event is too big or too small. A Party 2 Remember is reliable, prompt and professional, and its equipment is cleaned and sanitized after each use. Along with inflatables, A Party 2 Remember now also offers table and chair
rentals, characters and entertainers as well as outdoor movies. For more information, visit www.aparty2remember.net or call 2252622.
Business Retreat For Women
Volume 18, Issue 12
clinical team of registered nurses, Jennifer and Raquel, at both the Riverview and Sun City Center locations, who will be using their years of experience to provide outstanding infusion and outpatient rheumatology experiences. To schedule an appointment, call 672-2243. Visit swflrheum.com for
Local author and entrepreneur Shannon Carlton invites you to spend a D&L Insurance weekend with Makes Office women entreFamily-Friendly For preneurs for Staff her annual Business D&L Insurance in Vision Board Ruskin recently made Retreat. From some changes to its Friday-Sunday, office to make it more January 15-17, family-friendly and to Ribbon-cutting of new family-friendly office help meet the demands time will be space. dedicated to of our ever-changing growing businesses together and redis- world. It added a ‘classroom’ area covering your visions for your profeswhere their staff can bring their kids to sional lives. work with them, and babies are welTime will be come too. This keeps the parents spent creating working and the children supported systems, with school work. processes and D&L Insurance has policies for content, as well auto, homeowners, commercial, ATV as diving deep and motorcycles. It makes sure that the to find your policy will match your needs and budgvalue proposiet, so you can depend on it to find the tion and new perfect fit. ways to better For additional information or a your life. A mas- quote, call the office at 641-8331 or termind session visit dandlinsurance.com. will give you the opportunity to bring your challenges to the group and get New Riverview Location Wendy’s input from the other minds Restaurant in the room. After the sesOpens sions, you will create your A brand-new vision board with all the Wendy’s location fantastic things you have just opened at learned, and finally, 3906 S. U.S. Hwy. Sunday morning will be 301 in Riverview spent learning to create on November 14. healthy rituals and impleTo celebrate, the ment healthy habits so that first 100 cars who you walk into 2021 with a FUEL-filled made a purchase in the drive-through (fulfilling, uncomplicated, exciting and received a coupon book to redeem for lucrative) business.Visit a free breakfast sandwich every week https://www.shannoncarlton.com/busifor a year. The restaurant was built ness-vision-board-retreat/. using an innovative interior and exterior design which is part of an ongoing Southwest Florida Rheumatology effort to provide an enhanced customer Updates Office experience. “Not only will we serve up Southwest Florida the most deliRheumatology is excitcious breakfast, ed to announce its lunch and dinnewly renovated and ner, the conupgraded Riverview temporary look office at 11954 Boyette and feel of the Rd. The space has restaurant is been redesigned to promote a calm, sure to bring customers back time and therapeutic environment for patient time again,” said Kevin Zarcone, direccare. It is also pleased to introduce its tor of area operations for Wendy’s.
December 2020
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
Page 27
Tie The Knot With “It’s Official Wedding Officiant Services”
By Michelle Caceres
As the holidays quickly approach, you may find yourself wondering what to get that golfer on your list. Since the pandemic, an increased interest in the game of golf has emerged as a safe outdoor activity where one can easily socially distance. It may be that your loved one or friend may now have a new or restored love of the game. The great thing about a golf-related gift is that it has become very easy to go online and choose from hundreds of ideas. Here are some great options that will be perfect for your golfer. Most local golf clubs offer gift cards that can be used for anything at the course, such as golf, food, drinks or merchandise from the proshop and can usually be purchased on the club’s website. Purchasing these gift cards supports local businesses and gives the golfer in your life a gift they can use all year long. If you aren’t sure what course your golfer frequents or if they tend to play at multiple courses, you can find gift cards through online tee time reservation companies like GolfNow or TeeOff.com that allow them to purchase rounds at various courses in the area. If you want a gift that the entire family can enjoy, consider a trip to Topgolf in Brandon. Topgolf is a family-
friendly option for novice and skilled golfers alike and can prove to be a great time for everyone. For that more serious golfer or a beginner, you may consider getting them a lesson or a package of golf lessons so they can improve their game. All local clubs have PGA Professionals on staff that are happy to offer lesson certificates. Online, there are thousands of golf-related websites to purchase anything from new golf clubs to novelty golf socks and accessories for your special golfer. If you don’t know what to choose, consider a gift card from one of these online retailers and give them the opportunity to add to their golf wardrobe or stuff their bag with golf balls. Sites like rockbottomgolf.com, tgw.com and golflocker.com all have expansive selections. We hope this holiday season brings you many birdies and straight drives. If you still need some help with holiday gifts, please feel free to reach out to me at golfguyosprey@gmail.com. Jason Blanchard, PGA manages the 18-hole Summerfield Crossings Golf Club as the COO/General Manager. The course opened in 1987 and was designed by Ron Garl. Visit https://summerfieldgc.com/
Whether a bride idea that they are unitand groom’s wedding ing not only as a couplans include a large ple, but as a family. outdoor wedding or “The bride and an intimate at-home groom can see their affair, their special story differently, so I day wouldn’t be comlike to get both sides of plete without one key the story,” said player—the wedding Giordano. One couple Marriages get off to a flawless start with Mimi Giordano of It’s Official officiant. completed the bio sheet Wedding Officiant Services. Mimi Giordano, and the bride told me owner of It’s Official Wedding Officiant they met at a bonfire at the YMCA. The Services, helps couples bring their love groom said they met in the woods behind story to life by writing a personalized certhe YMCA. “You can see why I need both emony that reflects who they are as indisides of the story,” she joked. viduals and who they will be as a couple. Bride Alexandra Karones Seigler “I weave your love story into your knew shortly after meeting Giordano that ceremony, not only for you to cherish but she would be the perfect officiant for her for your family and friends to enjoy,” said ceremony. Giordano, who has been uniting couples “She met us over coffee and doughfor more than 22 years. She specializes nuts at a local doughnut shop and we in all types of ceremonies, including didn’t feel rushed,” said Seigler. “She was elopements, interfaith, religion-specific, completely genuine and took the time to nondenominational, civil union and really get to know us.” renewal of vows. Giordano kept her involved in the Giordano’s ceremonies aren’t cookie- entire process of writing the ceremony but cutter; no two ceremonies are identical. also added professional touches to everyShe and her team work closely with the thing. The result was an unforgettable couple to plan a meaningful ceremony. ceremony. The bride and groom separately answer “She made us feel like she had fact sheets about how their love story known us our entire lives,” she said. “She began, allowing for Giordano to weave was absolutely fantastic.” these stories into the ceremony along Giordano said that with more brides with other pieces to create a narrative that and grooms choosing a private and intiresonates on a personal level with the mate ceremony because of COVID-19, it couple and the guests. If the bride or has put the focus back on the ceremony groom bring children to the marriage, she itself. “It is the reason why you’re having makes sure to make them an intricate the party, after all,” she said. part of the ceremony by speaking words For more, visit www.itsofficialwedof praise to each of them, instilling the dings.com or call 545-8128.
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Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
Volume 18, Issue 12
Trilogy Dive Center Provides Scuba Diving Certification Classes For Underwater Experiences By Michelle Caceres
It’s an exciting time to be inshore on Tampa Bay hunting fish species such as red drum, black drum, trout and snook on the flats and in the backcountry. From TECO’s Kitchen in Apollo Beach to the south spanning nearly 12 nautical miles and in and behind Cockroach Bay, some would proclaim these are some of the best fishing estuaries in Florida. Exploring these areas requires some tide planning, so stay in your comfort zone and have a safe day on the water. Although moving water is ideal, many times we make our fishing plans around when we can get out on the water. Tides Near Me is a great app/resource to gain tidal information so you will have enough water depth to get into your planned spots holding fish. A great rule of thumb is to go to the backcountry for two hours before a high tide and get out two hours after a high tide. On our recent trips, a medium rod of 12 to 20 pounds, with a four series spinning reel attached, spooled with quality 20-pound braid and 30-pound fluorocarbon leader (24-30” length) using a line-toline knot or a double uni knot (look them up on YouTube), is our choice. 1/0 or 2/0 (pronounced ‘two ott’) circle hook with a
small size of 5 or 4 split shot near the knot can help marinate a shrimp, or better yet, a quarter blue crab after removing the legs, top shell and going through a leg socket with your hook tip out, will attract red fish, black drum and to, some surprise, snook. While fishing near the mangroves, 15-20 ft. from the shoreline, quietly lower your anchor, turn down your radio, don’t stomp or slam and let your vessel settle in so you can make an accurate sidearm throw/cast deep under a mangrove opening. Marinating your bait means leaving it there and patiently watching it get pulled teasingly lightly (sometimes over three times) until the fish gets it in its mouth, taking moderate drag. Taking it on the flats, we use a great method that’s a ton of fun. My anglers and I determine the wind and drift (tide movement) together, so we can kill the engine in about 2 1/2 to 5 feet of water and plan to drift a few hundred yards; that either runs alongside the mangrove-covered islands or pushes us into or away from them. With similar tackle, lighten up to a 10 to 20-pound fluorocarbon leader (length should match your depth) under a torpedo-weighted cork and find some trout. Tight lines, and we’ll see you out there.
