Osprey Observer Valrico July 2020

Valrico

8 C E L E B R A T I N G

July 2020 1 8

Y E A R S

O F

Volume 17, Issue 7 Ph: 657-2418 P U B L I S H I N G

Referendum Dollars Fund Much Needed Air Conditioning Upgrades For 26 Schools

By Kate Quesada

C O M M U N I T Y

N E W S

COVID-19 Relief Donation Supply Drive Will Benefit Childcare Providers

By Tatiana Ortiz

The Early said Chief Learning Executive Officer of Coalition of ELCHC Gordon Hillsborough Gillette.

County Robin Dean, (ELCHC) estabowner of Nana’s lished a COVIDLearning Post in 19 relief supply Valrico, expressed drive that will how cleaning suprun until plies can be hard Wednesday, to find.

TECO Energy and Peoples Gas presents a July 22. More “These dona$25,000 donation towards COVID-19 for than 700 local tions will be very childcare providers. (L-R) County Commissioner - District 1 Sandra Murman; VP resourceful to childcare of TECO Peoples Gas Luke Buzard, CPA, CIA; providers expe- ELCHC Chief Executive Officer Gordon Gillette; Nana’s Learning riencing devasPost and other and ELCHC Chairman Aakash Patel. tating losses and mounting costs due to childcare providers so we can maintain the pandemic will benefit from this drive. that cleanliness,” Dean said.

Providers were surveyed by the Beginning in early August, the supELCHC’s board of directors to gain a bet- plies will be distributed to childcare center insight on the items they needed. ters. Those interested in making a moneItems such as masks, gloves, thermome- tary contribution can visit ters, paper goods and sanitizing supplies https://www.elchc.org/donate/. reached the top of the list.

For more information on ELCHC, TECO Energy and TECO Peoples visit https://www.elchc.org or check out Gas donated $25,000, which will go its Facebook page at towards purchasing infrared medicalwww.facebook.com/elchc.org. The coaligrade thermometers for the COVID-19 tion is located at 6302 E. Dr. Martin program.

Luther King Jr. Blvd., Ste. 100 in Tampa.

Vice President of TECO Peoples Call 515-2340.

Gas Luke Buzard, CPA, CIA, stated his thoughts in regards to the donation.

“TECO Peoples Gas has been a In This longtime supporter of education and Issue more specifically early learning,” Buzard said. “There is no better time for our organization to extend our commitment ACE HARDWARE PLANT CITY........ ...PG 07 to the community than during this panJROTC RECEIVE AWARD ...................PG 10 demic.”

As a 501(c)(3) organization, the SEND A SERENADE! .........................PG 12 ELCHC specializes in the funding and ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT................PG 14 delivery of quality in education, afterschool programs, early childhood care ROAD IMPROVEMENTS ...................PG 18 and services to people in Hillsborough County. This includes the administering EYE ON BUSINESS.....................PGS 18­19 of VPK (Voluntary Prekindergarten) and HOW TO VOTE .................................PG 21 School Readiness programs.

“It is our responsibility to help childWHO’S GOT YOUR VOTE ..........PGS 21­32 care providers throughout the year, but READ MORE LOCAL NEWS ONLINE our board felt it especially important to www.ospreyobserver.com assist educators who are now experiencing challenges as a result of COVID-19,”

Osprey Observer 2109 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. Valrico, FL 33596

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The Mulrennan’s Hillsborough HVAC renovation County School has a budget of District (HCSD) is $2,000,000 and using the student Valrico break to perform Elementary will many much-needreceive HVAC ed upgrades renovation and thanks to funds have its parking from the halflot repaved with a penny sales tax budget of $4.6 approved by votmillion. ers in late 2018. Schools According to Principal throughout the county, Robert Stingone of including three in the Eisenhower Middle School Valrico area, are receiving in Riverview, the improveair conditioning, roof, ments will help the stuclassroom technology and dents learn during the safety and security next school year. improvements.

“We want our stu“Thanks to the taxpaydents to have the best ers of Hillsborough environment they can,” County, our district has said Stingone. “The new invested more than air units and painting of $121,000,000 to address the buildings will help stuessential needs in our dents increase their feelschools,” said HCSD’s ing of pride in their school Valrico schools, including Erin Maloney. and campus and remind Valrico Elementary School, Durant High School and Twenty-six schools them that we want the Mulrennan Middle School, are throughout the county are best environment for them benefitting from the money receiving improvements to learn in. You can see raised from Hillsborough County’s half-penny tax. this summer, including and hear in the students Valrico Elementary School, Mulrennan the pride they have when they see new Middle School and Durant High School. paint, additions to campus and consisDurant is undergoing multiple projtently working AC and they know people ects, including reroofing, HVAC and fire care about them and want them to have alarm replacement, building envelope the best environment they can. When renovations such as sealant replacement, they have pride, students help take even painting stucco and windows, door and better care of their campus and overall hardware replacement of exterior doors, school culture stays positive and continbuilding ID signage replacement, propane ues to grow in a positive direction.” tank relocation and other electrical work.

To learn more about the half-penny The budget for the construction is tax and how it is being used by the $11,075,344. school district, visit www.sdhc.k12.fl.us.

P O S I T I V E

See 2nd Section

A year ago this month, Michelle Bass and Alicia Pollock came together to form a volunteer-based organization that offers numerous cats loving, nurturing homes. A Kitten Place helps abandoned and orphaned kittens, as well as pregnant cats, in the Southeast Hillsborough region through rescuing and fostering them until a safe home is secured.

If you’d like to become a volunteer, either through fostering or helping with transport and other duties, email akittenplace@gmail.com.See Full Story on Page 15.

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Page 2

Valrico Edition

Volume 17, Issue 7

July 2020

Page 3

Valrico Edition

Rocha Takes Reins At Newsome High School As Bruning Passes Torch To Retire

By Mia Cafaro

More than 30 2018 and worked in the Hillsborough County schools same position at and programs have been Bloomingdale from 2012 approved for principal to 2018. When she found changes in the coming out she would be the new school year, and among Newsome principal, those is Newsome High Rocha said she, “felt this School. Carla Bruning, immense sense of honor Newsome’s principal for the and humility to have such past nine years, will be retira unique opportunity to ing and passing her position follow in the footsteps of to Katarzyna ‘Katie’ Rocha.

Carla Bruning is retiring my mentor, Mrs. Bruning.” after serving as Bruning has been workRocha is excited to be Newsome’s principal for ing in the school system for able to serve in the nearly a decade. a long time. She taught at FishHawk community.

Gaither and Bloomingdale, As the assistant prinserved as an assistant principal for curriculum, cipal at Durant and King, Rocha had the opportunity and was the principal at to work closely with leadKing and Newsome. ership teams and faculty Beloved at Newsome by and has developed a plan staff and students alike, that emphasizes improvBruning was known for walking the quality of instrucing the halls and interacting tion for every Newsome with the students, and she student. said, “to me, that was “At Newsome, we are always the best part of the constantly in pursuit of Katie Rocha will be job.” Her advice to the future excellence; we strive to Newsome’s new Newsome principal is to principal beginning in the grow and evolve as reflecfall of 2020.

“Always be in touch with the tive practitioners serving students.” to meet the needs of all our students,” Though the pandemic must have she said. created a chaotic end to Bruning’s In addition to the administrative career, she looks back on her time in positions changing at Newsome this the school system with fondness. “I year, other schools in the area such as totally enjoyed my career. I got to work Bloomingdale High School, Riverview with some of the best students in High School and Armwood High School Hillsborough County,” said Bruning. have had principal changes as well.

Rocha has been the assistant prinMore information about Rocha can cipal for curriculum at Newsome since be found at newsome.mysdhc.org.

Burkett Accepts District Position And Welcomes Rodriguez To Bloomingdale High

By Taylor Wells

Recently, the a Hispanic leader in our popHillsborough County School ulation, where 30 percent of Board had selected new our student body is Hispanic, principals for 34 schools and is huge.” programs, including Born in Cuba and havBloomingdale High School. ing moved to Miami and then With Principal Sue Burkett Broward County until high leaving the position, Marcos school, Rodriguez went to Rodriguez is taking on the USF for his bachelor’s mantle as its principal. degree in music performance Burkett, who grew up in the and later received a master’s Bronx and has two children, Principal Sue Burkett is degree in education leaderleaving Bloomingdale had been the principal of ship.

High School after seven Bloomingdale since 2013, He was an assistant years. and now she is moving on to director—later a director—at become a regional superinthe Pepin Academies, and tendent for middle schools. afterwards took the position She is excited for the opporof assistant principal of stutunity to impact more schools dent affairs at Lennard High and support principals, but School. While there, he startshe’ll miss being ed his doctorate program, Bloomingdale’s principal. which he finished in April “I’m gonna miss the kids 2018. and the community terribly.

He moved to Sickles I’ve been in this community High School as the assistant in Valrico for 15 years,” said principal of administration for Principal Marcos Burkett. “That’s a long time a year and a half and transRodriguez is looking forward to supporting to be with families and be in ferred to Bloomingdale with Bloomingdale High a community, so I am gonna the same position until the School with his new miss the day-to-day interacend of 2019. position. tions of the school.”

Rodriguez is looking forward to a lot As she takes on her new position of things, like continuing the tradition of and passes the torch to Rodriguez, academic excellence and strong commuBurkett knows the school is in capable nity support that’s already there, as well hands. as working with the staff students. “I’m “I don’t have one concern about him,” definitely looking forward to being here she said, “and to bring him back into this and helping to continue moving the community with such a strong music proschool in the right direction,” said gram and his music background, his Rodriguez. knowledge of the community and to have Visit bloomingdale.mysdhc.org.

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Page 4

Valrico Edition

Volume 17, Issue 7

Meals Served On A Silver Platter For 600 Local Seniors With Special Program

Local Eagle Scout Court Of Honor Held Outdoors To Follow Social Guidelines

Hillsborough received weekly County’s hot Silver Platter Department of dinners through a Aging Services generous program has partnered with that is set to expire local restaurants in September and food trucks to unless additional deliver nutritious, funding is restaurant-quality received. Meals meals for senior have come from citizens through restaurants includthe Silver Platter ing Mission BBQ program in the and Fred’s Market midst of the coron- A Silver Platter volunteer receives meals to as well as 12 food be delivered to senior diners. avirus pandemic. trucks.

The Silver Platter program was initiatA weekly restaurant-quality meal can ed by state agencies and is financially be enough to put a smile on the faces of supported by the Families First Act and seniors who are living with a seemingly the Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic endless periods of isolation. The coronSecurity (CARES) Act to provide meals to avirus has prevented these seniors’ famiseniors who have previously enrolled in lies and friends from visiting because of the Department of Aging Services’ lunch the precautionary measures taken to program. The initiative was designed to ensure the health of the vulnerable citisupport seniors who are sheltering in zens living in senior home. place because of the coronavirus and to “Senior who live alone and receive support local restaurants and food trucks the dinner meals are excited to have which were economically impacted by the someone stop by, if only for a moment,” pandemic. The county’s dietitians have said McKay. “Several have also stated worked with participating restaurants to they enjoy being a part of something create meals that meet strict senior diet that’s helping a local businesses.” guidelines and other restrictions recipients Although Silver Platter is not currently might have. accepting new restaurants or food trucks, “Seniors who live alone in areas that those businesses interested in participatare scarcely populated with restaurants ing can call 853-1067 to be added to the and who are sheltering in place to avoid waiting list. To apply for Hillsborough potential exposure to COVID-19 were County’s senior programs, apply online at selected first,” said Nutrition and Wellness hillsboroughcounty.org. For more informaManager Mary Jo McKay. tion, contact Hillsborough County Since its inception in May, more than Community Relations Coordinator Todd 600 seniors in the Hillsborough area have Pratt at prattt@hillsboroughcounty.org.

