Osprey Observer Riverview Apollo Beach January 2024 by Osprey Observer

Riverview/Apollo Beach

January 2024

Volume 22, Issue 1

Ph: 813-657-2418

Y EIAN R REVIEW

CELEBRATING 22 YEARS OF PUBLISHING P OSITIVE COMMUNIT Y NEWS

LENNARD HIGH SCHOOL JROTC ARMY

INSTRUCTOR WINS RUSKIN VFW’S TEACHER OF THE YEAR AWARD

By Madeline Gardner

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Serving as the “And I’ve got JROTC Army into admit, that structor at Lenwas the best tour nard High School, — being a drill retired Master sergeant, out of Sgt. Alex Bailes all the things I defines JROTC did,” said Bailes. as an experience “… I’ve had a long come full circle. career, got to go After all, follow[to] a bunch of ing a discussion different placwith his own high es and jump out school Air Force Pictured from left to right: retired Lt. Col. Dave Dietz, of airplanes and ROTC instructor, Lennard High School JROTC senior Army instruc- have fun.” Bailes was first MSG (R) Bailtor; Richard Bell, Ruskin VFW Post 6287 Patriot’s introduced to the Pen co-chair; retired Master Sgt. Alex Bailes; and Pat es’ career tranBarr, VFW Post 6287 commander. idea of making sitioned when JROTC a part of his future he became a Military career during his senior Science and Leadership year. Now, after dedicat(MSL) instructor and seing 12 years to Lennard, nior Army instructor at he is being recognized for the University of Tampa. his commitment. Subsequently, as the UniOn Saturday, December versity of Tampa works 16 at 11 a.m., Bailes reclosely with the junior ceived Ruskin VFW Post programs, he began as6287’s Teacher of the sisting local JROTCs. Year award. Among those And in 2011, he applied present at VFW Post and began work as Len6287 to see Bailes accept nard’s own JROTC Army this accolade were retired instructor. Lt. Col. Dave Dietz, Lennard’s senior Now, Bailes’ focus is to propel his Army instructor, as well as VFW chap- cadets on the path to graduation and ter personnel. preparation for their lives thereafter. “I think they recognized that, as an Whether they choose to enlist in the milROTC department, we’re not only just itary or pursue a college degree, he cited instructors, you know. We give back to the growth of his cadets since the time the school and the community … in a of their participation in the high school countless number of ways,” said Bailes. program as most fulfilling. Before obtaining this position at Len“Honestly, the biggest reward is when nard, Bailes joined the military in 1988, the kids come back. Four or five years serving under airborne status for most later, when they come back, and they of his career. He was deployed to several get it — they get what you were trying locations around the world and served in to instill,” said Bailes. “… You hear good a variety of positions, from an airborne stories: they either got a job, family or instructor to an army drill sergeant. joined the military, or in college.”

RVR HORSE RESCUE FINDS NEW HOME IN LITHIA AS FOUNDER PASSES ON THE REINS

By Sharon Still

It takes a special around it for many type of person to run years,” she said. an animal rescue faAs her days windcility. Someone who ed down, Jayroe exis compassionate, perienced something selfless and possessthat made her know es a huge, strong that all of her efforts heart. Those are just were worth it. In a a few of the words story chronicled on that people use to her Facebook page, describe RVR Horse she tells of a Paso Rescue founder Fino that had been Shawn Jayroe. mentally and physiAs a child growing cally abused and had up on a 1,000-acre no use for humans. ranch in Texas, JayThat day, Charo, a roe dreamed of creparticular ornery RVR Horse Rescue founder Shawn Jayroe may ating a safe haven for be moving on, but the facility will continue to Paso Fino, stopped abused and neglectat the gate and bethrive under new leadership. ed animals where gan grooming Jaythey would be reroe as a way of sayhabilitated and find ing thank you. forever homes. She “Horses know. turned that dream They appreciate into reality, foundwhen humans are ing RVR Horse Reskind. From her, it cue nearly 15 years ago. will forever be ingrained in me that what “We will be their voice. No longer will they I’ve done with my life was appreciated by suffer abuse, neglect or hate. Dedicating our many horses,” Jayroe said. “They just have lives to saving theirs” became her tagline, different ways of showing it. It was an expeand she lived it. rience I won’t forget.” It started as a one-woman show with the “I thank everyone supporting RVR all of goal of helping the ones that did not have these years and I promise there are great a chance. When trying to juggle caring for things to come,” she concluded. 16 horses, running a hair salon and being There are many ways to help RVR Horse present at home, Jayroe realized she needed Rescue, such as donating, volunteering, help. She formed a 501(3)(c) corporation, sponsoring a horse, adopting a horse or handpicked a board of directors and the shopping the RVR Horse Rescue retail shop. RVR Horse Rescue continued blossoming RVR Rescue is a 501(3)(c) tax-deductible year after year, impacting countless lives. nonprofit organization and depends entirely Now, as she retires to focus on her health on volunteers. For further information about and family, she hands the reins over to fellow the facility, its programs and ways to get board member Julie Dennis, who previously involved, visit the organization’s Facebook served as vice president and events chair for page, go to https://rvrhorserescue.org/ or the organization. call 813-833-6426. “It will carry on, and that makes me happy,” said Jayroe. She explained that Dennis will move the rescue to Lithia and there also will be a fork of RVR in the Bradenton area. ABWC SCHOLARSHIPS ...................PG 3 “RVR will always be in my heart forever,” BELL SHOALS OPENS .......................PG 5 she said, adding that the mental toll is one of 55+ DISCOUNTS ...............................PG 10 the reasons that she is disconnecting from EYE ON BUSINESS ......................... .PG 25 the rescue. “To see what people do to these horses NEW CASTAWAY FALLS ... ...........PG 26 makes me angry and my entire life revolved

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Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

Volume 22, Issue 1

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Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