With more than sion of an instructor and, 1,350 miles of coastfinally, applying the skills line, warm weather learned in the required numand the only living ber of open-water training coral reef in the contidives with an instructor. nental United States, Trilogy Dive Center provides Florida is the perfect all the equipment, place to dive beneath including masks, fins gulf or ocean waters and snorkels, so nothing for views that can needs to be purchased only be described as prior to class. magical. Trilogy Dive Center Trilogy Dive has partnered with Become scuba-certified through Trilogy Dive Center and enter an Brandon Sports and Aquatic Center Owner Mike underwater magical world. Massaro described Center (BSAC) to offer scuba diving as an escape from the demands certification and a scuba club for BSAC and pressures of life. “Every time I go div- members. Scuba camps are scheduled ing, whatever stress I’m feeling evapofor spring/summer in 2021 at BSAC. rates when I get underwater,” he said. Scuba camps are weeklong adventures “That’s the magic of scuba diving.” for those 10 to 17 years old and include In addition to being a stress reliever, scuba certification. Trilogy provides scuba he said diving is an opportunity to see certification courses for groups and also things most people only see in pictures or private courses. In addition to scuba certivideos. “It’s the chance to explore a world fication, Trilogy Dive Center is a Divers we’re not used to being in, a world full of Alert Network (DAN) training center that marine life, historic shipwrecks and offers emergency dive medicine training. more.” Trilogy Staff Instructors are experienced Whether scuba diving is something paramedics and Diving Medical on a family member’s Christmas wish list Technicians. Its retail center provides or your own personal bucket list, Massaro divers access to equipment from brands can make those dreams a reality. The including Atomic, Zeagle, OTS and Spare Trilogy Dive Center team offers certificaAir. tion for recreational, technical, scientific “We train fire departments and law and public safety divers. enforcement officers to dive,” said The certification process includes Massaro. “Let us teach your family how to completing a Scuba Diving International safely navigate the underwater world.” (SDI) online scuba course, completing inContact Trilogy Dive Center at 425water skill development training in the 3500 to sign up for a certification class safety of a swimming pool or a similarly today or visit www.trilogyscuba.com for confined body of water under the supervi- more information.
December 2020
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Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
200+ Scholarships From Hillsborough Education Foundation Available For High School Seniors
Time To Consider Magnet And Career School Options For 2021-22
Hillsborough Using HEF’s online Education Foundation process, students only (HEF), the only not-forneed to complete one profit focused solely on application to determine strengthening public eligibility for multiple education in scholarships. Based on Hillsborough County, is scholarship criteria, stunow accepting applicadents may be tions for senior scholarrequired to ships. complete addiHillsborough Education There are more tional essays Foundation is offering than 200 scholarships as part of the more than 200 scholarships to high available, ranging from qualification school seniors. $500-$15,000. All process. Some Hillsborough County Public Schools 12th scholarships are not restricted only to grade students with aspirations of continpublic school students. uing their education after high school at a Established in 1987, Hillsborough university, community college or technical Education Foundation is a nonprofit college may apply for these scholarships. focused on strengthening public educa“We are able to support students’ tion by supporting teachers and empowdreams of pursuing higher education ering students to achieve academic and through the generosity of our business personal success. Together with commupartners, community organizations and nity partners, HEF strategically invests in individual donors—many of whom want initiatives that impact teaching quality and to leave the ultimate legacy of a loved increase graduation rates, bolstering a one by naming a scholarship in their thriving workforce of tomorrow and the honor,” said Hillsborough Education sustainable prosperity of Tampa Bay. Foundation CEO Kim Jowell. “We underVisit stand for many students affording the www.educationfoundation.com/seniorsch opportunity can be a financial strain on olarships for a list of available scholarfamilies. These scholarships can help ships, criteria and to apply by the Friday, ease that stress, positively impact stuJanuary 31 deadline. Recipients will be dents’ lives and the future of our commuannounced in the spring of 2021. For nity.” questions, contact Angie Anthony, director Scholarships are awarded based on of scholarships, at aanthony@educationa variety of criteria, such as GPA, field of foundation.com or 574-0273. If you’re study, financial need, challenges overinterested in funding a scholarship, concome, school and community service or tact Chief Advancement Officer Mike extracurricular activity participation, and McCollum at 574-0296 or vary from scholarship to scholarship. mmccollum@educationfoundation.com.
The Hillsborough on a space-available basis. County School District’s Transportation is not providmagnet school, career and ed by the school district to technical education (CTE) out-of-area students. and school choice proThe school choice grams offer students a varioption is also available to ety of focused educational families without signing up opportunities with which to for a CTE program. In pursue their academic and those cases, the option is professional aspirations. available to students enterThe district’s first window ing grades K-11 on a for families to apply to space-available basis at these programs for the schools outside of their 2021-22 school year attendance areas. No Even during a pandemic, opened on November 2 school district transportaHillsborough County Public tion is provided for school and continues through Schools students have the Friday, December 11. opportunity to safely explore choice. their talents through magnet Families will be notified According to Bob Cox, and school choice options. about acceptance in late the district’s supervisor January 2021. of magnet programs, The district’s mag“Our choice and magnet net school program prooptions are some of the vides instruction at specmost dynamic and rigorified elementary, middle and high schools ous programs within our school district. that is theme-based, emphasizing areas We have worked diligently to ensure our such as performing and communication families will have an informative and arts, International Baccalaureate studies, enjoyable experience as they explore technology like robotics and game develnew educational paths through our disopment as well as business and health trict’s 80-plus magnet and choice prosciences. Transportation to magnet grams.” schools is provided by the school district. For more information and to apply for CTE programs are areas of focus at a magnet or choice program, visit hillsbormany neighborhood middle and high oughschools.org, where you can also schools, ranging, for example, from autoparticipate in online events such as the motive maintenance and light repair at Magnet: Vision 2020 Exploration Night Brandon High School to web developpresentation on Thursday, December 3 ment at Newsome High School. Access from 6-7 p.m. Representatives from magto these choice schools and programs net schools will talk about their programs are available to students entering grades and answer questions during the event, K-11 out of the schools’ attendance areas which requires online registration.
Staff Report
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Page 30
Volume 18, Issue 12
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
Boy Scouts Of America Presents Badge Of Honor To Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office
By Brandon Kathman
The Hillsborough est honor, the Eagle County Sheriff’s Scout rank. Office received the “The lessons I Boy Scouts of learned as I became America’s an Eagle Scout have Participating helped me all my Citizenship Award life,” Scott said. “I for service to the want to thank all of community at a virthe volunteers, all of tual event on the troop leaders October 26. and all of the law “We are enforcement that extremely excited to help our Scouts. showcase the work Keep up the good of law enforcework, and never ment…who have stop pursuing your been instrumental in dreams.” helping all of us stay According to the safe and move Greater Tampa Bay through uncharted Area Council, the circumstances,” the Hillsborough County council’s director of Sheriff’s Office and field service, the Boy Scouts of Dwayne Jones, said. America maintain a “How we work longstanding parttogether makes our nership through the communities better.” Law Enforcement The Participating Explorers Program. Citizenship Award A separate branch “recognizes the selfof Scouting, less service of local Explorers’ posts are heroes,” including dedicated to vocalaw enforcement tional learning. For canines, Jones said. law enforcement Senator Rick Scott programs like and former Tampa Hillsborough’s Post Bay Buccaneer 238, this consists of Ronde Barber also experiential activimade appearances ties and competition. during the program, Jones concluded thanking both the the program by asksheriff’s office and ing viewers to local Scouting volSenator Rick Scott, football player donate to support Ronde Barber and Director of Field local programs like unteers. Service Dwayne Jones participated “Trying times in a virtual recognition of service to Exploring and tradiprioritize what is the community from the Boy Scouts tional Scouting. of America to the Hillsborough important and now, According to the County Sheriff’s Office last month. more than ever, Greater Tampa Bay tying as many threads together for a Area Council, this will help common cause is essential,” Barber Scouting’s districts and properties told viewers. weather what has been a challengBarber expressed a sense of ing year for all nonprofit organizashared obligation between voluntions. teer-led programs like the Boy “Through all of this, we are Scouts and law enforcement as ‘ser- excited to know that many of the vants of the public’ to better the tenets of Scouting such as helping lives of young people in local comour neighbors, checking in on those munities. in need and putting others before During his appearance, Scott ourselves has strengthened our referenced his own time in Scouting. sense of community and civic duty,” He remembered signing up for the Jones said. “Participating citizenship Cub Scouts in the second grade and is at the foundation of the lessons eventually receiving Scouting’ highlearned in the Scouting programs.”