Last year in parade.

April, local Scout Even after attainEryk Chazares ing the highest presented his achievement in the Eagle Scout projBSA, Chazares feels ect, a ‘Shelf of there is still more for Knowledge’ him to do. installed in RCMA “I just want to be Sam Allen CDC, able to help out my and on February troop, to help out all 29, he earned the the younger Scouts prestigious rank. that are going to folTo celebrate this low my path and outstanding eventually become Eryk Chazares and Melissa Snively, achievement, his Hillsborough County School Board Chair Eagle Scouts as for District 4.

Eagle Scout well,” he said. “And I Court of Honor was held on June 20. plan to stay in the troop for as long as I Chazares planned to do the court of can until I go off to college, and I plan to honor at his church, but the pandemic give them as much advice and guidforced them to hold it outdoors instead. It ance as I can.” was the first time in the history of the “It took six years to get to where I’m Timucua District, the Greater Tampa Bay at, to get to Eagle Scout, and through all Area Council and Boy Scouts of America the ups and downs, I was able to over(BSA) Troop 89 that an Eagle Scout come all of them, and I look up to all the Court of Honor was held outside. people that had mentored me throughMany people attended the event, out the years,” said Chazares. “It felt including his family; close friend Alex overwhelming to see the fact that I had Dyer, who led the Eagle Scout Charge; gotten to Eagle, but I also felt proud and fellow members of Troop 89; his Eagle thankful for everyone that has helped Scout Mentor, Brian Fimbel; BSA me reach Eagle Scout.”

Timucua District Representative Ted Chazares had a lot of people to Domey, who gave Chazares the Eagle thank for supporting and guiding him, Scout certificate; and Hillsborough County naming his parents, God, Fimbel, his School Board Chair Melissa Snively, who troop leaders and Scouts from National is also a Scoutmaster and presented the Youth Leadership Training and his foraward on behalf of the school board. mer Scoutmaster, Casey Tyska.

Everyone, of course, wore face If the opportunity to be a Scout masks, practiced social distancing and leader arises, Chazares said he’d take it stayed in their cars. At the conclusion of so he can help other Scouts in his troop the court of honor, there was a drive-by or other troops around the U.S.

By Lily Belcher

By Taylor Wells

July 2020

Valrico Edition

Relay For Life Continues To Fundraise Despite Pandemic

NOW, MORE THAN EVER, WE REALIZE THE IMPORTANCE OF FAMILY.

Page 5

By Faith Miller

Ever since the shutdown caused by the coronavirus, fundraising organizations have been finding new ways to raise money and connect volunteers and donors.

The American Cancer Society’s (ACS) well-known fundraiser, Relay For Life, has found new, innovative ways to help those who need it.

At the beginning of the coronavirus shutdown, Relay For Life was on the verge of putting on hold almost all of their in-person events, including more than 30 regional events and fundraisers that raise money that ACS puts towards research and patient services throughout the year.

But that’s not the only downside the organization has faced during shutdown.

“The suspension of our events caused our volunteers and survivors a lost chance to connect face to face with the community,” stated Tammy Schoonover, an employee of ACS. However, with hard times comes growth. ACS has recently adopted a new mantra, “Cancer hasn’t stopped, so neither can we.”

“It’s this attitude that emboldens the effort and fueled our drive to utilize virtual possibilities” said Schoonover.

This pandemic has caused the organization to grow and adapt, gaining “a better sense of the resiliency” of the volunteers, partners and supporters. The company is continuing to provide “all the core objectives of [its] mission,” which includes the funding and support of

research and the ability to provide the services needed, despite COVID-19.

An example of this would be the East Coast Relay For Life, a virtual event that included ‘Relayers’ from Maine to Miami, that took place on June 26. The company personally called and invited 60,000 supporters to make sure the event was a success. ACS and Relay For Life have also held virtual dance parties, virtual 5K events and much more across the nation as fundraisers to replace the ones that were canceled. According to Schoonover, just recently in Tampa Bay, it held a “one-hour Facebook Live presentation in partnership with Tampa General Hospital” joined by a panel of medical experts where they offered advice on how to handle COVID19.

An event that is coming up is a nationwide event called ‘Share the Light’ and it is set to take place on Thursday, July 16. The organization is also currently mapping its plans for its fall events and is planning on making an announcement in the near future. It is closely paying attention and following all CDC guidelines because “the safety of our volunteers always will be paramount,” stated Schoonover.

For more, visit cancer.org or call 1800-227-2345. To keep up with what ACS is doing in Florida, visit the ACS Florida Facebook page at AmericanCancerFL.

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Volume 17, Issue 7

Valrico Edition

ounces n n A r e b Cham Winners, p i h s r a l o Sch Online ... n o i t p o d Kitten A nnett Be

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Congregation Beth Shalom Invites You To Meet New Rabbi

Congregation Beth Shalom invites you to attend an outdoor ‘open house meet and greet’ to learn about the congregation and meet new Rabbi Paul Schreiber, known as Reb Tuviah. The event will be held on Sunday, August 9, from 10 to 11:30 a.m. at its temple, located at 706 Bryan Rd. in Brandon.

For more information, please contact the temple administrator at 6816547 or email CBSmembership@hotmail.com.

Kitten Adoptions Go Online

Due to COVID-19, local animal rescue nonprofit A Kitten Place has had to cancel its in-person pet adoption events. If you are looking to add an adorable kitten or cat to your family please visit akittenplace.org/adoptable-kittens and look through the many kittens and cats that are now available in all descriptions. All kittens and cats will be spayed/neutered and vaccinated before being available for adoption.

Adoption applications and additional information can be found at akittenplace.org.

Library Curbside Pickup Now Available

Contact-free curbside pickup is now available at Riverview, Ruskin and SouthShore Regional Libraries. It is by appointment only and is available Monday-Saturday from 10 a.m. until 6 p.m. Simply select your items online at HCPLC.org, wait until the library notifies you that your hold is ready and then schedule your appointment online. Bring your library card number with you and follow the confirmation email instructions to pick up your items.

Virtual Career Services Available To Job Seekers Career Source Tampa Bay is launching an innovative way to provide virtual services and engagement to

unemployed job seekers. terol screening. To make CSTB has contracted with an appointment, visit a web-based platform to oneblood.org/ymca or deliver virtual services to call 1-888-9-DONATE. individuals of all ages.

The Career EDGE proPack N’ Play Cribs gram consists of interDonated To active modules with Hurricane Shelters built-in virtual coaching, The Children’s including a job interBoard of Hillsborough view simulator, resume and job County has recently application builder, guidance in provided 1,452 pack n’ developing a personal brand and play cribs to the essential life skills curriculum to Emergency Operations support career seekers in prepaCenter to prepare for ration for finding a job or advance this year’s hurricane Valrico Chamber of Commerce scholarship winners Isabella in employment.

Manera and Alexander Dyer. season. The cribs will Access to Career EDGE is be stored at the Valrico Chamber Of Commerce provided at www.careeredgecstb.com.

Museum of Science and Industry Scholarship Winners Announced New users simply need to register for (MOSI) and will be deployed to emerThe Valrico Chamber of an account, and registration takes less gency centers across Hillsborough Commerce recently announced its than one minute. Once the user is regCounty with other emergency supplies 2020 scholarship winners, Isabella istered, they will have immediate when a hurricane threatens the Tampa Manera and Alexander Dyer. access to all modules and services.

Bay region. Pack n’ play cribs are one Bloomingdale High School graduate way to prevent a child from dying from Isabella Manera will be attending the Free Online Stress Release Class unsafe sleep by providing a place University of Florida in the fall and where a child can be laid down to Hypnotic Engagements is offering a Alexander Dyer from Newsome High sleep alone away from other potential free event to help you unmuddle your School will be attending Harvard hazards. The cribs will be provided at mind and de-stress during this pandemUniversity. no extra cost to families seeking emeric period. Although the gency shelter. session is primarily YMCA Hosts geared towards eduBlood Drive Aging Services Caregiver Support cational and medical Local Group Meetings Continue professionals, everyYMCA one can benefit from it.

Bloomingdale Adult Day locations, The Zoom sessions Care Center would like to including are held regularly, the remind everyone that it is still North Brandon Family YMCA next one is on Tuesday, August 4 at operational even though the in Seffner, will be hosting a 6:30 p.m. center itself is closed to the blood drives on Friday, July To find out more, visit hypnoticenpublic. The Aging Caregiver 24, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. All donors gagements.com or check its facebook Support Group meetings are will receive a free COVID-19 page, Hypnotic Engagements LLC. continuing to take place every antibody test, free tote bag and a free Thursday via teleconference. Go to wellness checkup which includes a Simon Firearm & Family Safety HCFLGov.net/Aging to find out more. blood pressure, iron count and choles- All sessions are free.

Offering Classes Nothing is more important to people than the safety and protection of the ones you love. Simon Firearm & Family Safety Training can help you achieve that with its many training classes with certified instructors, which include concealed carry and home defense, children’s gun safety and countering the mass shooter threat.

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July 2020

Valrico Edition

Ace Hardware Brings Jobs To Area With New Retail Support Center In Plant City

By Kathy L. Collins

Ace Hardware customers,” added Corporation, the Bossmann. world’s largest The Ace Retail hardware cooperaSupport Center in tive, is relocating its Tampa is an inteRetail Support gral part of Ace Center to Plant Hardware’s netCity. This move will work of distribution bring about 200 facilities strategicalconstruction jobs ly located around and more than 40 Ace Hardware, the world’s largest retailer- the world. It serves owned hardware corporation, is relocating more than 200 Ace new retail support its Retail Support Center to a location on jobs to the commuHardware retail County Line Rd. in Plant City. nity. The new locations in Florida.

710,000 sq. ft. facility will be located on “On behalf of our city commission, I County Line Rd. in Plant City. This new would like to welcome Ace Hardware location will allow Ace Hardware to supply Corporation to Plant City,” said Mayor retailers and customers faster.

Rick Lott. “Development activity along The Ace Retail Support Center is cur- County Line Rd. continues to generate rently located in Tampa. It has operated great employment and economic develat this location since 1977. Moving the opment opportunities for our city, its resifacility to Plant City allows Ace Hardware dents and our neighbors.” to add more than 315,000 sq. ft. to its curPlant City is located between Tampa rent capabilities. and Lakeland. Plant City was named after Construction of the new facility on railroad developer Henry B. Plant. The County Line Rd. is expected to begin in town of Plant City is known as the Winter October. Planners hope that the compleStrawberry Capital of the World and hosts tion of the project will take place in the annual Florida Strawberry Festival.

November 2021.