THE APOLLO BEACH WOMAN’S CLUB HOSTS ANNUAL HOLIDAY DINNER AND COLLEGE SCHOLARSHIP FUNDRAISER Staff Report The Apollo Beach The monthly ABWC Woman’s Club ladies’ business lun(ABWC) Holiday Dincheons will resume ner at Southshore this year at Ruskin Falls on December 9, Moose Lodge #813, 2023, was so much located at 1212 E. fun! The East Bay High Shell Point Rd. in School chorus singers, Ruskin. All its lundirected by Brian Necheons are held on the Smith, delighted the second Wednesday of crowd with melodic The Apollo Beach Woman’s Club Holiday every month (except holiday and contempo- Dinner on December 9, 2023, at the South- for June through Aurary songs and dance shore Falls Clubhouse. The East Bay High gust) and cost $22; moves. ABWC would School Chorus, directed by Brian NeSmith, reservations and payperformed at the event. like to thank all of the ments must be remembers who donated an auction bas- ceived by the Friday before each luncheon. ket to make this event successful. Special At the January 10 luncheon, the ABWC thanks to Circles Waterfront Restaurant, celebrated members who have participatHomeGoods, Salon Hive, ABC Fine Wine & ed in the club for 10, 30 or 40 years. To Spirits, Marco Nail & Spa, Salons By JC, get menu details and reservations for lunPublix, L & L Salon, Beachy Bubbles Bath cheons, contact Claudia Gassett at 352Co and Shear Joy Beauty Boutique. Thank 258-4580 or claudiagassett@me.com. A you to Southshore Falls for the clubhouse prospective member can attend two busiand staff who helped set up and clean up ness luncheons before paying dues. and everyone who attended the holiday The ABWC has been serving the comdinner. This wasn’t just an event to listen munity since 1959. Its primary objectives to good music, as it was also a fundrais- are to promote sociability among its memer. The ABWC raised over $3,000 toward bers, work toward advancing womankind college scholarships for local high school and provide scholarships for the education seniors. and training of students with demonstratIf you know a 2024 graduating high ed financial need who live in Apollo Beach school senior who lives in Apollo Beach and the surrounding areas. If you wish to (33572) and attends or is zoned to attend learn more about the ABWC, including East Bay or Lennard high schools, please the scholarships, visit its website at www. let them know about the ABWC 2023-24 apollobeachwomansclub.com or contact college scholarships. More information Liz Pedersen, second vice president of and the application will be available on membership, at 813-777-8215 or kenlizthe ABWC and high schools’ websites this pedersen@msn.com. year. Fundraisers like the holiday dinner The ABWC wishes everyone a Happy contributed toward the $15,000 in schol- New Year and hopes to see you at future arships awarded in May 2023. events.

Page 3

GREATER RIVERVIEW CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ACHIEVES GREAT SUCCESS WITH FIRST LIGHT UP WINTHROP HOLIDAY MARKET

Staff Report

On December 1, tree lighting at Win2023, the Greater Rivthrop over 30 years erview Chamber of ago. Additional speakCommerce (GRCC) ers during the evening partnered with Winincluded Ny’Kole Krivthrop Town Centre to da, president and CEO present the first Light of the Greater RiverUp Winthrop Holiday view Chamber of ComMarket at Founder’s merce, and RepresenSquare Park in Wintative Danny Alvarez. throp. Over 100 venWinthrop Liquors dors surrounded the and the Manchesi famsquare, festive lights The Greater Riverview Chamber of Com- ily provided the homewere strung along their merce was proud to be a sponsor for the made Gluhwein, a booths and multiple first Light Up Winthrop Holiday Market. specialty wine served food trucks were present to offer delicious warm in special holiday mugs created food and drink. The highlight of the event specifically for the event. A special thank was the lighting of the 18 ft. Christmas you to MJI Media, which was on hand to tree by Santa Claus himself. The tree was create a special video of the event, and to specially decorated by the children from A Boy Scout Troop 89, who assisted with Children’s Kastle Daycare. Performers en- the cleanup after the event. A nonprofit tertained the crowd, including award-win- member of GRCC was randomly selected ning recording artist Joe Zuniga; students to receive a donation from the proceeds of from Alafia Elementary School, Winthrop the event, and this year’s recipient was the Charter School and Music Showcase; and Outreach Free Clinic and Resource Center. talented dance performers from the Acad“This event came together for us in less emy of Dance Dynamics. This amazing com- than four weeks and took on a life of its munity event, sponsored by GRCC member own, indicative of the fact that this comTampa Electric Company (TECO), garnered munity was excited to support a great over 1,000 attendees — an amazing turn holiday event. We could not have done it out for this event’s debut. without the help of Michael Broussard with Along with the holiday market, the event The Flying Locksmiths, who helped us treoffered many fun activities for the kids, in- mendously with setting up the lights and cluding Christmas tree bowling, a reindeer electricity, and with the logistics. I and my antler toss and snowball fights. Many fam- staff are incredibly grateful for his help, ilies lined up for photos with Santa along along with our GRCC member volunteers,” the candy cane lighted path. During the commented Krivda. She continued, “The tree lighting ceremony, GRCC Chair of the generosity and love for this community by Board Tammy See with OEL Heating and John and Kay Sullivan has been so tremenCooling welcomed the large crowd and in- dously demonstrated over the years. It was troduced John and Kay Sullivan, founders of an honor for us to be asked to take on this the Winthrop community, who started the incredible event and make it even better.”