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December 2020
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
Page 31
Take Cross Bay Ferry To Visit The Newly Redesigned St. Petersburg Pier
By Michelle Colesanti
The Cross Bay Ferry the Pier overlooking the has returned to Tampa Bay. bay is Doc Ford’s Rum Bay The Provincetown III, here & Grille. This 10,000 sq. ft. from its seasonal Boston-torestaurant/bar focuses its Provincetown runs in menu on Florida fare and Massachusetts, will continue flavors from throughout the service here until April 30, Caribbean. 2021. At the end of the Pier, Excited to hear about the the four-story structure ferry’s return, my husband houses a few restaurant and I, along with close choices. On the ground Kids can enjoy the playground area The Cross Bay Ferry has returned to friends in our COVID-19 buband the beach when visiting the Pier. level is the Driftwood Cafe, the Tampa Bay area and is making trips between Tampa and St. ble, recently took the ferry to a casual walkup spot offerPetersburg every day, except Monday St. Petersburg. We were ing ice cream and snacks. and Tuesday, through the end of April happy that masks were Enjoy a picnic here while 2021. required while on board. Two overlooking the water. The cost is $10 Janet Echelman’s net sculpture, floors accommodate passengers. The We had dinner at Teak, each way for adults and Bending Arc, brilliantly lights up the upstairs section of the ferry is all outdoors $8 for seniors 65-plus, a fine dining restaurant, Pier each evening. (though partially covered). The day we which was a wonderful treat. motion with the wind. military and college stutook the journey, it was not crowded, so it There are a lot of great seafood choices To me, it was most dents. Children under 4 was easy to social distance. as well as other options. I had the mahi impressive after dark. are free. On the Tampa side, the ferry leaves fish and chips with seasoned fries, which At the entrance of the Pier, you can Once you arrive in St. Petersburg, just outside of the Tampa Convention was delicious. It’s located on the fourth stop for a meal or drink while overlooking there is plenty to do downtown. Over the Center on the Riverwalk. The trip across floor, and the views are fantastic. It will the marina. Fresco’s Waterfront Bistro’s years, we have watched this city morph the bay takes just under an hour and is make you feel as if you are mini-vacationwraparound deck offers great views for into a vibrant community. The Pier, which very relaxing. It crosses the channel out ing on a cruise ship. On the rooftop, kick lunch, dinner or weekend brunch. was rebuilt after years of discussion on of Tampa between Harbor and Davis back and enjoy Pier Teaki’s classic tiki As you stroll onto the Pier, there are how it should look, recently opened in Islands, so there are great views of the bar. kiosks with vendors set up selling mostly July. It is a short walk from where the homes along the water that you can’t see ferry disembarks and you can’t miss it. If walking is an issue, there is a free touristy items. That area is shaded and from the interior. If you are lucky, you may tram with four stops along the length of possibly protected from inclement weathEncompassing 26 acres, there is a also catch a glimpse of a dolphin. The the Pier. There is so much more, but you er. Beyond that there was a great play lot of space to maneuver and social disferry arrives in St. Petersburg across from tance, as is always a concern to us durwill have to visit and see for yourself. area for youngsters and a beach where North Straub Park. We enjoyed walking and taking in the you can sit, relax and even swim; a great ing the COVID-19 crisis. Masks are Limited food and a full-service bar whole ambiance of downtown St. family destination. It is right behind Spa requested outdoors and required at are available on board. There is no ferry Beach Bistro, an outdoor cafe serving lim- Petersburg before settling back on the indoor venues throughout the Pier. service on Monday or Tuesday, and servferry for the return trip. ited items, including design-your-own You will notice immediately, even ice is limited on Wednesday and Visit https://stpetepier.org/ for more pizza. Vendors were also selling cans of before you reach the Pier, a net sculpture Thursday. From Friday to Sunday, morninformation. beer and hard seltzers. What impressed called Bending Arc, which Tampa native ing-through-evening departures will give For more information tickets and me most was how nice this area all ties Janet Echelman has created. Bending you enough time to enjoy a leisurely visit departure times, visit www.thecrossbaytogether in its simplicity. Arc measures at 76 ft. at its highest point on the other side of the bay. ferry.com. Another restaurant about midway on and 428 ft. wide. It is perpetually in
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Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
Volume 18, Issue 12
Sandford L. Gladden, 69, Jumbo The Clown, YMCA Of Tampa Bay Named Business Journal Leaves Legacy Of Smiles, Laughter & Magic ‘2020 One Tampa Bay’ Honoree By Gwen Rollings
“I’ll never forget the out. Some may laugh at that Christmas Eve when I statement, but his goal in life knew Santa Claus was was to spread joy and to real. After I was in bed make people of all ages but not asleep, I heard happy and laugh. At the end bells ringing outside my of our lives, not too many window, and I imagined people can say that. There it was Santa’s sleigh. I will never be another person didn’t know that earlier like our sweet Jumbo. The that day, he had put the SouthShore community will bells above my window forever miss him.” tied to a long cord so he According to Jutjens, “I could pull them from his was about 15 when my stepwindow. It was so magidad went to clown college cal and special for me,” and created the character Jumbo the Clown brought Deanna Jutjens said, love, laughter and smiles to all Jumbo. I knew him more of recalling one of her a magician in my younger who knew him. favorite memories years who could perform of her stepfather, amazing magical illuSandford L. sions. My birthday parties Gladden, also were awesome. Dad known as Jumbo would do magic shows the Clown. and use my friends as Jumbo the volunteers. I suppose he Clown was magical was always a clown at and special to many heart because he made others in nursing life for my mom and me The SouthShore ‘Best of the Best’ homes, veteran fun, silly and magical.” Awards Ceremony where participants hospitals, Shriners It became Jumbo’s donned red noses in honor of Jumbo the Clown. Hospitals for goal to become friends Children, the Tampa Bay Rays family and with those fearful children before he left, especially the SouthShore community. which was always accomplished. That is why such a tremendous loss was Jumbo was awarded ‘Best of felt after his death on September 22. SouthShore’ in January 2020. Although Melanie Davis, executive director of he was recognized as the best clown by the SouthShore Chamber of Commerce, so many people, his daughter captured remembered, “Jumbo was truly one of a what was probably the most valuable kind. He had the kindest heart, and he accolade of all for him: “I could not have lived his life in a way many of us could asked for a better childhood, because only imagine. He was a clown, inside and Sandy chose to be my dad.”