Plant City is less than 20 miles from “We are excited to break ground on Brandon. our new Plant City Retail Support Center, Ace Hardware is the largest retaileran important piece in our overall supply owned hardware cooperative in the world chain,” said Lori Bossmann, executive with more than 5,300 locally owned and vice president and chief supply chain offioperated hardware stores in approximatecer for the Ace Hardware Corporation. ly 70 countries.

“Ace’s continued volume growth has drivSince 1924, Ace Hardware has en our need for a larger facility to accombecome a part of local communities modate our growing business demands. around the world and known as the place This relocation will enable faster service with the helpful hardware folks. For more for Ace retailers and ultimately our valued information, visit www.acehardware.com.

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Page 8

Volume 17, Issue 7

Valrico Edition

AJ’s Fine Wines & Liquor B We

By Lily Belcher

The St. “What’s been Andrew’s United wonderful about Methodist Church this whole initiative has organized a is that it has been a COVID-19 relief win-win-win for program, Be a everybody,” said Blessing, to provide Rachel Grafton. “It notes and gift cards obviously blessed for first responders the recipients and families finanbut has also cially impacted by been a blessthe coronavirus. ing to busiDonations collected nesses that we are From left to right: Emma Adcock, Mary Beth Southworth and Ali Southworth through Be a purchasing meals deliver a banner to Brandon Regional Blessing will be from and it’s always Hospital employees. delivered to hospital a blessing to serve staff through Feeding the in some way, shape or Frontline and to families form, whether it is writing through volunteers for St. letters or donating Andrew’s. money.”

The program is not While many churchjust designed for the St. es have had to cancel Andrew’s congregation, weekly services and however. The Be a other outreach programs, Blessing program gives St. Andrew’s is continuing the opportunity to nominate someone or their mission to serve the community. apply for relief for themselves. Donors Through the Be a Blessing initiative, the can also drop off notes of encouragechurch can remain open to helping and ment in collection bins outside the serving hospital staff, patients and memchurch, which will be distributed by volbers of the community and still play an unteers, or make monetary donations on active role in fulfilling their mission to their website. serve.

The Be a Blessing initiative began in For more information, contact April with a goal to help 125 families and Jessica Adams, the communications frontline workers but have helped nearly director of Be a Blessing, at double that in only two months. Katie jessica.adams@saumc.net. To make a Britt and Rachel Grafton have organized donation or apply for or nominate someand helped distribute the gifts and plan one for help, visit St. Andrews’ United to continue the program as long as the Methodist Church’s website at church continues to receive donations. www.saumc.net.

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July 2020

Page 9

Valrico Edition

School District Recognizes Students With Perfect Attendance

By Kate Quesada

Two Valrico area students were recognized for their amazing accomplishment last month. Julia Salvo from Bloomingdale High School and Rebekah Lorentzen from Durant High School were among the 10 members of the Hillsborough County Public School’s (HCPS) Julia Salvo from Bloomingdale High School and Rebekah Class of 2020 to Lorentzen from Durant High School were among the 10 receive perfect members of the Hillsborough County Public School’s (HCPS) Class of 2020 to receive perfect attendance for their entire attendance for their educational career. entire educational of the diligence and discipline shown career. by each of these learners to accomAccording to HCPS’ Tanya Arja, each student attended 2,340 consecu- plish perfect attendance throughout their entire career in Hillsborough tive school days without logging one County Public Schools. I also want to absence. That is every school day congratulate their parents and families from kindergarten through 12th grade.

To mark this achievement, the stu- for providing a support system to make this achievement possible,” said dents were guests at the school board Superintendent Addison Davis. meeting on June 9, where they were The students feel honored to have presented with brand-new laptops been recognized with the award. courtesy of Toyota of Tampa Bay, “This award means so much to along with $500 scholarships from me because it represents all of the Suncoast Credit Union.

“These students have demonstrat- hard work and dedication that went into having 13 years of perfect attened a high level of commitment by dance,” said Salvo. “It is such an attending school every single day. It is honor to be recognized for this important for students to possess achievement and I’d like to thank my character traits such as dependability family, my teachers and the adminisand reliability to be successful now tration for the role they played in this and in the future as they move on to accomplishment.” the next stage in their life. I am proud

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Page 10

Volume 17, Issue 7

Valrico Edition

Local JROTC Cadets Receive DAR Award Of Excellence By Mail This Year

By Anjali Caligiuri

which cadets are worthy of the award. Recipients must meet specific criteria, including demonstrations of loyalty, patriotism, scholastic achievement, leadership, good character, dependability and military discipline as well as be in the upper 25 percent of their JROTC and academic classes.

“ROTC Medals are awarded to student cadets of outstanding ability and achievement in high school, junior college, college or The Alafia River Chapter of the Daughters of the university ROTC programs of the American Revolution (DAR) still distributed its Army, Navy, Air Force and Marine award for excellence within the JROTC program to Corps,” said Ruiz. seven local high schools in Brandon last month: Under normal circumstances, Armwood, Bloomingdale, Brandon, Durant, Newsome, Strawberry Crest and Tampa Bay Tech. organizations such as the DAR are invited to the end-of-year cereDue to the unexpected pandemic monies to distribute the awards to the ending school early, the annual JROTC many outstanding cadets. But even award ceremonies were canceled; howthough the ceremonies were canceled, ever, the Alafia River Chapter of the the Alafia River DAR found another way Daughters of the American Revolution to give the cadets their well-earned (DAR) still distributed their award for awards. excellence within the JROTC program to “As a result, our chapter has mailed seven local high schools in the Brandon the certificate, ribbon and medal to the area: Armwood, Bloomingdale, Brandon, respective high schools so they may hanDurant, Newsome, Strawberry Crest and dle the proper distribution once school is Tampa Bay Tech. able to resume in the fall,” said Ruiz.

“The Daughters of the American Although many other important cereRevolution, DAR, was founded in 1890 monies have been canceled as well, the and is a nonprofit, nonpolitical volunteer Alafia River DAR ensures the loyal and women’s service organization dedicated patriotic leaders of the JROTC programs to promoting patriotism, preserving are properly recognized for their dedicaAmerican history and securing America’s tion and excellence within the program. future through better education for chilFor more information about the DAR dren,” said Kim Ruiz, publicity chair of the or the Alafia River Chapter, email the Alafia River DAR. chapter’s registrar at The DAR collaborates closely with ARCRegistrar201921@gmail.com. the JROTC instructors to determine

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Page 11

Valrico Edition

YMCA’s SilverSneakers Moves To Seffner Location Due To COVID-19

By Dominique Asher

YMCA’s them in their SilverSneakers everyday lives. classes for seniors The classes also are taking place at allow the seniors Seffner Elementary to improve their in Brandon this overall health while month in order to bumping along to ensure a safe and music and interactclean environment ing, at a safe disfor the seniors at tance though. higher risk during Many were the pandemic. concerned at The first about it Seniors get moving to the music at a SilverSneakers SilverSneakers reopening class. program offers amid COVIDclasses for seniors, held from Tuesday 19; however, to Thursday at 11 a.m., in the commuthey gained faith after nity that helps keep them active and fit the securing of an exclusive location at and ensures they are improving their Seffner. mental and physical health.

“Many seniors used to go five To guarantee the safety of those times a week and looked forward to participating in the classes, the groups the reopening,” said Heather Solomon, are limited to 20 seniors, one instrucTampa Metropolitan Area YMCA tor and a class ambassador in the Leadership membership executive.

Seffner school, which provides more The partnership between Seffner square footage than the YMCA. The and YMCA’s SilverSneakers bloswellness director sits in on the class somed due to YMCA’s Before & After for the first day, equipment is sanitized School Enrichment program for stuafter each class and placed in the indi- dents at the school. This program viduals’ space and the YMCA makes recently added a yoga class to keep sure lots of communication circulates students active and to offer a form of so that the situation is made clear to stress relief and wellness. the public.

“We love the relationship we’ve The SilverSneaker classes offer a built with Seffner over the years, and wide range of exercise to help the everything we’ve done together; its older community remain fit and able. been a busy year,” said Solomon.

The classes works on balance, To learn more, about the YMCA`s strength and stamina through a series SilverSneakers program go to of chair-based activities, as well as https://ymcacentralflorida.com/silvergeneral-use exercise that will help sneakers/.

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Valrico Edition

Looking For A Unique Gift? Send A Serenade!

By Kelly Wise Valdes

People are now also left him with searching for unique some extensive side ways to celebrate effects where he birthdays, anniveralmost lost his life saries and special last summer. occasions, and no Like many peoone knows this betple, Morris also lost ter than Cal Morris. all of his work during Morris has been COVID-19. “Every traveling throughout Cal Morris, a classically trained violinist, event was canceled. the area serenading performs personal serenades throughout Every venue I could the Tampa Bay area as well as live customers with his performances on social media and special play was closed,” violin, bringing joy to said Morris. “When events. each recipient. you’re a husband and father and suddenOriginally from Guthrie, Oklahoma, ly have no job for an unforeseeable Morris was raised on a 20-acre farm with amount of time, and so many others are his 12 brothers and sisters. At a very feeling the same fear, it’s a ripe time to early age, Morris and his identical twin come together.” brother were drawn to musical instruMorris started doing live concerts on ments such as the piano, violin and viola. social media and then offered virtual sereDr. Hong Zhu, a professor at the nades which ultimately lead to requests University of Central Oklahoma, heard for socially distant, in-person serenades. the brothers play at a recital and initiated “It has been an emotional, beautiful becoming their personal instructor. Even way to surprise, share and bond with though the brothers excelled at the music, people,” said Morris. they ultimately turned down college music One of the most special moments for scholarships to go into the family conMorris was a serenade for a nurse who struction business. The early years of had a recently-widowed patient whose music and the next years of self-employhusband died from COVID-19. “The love ment created this special combination of her nurse has for her is priceless. She skills for Morris that eventually led him wanted a way to cheer her up and give into music full-time, but in a very unique, her just a moment of joy to help lighten entrepreneurial, family-focused way. the pain, so she had me come out and In 2016, a few weeks after their baby perform. The smile on her face melted my daughter was born, the Morris family heart.” loaded up their newborn and two-year-old Morris will travel within three hours of son in their minivan and ultimately landed Tampa Bay area and each serenade conin the Tampa Bay area to pursue music. sists of about four personally selected In a turn of events, Morris was diagsongs. Visit www.calmorrismusic.com or nosed with a rare blood cancer 18 follow him on Facebook, Instagram, months ago and began rigorous treatYouTube and Twitter by searching ‘Cal ments which has put him in remission but Morris Music.’

Volume 17, Issue 7

July 2020

Page 13

Valrico Edition

Minuteman Press Franchise Owners Help Local Businesses Bounce Back From COVID-19 For local Minuteman Press Franchise Owners and Valrico residents Julie and Mike Arndt, there is nothing more important right now than helping their communities recover and rebuild from the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. Julie, who runs Minuteman Press in Brandon, and Mike, who runs Minuteman Press in Plant City, have remained open since printing is an essential business. During this time, they launched Bounce Back Brandon/Riverview and Bounce Back Plant City, two free community websites connecting local area businesses with people who are looking to support local and shop local. Businesses that submit a completely free listing also receive free COVID-19 awareness and prevention posters as well as window decals and signs that Julie and Mike are providing.