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Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY FIRE RESCUE DEPUTY CHIEF OF ADMINISTRATION JASON DOUGHERTY NAMED FIRE CHIEF

Volume 22, Issue 1

WATERSET FALL FOOD DRIVE

RAISES 11,600 MEALS TO BENEFIT SOUTHSHORE FAMILIES Staff Report Staff Report

Hillsborough County Fire ment that made great Rescue (HCFR) Deputy Chief strides under the leadof Administration Jason ership of Jones. Jones Dougherty will be the next joined HCFR as fire fire chief of HCFR, one of the chief in 2015, having largest fire rescue departpreviously served as ments in Florida. Former Fire fire chief for six years. Chief Dennis Jones officialOver the years, the ly retired on December 22, growth of HCFR was a 2023, with 45 years dedicatmajor focus for Jones. ed to fire rescue service — all As Hillsborough CounDeputy Chief of Administration Jato the residents of Hillsborty’s population steadily son Dougherty was recently named ough County and the city of grew, so did the need as the next fire chief of HCFR, Tampa. following the retirement of Fire Chief for more firefighters Dougherty has been with and fire stations to Dennis Jones in December 2023. HCFR since 2016, has over 23 years of ex- serve all residents in all areas of the counperience in the fire service and has served as ty. Among his many accomplishments and second-in-command to Jones for five years. achievements, Jones oversaw the opening As deputy chief of administration, Dough- of multiple new Hillsborough County fire erty managed and oversaw HCFR’s $260 stations and station rebuilds and the 2017 million budget, maintained 46 fire stations, opening of the Public Safety Operations handled logistics and oversaw fleet opera- Complex, which serves as HCFR’s headquartions and the Emergency Dispatch Center ters and the county’s emergency operations — responsibilities that prepared him to take center during hurricanes and other emerover as fire chief of the fourth-largest fire gency declarations. department in Florida. During his tenure, the department added A dedicated servant to public safety, more than 200 new positions, rebuilt eight Dougherty started his firefighting career stations and added three new stations that in Thomasville, Georgia, in 1999 and joined feature the latest safety measures, includTampa Fire Rescue in 2001. He rose through ing decontamination systems, modern stathe ranks with Tampa Fire Rescue from tion-alerting systems designed to prioritize firefighter to ultimately becoming division the mental well-being of first responders training chief in 2014. His previous roles, and custom-made individualized bunker which also included paramedic, lieutenant, gear for all the county’s firefighters. SWAT medic, fire training officer and fire Earlier this year, Jones was named the captain, have afforded him vast experience 2023 Florida Career Fire Chief of the Year in managing medical and fire scenes, coor- by the Florida Fire Chiefs’ Association. dinating multiple teams of responders, deDougherty earned his bachelor’s degree veloping policies and procedures, presenting in health science education from the Unicapital improvement projects and managing versity of Florida and his master’s degree and preparing an annual budget. in organizational leadership from WalDougherty is set to take over a depart- dorf University.

SouthShore community Waterset by Newland recently wrapped up its annual fall tradition of collecting nonperishable food donations for a nearby food pantry, the Community Cupboard, in affiliation with Feeding Tampa Bay. Local families in the SouthShore area who are experiencing food insecurity directly see the benefit of Waterset’s efforts. Waterset by Newland is owned in a joint venture partnership between North America Sekisui House LLC (NASH) and Brookfield Residential, and it is proudly managed by Brookfield Properties. These partners share a deep commitment to sustainable development practices and apply these core values to the vision, planning and development of their communities. “The Waterset fall food drive is a wonderful event to bring awareness to the community and rally support around our neighbors who struggle with food insecurity. Feeding Tampa Bay has had a long-standing partnership with Community Cupboard in connecting the pantry food resources to support the families in the SouthShore area,” said Rhonda Gindlesperger, chief operating officer for Feeding Tampa Bay and Waterset resident. “The collaboration between Waterset, the Community Cupboard and Feeding Tampa Bay, along with the support of the residents of the community, shows the true spirit of what being a great community means.” The heart of the fall donation drive is Waterset’s popular Concerts for a Cause music series, which features local bands and collects donations in lieu of admission. The con-

cert series has been a beloved tradition since 2015. In 2020, Waterset also introduced ‘Pumpkins for a Cause,’ a pumpkin patch within the community that donates the proceeds to the Community Cupboard. Last year, Waterset held Pumpkins for a Cause in early October and four concerts on Saturday nights in October and November. Both events were well attended and generously supported by Waterset residents and the Greater SouthShore community. All totaled, the 2023 fall food drive raised just shy of 12,000 meals in time for the Thanksgiving holiday, a time when the Community Cupboard sees a sharp uptick in the number of families in need. “The Community Cupboard regularly serves in excess of 500 families per week,” said Walter Simonz, operations manager for the Community Cupboard. “With the generosity of the donations by your concert attendees, we were able to provide food for Thanksgiving bags to 874 families the week of Thanksgiving alone.” Through its fall food drives, Waterset has donated over 94,000 meals to Feeding Tampa Bay and expects to surpass 100,000 meals in 2024. The fall food drive is only one facet of Waterset’s charitable outreach; every Thanksgiving, Waterset hosts a Turkey Trot to benefit its local public schools, and throughout the year Waterset collects donations for Dress for Success, Toys for Tots and other programs. For more information, visit the website at www.watersetfl.com.

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Commissioner Michael Owen was at the recent ribbon-cutting to celebrate the opening of the newly widened Bell Shoals Road.