M
Staff Report
The YMCA of 8,000 senior memthe Tampa Bay bers to prevent recently received social isolation and recognition for the lift their spirits. The help given to the YMCA team also community during produced virtual the early days of resources to help the pandemic. The community memgroup was named bers stay active, a ‘2020 One healthy Tampa Bay’ honand oree by the Tampa conThe YMCAs of Tampa Bay were Bay Business nected recognized recently for work done Journal. in their for the community during the early ‘One Tampa own days of the pandemic. Bay’ is a Tampa Bay Business Journal home. award that honors nonprofit organizations Additionally, blood drives hosted at and for-profit companies for their philanYMCAs across Tampa Bay have positivethropic efforts. This year’s class features ly impacted 2,637 lives so far. 17 corporate philanthropy honorees and Furthermore, the Ys conducted 1,678 vir21 nonprofit organizations out of over 220 tual reading and Early Head Start sesnominations. sions to help students stay on track. Stepping in to fill critical voids, the “For more than a century, the Y and Tampa Metropolitan Area YMCA transithe Tampa Bay community have made it tioned its Y facilities to provide emergency through many challenging times togethrelief care for 1,534 children of medical er. Historically, the Y has played imporpersonnel, first responders and other tant roles in helping our community essential workers during the initial months endure during times of uncertainty and of the pandemic. In doing so, the Y was societal strain. The current COVID-19 able to provide over 308,800 hours of pandemic is another challenge that none safe fun and 15,440 healthy meals to chil- of us will soon forget,” said Matt Mitchell, dren in partnership with local school dispresident and CEO of the Tampa tricts. Metropolitan Area YMCA. “We are fortuTogether with Feeding Tampa Bay nate to have the support of our neighand other community organizations, Ys boring Ys, community partners, donors across Tampa Bay served more than and staff to find ways to use our 70,000 meals to families in need, providresources to offer solutions to social ed 1,104 baby care essentials and gave voids.” 753 cloth masks to community members To learn more, visit www.ymcatamin need. Y staff reached out to nearly pabay.org.
December 2020
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Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
Walk Thru Bethlehem Changes Format But Keeps Christmas Spirit Alive Since 1986, Kings Avenue Baptist Church has been hosting a festive, joy-filled Christmas tradition that transports guests directly to the ancient city of Bethlehem as it existed during the time of Jesus’ birth. Celebrating its 34th year, Walk Thru Bethlehem (WTB) is normally an interactive event where attendees experience the miracle of Christmas, but this year, due to the pandemic, the church has had to make some changes to keep everyone safe while sharing the story. This free community event normally draws more than 6,000 visitors each year. Typically, guests are transported during a 30-minute guided tour through authentic settings of the ancient city of Bethlehem, including actors in time-period clothing, sets, scenery and animals. More than 225 volunteers each evening would become the townspeople of Bethlehem, populated by Roman guards, weavers, blacksmiths, bakers, carpenters, potters and shepherds. The tour normally concludes with a visit to the manger with Mary, Joseph and baby Jesus. City Director and Committee Member for WTB Tracy Hoyt said that the committee decided that because of concerns surrounding COVID-19, that this year’s format would need to change. “We are not having our traditional WTB this year, but we are doing a series
By Kelly Valdes
at our church,” said Hoyt. “Each Sunday, we will have a portion of the city set up and the pastor will go into deeper detail of that part of the story. The stage will be set for each service representing part of the city of WTB with actors in costume and participating with Pastor John as he delves in the series.” Hoyt understands that many families have made WTB part of their family’s holiday tradition for years. “We have distance seating in-person worship on Sundays, but we also offer YouTube and livestreaming on Facebook,” she said. “We have an overflow space in our chapel so we can make sure everyone is di stanced correctly if that is needed.” The series will start on Sunday, December 6 and conclude on Sunday, December 27. Services take place at 10:45 a.m. on Sundays. On December 6, topics will include Census, Tax, Oil and Wine; on December 13, the subject will be Fish, Salt, Bread and Synagogue; December 20 will be titled Inn, Carpenter, Cloth Dyer and Pottery; the Christmas Eve service on December 24 will focus on the Shepherds and Manger; and, finally, December 27 will be titled Wise Men, Cross and Tomb. For the schedule of the modified version of Walk Thru Bethlehem, visit www.bethekingsavenue.com or call 6849453. Kings Avenue Baptist Church is located at 2602 S Kings Ave. in Brandon.
Toy Drive Hosted By Lighthouse Gospel Mission For Children In Need
By Tatiana Ortiz
Spreading Since some holiday Lighthouse cheer might look Gospel slightly different Mission’s estabthis year for lishment on some families. December 12, Lighthouse 1952 by J.A. Gospel Mission Lennard, it has and its ministry, continued proOperation Hope viding an impact of Florida, on the lives of strives to bring thousands all smiles through assisacross the Tampa tance of a toy drive Bay area. and much more. Lennard startAll of the toys ed the mission as donated will be distriban encouragement uted during the annual to the homeless in Christmas of Hope downtown Tampa A child receiving a toy from last year’s by offering them a event, which is free to Christmas of Hope event. the community, on hot meal and Friday, December 18 at the Lighthouse clothing. Due to the growth of Gospel Mission in Riverview at 6 p.m. Lighthouse Gospel Mission’s ministry, it Lighthouse Gospel Mission later relocated to its current spot. Development Manager Joelle Allen “Overall, we want to others to know shared her input about the toy drive. that we are here trying to make a differ“We are trying to collect the toys for ence within the surrounding community,” children ages 2 to 10 and make sure their Allen said. Christmas is blessed,” Allen said. Those interested in contributing can Operation Hope of Florida is a food drop off the toys Monday through Friday ministry that distributes more than 2.4 mil- from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. at the Lighthouse lion pounds per year to families in need. It Remnant Thrift Store. The deadline to serves 2,105,497 people annually. donate is on Friday, December 11. During Christmas of Hope, attendees For more information, visit will receive a hot meal, a food box and www.lighthousegospelmission.org or toys for kids. The overall goal of this toy check out its Facebook page, drive is to fulfill the mission through the www.facebook.com/lightlove of Jesus to serve those who are housegospelmission. It is located at hungry, hurt and addicted in communities 7211 S. 78th St. in Riverview. Call 677within its four avenues of ministry. 5220.
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Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
Local 8-Year-Old Becomes Youth Hero And Raises $12,000 For Crohn’s Research
By Amy Schechter
When you meet for the Crohn’s & Colitis eight-year-old Gavin Foundation through the Shreeve, the energy and local chapter’s Take Steps light in his eyes are program. This year, Gavin inescapable. As a third and his family raised just grade student at over $12,000 for research, FishHawk Creek education programs, supElementary, he loves port programs and commubuilding Legos, playing nity awareness and advogolf and anything Disney. cacy. The team ranks 33 in It is difficult to imagine him the nation in donations and FishHawk Creek student in a hospital bed where the foundation named Gavin Shreeve. he receives periodic fourGavin the Youth Honored hour infusions to combat severe Crohn’s Hero in 2019 and 2020 for his efforts. disease. Gavin speaks at black tie events with His mother, Christina Shreeve, left hundreds of people present. In addition to her 10-year career as an elementary his family’s personal fundraising, these teacher to manage Gavin’s healthcare. events have also raised thousands of dol“Gavin was sick on and off since he lars for research and community outwas a baby. We didn’t know what was reach. going on. Crohn’s disease presents as When asked if he was nervous to more of arthritis, fevers and rashes when speak in front of all those people, he you’re really young. It doesn’t present like grinned widely and shook his head, sayother IBD diseases.” ing, “Not at all.” Despite COVID-19, the Many think Crohn’s disease is based virtual events have still taken place, and on diet, and although some patients are although he was a little sad to miss the triggered by certain foods, it is much annual walk at Al Lopez Park, it did not more than that. For Gavin, it is genetic dampen their spirits. condition. “The research is so very imporIn addition to the work they do with tant to help doctors better understand the Take Steps, Christina is also the Family illness and find a cure. Basically, his only Advisory Council chair for Johns Hopkins treatment is to be on Remicade, which is All Children’s Hospital. The most requesta chemotherapy drug.” ed toys are Legos for boys and girls of all This requires frequent long stints in ages, Play-Doh, Ryan’s World Molecules the hospital where he receives intraand pretend doctor kits for little kids. She venous infusions that may alleviate and Gavin will gladly deliver any donated Crohn’s, but come with unpleasant side toys. Email Christina at effects. crshreeve@gmail.com or visit This is their third year raising money www.crohnscolitisfoundation.org/.