Julie said, “What Bounce Back means to our communities in Brandon, Riverview and Plant City can be described in one word: Solidarity. All of the participating businesses who have joined the Bounce Back movement see the value in us working together to support each other and best serve our customers with these special offers.”

She continued, “We have over 125 local businesses who we are collaborating with through the Bounce Back Brandon/Riverview and Bounce Back Plant City websites. At first, we used this as a COVID-19 resource to simply let people know that our businesses were open. And when people realized this, it allowed them to take advantage of these special offers while stimulating

Staff Report

Bounce Back USA signage is distributed by Minuteman Press to local participating businesses in Brandon, Riverview and Plant City. The program was started by Minuteman Press Franchise Owners Julie and Mike Arndt.

the local economy.”

One of the ways Julie and Mike have been promoting collaboration and solidarity is by distributing free COVID19 awareness posters to all participating businesses and also providing them with window signage and yard signs.

“There is so much value in working together with our fellow business owners, and when people see our Bounce Back signage and posters, it is a great reminder that we are all in this together.”

They also engaged three local

Chambers of Commerce in Brandon, Riverview and Plant City. “We’ve received such a positive response and working collaboratively with the Chambers of Commerce has also helped raise awareness and support of the Bounce Back program,” she said.

Both Minuteman Press centers in Brandon and Plant City have remained open throughout COVID-19 since printing was designated as an essential business. “When the shutdowns and quarantines first hit, we made it a point to let people know we were still here

and still open. Once the other essential businesses found out we were open, we were able to help them with all of their printing needs (such as custom printed forms and pads) and keep their production and operations going. It was great for them to see the value of us as a local printing and business services provider, and we gained several new customers as a result.”

As more businesses in Florida continue to reopen and rebuild, Julie and Mike are here to help. “Some of the products and services we offer that are in high demand right now are mailings.

We are able to connect clients who can’t reach their customers personally by introducing them to cost-effective Every Door Direct Mail (EDDM), and we can handle everything from design and printing to the mailings themselves.”

She added, “We also have social distancing products such as posters, window signage, and floor decals available and are ready to help all businesses reopen their doors safely.”

Julie concluded, “One lesson I think we’ve all learned is that when we work together and support each other, good things happen. That, and goodwill goes a long way.”

For more information on Minuteman Press in Brandon, visit https://www.brandon.minutemanpress.c om. Submit a free business listing at Bounce Back Brandon/Riverview (https://bouncebackusa.minuteman.com /locations/fl/brandon/) and receive a free COVID-19 awareness and prevention poster.

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Page 14

Volume 17, Issue 7

Valrico Edition

With Arts & Entertainment Editor Kathy L. Collins

Museums For All Program Grants Access To Local Museums For Those Who Receive SNAP Benefits

Winthrop Arts Mobile Art Factory Expands Program To Plant City

Museums For All Museum of Art in is a national, brandSarasota. ed access program The program that encourages indioffers museums a viduals of all backway to broaden grounds to visit their visitor base museums regularly and it allows underand build lifelong served communities museum habits. It is a way to visit museopen to participation ums, by any type of musewhere um, including art, the visihistory, natural histo- Local museums, includtors can ing the Tampa Museum ry/anthropology, gen- of Art, participate in a be eral museums, chil- program called Museums inspired For All. It is an initiative dren’s museums, and have their creativithat allow members of the community science centers, who receive SNAP benefits free or ty ignited. reduced admission at several area planetariums, nature The program is an museums. centers, historic initiative of the Institute houses, sites, zoos, aquariums, botaniof Museum and Library Services. It is cal gardens and arboretums. administered by the Association of The program allows individuals and Children’s Museums. families who receive SNAP benefits Since its launch in 2014, Museums (food stamps) free or reduced general for All has served more than 2.5 million admission to many museums simply by visitors nationwide. showing their active EBT card at the There is no limit to the number of admissions desk. Cost of admission times an individual or a family can visit should never be a barrier to someone the museum. They can get admission visiting a museum. for 43 or less for up to four people per In the state of Florida, there are 22 one EBT card. At the Tampa Museum participating venues. Within the Tampa of Art, for instance, families receive free Bay area, there are several, including admission thanks to funding from PNC the Museum of Science and Industry Bank.

(MOSI) in Tampa, the Tampa Bay A representative from the Tampa History Center in Tampa, the Tampa Museum of Art said, “We are so proud Museum of Art next to Curtis Hixon to offer this national program to the Park in downtown Tampa, the Tampa Bay community during this critiExplorations V Children’s Museum in cal time.”

Lakeland, the Great Explorations For more information on the Children’s Museum in St. Petersburg, Museums For All program and to find the Morean Art Center in St. Petersburg out about participating museums, and the John and Mable Ringling please visit www.museums4all.org.

alliance has been amazingly positive for families. Children eagerly await their art teacher each week with smiles and enthusiasm. Parents are equally delighted that their children are being exposed to the world of art.”

Annabel Saavedra, community coordinator for Hispanic Services Council’s La RED de Padres Activos (Network of Active Parents) program Winthrop Arts has expanded the reach of its Mobile Art Factory to include children who live in Plant City, said, “Our alliance with Winthrop Arts has been a phenomein Plant City. The Winthrop Arts Mobile Art Factory provides, thanks to funders such as nal one. Together as one community, the Arts Council of Hillsborough County, free art instruction to underserved children who live the La RED de Padres Activos proin Southern and Eastern Hillsborough County. gram and Winthrop Arts better cater to the people we serve. The partnerThe Winthrop Arts Mobile Art Factory ship has shown to be a promising one.” is a grant and community-supported proHispanic Services Council is a comgram run by Winthrop Arts, an arts nonmunity-based organization working to profit located in Riverview. The Mobile Art improve the quality of life of all Latinos by Factory has been operating since promoting academic success of children, February 2018 and provides free arts providing immigration legal services, supinstruction to underserved children. One porting the development of healthy comof its main partners is Hispanic Services munities and promoting leadership and Council. Over the last few years, children engagement among Latinos. in Wimauma have been the recipients of Saavedra said, “We have been workthe program. ing with the community for more than 25 Now, the Winthrop Arts Mobile Art years in Hillsborough County. We provide Factory is officially expanding its presvital information and services to families ence to Plant City. This is also an and individuals to help them be self-suffiexpanded partnership with Hispanic cient, independent and contributing memServices Council. bers of their community. In Plant City, we Winthrop Arts provides the materials offer services at the First Baptist Church and free arts instruction under the direcof Plant City.” tion of Lead Art Instructor Bryant In addition to the Winthrop Arts Martinez. Partners like Hispanic Services Council provide the space and identify the Mobile Art Factory, Winthrop Arts operates the Art Factory, which is located at children eligible to participate in the pro11267 Winthrop Main St. in Riverview. Art gram. classes for children, teens and adults are Maria Garavito, project director for offered at the Art Factory. In addition, it Hispanic Services Council, said, “We offers a summer art camp and art festihave been partnering with Winthrop Arts vals. Visit www.winthroparts.org and for over three years, serving Wimauma www.hispanicservicescouncil.org. and, more recently, Plant City. This

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Page 15

Valrico Edition

Where There’s A Home For Every Kitten, There’s A Kitten For Every Home

By Laura Tamayo

A year ago this account for as many month, Michelle Bass cats as possible to maxand Alicia Pollock came imize reach. together to form a vol“Rescues come unteer-based organizafrom a variety of location that offers numertions—people find them ous cats loving, nurturin their backyard, at ing homes. A Kitten their workplace, at Place helps abandoned schools. They are abanand orphaned kittens, doned in dumpsters as well as pregnant and found in buckets on cats, in the Southeast the side of the road,” Hillsborough region stated Bass. through rescuing and To secure these Local kittens are found great fostering them until a homes thanks to A Kitten Place. rescued animals a safe home is secured. loving home, A Kitten Place typically Before deciding to begin the charity, had adoption events at local pet stores Bass and Pollock both had spent years on the weekends where adopters were fostering for multiple shelters and other pre-approved to adopt or customers rescues, which prompted a desire to could apply on-site. advance this part of their life into someBecause of COVID-19, virtual thing more. adoptions are now its main strategy in “We shared the same philosophy on ensuring rescues a home (with some certain aspects of rescue and we knew adoption events with social distancwe could offer a unique approach to help- ing), in which the adopter is screened ing homeless and abandoned cats and first, then messages the foster family kittens in our community,” explained of the cat to ensure that it’s a match. If Bass. approved, a meeting is scheduled to While A Kitten Place does take inspicarefully give the kitten to the new ration from other rescue centers and their owner. values, it has a unique mission that focusDespite all the outside chaos, the es on neonate kittens and pregnant organization is still constantly receiving females. Bass communicated that the new cats to put up for adoption. If organization specifically try to give the you’re looking for a new friend to take pregnant female cats a place to safely your mind off the current world situahave give birth and avoid any physical tion, go to akittenplace.org to apply. harm that they may have gone through in If you’d like to become a volunteer, an uncontrolled setting. either through fostering or helping with A Kitten Place takes in cats from any- transport and other duties, email akitwhere and everywhere, hoping to tenplace@gmail.com.

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Page 16

Volume 17, Issue 7

Valrico Edition

Team Continues Annual Rays Program To Encourage Summer Reading

By Lily Belcher

Even without a they reach the season, the Tampa home plate, they Bay Rays, partneremail a picture of ing with Suncoast the scorecard.

Credit Union and The Rays will the Tampa Bay send two tickets Times, will host the to a future home 13th annual game if the particReading with the ipant reaches the Rays to train home plate along Tampa’s rookie with the prizes readers. Through the program, Pre-K Willy Adames, shortstop for the Rays, through 12th grade reads with a student for Reading with students log their the Rays. reading hours throughout the summer to won for reachreceive prizes. ing first, secThe Rays began the free program in ond and third 2007 to encourage reading in order to base. avoid the typical summer learning loss by Shea recording up to 24 hours spent reading.

Bagley, a sec“Reading is a vital component to a ond grade teacher at Bevis Elementary child’s education and helps prepare them School, said, “I think it’s an awesome profor a bright future,” said Cindy Helton, gram. It gives children an opportunity to executive director of the Suncoast Credit read…[and] to find books they want to Union Foundation. “Helping to provide read.” students with educational tools is part of The program has hit it out of the park our DNA.” in each of its 13 seasons. More than The coronavirus pandemic forced 300,000 students across nine participatthis year’s event to begin early and proing counties have racked up two and a vided students with a motivation to read half million hours of reading. Reading with in their additional idle time that came with the Rays is an opportunity for parents to distanced learning and the cancelled get their kids excited about reading and school year. In past years, students could an opportunity for students to score a go to the library or the Rays’ website to homerun by hitting the books. pick up a score card, but this year, particiFor more information on Reading pants will have to download the scorewith the Rays or book recommendations, card from their homes visit www.mlb.com/rays/community/readAfter reading for the required hours, ing/ or contact students will ‘round the bases’ and, when reading@raysbaseball.com.