Residents and commuters who travel Bell Shoals Road will have a finished new corridor this month as a ribbon-cutting event celebrates the completion of the expanded roadway. The 3.1-mile corridor has two new vehicle lanes, bike lanes and sidewalks in both directions. A new traffic signal has been added at Starwood Avenue, and the existing signals at Glenhaven Drive, Rosemead Lane and Bloomingdale Avenue have been upgraded. In addition, the existing bridge over the Alafia River was widened. These tremendous enhancements will accommodate higher traffic volumes, improve stormwater drainage and boost the safety of pedestrians and bicyclists. Additionally, they will increase access to transit and alternative transportation while preserving infrastructure assets. The new Bell Shoals Road corridor is the latest in a string of massive infrastructure projects in Hillsborough County, including the Bruce B. Downs Boulevard expansion, the Citrus Park Drive extension and the Paseo al Mar Boulevard overpass connecting U.S. 301 and U.S. 41 in South County. All of these projects increased safety for drivers as well as pedestrians and bicyclists, and improved mobility across the county. The Bell Shoals Road project cost just over $70 million, including land acquisition and construction. The project was paid for with a variety of funding sources, including the Community Investment Tax (CIT), federal grants and mobility fees. The widening plans were introduced to the community at an open house public meeting held at the Bloomingdale Library in October 2018 with construction beginning soon after,

so the excitement to announce completion of the five-plus-year project was palpable. Representatives from five of unincorporated Hillsborough County’s seven districts were present for the ribbon-cutting, along with Carl Harness, chief human services administrator for Hillsborough County; Kim Byer, assistant county administrator of the Public Works Administration; and Suzy Watts, Bloomingdale Neighborhood Association president. “Bell Shoals is major thoroughfare for this community and all of East Hillsborough,” District 5 Commissioner Donna Cameron-Cepeda told the crowd, adding that the road and its artilleries “serve tens of thousands of people each day.” District 4 Commissioner Michael Owen, a longtime resident of the area, followed by explaining how important completion of Bell Shoals was to the surrounding area. He said, “This is where multiple communities come together to share this road,” including Brandon, Riverview to the west, Lithia to the south and Valrico to the east, while emphasizing there is still “more work to do on this side of town” as growth continues. Owen commended county staff and fellow Board of County Commissioners colleagues, stating that over the past year they’ve “turned a focus over to roads and infrastructure” after “hearing loud and clear from constituents,” promising to stay the course. He mentioned Lithia Pinecrest Road and Triple Creek Boulevard as roads that are “desperately needed”, with the Bell Shoals widening being the first step to achieving that goal.

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Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

Volume 22, Issue 1

LOCAL LIBRARIES HOST EVENTS LIBRARY2GO SERVES RESIDENTS TO ENCOURAGE LITERACY AND AT DIFFERENT STOPS ACROSS THE COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT TAMPA-HILLSBOROUGH AREA By Lily Belcher

By Lily Belcher

The new year brings ing and rewarding in new events from the quests for players. Hillsborough County The Bloomingdale Public Library CooperRegional Library will ative (HCPLC) to kick host a public speakoff a year filled with ing workshop on reading, community Tuesday, January 30 and creativity. to encourage teens to The 44th annual improve their public Storytelling Festival speaking skills through Workshop Series is a group activities. five-week series beginA 10-week Life The 44th annual Storytelling Festival ning in January dedi- Workshop Series helps students learn the Story Writing series cated to teaching chil- art of storytelling during a five-week work- will begin on Friday, dren how to tell stories. shop. It is just one of many Hillsborough January 19 at the The workshop will fo- County Public Library Cooperative events Bloomingdale Library slated for the upcoming year. cus on creative theater for adults. During the arts, literacy and public speaking skills at series, writers will compose nine stories the Bloomingdale Regional and Riverview and compile a portfolio of their life stories. Public libraries. The event is presented by the Bloomingdale Students will have the opportunity to Writers Connection and funded by Friends have a video of their storytelling posted of the Bloomingdale Regional Library. on the library’s website. The series is recThe SouthShore Regional Library hosts ommended for students in second through events to support individuals in their search seventh grades and is sponsored by Friends for a job as well as basic lessons on using of the Library of Tampa-Hillsborough Coun- mobile devices, cybersecurity and comty Inc. puter applications. On Tuesday, February The Riverview Public Library is also host- 13, adults can explore the Burgert Brothing a recording studio orientation in Janu- ers Photographic Collection archive at the ary for adults to see what devices and tech- SouthShore location as well. nology are available for them to use. The The Bloomingdale Regional, Riverview Riverview Public, Bloomingdale Regional Public, Brandon Regional, SouthShore Reand Ruskin Branch libraries also host Tech gional and Ruskin Branch libraries host Help events throughout the month. weekly toddler and baby times and story Bilingual story times offer engaging ac- times. These events engage children of all tivities in both English and Spanish for chil- ages in activities and stories as well as prodren 2-7 years old and their families. mote social interaction and building readThe Ruskin Branch Library is hosting ing skills. the Teen Writing Program for Dungeon For more information or to register for and Dragons fans. At the tabletop writing events hosted by your local library, visit event, teens will learn how to write engag- https://hcplc.org/.

Library2Go exeight to 15 peotends Hillsborough ple at each stop. County Public LiThese residents brary Cooperative’s utilize the internet services across the and book services Ta m p a - H i l l s b o r offered in the van, ough area through but residents can the program’s moalso register for a bile library. library card at the The original stops. bookmobile was “We’re a full limade possible The Library2Go staff brings the library’s resourc- brary on wheels,” es to residents on the go. during the Great Robinson said. Depression through He said the serthe Works Projects vice is an alternaAdministration, but tive for residents it looks much differwho are not as ent in 2024. The Lifamiliar with the brary2Go van offers wireless internet for online resources already offered through personal devices, wireless printing and the library. access to library materials. “We’re still looking to grow the service, Library2Go stops at 42 locations to so there are ways for residents of Hillsserve residents who cannot utilize the borough County and the sites in which services offered at the library, including they live to reach out to the county lielderly, disabled and underserved areas. brary,” Robinson said. “Our goal is to make sure all HillsborLibrary2Go also allows readers to place ough County residents, no matter where a hold on library materials, pick up their they’re from or their general disposition, holds and return library materials. They have access to full library services be- can also see a selection of books, videos, cause Hillsborough County’s library is a magazines and DVDs. tremendous resource. We offer a plethResidents can order Library2Go to ora of resources and services that are in- their area if the van does not already stop valuable,” Library2Go supervisor Michael near them by contacting the library. Robinson said. “We’re anxious for people to request Robinson said the most rewarding part the service to be brought out to them,” of working with Library2Go is seeing the Robinson said. happy faces of the residents they serve. For more information on Library2Go, “Getting to these locations and seeing visit https://hcplc.org/services/librarthat people are genuinely happy to see us y2go or contact 813-204-2678. The [is the most rewarding part],” he said. schedule and map of Library2Go’s stops Robinson said Library2Go sees around is available on the website as well.