Volume 18, Issue 12
Local Angler Pens First Children’s Book, Clyde’s Corner Brian Wilson’s passion for fishing is evident in his personal and professional life. He loves teaching people to fish and being out on the water. After moving to Apollo Beach in 2017 with his wife, Dr. Jennifer Wilson, they made sure to buy a house Apollo Beach resident on a canal. Then, Brian Wilson recently published Clyde’s when the opportuniCorner. ty arose, he became co-owner of Bait and Tackle of Apollo Beach. Now, Brian can add ‘published author’ to his repertoire, and you can bet the book is fishing-related. “We both grew up fishing,” Brian said as he reflected on his time fishing in Anna Maria with his grandparents; he and his wife still enjoy casting a line together as adults. “It’s special to us.” For that reason, when his cousin’s family moved to the area, Brian and Jennifer take their godson, Cam, out to their dock, especially at night when the green dock’s light illuminates a special friend, a large, green snook. “He’s in the same spot every single night, and we all decided we needed to name him,” Brian explained. “We picked the name Clyde.” Cam’s love for Clyde inspired Brian to write Clyde’s Corner for his godson’s first birthday. He and Jennifer then had the book illustrated and bound as a special present. When friends and family read the book, they knew it
By Amy Schechter
was something special. With their encouragement, Brian decided to explore publication. In Clyde’s Corner, readers meet Clyde and his best friend, Warner. The two little fish go off on an adventure away from the safety of their dock for the very first time. When they get lost, they have to rely on help from Clyde’s dad to return home. It is a story of friendship, of facing your fears and of finding help from family. Brian is even working on the second book in what will now become a series, Clyde Counts to Ten, where Clyde will learn to count an assortment of undersea items local to Apollo Beach habitats. Clyde’s Corner is a great stocking stuffer or bedtime story for any occasion. Copies are available for purchase on Amazon. To connect with Brian, you can reach him via email at wilsonsaltlife@gmail.com. He also has copies of his book available at Bait and Tackle of Apollo Beach, open from 6 a.m.7 p.m. daily and located at 6040 N. U.S. Hwy. 41 in Apollo Beach.
December 2020
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Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
Congenital Heart Defect Survivor Does His Part In Raising Research Funds
By Nick Nahas
Douglas Sexton participated in the 2019 Congenital Heart Walk.
Riverview resident Douglas Sexton is involved with the Children’s Heart Foundation as a member of the young adult board (ages 18-40) to advocate for adults who have congenital heart defects. He has participated in many events and fundraisers for the foundation, including the annual Congenital Heart Walk, for which he is a committee member, in order to raise money to fund research for congenital heart defects. Sexton is a congenital heart defect survivor himself, having had several surgeries in his life. He said that when he was born in 1986, doctors didn’t know if he would survive because technology, medicine and information about these defects weren’t as advanced as they are now. Most parents were
the research that has happened over the last 30 plus years, I have survived and I’m able to lead a pretty normal life,” said Sexton. Sexton participated in this year’s virtual Congenital Heart Walk. Due to COVID-19, the foundation wasn’t able to raise as much money as it had in previous years. In 2019, just under $50,000 was raised, as opposed to $20,000 this year because of Douglas Sexton also participated in the ‘50 Miles in the challenges of the event October’ challenge that benefited the Children’s being virtual. The virtual events Douglas Sexton stands with his wife, Christine, Heart Foundation. and three of their children after the 2019 were held from October 27-31, Congenital Heart Walk. had his first open-heart surgery at 13 with the walk occurring on October 31 advised to take their child with a comyears old and his second at 17. Four through several social media platforms. plex defect home and make them as years ago, he was the recipient of The Tampa/St. Pete area walk returned comfortable as possible because there some of the latest technology when he in 2019 after a four-year absence due to wasn’t much that could be done. received a valve replacement through organizational issues. Sexton not only survived, he has catheterization. Sexton has a pacemakAccording to Sexton, research for thrived throughout his life. This inspired er and has to take medication for the congenital heart defects is the most him to not only get involved with the rest of his life to regulate his heart as underfunded area of research. If you Children’s Heart Foundation but also well. would like to donate or learn more, visit put himself on his career path in which “I’m personally affected by this and ChildrensHeartFoundation.org. he does echocardiograms on both childue to the significant advancements in dren and adults with congenital heart defects. The now 34-year-old Sexton is married to his wife, Christine, and they have four children. He has been able to stay healthy due to advancements in medicine, technology and knowledge in the field of congenital heart defects. Sexton stresses the importance of research for this cause, explaining that surgeries for congenital heart defects are a temporary fix and not a cure. The patients will need more maintenance throughout their lives and have to follow up with a cardiologist frequently. He
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Page 36
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
Clarke Automotive Systems Hosts First Annual Pie Contest, Cash Prizes For Winners
G ET THE DIRT WITH FLORIDA YARD EXPERT
By Libby Hopkins
Lynn Barber, Hillsborough County Extension
My Favorite Funky Flowers
Last month I shared information about three of my favorite funky flowers: Spiral ginger, Dutchman’s pipe and Hoya. We felt three favorites were not enough, and six would be much better. This article includes Tillandsia, gloriosa lily and Chinese hat. Bromeliad and Tillandsia are members of the pineapple family. There are 16 native Bromeliad species and approximately 85 native species of ‘air plants’ in Florida. Bromeliads are slowgrowing. Some prefer sun, and others prefer shade. Tillandsia live on other plants but do not live off them. They are epiphytes, not parasites. Propagation is from ‘pups’ produced by the mother plant. Gloriosa lilies are a fast-growing perennial that can reach a height and spread of 2-8 feet. It has medium drought-tolerance, prefers partial
shade/partial sun and performs well in full shade. This plant produces gorgeous flowers that are crimson/yellow-orange. Mine are in pots and the ground with trellising support. The Chinese hat plant has a moderate growth rate and can reach a height and spread of 5-8 feet. It requires irrigation during dry seasons. Chinese hat plants prefer partial shade/partial sun and produces bright orange/red flowers that look like a hat. It works well as a hedge, border or specimen plant. For more information, see “Holmskioldia sanguinea” by Edward F. Gilman at http://hort.ifas.ufl.edu/database/documents/pdf/shrub_fact_sheets/holsana.pdf. For more information on Bromeliad and Tillandsia, please see the University of Florida publication “Florida’s Native Bromeliads” by Barbra C. Larson, J. Howard Frank, Ginger M. Allen and Martin B. Main at https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/pdffiles/UW/UW20 500.pdf. For more information about the Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ program and to register for upcoming workshops, please view our calendar of events at https://sfyl.ifas.ufl.edu/hillsborough/upcoming-events/. You can contact me at the UF/IFAS Extension Hillsborough County at 744-5519, ext. 54105. Hope you can get outside and garden. Be well.
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moved into the finals. The four winning contestants will be asked for an entry to the finals, having the top three winners getting a prize.” The first 15 contestants to enter will receive a $25 gift certificate for simply entering a pie. Bob Clarke (center) is a pillar of the Brandon community. He Pie competitions is hosting Brandon’s Clarke Automotive Pie Baking Contest. got their start in 1949 Bob Clarke is a pillar of the Brandon when the Grand National Recipe and community. He is the owner of Clarke Baking Contest, what would become the Automotive Systems, which has been a Pillsbury Bake-Off, was held for the first part of the Brandon community since time at the Waldorf Astoria New York 1978. “We have earned many long-term customers since we opened our business hotel. Sixty-seven years later, the biannual bake-off now awards a whopping $1 in 1978,” Clarke said. “We’re a family-run million to the first place winner. business and our customers feel like part A panel of judges from Clarke of our extended family. Visit us and see Automotive will judge the entries. “This is why clients trust us to be their preferred a blind judging, and all decisions of the auto repair shop for life.” Clarke is a strong believer in support- judges are final,” Clarke said. If you would like to enter the Clarke ing the Brandon community too. “We are Automotive Pie Baking Contest, email truly committed to our community and provide auto repair workshops for women your name and contact info and children,” Clarke said. “We also teach to bclarke@gte.net. You will receive a confirmation email of entry. and donate equipment to Brandon High Contestants may enter no more than School.” one pie. A detailed recipe and a list of It’s because of his supporting local ingredients must accompany each pie. spirit that Clarke decided to host a local Pies must have a bottom crust, perpie contest. “The first-ever Clarke Automotive Pie Baking Contest is open to haps a top crust and a filling. Sweet pies only, and tart entries are also allowed. amateur bakers,” Clarke said. “Each pie The entrant must make crust and filling must be made from scratch, no frozen from scratch only. Pies should be submitpies, canned filling or premade crusts ted covered and at a proper temperature allowed. We will be taking a total of 15 for the type of pie. Pies must be made in contestants, five entries per week to be disposable 9 or 9-½-inch pie pans, and judged. The winner of each week will be please, no frozen pies.