Expiration: 7/31/2020

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July 2020

Page 17

Valrico Edition

Sports Connection Photos courtesy of Bloomingdale football

657-2418

www.ospreyobserver.com

By Nick Nahas

Seven Bloomingdale Football Players Sign Committments To Play College Football was relieved,” said Sykes. He Seven Bloomingdale will major in architectural engiHigh School football players neering or construction manrecently signed on to play agement. “My goal in college college football. They is to keep my GPA above a weren’t able to have an offi3.5, and my goal with football cial signing day at the is to help my teammates grow school due to COVID-19. and motivate them to be the Defensive back/wide best version of themselves,” receiver Gabe Akpewero he said. signed to play at St. Defensive lineman Marvin Thomas University. “I felt Vinson signed to play for St. great after thinking about Defensive back/wide receiver Bulls quarterback Lance Alderson Wide receiver/defensive back Thomas University, joining his my decision for a long time, Waylon Blackmon signed with signed with Baldwin Wallace Javon Stephens signed with Peru Bloomingdale teammates, St. Thomas University.

University in Ohio.

State in Nebraska. and I feel relieved that I Akpewero and Blackmon. “I’m chose the right school for ready to show every coach me to spend the next four that doubted me that I will be years,” said Akpewero. He something,” said Vinson.

He will major in business manwill major in business management and marketing. “I agement. He can’t wait to play am looking forward to comwith Akpewero and Blackmon peting at a higher level and again. “Those are my brothers improving my game as for life,” he said. much as possible while I am Guard Jordan Leath also in college,” he said. signed to play for Minnesota Bulls quarterback Lance State Community and Alderson signed with Technical College.

Defensive lineman Marvin Vinson Defensive back/wide receiver Defensive end/defensive tackle Baldwin Wallace University signed to play for St. Thomas Gabe Akpewero signed to play at Jack Sykes signed to play for The 2020 class is the winin Ohio. “I was very excited University.

St. Thomas University.

Missouri Valley College. ningest class in the school’s when I signed,” said Thomas University. “It felt great, all Wide receiver/defensive back Javon history with a 33-13 overall record.

Alderson. “My dream was always to play these years of hard work and persistStephens signed with Peru State in “They are going to be missed, and I at the next level and be the first in my ence in the classroom and on the field Nebraska. “It felt amazing knowing that appreciate everything they have done family to play college football.” He will finally paid off,” said Blackmon. He will I’m the first in my family to go to colfor us,” said Bloomingdale Head Coach major in criminal justice. “My ultimate major in engineering. “I hope to go and lege,” said Stephens. He will major in Jake Coulson. “That group of kids goal playing college football is to get ball out and display my talents so that I business. “I can’t wait for next season, bought in and never questioned, you faster and stronger, and to show everycan take my football career as far my I’m ready to work,” he said. knew they were going to put in what one why I’m there. I want to be one of talents can take me. If I can make it to Defensive end/defensive tackle they needed to do to be successful. the top QBs in college,” he said. the NFL, that would be a dream come Jack Sykes signed with Missouri Valley These guys set the bar, and so we just Defensive back/wide receiver true, but I have to work to get there,” he College. “I felt a huge weight was lifted need to keep it going.”

Waylon Blackmon also signed with St. said. off my shoulders and a lot of pressure

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July 2020

Volume 17, Issue 7

Ph: 657-2418

New Director Of Swim At BSAC

The Brandon Sports & Aquatic Center (BSAC) has named Sharon Finotti as director of swim education.

Finotti brings more than 22 years of experience in the fitness and swim industry. She received her license as a Teacher of Swimming and Water Safety (TSW) through AUSTSWIM, the industry standard for swimming and water safety in Australia and many countries.

‘Perfect practice makes perfect’ is foundational to the educational approach Finotti is stressing at BSAC. “Teaching proper techniques with consistent reinforcement, and not moving a child up to the next level before they are ready, prevents the forming of bad habits,” said Finotti.

BSAC’s Learn to Swim Program is the most comprehensive swim lesson program in the area, offering a progressive group lesson program as well as children and adult private lessons, parent/tot classes and adaptive (special needs) swim lessons. Along with teaching swimming techniques, lessons incorporate water safety and survival skills.

BSAC is a community-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. For more than 50 years, it has been its mission is to impact lives daily through superior educational and athletic programs.

BSAC is located on 405 Beverly Blvd. in Brandon. For more information on swim lessons, visit www.mybsac.org.

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Pregnancy, Birth and Beyond is located at 324 W. Robertson St. in Brandon and can be contacted on 2940990. More information can be found on its website, www.pregnancy2020.org.

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Know Where And How To Vote: By Mail, Early And On Election Day Voting is a right and not a privilege.

In order to exercise this right, every voter in Hillsborough County must be informed and must know where to vote and how to do it. In Hillsborough County, there are three ways to exercise your right to vote: Vote By Mail, Early Voting and Election Day Voting.

In order to vote in the primary election, which is set for Tuesday, August 18, you must be registered by Monday, July 20. In order to vote in the general election, set for Tuesday, November 3, you must be registered by Monday, October 5. When you register, you are asked to select a party. The parties are Republican. Democrat or No Party Affiliation. You can also register as a member of a minor political party such as the Green Party of Florida.

Florida is a closed primary state. This means that for the primary election, your ballot will reflect the party that you have selected. In other words, you vote only for the candidates from your party as well as

non-partisan races such as the judge (county and circuit) and school board.

In the general election, your ballot is based upon where you reside.

You can view sample ballots for both the primary and the general election by visiting www.votehillsborough.org.

“Many people are focused on the upcoming general election in November, but please do not ignore the primary election. We have local school board and judge races on the primary ballot that are non-partisan, so everyone votes in these races. If you are a Democrat or Republican, you will also have a Requesting A Vote By Mail Ballot Is say in which state Easy: and local partisan 1. Online: Vote By Mail Ballot Request candidate moves on to the 2. By Phone: (813) 612-4180 general election,” said 3. By Fax: (813) 744-5843 4. In Person: at any of our Supervisor of Elections Supervisor of Elections Craig Latimer.

Offices

To Request Vote By Mail For Yourself, You Must Provide: 1. Your name and home address 2. Your date of birth 3. Your mailing address, if different from home address (Ballots cannot be forwarded. Be sure to provide your current mailing address.)

4. Your signature (for written requests)

VOTE BY MAIL

Vote By Mail is the most convenient method. You do not need an excuse to choose this option. If you request this method, you will receive your ballot in the mail (by Thursday, July 9 for the pri-

mary election and

by Thursday, September 24 for the general election), and you can take your time making your voting decision. The Vote

By Mail ballot must be received by the Hillsborough Supervisor of Elections Office by 7 p.m. on Election Day. You can mail it or drop it off in person at one of its offices or at an Early Voting site. The Supervisor of Elections is also offering curbside drop-off this year. You can request your Vote By Mail ballot and track its delivery by visiting www.votehillsborough.org.

“Election Day is your last day to vote, not your first. I encourage everyone to consider voting by mail.

During the March election, it was heartbreaking to get calls from voters who could not leave home and had planned to vote on Election Day,” said Latimer.

EARLY VOTING

Early Voting is set up before both the primary election and the general election.

Early Voting will take place from Monday, August 3 through Sunday, August 16 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. For the general election, it will be from Monday, October 19

By Kathy L. Collins

through Sunday, November 1 from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.

“In March, we had 23 Early Voting locations open, and we may have 24 for the August primary. We are just finalizing those details now. We will have drop-off ballot boxes at each of those sites for voters who want to drop off their Vote By Mail ballot,” said Latimer.

Early Voting is just like Election Day voting. You must bring one or two forms of identification with your photo and signature on it.

Acceptable forms of identification include a Florida driver’s license, state issued identification, U.S. passport, student ID, public assistance ID and more.

ELECTION DAY VOTING

Polling places or precincts, noted on your voter registration card, are open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Election Day. You can bring your sample ballot with you and use it while you vote. Latimer said, “We are taking great measures to ensure a safe and healthy inperson voting experience.” Social distancing and hand sanitizing as well as adjusted layouts will be utilized.

According to Latimer, “All of this will mean that in-person voting is going to be slower than in the past, but it will be healthy and orderly.”

Whichever method you choose, remember that your vote counts.

For more information, please visit www.votehillsborough.org.

BEAUTIFUL HOMES START WITH BEAUTIFUL FLOORS

U.S. House District 15

Adam Hattersley (D) www.HattersleyFor Congress.com

Alan Cohn (D) www.AlanCohnFor Congress.com

Ross Spano (R)

Jesse Philippe (D)

www.JessePhilippe.com www.RossSpano.com

Danny Kushmer (R) Michael Owen (R) www.DannyKushmer.com www.VoteMichaelOwen.com

Harry Cohen (D)

Hillsborough Clerk of Court

Kelly Ayers www.KellyAyersFor Judge.com

Circuit Court Judge

Rickey Silverman Monique Scott www.Vote4Rickey.com www.Scott4Judge.com

Circuit Court Judge

Ashley Ivanov www.VoteAshleyIvanov.com

School Board

Michael Scionti www.JudgeScionti.com

Sally Harris www.VoteSally Harris.com

Angela Schoden www.Angela Schoden.com

Group 31

Greg Green www.GregGreenFor Judge.com

Group 30

Danny Alvarez www.ElectDanny Alvarez.com

Helene Daniel www.HeleneDaniel4 Judge.com

Circuit Court Judge

District 7 Countywide

Lynn Gray www.LynnGrayFor SchoolBoard.com

Charles Brian Boswell (R) Chad Chronister (R) www.VoteCharlesBoswell.com www.ChadChronister.com

Scott Bonavita Gary Dolgin www.VoteBonavita.com www.GaryDolgin.com

Group 19

John Schifino www.SchifinoFor Judge.com

Jim Boyd (R) www.BoydFor Florida.com

Hillsborough County Sheriff

April Griffin (D) Nancy Millan (D) www.AprilGriffin.com www.VoteNancyMillan.com

Group 7

Group 9

John Manners Houman (R) www.mr-manners.com

Jen McDonald (D) Scott Levinson (R) Tony Morejon (R) www.VoteJenMcDonald.com www.VoteTonyMorejon.com www.VoteLevinson.com

Hillsborough Tax Collector

Kevin Beckner (D) Cindy Stuart (D) www.KevinBeckner.com www.VoteCindyStuart.com

Bill Yanger www.YangerFor Judge.com

Scott Franklin (R) www.voteScott Franklin.com

County Commissioner District 1

State House District 59

Nancy Jacobs www.NancyJacobs ForJudge.com

State Senate District 21

Group 39

Jeffery Alex James Johnson www.jefferyforschoolboard.com

Wendy DePaul www.WendyDePaul 4Judge.com

Steven Scott Stephens

It’s Time For A New Generation Of Leadership In Florida’s 15th Congressional District

Staff Report

Voting is a right. No matter how you do it, whether it is by mail, early voting or on Election Day, just remember that every vote counts and every citizen should exercise their right to vote.

The Primary Election will be held on Tuesday, August 18.

You can vote by mail. You can also vote during the early voting period from Monday, August 3 through Sunday, August 16 from 10 a.m. to 6

p.m. On Primary Election Day, you must go to your assigned precinct. You can vote on Tuesday, August 18 from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Make sure you are registered to vote in the primary election by Monday, July 20 and get out and vote.