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FLORIDA DOT HONORED WITH 2023 NATIONAL ROAD SAFETY AWARD

Staff Report

The Florida Departtor, who is also a proment of Transporgram director at the tation (FDOT) was University of South honored with a 2023 Florida’s Center for National Roadway Urban TransportaSafety Award for tion Research. “If we demonstrating how can reduce risky increasing pavement driving behavior, The FDOT received friction helps motorthat means we a 2023 National ists stop more quickcan reduce the ly and retain better Roadway Safety Award. The award recog- potential for crashes. control at high-speed nizes innovations to protect pedestrians, Better friction becyclists and motorists. intersections. tween tires and the As part of a pilot project started in pavement makes a big difference.” 2020, FDOT added highly skid-resistant “It works,” said Peter Hsu, who initiatmaterial to the road surface at three Hill- ed the study as the FDOT District safety sborough Avenue intersections in Tampa administrator for Tampa Bay. “It helps to see how much it would enable vehicles reduce stopping distance and improper to come to a stop within a shorter dis- stopping behaviors invading the crosstance. The goal was to reduce “improper walks at signalized intersections.” stopping behavior,” such as vehicles endThe findings are significant in a state ing up in crosswalks, which puts pedestri- where about 1,000 people die every year ans and cyclists at risk. in intersection collisions. Between 2013 Florida and other states had used spe- and 2022, about 27 percent of traffic facially engineered material to increase talities and 35 percent of serious injuries friction on curves to prevent vehicles statewide occurred at intersections. from running off the road. However, this FDOT’s pilot study team included the is believed to have been the first time Federal Highway Administration and a U.S. transportation agency has used the Center for Urban Transportation Reintersection high-friction treatment to search at the University of South Florida, reduce stopping distances and study as well as consultants Element Engineerits effect on driver stopping behaviors ing Group and WDM USA. at signalized intersections, as is done in The National Roadway Safety Awards, some European countries. presented biannually since 1999, are FDOT’s two-year before-and-after sponsored by the Federal Highway Adstudy found that the increased friction ministration and the nonprofit Roadway reduced improper stopping behaviors Safety Foundation. Projects were evaluat the three signalized intersections. On ated on safety effectiveness, innovation average, these reductions ranged from and efficient use of resources. 11-31 percent compared to the pretreatFor complete details on each of the ment conditions. winners and for more information on “We want to be proactive,” said Pei- the national awards program, visit www. Sung Lin, the study’s principal investiga- roadwaysafety.org/awards.

With every new mind, whether it is year comes talk drawing, sculpture, of resolutions and quilting or writplans for the fuing. It generates ture. But often resa sense of accomolutions fail just a plishment and refew months in and ward which boosts can ultimately disour self-esteem appoint. However, and creates posithere are still many tive emotions.” ways to plan for a Get better sleep. healthy year both Better sleep has mentally and physbeen linked to ically. many health benFirst, don’t make efits both mentala New Year’s resoly and physically. lution. Since New Helpful tips for Year’s resolutions better sleep are to usually involve an adjust bedtime to entire life overhaul, 20 minutes earlier. Getting outdoors and enjoying the fresh air resolutions can be Sometimes that and sun can be invigorating. impossible to accomplish. Rather, con- shift can alter sleep patterns and help centrate on attainable goals. one get a deeper sleep. Often something Second, focus on mental health. This that interferes with solid sleep is techgoes with the first tip. After the whirl- nology as well. If TV and all devices are wind of the holidays, stress can be at an turned off 30 minutes prior to going to all-time high. Although, stepping into bed, a better REM sleep can be achieved, 2024 with a positive outlook is possible which ultimately leads to a happier attiwith a few simple changes, such as tak- tude in the day. ing time to unwind after the holidays. Finally, making wiser health choicTaking a few minutes out of the day to es can be feasible with small changes. turn off technology can also be great Some simple changes could be taking for mental health and maintaining pos- the stairs instead of the elevator or itive self-esteem. Another idea is to find parking a little farther away from the a new hobby and make time for it once grocery store to get more walking in. a week. A new hobby could be reading Make healthier food choices by changa book, working on puzzles, crafting or ing one side in the meal to a vegetable learning how to sew. or fruit, or spend a little more time outAccording to Mercy Health, “A benefit doors getting fresh air and vitamin D of hobbies is the promotion of creativ- from the sun. ity and self-expression. Any creative Ultimately, with a few small lifestyle process can be very therapeutic for the changes, a healthy year is possible.

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Page 7

Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

ROTARY SPOTLIGHT: ACTIVITIES, MEETINGS & MORE

Staff Report

Rotary Clubs will be offering the 2023-24 Speech Contest, open to all high schoolers in our area. There are three rounds of competition, with the first starting at the club level, which is to be completed by the end of February. At each level, monetary prizes will be awarded for the top five to seven-minute speeches on the topic ‘Create Hope in the World,’ the 2023-24 theme for Rotary International. For information about the theme ‘Create Hope in the World’ and to find your local Rotary Club, visit www.rotary.org.

gram.

Brandon Global Eco (Meets On Zoom)

Want to do service from home? Brandon Global Eco may be the opportunity for you. The club meets on the second and fourth Mondays of each month at 6 p.m. on Zoom. Members are from the immediate area and other states. The primary focus is environmental education and ecological friendly projects. For information on joining this cause-based Rotary Club, or if you would like to be a guest speaker, contact Bruno Kazenas at bkazenas@comcast.net. Visitors are always welcome.