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December 2020
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
Visit Tampa As Curtis Hixon Park Is Turned Into A Magical Winter Village Each holiday season, Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park is transformed into the magical Winter Village complete with an outdoor ice skating rink, shops, holiday treats and its Curtis Hixon Park Choo Choo for the children. The Winter Village is open from November 20 through Sunday, January 3, 2021. Curtis Hixon Park is located at 600 N. Ashley Dr. in Tampa. This year, a limited number of skaters will be allowed on the ice and masks will be required. Skaters will need to obtain tickets prior to arriving at the rink. Ice skating costs $15 per skater which includes skates. Skaters will have 75 minutes on the ice. To purchase tickets, please click on Buy Tickets Here at www.wintervillagetampa.com. The rink is open Monday through Thursday 4-9 p.m., Friday from 4-10 p.m. and Saturday from 12 Noon-9 p.m. Extended hours of 10 a.m.-10 p.m. on Monday through Saturday and 12 Noon9 p.m. on Sunday will be offered from November 23 to Friday, November 27 and Wednesday, December 23 to Sunday, January 3, 2021. It will be open from 10 a.m.-6 p.m. on Christmas Eve and from 4-10 p.m. on Christmas Day. Visitors can enjoy the Café at Winter
By Kathy L. Collins
Village, featuring Icicles Craft Kitchen, Kahwa Coffee and Whatever Pops. This year, the Shops of Winter Village will feature five boutiques from local vendors, including Apartment No.3, Don Me Now, Popped Shoppe, The Modern Paws and Unlock Tampa Bay. The shops will be closed on Thanksgiving and Christmas. New this year is the Curtis Hixon Park Choo Choo, which is a free holiday activity. The Choo Choo train station is located at the front of Curtis Hixon Park near Ashley Dr. It will be a 10-minute ride through the park, and through it you can enjoy the lights and sounds of the Winter Village. This year, you can enjoy a socially distanced visit with Santa. Simply visit @wintervillagetampa on Facebook or Instagram for clues on when you might be able to catch a glimpse of him. This year’s Winter Village will certainly be different, but it will still be fun. Chrissy Nieves of Riverview said, “We are planning on taking my son for his birthday. I am sure he will be excited about the Choo Choo and hopefully he will be tall enough to skate.” For more information, visit www.wintervillagetampa.com.
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Tampa Bay Rum Company Still Offering Tastings, Tours & Making Essential Hand Sanitizer
By Libby Hopkins
Tampa Bay Rum theft while it was shut Company located in down during the panYbor City was created demic. The highs by chiropractor Samuel were that it joined Myers who felt forces with Coppertail Tampa’s pirates needBrewing Co., also in ed their own locally Ybor City, to create, made rum. sell and donate hand The legendary sanitizer to the Tampa pirate, José Gaspar, Bay community and still lives in residents’ its local businesses. hearts, but his rum “Coppertail had a was lost to time, forclot of keg beer that ing the fine citizens of wasn’t going to get Tampa to endure rums sold and they asked shipped from distant us if we wanted to disTampa Bay Rum Company located in till it to make hand lands while celebratYbor City was created by chiropractor sanitizer,” Myers said. ing his spirit every Samuel Myers. January during Tampa Bay Rum Gasparilla. But what was lost has been Company recently donated hand sanitizer found, and Myers and his team are happy to the Center Place Fine Arts and Civic to now provide Tampa’s own Gaspar’s Association of Brandon to assist in the and Gasparilla Rums. center’s reopening efforts. “I wanted to create this because Myers and his team want to make Tampa is pirate-crazy; we have all the their products Tampa Bay’s rum of beautiful beaches where rum drinks are choice. sold, so I was able to trademark “I want Tampa Bay and Gasparilla to Gasparilla Rum and we’ve been making have their very own rum,” Myer said. rum since 2018,” Myers said. “We have “Gasparilla is the biggest pirate festival in various rum products, a sugar canethe world and the third largest parade in based vodka and some barrel-aged prod- America, so what’s more important to a ucts.” pirate than rum? I want us to be the rum The barrel-aged products Tampa Bay of choice when they order a rum cocktail Rum Company released in 2019 won at a local bar or restaurant.” American Distilling Institute’s ‘Best Rum’ To learn more about the Tampa Bay in category and class. Rum Company’s products or to schedule The recent pandemic has given the a tour and tasting at the distillery, visit local rum company some highs and lows www.gasparillarum.com or call 284-5485. over the last few months. The lows The tasting room and distillery are located included some issues with vandalism and at 2102 E. 4th Ave. in Ybor City.
12/31/2020
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Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
Volume 18, Issue 12
Local Community Raises Funds And Awareness For Breast Cancer Research
By Kate Quesada
A group of music, a raffle and Riverview residents other vendors and fought bad weather activities for the to raise money and whole family. awareness to fight Whitman hopes breast cancer last to make it an annual month. event. The Triple “We are very Creek community, happy that we raised located on Balm more than $1,000 for Riverview Rd., hostBreast Cancer ed a two-day, famiResearch ly-friendly breast Foundation,” she cancer event to said. “People still honor survivors and attended happily raise funds to fight with their umbrellas the disease. and rain coats. We A group of residents from Riverview Organized by Triple Creek community raised more than hope for next year to residents, including $1,000 for the Breast Cancer Research have nicer weather Foundation. Amanda Whitman and a bigger and Sabrina Traeger-Carlton, the event turnout.” raised more than $1,000 for the Breast The Breast Cancer Research Cancer Research Foundation (BCRF) Foundation is a nonprofit organization despite bad weather. committed to achieving prevention and a “I helped organize this event with a cure for breast cancer. The charity profew other women to honor my loved vides critical funding for cancer research ones who have battled with breast canworldwide to fuel advances in tumor biolcer,” said Whitman. “I am motivated to ogy, genetics, prevention, treatment, help raise awareness for survivors and metastasis and survivorship. ones who are fighting through and who BCRF is recognized as one of the have lost the fight.” most financially efficient nonprofits in the Approximately 50 people braved the country and its website states that it is weather to enjoy activities like a onethe highest-rated breast cancer charity in mile walk with honorary lighted bags and the U.S. a 5K followed by a small cocktail celeDonations for the event have closed, bration. The event kicked off with local but anyone interested in learning more or survivors speaking about their experidonating to the Breast Cancer Research ences with the disease and attendees Foundation should visit www.bcrf.org. were able to enjoy food from BBQ Time To learn more about Triple Creek, and Uncle Louie G’s. There was also visit triplecreekcommunity.com.
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Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
Brandon Ballet To Perform The Nutcracker Outdoors To Kick Off Its 27th Season
The Department Of Health Offers Free Diabetes Prevention Classes
The Brandon Ballet young girl to whom Herr will present its annual Drosselmeyer gifts the production of beloved Nutcracker doll. Tchaikovsky’s holiday This year, due to the risk classic, The Nutcracker. that bringing outside This year, the performdancers in to perform the ances will take place on usual parts poses, Artistic an outdoor stage at Director Doricha Sales has Overflow Church in transformed the Clara role. Valrico. Audiences will Clara is now a grandmother. have three opportunities She gives the Nutcracker to to watch the performher favorite granddaughter, ances on Saturday, Marie, who then gets to December 5 at 7:30 relive the magic of her The Brandon Ballet will not p.m. and on Sunday, grandmother’s journey allow a pandemic to stop its December 6 at 3 p.m. dancers from performing. This through the Land of and 5:30 p.m. year, it will present a classic Sweets.” ballet, The Nutcracker, Tickets are $20 and Townend added, “Even outdoors. Audiences will see a can be purchased by as we are continuing to reimagined holiday classic visiting www.brandonbring the art of dance to the performed in a safe and responsible manner. ballet.org/2th-season/. community, we are also Overflow Church is located at 4929 Bell continuing to keep our dancers and audiShoals Rd. in Valrico. ence members safe. Company memHannah Townend, administrative bers now dance in smaller groups than director of the Brandon Ballet, said, before, which not only makes seeing “While The Nutcracker. is usually pereach dancer’s individual face easier, formed in an indoor theater, we are but also ensures social distancing even choosing to present this magical ballet on in the performance. For the iconic snow an outdoor stage. Audiences will bring scene, which utilizes a large cast, their own chairs and blankets and hot dancers will don a mask in addition to beverages, if they choose, and sit back their sparkling white tutus." and enjoy the show within the beauty of This is the 27th season of the nature. In addition to this new and excitBrandon Ballet. The nonprofit was ing way of viewing dance, various wellestablished in 1993 as a pre-profesknown roles in The Nutcracker.have been sional ballet company. The Brandon revamped with reimagined choreography Ballet provides superior training and to bring a new look to the roles we all offers three major performances each know and love.” year. The role of Clara is a good example. For information, visit www.brandonTownend explained, “Usually, Clara is the ballet.org or call 684-4282.