Enjoy profiles about some of the local candidates on the next few pages and see why they are willing to serve the community as elected officials.

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one on Election Day As a former naval when he became the officer and Iraq war vetfirst Democrat to reperan and now a state resent Florida’s 59th representative, Adam district.

Hattersley’s life has “In the Florida been about service.

Legislature, I’ve “I joined the Navy worked across the after college, just three aisle to pass legislation weeks before to help veterans, fireSeptember 11, 2001,” fighters and teachers. he said. “I served on a I’ve engaged with nuclear-powered submany of you through marine and taught elecour town halls and trical engineering at the through our legislative Naval Academy. Then, office,” he said. “I’m I volunteered to fight in thankful this communiIraq during the height Adam Hattersley is running for Congress in District 15. ty has entrusted me of the war.” with this responsibility.”

After the military, Hattersley and his He added, “In 2018, I ran for office wife moved to Riverview, where they to stand up to a bad politician who didn’t built their American dream—a house, a reflect our values. Now, I’m running for cute dog and a small business. But he Congress for the same reason. missed being part of something bigger Congressman Ross Spano is the only than himself. member of Congress under criminal “Then something unexpected hapinvestigation. He admitted to breaking pened,” said Hattersley. “In 2018, I was campaign finance law to win. He also asked to run for Florida State House.

There was an extreme politician running, denies climate change, opposes equal rights and sought to repeal pre-existing and no Democrat had entered the race.” conditions protections for Floridians. We He added, “Entering politics had deserve a congressman who serves with never crossed my mind. At the time, I honor and integrity. That’s why I’m rundidn’t even know who my state representative was! But my wife and I decided ning: just as I served in the Navy, in Iraq and in the Florida House, my mission is to be part of the solution, so I filed to to be a true public servant for our disrun.” trict.”

After being told that the seat was To learn more about Hattersley, visit solidly Republican, and that he would www.hattersleyforcongress.com. lose handily, Hattersley surprised every-

Tampa Native Michael Scionti Looks To Serve Community In Group 19

Helene Daniel Brings Experience To Group 30 County Judge Race

abroad.”

Michael Scionti is Scionti has held honored to serve as various positions of one of your circuit public trust as a court judges in the lawyer, soldier and Thirteenth Judicial judge and has a Circuit. proven record in A Tampa native maintaining the fair and lifelong resident of and impartial adminHillsborough County, istration of justice. he has served the “I have always community and counperformed my duties try for 25 years, and responsibilities upholding the rule of with the highest level law in and out of the Tampa native Michale Scionti is curof integrity, demoncourtroom, on and off rently running for re-election in strated a strong the battlefield and Group 19. understanding of the law and applied a throughout all branches of governfair-minded, common sense approach ment. to my decision-making,” he said. “I “I currently preside over both believe the depth and breadth of my Veterans Treatment Court and legal and judicial experience has given Juvenile Delinquency Court—two of me the necessary balance, perspecHillsborough County’s problem-solving courts for struggling veterans and tive and problem-solving skills to make me an effective judge.” at risk youth,” said Scionti.

He is currently running for re-elecA lieutenant colonel in the United States Army Reserve, he also serves tion in Group 19.

“As a judge, I serve as an instruas a commander in the Judge ment of justice and ensure that everyAdvocate General’s Corps. one is treated equally under the law,” “Over the course of my 20 years he said. “With your support, I promise in the military, I have served multiple to continue serving our community tours of duty in both Iraq and with integrity, compassion and fairAfghanistan and was awarded the ness.” He asks you to please vote for Bronze Star Medal,” he said. “As a Michale Scionti for Circuit Court military magistrate, I presided over Judge, Group 19 on Tuesday, August hundreds of military-commissioned 18 or before. war tribunals and as a judge advoVisit www.JudgeScionti.com for cate I helped advance the rule of law and uphold human rights in countries more information.

"I have the Helene Daniel has experience and practiced law in competence to be Florida for over 33 an effective Circuit years. A longtime resiCourt Judge,” said dent of Hillsborough Helene Daniel.

County, Helene Daniel “Circuit court is our is running for Circuit highest trial court Court Judge Group and it is a serious 30. job that comes with She has been rated AV Preeminent® Valrico resident Helene Daniel is running considerable for Circuit Court Judge Group 30. responsibility.”

by MartindaleHelene Daniel has been certified by the Hubbell®, its highest rating for legal abiliFlorida Supreme Court as a Circuit-Civil ties and ethics. This is a significant Mediator since 2001. The mediation achievement as it is based on peer process is an excellent way to prepare for review. judicial service.

“My campaign values are experiFamily and community are important ence, integrity and fairness,” said Helene to Helene Daniel. She is a past president Daniel who has extensive courtroom of the Hillsborough Association for experience, having tried cases in both Women Lawyers. Over the years, she civil and criminal law. has been active volunteer in the commuAs a lawyer, she has represented nity with Habitat for Humanity, Paint Your clients from every walk of life, including Heart Out, Great American Teach and pro bono clients. many more. She has also mentored high “Pro bono work is an important part of my community service and I enjoy rep- school, college and law school students.

A longtime resident of Valrico, she is a resenting clients in and out of court. I member of Nativity Catholic Church. believe it is essential, as a trial lawyer, to She has been married to her hushelp those in need of legal assistance band, Bill, for 32 years and they have two and represent them for free,” she said. children, Veronica and Will, who both After 33 years as a lawyer, Helene graduated from Newsome High School Daniel understands the practice of law is and attended the University of Florida. about people and compassion. The majority of her legal experience has been They love dogs and have three Labradors. “My proven trial experience in Circuit Civil Court, handling cases in and integrity will ensure I am a fair and areas of nursing homes, medical malimpartial judge,” she said. Visit practice, personal injury, insurance law, www.HeleneDaniel4Judge.com. healthcare law and commercial litigation.

Staff Report

Staff Report

EXPERIENCE MATTERS 30 Years as a Lawyer Proven Courtroom Experience

AV Preeminent® Rated

by Martindale-Hubbell® Past President HAWL Hillsborough Association for Women Lawyers

HELENE DANIEL

FOR CIRCUIT COURT JUDGE Hillsborough County | Circuit 13 Group 30

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Gary Dolgin, A Candidate For Circuit Court Judge In Group 31, Wants To Be Your Family’s Judge

Monique Scott Brings Versatility And Experience To Group 7 County Judge Run

practice in Tampa Gary Dolgin, a since 1993. Dolgin board-certified marital has experience not and family law attoronly in marital and ney, will use his over family law, as he 30 years of experience has served as an to serve the residents assistant state attorof Hillsborough County ney in Manatee as a circuit court County and as an judge. Dolgin is runassistant public ning for circuit court defender in judge in Group 31 and Hillsborough would like your vote Gary Dolgin helped save his client Tara’s on Tuesday, August daughters after they were abducted and County. Dolgin has taken out of the state by Tara’s suicidal handled juvenile 18. husband. delinquency and Dolgin has represented many citizens over the years. One dependency cases as well as a myriad of issues that a circuit court judge will be client, Tara, found herself in a distressful required to rule upon. situation when her suicidal husband “I have dedicated my professional abducted their two daughters and took career to helping families and children. I them out of the state. Tara said, “Gary look forward to putting my many years of Dolgin was the only lawyer who took my experience to work for the people of call and understood the urgency of my Hillsborough County,” said Dolgin. situation. He assured me that his top priDolgin is one of 28 attorneys in ority was getting my daughters back.”

Tara added, “Without him, our story could Hillsborough County who are board certified by the Florida Bar as a specialist in have had a different ending. Our story is marital and family law. In Florida, board just one of many where he has protected certification recognizes an attorney’s spechildren and families.” cial knowledge, skill and proficiency in a Dolgin said, “The most rewarding particular area of law. The minimum stanaspect of my practice has been reuniting dard to become board certified is quite wrongfully abducted children and reprerigorous. senting domestic violence victims.

Dolgin has lived almost all of his life Lawyers and judges can sometimes save in Hillsborough County. He is married to lives. The judge in Tara’s case knew to give her case top priority. I am going to do Wendi Towbin-Dolgin, R.N. for almost 30 years. They have 22-year-old twins, Cory the same as a judge for the people of and Mallory, and a 16-year-old son, Ari. Hillsborough County.”

Visit www.GaryDolgin.com.

Dolgin has run a successful private

Probation Division, Monique Scott is a Drug Division, Criminal former law enforcement Felony Division and officer, teacher, prosecuEconomic Crimes Unit. tor, first generation The versatility in American and Tampa Scott’s tenure as a native looking to share her prosecutor is exempliexperience as a fied by her experience Hillsborough County in prosecuting a variety judge. of criminal cases, Scott received her including DUIs, traffic, bachelor’s degree at the misdemeanor offenses, University of South Florida family/domestic vioand upon graduation lence offenses, white moved to Washington collar crimes, drug trafD.C., where she interned Tampa native Monique Scott is with the Public Defender’s running for Hillsborough County ficking, firearm judge. charges, violent felony Service. Upon returning to Tampa, Scott was recruited by the Tampa offenses and punishable-by-life felonies.

Scott is married to Justin Scott, also Police Department as a sworn officer. a Tampa native, and they have one son Scott’s career was cut short due to who currently attends Jesuit High School her medical disability, epilepsy. She then as well as two dogs. began a career in teaching while attendScott is active both within the legal ing Stetson Law School within the partcommunity and the Hillsborough County time program. She had the honor of community at large. She is a member interning with Judge Gregory Holder and completing two Certified Legal Internships and serves as a committee chair for the Florida Association of Women Lawyers, in both the Hillsborough and Polk County Hillsborough County Bar Association, State Attorney’s Offices.

Florida Bar, Criminal Law Inn of Court After graduating from law school, Scott began a career as a prosecutor with and Hispanic Professional Women’s Association and currently serves on four the Hillsborough County State Attorney’s boards: the Sheriff’s Hispanic Advisory Office. She successfully litigated numerCouncil, Hillsborough Association of ous jury trials, non-jury trials, depositions Women Lawyers, Tampa Hispanic Bar and argued countless motions. During Association and Epilepsy Services her tenure at the State Attorney’s Office, Foundation. To learn more, find Monique she practiced in a variety of divisions: the Scott For Judge on Facebook or visit County Criminal Trial Division, Domestic www.Scott4Judge.com.

Violence Trial Division, Violation of

By Kathy L. Collins

Staff Report

Ivanov Campaigns With Integrity, Impartiality And Service For Group 19 Circuit Court Judge

Green Seeks To Serve As Circuit Court Judge Group 31

numbers,” she said.

Integrity. Impartiality.

“These are real people Service. These are with real stories that more than words to matter.” nonpartisan judicial canIn her personal life, didate Ashley Willis Ivanov stays busy volIvanov. To her, they hold unteering with her value when they are church and taking her lived out. daughter to Girl Scout Professionally and events. “I try to lead by personally, Ivanov lives example and integrity is out these ideals. at the center of this,” As an attorney, she said Ivanov. has handled a diverse Impartiality is a corrange of cases, includnerstone of a judge’s ing litigated and non-litiresponsibilities in gated matters, repreadministering justice. senting both plaintiffs “It is not the judge’s and defendants. She Ashley Ivanov seeks to serve as a presently focuses her circuit court judge in Hillsborough role to legislate from County. the bench but to apply practice on probate and the law as it is, as created by the legisestate planning. lature,” commented Ivanov.