Interact Club of Tampa Bay (High Schoolers) FishHawk-Riverview All area high schoolers interested in service, leadership, food and fun are invited to the next meeting of the Interact Club of Tampa Bay on Monday, January 8 from 6-8 p.m. at the Rivard-Simmons Rotary Event Center, located at 3007 S. Kings Ave. in Brandon. The Interact Club is sponsored by the Brandon ’86 Rotary Club. Contact: Chad Norgard, chad@norgardinsgrp.com.

USF Rotaract (College Students)

USF Rotaract has engaged over 650plus students in over 700 meaningful service opportunities and social events. Voted the 2022-23 Volunteer Organization of the Year, check out Bulls Connect for opportunities or its social media channels on Facebook and Insta-

The FishHawk-Riverview Rotary Club hopes you enjoyed the 39th Alafia Lighted Boat Parade on December 2, hosted by the club and presented by its title sponsor, Christopher Ligori & Associates. It would like to thank all the boaters, the chili cook-off competitors, Santa, volunteers, sponsors, and you, the spectators. It was a beautiful night celebrating the holidays on the Alafia River. On Tuesday, January 30, a 12-person team from the club will head to La Paz, Honduras. For seven days, they will work with Honduras Compassion Partners, alongside locals, to build homes, latrines and water storage and install water filters. Follow their trip on our social media pages on Facebook or Instagram.

Volume 22, Issue 1

PICKLEBALL GETS MORE

SUPPORT FROM COUNTY PARKS AND RECREATION By Brad Stager Local pickleball enthusiasts are looking forward to planned improvements to county recreational facilities in Mango and Balm. Hillsborough County Parks & Recreation announced plans to build eight pickleball courts at Mango Park and Recreation Center at 11717 Clay Pit Rd. in Seffner. Besides the additional courts, features of the $600,000 upgrade include LED lighting, improvements to sidewalks and seating around the courts. When completed, players will be able to access the pickleball courts from sunrise to 10 p.m. The Mango Park and Recreation Center is already popular for features like its drone course, dog park, basketball courts, after-school programs, meeting rooms and event shelters. The prospect of adding eight pickleball courts found a lot of support from residents who weighed in on the project at Hillsborough County’s online Engagement & Education Hub, where input on public projects is solicited. Of 150 residents responding to whether pickleball courts should be added, 97 percent said “Yes.” As for the number of courts, 83 percent of respondents indicated support for eight of them. Residents also responded with comments about the courts and what else they would like to see at county facilities.

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Amanda Peterson weighed in online with her comment: “I am so excited for this project. Pickleball is a family activity that will help promote healthy living in our community. It would also be lovely to have the workout equipment available at Saladino Park. In the dog park area, a lot more people would use the park if there is a water feature for dogs to play in during the heat of summer. Heat exhaustion is becoming a bigger issue and the dogs need more than a water fountain in order to cool off.” Hunter Morris wrote that he sees a demand for more pickleball facilities: “Please do this! This area is in need of more courts for a growing sport.”

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Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

January 2024

Page 9

SOUTHSHORE GROUP WORKS TO VOLUNTEERS KEEP OUR LADY’S RAISE AWARENESS DURING HUMAN TRAFFICKING AWARENESS MONTH

PANTRY RUNNING AS IT ENTERS 25TH YEAR SERVING THE COMMUNITY

By Lily Belcher

Staff Report

S o u t h S h o r e ’s Two CAHT Campaign Against members will Human Trafficking host the pre(CAHT) is working sentation on to raise awareness Monday, January 22 in the community at Calgary Church. during Human TrafThere will be two ficking Awareness presentations, one Month in January. for adults and one The nonprofit or- Volunteers deliver rescue backpacks to human for youth audience ganization is host- trafficking survivors who were rescued with only members. ing a viewing of CAHT also producthe clothes on their backs. Blind Eyes Opened, a 2020 film that follows es rescue backpacks for victims during their six human trafficking victims and their sto- first few days of assessment and search for ries, on Tuesday, January 16 at the Firehouse shelter. Each backpack costs roughly $55 Cultural Center. CAHT-SouthShore Presi- and contains toiletries, clothes, a journal and dent Lou Anne Rossdeutscher said the film other essentials. Over the last five years, the offers an impactful insight and includes the organization has produced nearly 800 backstories of two local victims. Sheriff Grady packs, distributing 180 in 2023 alone. Judd is also featured in the movie for his She said the biggest challenge has been work in saving local victims. getting the community to understand huNiki Cross, a St. Petersburg survivor and man trafficking is happening in their neighSTAAR Ministry founder, is featured in the borhoods. movie. Cross will be speaking to the commu“What we say is ‘get educated, get ennity at a CAHT event on Tuesday, February raged, then get engaged’ because that is 27 at the Valencia Lakes Travel Club. what we all need to do,” she said. “What we have found is a lot of the womRossdeutscher said CAHT will also focus en who were victims who have become on ending the demand for human trafficking successful survivors have created their own victims because human trafficking is a deorganizations,” Rossdeutscher said. “They’re mand-driven market. Lowering the demand, really strong. … It’s truly a cool thing to she said, will lower the need for victims. watch.” “Our mission is to end human trafficking CAHT will host presentations against in the area. We are committed to educahuman trafficking to churches, social or- tion and prevention, and we are commitganizations, schools and women’s groups ted to supporting the victims,” she said. throughout the year. Rossdeutscher said soCAHT relies on donations and dedicated cial media is the leading way for criminals volunteers to support the organization’s to traffic victims, prompting the nonprofit to mission. host presentations about social media safeFor more information, visit https://scty as well. cblueheart.org/.