Diabetes is a serihigher hospitalization rate for ous but preventable disdiabetes and a higher perease that has affected centage of residents who 34.2 million Americans. have been told they have One in three Americans been diagnosed with diaare considered ‘pre-diabetes when compared to the betic.’ I’m one of those state average. DOH one in three. Hillsborough wants to aid I come from a long individuals diagnosed with line of amazing cooks pre-diabetes or at risk and a huge family of of developing pre-diaGreg Champlin is the foodies. I lost my dad betes from being diaginstructor of the three years ago to a nosed. The Prevent Hillsborough County Department of Health’s heart attack that was T2 program has been free Prevent T2 related to diabetes. shown to delay or preprogram. Before his death, he had vent the illness.” suffered three strokes from diabetes, one The class is structured in 26 different of which left him blind. hourly lessons over a calendar year. Needless to say, diabetes is always There are 16 consecutive lessons, then in the back of my mind because I’m over- the class transitions to every other week weight, or, as I like to say, “a cute, chubby and then once a month. “The class is girl.” My doctor is very concerned about delivered over a platform called my sugar teetering on pre-diabetes. She GoToMeeting, which is available as an said I needed to get serious about losing app on phone, tablet or computer,” weight and getting my sugar under conChamplin said. “GoToMeeting also is trol. available as a dial-in conference call. I decided to take the free Prevent T2 Participants may choose which option (type 2 diabetes) offered by the works best for them. Materials are mailed Hillsborough County Department of and/or emailed to participants, depending Health. I started the class last year and on preference.” lost 20 pounds. I recently re-enrolled The end goal is to prevent or delay again to try and lose more weight, since I diabetes. To do this, the class focuses on gained some ‘pandemic pounds.’ “The every student losing at least 5 percent of Florida Department of Health in their initial body weight entering the class Hillsborough County puts on the Prevent as well as conducting at least 150 minT2 diabetes prevention program to aid utes of moderate physical activity on a with our mission to protect, promote and weekly basis. improve the health of all people in If you would like to register for the Florida,” said Greg Champlin, my Prevent free Prevent T2 class, you can register T2 instructor. “Hillsborough County has a here ProgramInfo@flhealth.gov.
By Kathy L. Collins
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Brandon Chamber Hosts Inspire! Women Who Lead Luncheon The Brandon Chamber of Commerce is bringing Brandon businesswomen together with the Inspire! Women Who Lead luncheon. Tickets for the event, held on Thursday, December 10 from 11:30 a.m.-1p.m. at The Regent, start at $45 and include programming and lunch. Speakers include Dr. Martha Ducatel, general dentist and owner of Healthy Bodies Dental Center; Captain Stacie Molina with the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office, Tina Blount, community pastor of ARISE Church; and Carey Cox, director of marketing and brand strategy for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Lennise Jackson-Germany, owner and founder of Livy O’s Catering, will kick off the event with her story and a pump-up song. Bernadette Pello, 2020 chairman of the board and president of Livingstone Academy, will be moderating the event. “After the year we’ve had, it’s nice to have this event to look forward to. The Brandon area has a lot of amazing businesswomen and this event only scratches the surface. I’m happy to be
Staff Report
moderating the program with such strong women leaders in our community,” Pello said. Brittany Walsh, director of operations, added, “Our community is full of success stories and it’s the chamber’s job to share and celebrate these stories. Our panel is unique as it highlights both local Brandon and regional Hillsborough business leaders. This event is a great opportunity to bring our members and the Brandon community together to hear from these four inspiring women.” Event sponsors include ARISE Church, Legends Escape Rooms, Livingstone Academy and Rasmussen College. Sponsorship opportunities are still available. The Greater Brandon Chamber of Commerce recently celebrated 60 years in the community of offering businesses the opportunity to join together through membership to connect and collaborate. The chamber is located at 1463 Oakfield Dr., Ste. 134 in Brandon. To learn more or to purchase event tickets, visit brandonchamber.com or call 689-1221.
Hiking Spree Includes 25 Trails Across 20 County & State Parks, Preserves
Staff Report
Petrified by the panThe trails are demic? Tired of politics? designed to offer someStressed from tracking thing for everyone, from yet another hurricane? hiking rookies to seaResidents looking for soned outdoor enthusisome relief—and a asts, with hikes rated great excuse to have from easy to strenuous. fun and get outside— Lengths range from less are encouraged to parthan a mile to more than ticipate in Hillsborough 6 miles. The environCounty’s Hiking Spree, mentally diverse sites which started earlier this are spread throughout month. the county and range The 2020-21 Hillsborough County The annual Hiking Hiking Spree kicks off this month. from neighborhood Spree began in 2016 parks like Carrollwood as a way to encourage people to Village Park to large preserves exercise, explore the outdoors with multiple habitats like the and experience nature through 1,100-acre Lake Dan Nature the county’s numerous parks Preserve. For the first time, and preserves. The Hiking this year’s list includes two Spree has grown in popularity state parks: Alafia River State each year, drawing thousands of Park and Little Manatee River participants and is expected to State Park. be particularly popular this year “The 2021 Hiking Spree as it offers residents a safe way to have isn’t just for walkers. Some trails are ideal fun outside during the pandemic. for bicycles, strollers, in-line skates or “Following COVID-19 precautions is wheelchairs. Studies show spending time a breeze when you’re walking or rolling in nature has many health benefits. along any of the 25 trails at 20 county Among them: it reduces stress, boosts parks and nature preserves selected for the immune system, increases energy the 2021 Hiking Spree,” said Hillsborough levels and improves sleep,” said Pratt. County’s Todd Pratt. The Hiking Spree is timed to take This year’s Hiking Spree trail list feaadvantage of the cooler, drier weather tures 25 trails at 20 locations throughout and to coincide with prime bird-watching the county. Complete at least eight before times. Participants are encouraged to Wednesday, March 31, 2021 and earn a post photos from their hikes using the patch, a medallion for a walking stick or a hashtag #TakeAHikeHC. dog bandana. One of the hikes can be at For more information and to register, a location of the participant’s choice that visit www.hillsboroughcounty.org and is not on the list. search for the Hiking Spree page.
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Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
Local Students Collect Food For ECHO
By Kate Quesada
Those in brand-new school need throughout in the midst of the SouthShore COVID, but with a area have a passionate and group of students committed staff, to thank this we have met the month. A team of challenge wonderfour from LLT fully,” said Logan, Academy’s South who explained Bay location that veteran enlisted friends teachers from the Students from LLT Academy South Bay and neighbors to Tampa campus recently collected food for ECHO. collect donations moved to the new for local food bank ECHO location in order to repliand the drive was so succate the culture from the cessful that the students start. collected more food than Logan credits the any other local drive. school’s focus on leader“The students in Ms. Tina Wood’s ship with teaching the students about leadership class asked if they could do giving to others. a food drive as they knew the food “We are very proud of our students pantries that help people were really for taking the time to think of others empty due COVID and so many people while navigating this unprecedented being out of work,” said Lesley Logan, time in their own lives,” she said. “It the school’s principal. “It was started by was totally student-led. To collect more a student action team of four who food than any other entity in the area enlisted 15 students total, forming an was quite an achievement and surOwls Care team.” prised ECHO. They had to return with According to Logan, the students more trucks to pick up the food.” worked for two weeks advertising, proStudents are planning to run a toy moting, picking up donations, counting drive for A Kid’s Place in December. and sorting. “As a leadership school, we have a LLT Academy is an independent strong philosophy of teaching our stucharter school founded by Logan and dents to give back to their community. the school’s governing board based on Therefore, we support many nonprofits, the successful Tampa location. The even though we are also a nonprofit,” school opened this year and currently said Logan. has 538 students, K-6, and will add To learn more about the school and seventh grade in the next school year its lottery admissions system, please with eighth grade in the following year. visit LLTAcademy.com or call the office “It was a challenge to open a at 234-0940.