“Integrity in the practice of law is Service is a regular part of her life, important for the rule of law to be effecand she would not have it any other tively carried out,” she commented. way. She enjoys reading to children in Ivanov zealously advocates for her the Head Start program with her fellow clients, giving them straightforward Rotarians. She also gives back to the feedback. Sometimes this may mean informing a prospective client that he or community by assisting Gold Star families and first responders with estate she does not have much of a case or planning. that the legal fees in the matter could Ivanov is committed to upholding be higher than what the client may equal protection of the laws for all peohave initially anticipated. ple, impartially applying the law as writ“Transparency is part of being ethiten by the legislature and stand behind cal,” said Ivanov.

Her clients’ public testimonies attest the United States Constitution and Florida Constitution. to her professionalism.

Watch the Ashley Ivanov Campaign “My clients’ matters are more than video at www.voteashleyivanov.com. pieces of paper filed in court with case

ball coach at Attorney Greg Robinson High Green has dedicated School and mentor his life to serving the in the Big Brothers people of Big Sisters proHillsborough County. gram.

Green was born, Seven generaraised and educated tions of his family here in Hillsborough have called County. He grew up Hillsborough in a community servCounty home. In ice-oriented family fact, Green fondly who taught him that refers to serving his communiHillsborough as ty is the highest honor that an individ- Attorney Greg Green is running for circuit his “forever court judge of Group 31. home.” Green is ual can achieve. married and has two young daughters Green’s love for this community born and raised right here in came early in life. He attended Hillsborough County.

Chamberlain High School, where he Green believes our legal system worked hard as a student-athlete and should serve as the foundation that was a basketball standout. There, he protects and guarantees our rights and learned the value of teamwork, prepafreedoms. Green chose to run for ration and fairness, providing him with three reasons: (1) to ensure all litiimportant principles that guide him in gants who appear in court enjoy equal the courtroom today. access and receive fair treatment Green’s service to Hillsborough under the law, (2) to continue the famiCounty continues through his professional and personal involvement in the ly tradition of public service and (3) to continue serving as a real and tangible community. He is honored to have role model for his children. Green will served in our county as a prosecutor work tirelessly to ensure that justice is and assistant attorney general, where dispensed fairly and impartially. Green he worked tirelessly to ensure justice has real experience, proven leadership in our courts every day. He is also a and the right temperament to serve as business owner and founding partner your next circuit court judge of Group of Green Law, P.A. 31.

Outside of his profession, Green For more information, also serves the community and our visit VoteGregGreen@gmail.com. youth as a high school girls flag foot-

Staff Report

Staff Report

GREG CIRCUIT COURT JUDGE GROUP 31 HUSBAND. FATHER. COACH. PUBLIC SERVANT. UNMATCHED EXPERIENCE

Established Trial Lawyer 21 Years of Courtroom Experience

STRONG COMMUNITY ROOTS

7th Generation Hillsborough Native Chamberlain High School Star Athlete

A COMMITMENT TO COMMUNITY AND SERVICE Attorney Ad Litem Volunteer High School Girls Flag Football Coach Big Brother in Big Brother Big Sister Program Pastoral Care/Biblical Counseling at The Crossing Church

ENDORSED BY:

VOTE AUGUST 18, 2020 LOCAL 2294

POLITICAL ADVERTISEMENT PAID FOR AND APPROVED BY GREG GREEN, FOR HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY CIRCUIT COURT JUDGE GROUP 31

As Circuit Judge, Group 9, John Schifino Will Treat All Honorably And With Compassion

Nancy Millan Ready To Use Experience To Hit The Ground Running As Tax Collector

civility and can John Schifino grasp complex grew up in a large, issues. He has been tight-knit family in awarded several Seffner. His father, an professionalism attorney, gave him awards, including advice to be humble, the Hillsborough compassionate and to Association of practice law with Women Lawyers integrity. Schifino has Professionalism lived by this advice.

Award in 2017 and Schifino is running to the Thirteenth become a circuit court judge in Group 9 and John Schifino is an experienced attorney Judicial Circuit who has earned a reputation as someone Professionalism would like your vote who practices professionally with civility Award in 2019. He on Tuesday, August and integrity. He will put these traits to use as a Hillsborough County circuit court has been selected 18. judge (Group 9). by his peers into the Schifino has been Super Lawyer Top 100 in Florida and Top a zealous advocate for his clients. He 50 in the Tampa Bay 2019. handles both trial and appellate cases “The court is a sacred institution. I involving business litigation, labor and admire it and will be humbled to be a part employment law and environmental law. of it,” said Schifino. “I am running for cirHe has been the lead counsel in numercuit court judge because I have the expeous cases and is a certified state court rience and understanding to run an effimediator. Now, after 25 years of practiccient and honorable courtroom. For ing law, Schifino believes it is time to live his dream of serving Hillsborough County almost 25 years, I have represented clients on both sides of the courtroom residents as a circuit court judge. and understand the lasting impact the “I believe the lessons I have learned court’s decision individuals and families,” from my parents, and the way I have explained Schifino. practiced law for 25 years, will make me Schifino is a member of the Greater a judge who is prepared, balanced and Riverview Chamber of Commerce. He is honest. I will always serve with integrity, married to Sara and they have two chilhumility and compassion. I will treat all dren, Jack and Eleanor. He has coached who come before me fairly and equally his children in various sports. He fondly no matter who you know or where you recalls playing in the South Brandon Little come from,” said Schifino.

Schifino has earned a reputation as a League.

Visit www.schifinoforjudge.com. lawyer who practices professionally with

becoming the next Nancy Millan, a Hillsborough tax collector.

30-plus-year veteran The Tax Collector’s of the Hillsborough Office is the funding County Tax Collector’s engine powering virtually Office is running to all local government and become the tax colleccollecting and distributing tor. Millan, a revenue for many other Democrat, will be on public entities, including the ballot on Tuesday, school boards, ports and August 18 and would mass transit systems. ask for your vote.

The Hillsborough Tax Millan started as Collector’s Office generan entry-level clerk With over 30 years of experience in ates over $2 billion dolover 30 years ago. the Hillsborough County Tax She worked diligently Collector’s Office, Nancy Millan will lars annually and hanneed no on-the-job training. dles over one million and is now a member motor vehicle, vessel and mobile home of the senior staff as the director of comtransactions. munity relations. Millan said, “I know this Millan said, “I am proud of our initiadepartment and this department knows tive to establish self-service kiosks at sevme. I require no on-the-job training eral participating Publix locations in the because I have done this work for over greater Brandon area. Self-service kiosk 30 years, and as Hillsborough County’s is one way of making the Tax Collector’s next tax collector, I am ready to lead this Office more accessible to our residents.” office on day one.”

Millan added, “The Hillsborough County “As a senior leader in the organizaTax Collector’s Office also opened a tion, I have been a part of modernizing Brandon area branch that includes a and transforming the way we provide road-testing range and is an important service to our customers. Our hard work to remake the organization resulted in the asset to the community.”

“When I am elected, I will hit the Tax Collector’s Office becoming an ground running. My vision is to build upon award-winning organization that is a role the success of my predecessor to ensure model for government agencies in our office becomes a more accessible Hillsborough County and throughout the and more efficient, thus remaking the state of Florida,” added Millan. gold standard in government and cusMillan is a certified Florida collector tomer service,” said Millan. assistant and has worked with the city, For more information, please visit county and state agencies. She is well https://www.votenancymillan.com. prepared to take on the responsibility of

By Kathy L. Collins

By Kathy L. Collins

Kelly Ayers, Candidate For Hillsborough Circuit Court Judge In Group 9, Wants To Be The People’s Judge

By Kathy L. Collins

has the legal expeKelly Ayers is rience necessary a candidate for to make her an Hillsborough effective yet comCounty Circuit passionate judge.

Court Judge “If you come (Group 9). She will before me, regardbe on the ballot on less of the case, I Tuesday, August will make sure that 18 and would like the court experiyour vote. ence is fair and Ayers is a sechonest,” said ond-generation Ayers.

Tampa native. Her Kelly Ayers, shown here with her extended fami“I am most dad, Steve Ayers, court circuit Hillsborough for candidate ly, is a served as a firejudge (Group 9). Ayers has always put family proud of the first, and wants to be the people’s judge. expertise I have fighter and later gained over the years. This has allowed owned Ayers-Sierra Insurance. people to have a great attorney repreShe has practiced for 26 years and sent them regardless of their income. It owns three law firms. Despite the high always warms my heart when I can do demands of her job, she has always put right by my clients, especially children,” family first. Now that her youngest child said Ayers. is off to college, Ayers believes this is an “When my clients are happy, I am ideal time to give back to the community happy. I want everyone who comes by serving as a circuit court judge.

Ayers will bring a unique perspective before me to feel that way when they leave my courtroom. I want to be peoto the bench. “I am a people person. I want to be accessible and approachable. ple’s judge,” added Ayers.

Ayers is active in several community I will always strive to work towards a resservice organizations. She has volunolution. I want to do things the simple way. I will always ask what can we agree teered with Bay Area Legal Service, upon. If the parties agree on issues, then works with high school interns and sponsors Buddy Baseball. we can work towards a solution. This is She is married to Attorney Dan what I want to bring to the bench if you Crowe, a retired Air Force Senior Master vote for me for Hillsborough circuit court First Sergeant. Ayers has three grown judge,” said Ayers. children, Mitchell, Kaelee and Carson.

Ayers has extensive experience in For more information, please visit civil and criminal litigation as well as in www.kellyayersforjudge.com. family law and dependency cases. She

KELLY AYERS HAS THE MOST EXPERIENCE FOR JUDGE Experience • 26 years of legal experience in private practice, beginning at Fowler White • •

Handles cases in federal, appellate,

•

•

Vote August 18th

dependency Re-wrote the Baker Act Statute professionals

Circuit Court Judge Group 9 Education • Stetson University College of Law – P.O. Box 172151

Tampa, Florida 33672 Phone: (813) 440-7142

•

KellyAyersforJudge@gmail.com www.KellyAyersforJudge.com

Paid by Kelly Ayers for Circuit Court Judge, Group 9

Alvarez Runs For Judge In Group 30

Staff Report

Law professor at the Daniel A. Alvarez, University of Tampa.

Sr. is a first-generation He created an American born and accounting company raised in to help disabled vetFlorida. Known to his erans and has a rare friends and clients as distinction of being Danny, he is a lawyer, a three-time Tampa community leader, vetBay Business eran, small business Journal Heroes At owner and currently Work honoree. serves as a member “My family of the Hillsborough Daniel A. Alvarez, Sr. is running for Circuit Court Judge in Group 30. escaped governCounty Sheriff’s ment persecution from a system that Office. Alvarez is running for Circuit Court failed to honor the basic tenants of justice Judge in Group 30. and faithfulness to the law,” Alvarez "This is not about a title. It is said. “I am dedicated to being impartial, about serving and making a difference.” said Alvarez. “I am committed decisive, fair and just. For me, there is not other way.” to the law above anything else and to the In 2015, Alvarez was named the fair and impartial treatment of all no matHispanic Man of the Year by Tampa ter their background or where they come Hispanic Heritage, Inc. and the Al Gallon from.”