“Many people don’t many of the clients know that Our Lady’s who come for food. Pantry has been serv“Folks come because of ing families for more all kinds of hardship,” than 20 years,” said Bullaro says. “Some Tom Bullaro, co-direchave lost their jobs, or tor of the pantry with their health, or even his wife, Anita. “In fact, their homes. And famwe are beginning our ilies are moving in to25th year serving those gether to survive”. Volunteers often arrive before dawn and in need.” And many, like Diare the backbone of Our Lady’s Pantry Our Lady’s Pantry ane, 78, are simply reand its mission to serve the community. was actually ‘born’ in tired and struggling to December 1999 when live on a small pension. area resident Dolores “I got here at 4 a.m. Clark noticed hunger all this morning. Somearound her and decided times I can’t sleep, so to fight hunger in her I may as well get up,” community. said Diane, who was Clark shared her idea the eighth car in line with a group of friends for food on this day. from Our Lady of GuaThe earliest volunDiane and her husband live on a small dalupe Mission: They pension and social security, leaving little teers start arriving beextra for the rising food costs. could ask for a donation tween 3:30-4 a.m. The once a month, she suggested, and use it to first to arrive unlocks the gate to the Our buy food for families in need. Lady of Guadalupe Mission campus. By this “And that’s what happened,” said Bullaro. time, a half dozen cars are typically in the “I think you could say that the result was food line, although the pantry doesn’t begin touched with magic. Twenty-five people re- distributing food until 7:30 a.m. ceived food that first week. Our Lady’s Pan“On behalf of all the volunteers at Our try has been open every single week since Lady’s Pantry, we thank the community for then — even during COVID.” your amazing support over all these many Today, the pantry has two groups of 250- years, both financially and through count300 households receiving food on alternate less volunteer hours,” said Bullaro. weeks that they can then take home to their Our Lady’s Pantry is located at 16650 U.S. families. So more than a thousand men, 301 S. in Wimauma. New volunteers are women, and children have food on their always welcome. To learn more about the table weekly because of food purchased pantry, please visit www.ourladyspantry. through the kindness of others. com. Be sure to scroll down to the two-minBoth Tom and Anita have worked at the ute video by FOX 13 News on the pantry’s pantry since 2004 and have come to know home page.

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Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

Volume 22, Issue 1

GREEN BOUTIQUE, STRAZ, CHICK-FIL-A & MORE OFFER SENIOR DISCOUNTS By Makenzie Atkins Noel In our community, many stores extend exclusive senior discounts to recognize the value of experience and cater to our seasoned residents. Senior discounts serve as a gesture of appreciation for the wealth of knowledge and loyalty seniors bring. From local trendy boutiques or popular attractions to craft stores and popular chains Stopping into the Tampa Bay History Bring the family and enjoy a day walking There is always a unique show playing at found nationwide, many Stop by The Green Boutique on Tuesdays Center will fill you with the knowledge of through the 250,000-square-foot Florida the Straz Center. Catch a holiday classic or and get a discount on the perfect gift, piece places in the area offer what growth Tampa has seen throughout Aquarium filled with native and exotic an eccentric new show with a discounted of jewelry or outfit. great savings. ticket. the years. animals. For decades, The Green Boutique has If you are interested in a traditional and can be viewed at www.michaels.com/ sort of senior discount as well. AMC Theserved as the perfect place to grab a museum, then visit the Tampa Bay Histo- coupon-policy-and-price-guarantee#se- atres provides a senior discount on tickets thoughtful gift, the final touch for your ry Center for $2 off tickets for adults 60 nior-discount. for ages 60 and up every day. home decorating project or even a beauyears old or older and learn about Tampa’s Many other national brands in retail, No matter what you are interested in tiful outfit right in Valrico. Every Tuesday, history throughout the decades. The history dining and travel offer senior discounts. trying around the community, many busithis local favorite offers 10 percent off for center is open from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. daily at There are quite a few restaurants, includ- nesses offer senior discounts. Websites like everyone 55 years old and over. This senior 801 Water St. in Tampa. Visit https://tam- ing Chick-fil-A, Chili’s, Dunkin’ and Sonic, www.theseniorlist.com/senior-discounts/ discount excludes purchases from the folpabayhistorycenter.org. that offer value for seniors, but as some are are a great resource. Most discounts start lowing brands: Brighton, Ronaldo, Sid DickCatch a show at the Straz Center for individually owned it is best to check with at 55 and up, but there are a few for 50 and ens and Kendra Scott. Performing Arts and receive up to 50 per- the location closest to you to see what the many start at 60, so always read the fine Owner Rosalind Creager said, “We apcent off tickets to select shows for seniors offer is. print. The important thing to remember preciate our senior customers and want to ages 65 years old or over. Discounts are reKohl’s offers a senior discount on is to always ask when dining, shopping or offer them a special recognition.” deemable in person only at the box office Wednesdays for those ages 60 and older vacationing, as it may not be widely adverThe Green Boutique is located at 1032 with a valid ID and guests can purchase and PetSmart has 10% off purchase and tised. Exploring these offerings optimizes Bloomingdale Ave. Visit https://greenbouup to two tickets per ID. Learn more about 10% off grooming on Tuesdays. Many cell both savings and overall fun for the senior tiquefl.com. the discount at the Straz Center at www. phone providers and airlines offer some community members in our area. Many Tampa attractions and experiencstrazcenter.org/tickets-events/promotions/ es also offer discounted ticket prices for seniors. The Straz Center is located at 1010 Locally Owned and Operated. Servicing seniors. Check out The Florida Aquarium N. Macinnes Place in Tampa. Pinellas, Pasco, and Hillsborough Counties and get approximately 10 percent off reguIf you are feeling crafty, you can find a lar-priced tickets for seniors ages 60 years KEEPING BAY AREA great senior discount by visiting Michaels in or older. The Florida Aquarium is a nonprofBrandon for 10 percent off every purchase, PROPERTIES BUG FREE it organization that offers many exhibits, including sale items. Customers must be SINCE 1998. including animals of the wetlands, stingregistered through the Michaels Rewards rays, a coral reef exhibit, animals with no account and be 55 years old or older to Request your free inspection or a quote for our services. bones and more. The aquarium is open from use this discount online and in-store every 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m. daily at 701 Channelside day of the week. Some exclusions apply Licensed & Certified Technicians Dr. in Tampa. Visit www.flaquarium.org.