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Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
Volume 18, Issue 12
With Arts & Entertainment Editor Kathy L. Collins
Tampa Museum Of Art Offers New Exhibit Featuring The Florida Highwaymen
Firehouse Center Stage Continues To Offer Entertainment To The Community
The Tampa overcome these Museum of Art obstacles, they procontinues to celeduced large numbrate and honor bers of works that the richness and could be sold at complexity of affordable prices, Florida’s cultural often door-to-door tapestry with its and sometimes from newest exhibition, their cars’ trunks Living Color: The along such thorArt of the oughfares as Route Highwaymen. The 1. exhibit will be open “We are The Tampa Museum of Art has opened a and available for pleased to be able new exhibition presenting works by artists to bring Living Color the community to known as the Florida Highwaymen. This view now through group of self-taught artists, including Harold to Tampa because Sunday, March 28, Newton, painted the rich colors of Florida’s this exhibition natural scenes and sold their beautiful art- speaks to the 2021. work from the trunks of their cars along Living Color roads such as Route 1, hence their name. resourcefulness and brings together 60 resilience of this paintings from five outstanding private group of artists. The Florida collections. The exhibit features the works Highwaymen, based in and around Ft. of a group of African American artists Pierce, developed their own creative known as the Florida Highwaymen. community during a time in Florida’s hisThese artists depicted the state’s natural tory that coincided with an economic environment and rich tones through their boom in the state and African Americans unique, self-taught painting styles. fighting for equal rights,” said Joanna The Florida Highwaymen produced Robotham, curator of modern and conartwork from the 1950s to the 1980s. The temporary art at the Tampa Museum of artists in this group included Al Black, Art. Mary Ann Carroll, Willie Daniels, Johnny Capacity of the museum is limited to Daniels, James Gibson, Alfred Hair, Roy 50 percent. All visitors are required to McLendon, Harold Newton, Sam Newton, wear masks and practice social distancWillie Reagan and Livingston Roberts. ing. The Florida Highwaymen painted as The Tampa Museum of Art, located a means to make a living. Many were at 120 W. Gasparilla Plz. in downtown quite successful, especially Hair and Tampa, is open seven days a week, Newton. They faced limitations imposed Monday through Sunday from 10 a.m.-5 by the racial prejudice of their time. The p.m. and on Thursday from 10 a.m.-8 group had little to no formal training or p.m. For more information, please call access to conventional art markets. To 274-8130 or visit tampamuseum.org.
The Firehouse not have venues to perCultural Center in form in, we have gone Ruskin has remained above and beyond. We strong and resilient offer bistro tables with thoughout all that 2020 one, two, three or four has brought to arts guests. This ability to be organizations. The socially distanced has group recently renamed proven to be an incredithe Firehouse Pub to ble boost to the exciteFirehouse Center ment and atmosphere Stage. The Firehouse as the entertainers pour Center Stage will contheir hearts into their The Firehouse Cultural Center tinue to offer the comrecently renamed its Firehouse Pub performances. They are munity a great venue to to Firehouse Center Stage. No mat- so happy to be in perter what the name, this little black son with an audience,” see fabulous local talbox theater is a great place to catch ent in a safe and limited all forms of entertainment close to added Bredbenner. home at great prices and in a safe capacity venue. The Firehouse and socially distanced format. “We have adjusted Center Stage will close to a new way of bringing people together; out its 2020 season with comedy, music our ‘Firehouse Pub’ brand does not fit any and theater. longer,” said Chris Bredbenner, executive On Saturday, December 12 at 7:30 director of the Firehouse Cultural Center. p.m., the community can be entertained “Our music and comedy series grew to by the smooth sounds of the Valerie be immensely popular, the sold-out audiGillespie Holiday Jazz Ensemble. ences we were experiencing on Friday On Friday, December 18 at 7:30 and Saturday nights in our black box thep.m., the community can enjoy some ater are a thing of the past for the foregreat comedy featuring local talent, Lou seeable future. Due to COVID-19, large Angelwolf. gatherings cannot occur. While ‘pubs’ On Saturday, December 19, the were not allowed to operate, we were not Firehouse Cultural Center will partner with offering a bar-like setting, but an intimate Macbeth and Cheese to bring a staged space to enjoy music, comedy, theater, reading of A Christmas Story to the spoken word and so much more,” Firehouse Center Stage. You can catch explained Bredbenner. this holiday classic in two performances. With the rebranding, the Firehouse A matinee at 3:30 p.m. will be offered Cultural Center will continue to provide along with an evening performance at 7 entertainment to the community. p.m. “We are safely offering something For more information on the more,” said Bredbenner. “You might think, Firehouse Center Stage and to reserve ‘how can less be more?’ When so many tickets, call 645-7651 or visit www.fireartists, musicians and comediennes do houseculturalcenter.org.
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Get To Know Your COVID-19 Testing Options, Rapid, PCR, Antigen
By Libby Hopkins
With COVID-19 infection numbers on the rise and the holiday season upon us, now more than ever COVID-19 testing is a must. But where can one go to get a test, which test is more accurate and what are the costs? First, let’s explain the difference between the tests that are available. PCR tests and antigen tests are both diagnostic tests, which means that they can be used to determine whether you currently have an active coronavirus infection. PCR tests detect the presence of the virus’ genetic material using a technique called reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction, or RT-PCR. For this test, a sample may be collected through a nasal or throat swab, or a saliva sample may be used. The sample is typically sent to a laboratory for testing. PCR tests are highly accurate. However, it can take days to over a week to get the results of a PCR test. Antigen tests detect specific proteins on the surface of the coronavirus. These are rapid tests because you get your results in less than an hour. “This is a test that does not take longer than 15 minutes,” said Dr. Sonia Ruiz of Bloomingdale Pediatric Associates. “It’s done in-house. I charge $50 for this test and I offer it to anyone needing a rapid COVID test.” If you’d rather do your COVID test in the privacy of your own home,
Due to limited supply, RTPCR tests will be available on a reservation basis. Reservations can be made using Save Your Spot® at https://baycare.org/services/urgent-care. The test will not be billed to insurance but will be available as a self-pay service for $150. “We’re looking forward to offering this service for patients and giving them an accurate diagnosis in real time,” said Jim Cote, senior vice president for ambulatory services. “This service will give people a peace of mind as they plan their holiday travels and celebrations with their families.”
There are multiple COVID-19 testing options in our area.
Quest Diagnostics can send a test to your home. “Accessible, high-quality COVID-19 diagnostic testing is essential to containing the spread of COVID-19,” said Jay Wohlgemuth, MD, senior vice president and chief medical officer for Quest Diagnostics. “With our new QuestDirect COVID-19 Active Infection self-collection kit, anyone can access a high-quality COVID19 test with access to interpretation and referral into care from a physician. Additionally, individuals can receive a self-collection kit either at home or at a nearby Wal-Mart drivethrough location for the ultimate in speed, safety and convenience.”
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BayCare Urgent Care centers also offer an effective and reliable rapid test that can detect both COVID-19 and the flu. The test is available to asymptomatic people wishing to confirm they are negative for COVID-19 before traveling or visiting loved ones during the holiday season. This service, which is an extension of Tampa International Airport’s testing site operated by BayCare, will offer a real-time RT-PCR test that detects both the flu and COVID-19 with the same reliability as a labbased test. Patients can receive test results in 30 minutes.
Testing Locations: ● Bloomingdale Pediatric Associates, 4316 Bell Shoals Rd. in Valrico. Call 684-1881. Testing cost is $50 ● BayCare Urgent Care, 10125 Big Bend Rd. in Riverview. Call for an appointment at 605-3200. Costs may vary due to which test. Some tests are billed, others are self-pay. ● Advent Health Centra Care in front of Target on Bloomingdale, 10222 Bloomingdale Ave, Riverview, FL 33578 Call for an appointment at (813) 515-5814. https://centracare.adventhealth.com. First test may be billed, self pay starts at $129. Did we miss, email kquesada@ospreyobserver.com.
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Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
Volume 18, Issue 12