After graduating college he was com- Ministries Community Service Person of the Year, which was chosen by a panel of missioned as an Infantry Officer in the United States Army. During his time in the 200 leaders in the African American Community. military, Alvarez was deployed to South Alvarez is a lifetime member of The Korea and later assigned to various leadVeteran’s of Foreign Wars, a perpetual ership positions within the US Army member of several Masonic organizations Airborne School. He understands the in the Tampa area and was a member of importance of honor and integrity.

La Casa Cuba de Tampa. In 2014, In May of 2011, Alvarez formed The Commissioner Sandy Murman named Alvarez Legal Group to help individuals him to the Hillsborough County Charter whose voices are often drowned out in Review Board. the legal system. While the Firm specialHis proudest accomplishment is ized in business law and litigation, perbeing a father. He has four children, Tony, sonal injury, a strong focus remains on Emery, Lincoln, and Elle. "I'm ready to Bankruptcy, Estate Planning, and serve and I humbly ask for your vote this Entertainment Law. At the same time, he election" said Alvarez. spent almost nine years as a Business

Bob ‘Coach’ Henriquez Wants To Continue To Serve As Hillsborough County Property Appraiser

A Call To Serve As A County Court Judge Group 7 Was Drawn From Tragedy For Bill Yanger

first took office, but Bob ‘Coach’ there is still so much Henriquez is running more we can do for for re-election as the people of this Hillsborough County county,” said property appraiser in Henriquez. “New the general election on technologies and Tuesday, November 3. new ideas are When Henriquez was always being introelected to the position duced and we in 2013, his mantra should never rest on was to “Rethink, what we have Reinvent and Bob Henriquez, Hillsborough County achieved so far.

Reinvigorate.” This property appraiser, is active in the comHenriquez required a detailed munity and often speaks to groups about years of brings look at how his office property issues (shown here speaking to a group of realtors in South Hillsborough experience to the performs all of its County). job of property statutory duties and appraiser. He served in the Florida State responsibilities.

Legislature as a state representative for Henriquez has done this and has four terms. completed multiple tasks, including Moreover, his work with the adding internationally recognized appraisHillsborough Planning Commission has al staff to his senior staff. He completed given him a unique insight on the needs an overhaul of the office’s website to of residents who live in unincorporated ensure greater transparency of real and rural areas of Hillsborough County. estate and tangible property data. He “As a result of that experience, and what I reduced the cost of property assessment have learned since, I know how to fairly by implementing software that utilizes and equitably apply property valuation to aerial images. He reviewed all business those areas,” explained Henriquez. processes to achieve the most cost effiInterwoven within his public service is cient and responsible practices. his tireless work to help mold the lives of This process of rethinking how his young men as a football coach. He office operates is a neverending one. served as Tampa Catholic’s head football Through new technologies and practices, Henriquez wants to continue in his role as coach from 1990 to 1999 and again from Hillsborough County property appraiser in 2005 to 2012.

Henriquez is married to Carrie and order to better serve the taxpayers of they have one son and two daughters.

Hillsborough County.

Visit www.vote4coach.com.

“We have achieved so much since I

Since 2001, The call to serve Yanger has manthe community comes aged a successful to people in different law practice. His ways. When a lawyer extensive experidecides to run for ence has taught him judge, it might have a lot. “I have learned been a lifelong dream something from or because of a perevery court appearsonal experience. ance I have had in Bill Yanger, who the last 34 years,” is a candidate for said Yanger. county court judge in Yanger was Group 7, decided to Bill Yanger is running for county court run for judge after the judge in Group 7 on Tuesday, August 18. born and raised in Yanger brings both professional and life Tampa to parents tragic loss of his 22experience to the bench and as such year-old daughter, believes he will serve as a compassion- who were also born ate and empathetic judge. here. He raised his Rose. “We lost Rose on August 24, 2016 to a violent homicide three children in Tampa. He is a member of several area Chambers of Commerce, in Broward County, a case that remains open and uncharged to this day. I tell this including the Greater Brandon Chamber of Commerce. “As a member, board story not for sympathy but for context. member and chair of the South Tampa Rose’s loss was a clarifying moment, a Chamber of Commerce, I have been desperate and heartbreaking moment that focused my attention on what I want- active in many collaborations with area chambers, including the Greater ed and needed to do with my life,” Riverview Chamber of Commerce, parexplained Yanger.

Yanger has practiced law for over 30 ticularly between our respective military affairs committees,” said Yanger. years. “I have been practicing for 34 “We want our judges to be capable years all over the state. I have fought in of the mechanics of the job. Voters criminal, family and state federal civil deserve a say in selecting a judge with court trenches for teachers and profesempathy forged from life's joys as well as sors, single mothers and desperate its heartaches. Voters deserve the perfathers, injured and broken workers, son in the black robe to have lived an world boxing champions, teenage rockexpansive life. I have lived one,” said ers and small business owners,” said Yanger.

Yanger. “I am prepared to wear the robe For more information on Yanger, in whatever capacity I am asked to serve please visit www.yangerforjudge.com. by the Chief Judge,” added Yanger.

By Kathy L. Collins

By Kathy L. Collins

Nancy Jacobs Will Use Life Experience As A County Court Judge 7 To Serve The People

Business Acumen & Experience Makes Sally Harris A Great Choice For School Board District 7

patient and fair tem“I believe a perament,” said county court Jacobs who adds judge should be a that she has all of true public serthese characterisvant,” said Nancy tics. The life experiL. Jacobs, who is ence to which she running for county refers includes havcourt judge in ing family members Group 7. If you who have dealt with want a true public alcoholism and servant, then vote mental health for Jacobs on issues. “All of these Tuesday, August 18.

Nancy Jacobs, who is running for county court are things that often Jacobs lives judge in Group 7, believes that a judge’s seat bring people to belongs to the people. court. In order to be her life by the above quote. She served as a prosecutor empathetic to someone who has these issues, you need to have lived with them for Hillsborough County from 1985-1993. and not just read about them,” added She has incorporated pro bono services Jacobs. for active military and veterans in her priJacobs is someone who will use her vate practice since opening in 1993. She was recognized for her service in 2019 by legal and life experience to provide an empathetic look at the circumstances of the Florida Supreme Court. Her private practice consists of criminal defense, fam- each case to determine what would be the best outcome within the boundaries of ily law and estate planning.

Jacobs said, “Tampa has allowed me the law. She also understands that people need to get on with their lives and that to attain a successful law practice and the court system needs to move forward. has been a great place to live and raise my children. I am now at a point in my life “If you cannot get a court date, that is not access to the court and therefore not due where I can really give back to the community. That is why I am running for coun- process,” said Jacobs.

Jacobs is also passionate about anity judge.” mal rights. She has volunteered with the According to Jacobs, there are four Humane Society of Tampa Bay and main characteristics that a person has to serves on a committee for the SPCA of have in order to be a good judge. “A Tampa Bay and has rescue dogs of her judge needs to possess extensive legal own. experience and life experience as well as Visit www.nancyjacobsforjudge.com. a lifetime of community service and a

said Harris.

Sally Harris is Harris’ running for a experience position on the will allow her Hillsborough to bring a difCounty School ferent perBoard, District 7. spective to This is a countythe school wide seat. She board. Harris would like your explained, “I vote on Tuesday, Sally Harris (shown in the center in black) is a parent, am a busiAugust 18. foster parent, teacher and business owner who will ness owner, Harris, or bring her vast business and life experience to the so I treat the ‘Miss Sally,’ as position of Hillsborough School Board Member, District 7. position just she is known by like a business owner and look at everyhundreds of children and families, is the owner of Circle C Ranch Academy. Harris thing with a microscope.” These are not just empty words. When Harris was on previously served on the Hillsborough School Board from 2014 to 2018 and was the school board, she asked questions like “Who turns out the lights?” The the chair in 2017-2018. superintendent at the time did not know.

As a parent, foster parent, teacher As a result of the inquiry, timers and LED and business owner, she knows that the lights were installed and the district saved public schools must have the children as their primary focus. Her three main issues 1.2 million dollars in energy savings.

Harris said, “I am good listener. I am in her campaign are higher academics, open-minded and look at both sides. I am vocational training in middle and high also kind. I have 40 employees, some of schools and the safety of the children. whom have been with me for 15 to 20 “I want the Hillsborough County years.”

Public Schools to be the cream of the Harris has led a well-rounded life. crop. We need to get them not only to a She is the matriarch of a large family that higher level of academic achievement so includes a son who is a Hillsborough parents do not feel they need their chilCounty Sheriff Deputy and lives in Valrico dren to attend other schools, but also a and a daughter who lives in Seffner. place where all children learn and graduHarris is a longtime member of both ate with a skill. This is why vocational the SouthShore Chamber of Commerce training needs to be put back into the and the Sun City Center Area Chamber middle and high schools, so that children of Commerce. For more information, who do not go on to college have a skill please visit www.votesallyharris.com. and can prosper once they graduate,”

By Kathy L. Collins

By Kathy L. Collins

Vote For Scott ‘Mr. H’ Hottenstein Ready To Service In Florida House District 57

By Sean Crumpacker

57th District in the Scott Hottenstein, Florida State House known as ‘Mr. H’ by of Representatives. his students, is a canWe at VoteVets are didate for Florida always so proud to House District 57. He see veterans like is passionate about you committed to serving the public by continuing their advocating for the service after the unihealth, education and form,” wrote Jon safety of his communiSoltz, Iraq War vetty. Hottenstein takes eran and chairman pride in his original 24year career in the Scott Hottenstein, known as ‘Mr. H’ by his of VoteVets PAC, students, is a candidate for Florida House regarding United States Navy, District 57.

Hottenstein’s camwhich began when he paign. “In these turbulent political times, was 17 years old, and in his second our veterans, communities and country career as a Hillsborough County Public need leaders like you who will continue to Schools civics teacher. He has literally serve the nation and put the country first.” been in public service his entire adult life.

Alongside his endorsement from A 1992 graduate of the U.S. Naval VoteVets PAC, he has also received an Academy and 2019 Hillsborough County endorsement from the Everytown for Gun Teacher of the Year finalist, he seeks to Safety Action Fund, the largest gun viotranslate the values he learned during both careers into much-needed legislative lence prevention organization in the country. As a trained volunteer, Hottenstein change. has led several Be SMART presentations Hottenstein retired from the Navy in throughout the community. The program 2012 after numerous deployments and focuses on the open discussion of gun leadership positions, with a highlight of safety hazards, the proper securing of leading 450 sailors in a combat zone and firearms and gun suicide and accident bringing them all home safely. Now, he prevention. has set his sights on serving in a new Hottenstein understands the imporway: by representing his community in tance of putting his country and commuthe Florida legislature. Hottenstein has nity first. After an outstanding military received endorsements from multiple career and passionately educating the national organizations, such as VoteVets community’s youth, he seeks to serve a PAC. third time. Vote for Scott Hottenstein for “I am honored to support your camFlorida House District 57. paign to serve your fellow citizens of the

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Valrico Edition

Volume 17, Issue 7