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January 2024

Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

VALRICO RESIDENTS COMPETE

ON THE GREAT CHRISTMAS LIGHT FIGHT WITH FUNDRAISER DISPLAY

Page 11

THE PROJECT JOY GIVES A HELPING HAND FOR THOSE WHO SERVE OUR LEARNING YOUTH

By Lily Belcher

By Libby Hopkins

For Rodney and light show.” Audra Burton, “When you see Christmas lights it, it’s a work of are more than art. It’s not just just decorations; put out in the they’re also a way yard. Everything to give people a has been strategiplace to escape cally placed with their everyday that guide,” Rodlives. ney said. “This is truly for Rodney said the the community. size of the display That’s what this is unheard of for a is all about: giving team of just two something back, people. While they paying it forward do not have kids, from those blessthe opportunity The Burtons’ Christmas light display includes nearly ings that God has to give back to the 120,000 LED pixels. allowed us to be community is the able to see and manifest its gift into some- driving force behind their dedication to the thing with lights,” Rodney said. display. The couple competed in 2023’s The Great “We’ve sacrificed vacations to do ChristChristmas Light Fight on ABC with their dis- mas lights instead of going to places,” Audra play of nearly 120,000 LED pixels in Valrico. said. The Burtons applied to compete in 2022 The couple collects pet food and moneby sending in photos and videos of their mu- tary donations for local pet rescues, includsic-synchronized display. They were selected ing A Kitten Place and Raining Cats and for the holiday show and their display was Dogs Shelter and Sanctuary. Rodney said recorded last winter for this Christmas’ ep- they donate all money raised directly to the isode. organizations. As the owners of two cats, While they did not win the $50,000 prize, Pumpkin and Pixie, the cause holds a special Audra said it was “a win just to get on the place in their hearts. show.” “We adopted two kittens this year and The Burtons’ display started with 5,000 both of them came from one of those respixels but has grown rapidly over the past cues, so that’s why we decided to go with six years. Their 2023 display took 35 days of them,” Audra said. 10 or more hours to set up, beginning at the Their display is open to the public at 2014 end of September. Sydney Rd. in Valrico through Wednesday, “It’s a labor of love and passion,” Rodney January 31. For more information, visit Bursaid “… It’s not just an average Christmas ton Family Light Show on Facebook.

The Project Joy be adding additional is a local nonprofit schools in Hillsborough that was founded and to two schools by a group of retired in Pasco County,” educators, Rebecca Diaz said. “We are an Diaz, Linda Stanley, all-volunteer local nonJason Philpot and profit. Besides serving Louis Diaz, who were teachers at individuconcerned with the al sites, we also hold emotional and mencontests where groups tal well-being of the at schools won $500 teachers and staff each to create snack serving our youth. Rebecca Diaz, Linda Stanley, Jason Philpot carts, go-kart racing and Louis Diaz of The Project Joy. “While there are and adventures of their multiple avenues of support for children, choice. Last year, we were able to provide we found this area of need to be lacking for four local teachers with cash to help them to the adults within our educational system,” have the joy of supporting their own family said Rebecca. “The Project Joy began in members. We are currently visiting various a simple manner of providing opportuni- schools to provide teachers, administrators ties to inspire joy at Webb Middle School, and other educators who have reached out where Linda, Jason and myself served and to us to let us know that these adults were Louis had mentored the principal as he in need of a little extra joy. These special began his role in administration. At times, educators will receive monetary support to we provided breakfast, raffles, lunches and help them during this season.” treats on stressful days. As we grew, we As The Project Joy grows, it wishes to be added Michelle Chase, Shawna Berger and able to provide more support. Justin Rancourt. All three of these former “One way we are working toward this teachers served with Louis Diaz at Alonso goal is by partnering with Dakota Robitaille, High School. K.R. Lombardia, Jerry Jackson, who is moving forward on his Eagle Scout Eva Philpot and Cammie Yick have served in badge,” Diaz said. “He is designing and resupport positions in volunteering and fund- modeling Webb’s teachers’ lounge from a raising. Our logo was designed by Caleigh regular area to our first Room of Joy. This Yick, a local middle school student who ex- area will provide a calm, uplighting area for pressed a desire to do so in support of our teachers to meet and break bread together. teachers.” Our very lofty goal is to eventually grow to a From there, through all these individuals, level that perhaps we can partner with local The Project Joy was born. contractors to provide Homes of Joy for our The Project Joy has extended into more educators.” than 20 other schools, all within just two If you would like to learn more about short years. The Project Joy, you can visit its website at “Beginning in January 2024, we will www.theprojectjoy.net.

Page 12

Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

Volume 22, Issue 1

HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY TAX COLLECTOR’S OFFICE FIRST IN STATE TO IMPLEMENT POCKETALK TECHNOLOGY

OUT OF THIS WORLD HEADLINE

Six months after transformed customer rolling out language interactions, ensuring translation devices in timely and compasall its offices, capable sionate service for all of translating speech community members,” and text into 82 lansaid Joe Miller, Pockeguages, Hillsborough talk’s general managCounty Tax Collecer of North America. tor Nancy C. Millan “Through her leaderThe Pocketalk technology is able to transreceived a national late speech and text into 82 languages. It ship, Nancy and her award recognizing her team exemplify how also has a camera that allows it to scan pioneering efforts in technology can prodocuments and translate them. enhancing service accessibility for non-En- foundly foster inclusivity and connectivity.” glish speakers. Since taking the helm in 2021, Millan In a county of 1.5 million residents, which has implemented a range of measures to includes a substantial immigrant popula- cultivate an inclusive environment that tion, effective communication poses sig- embraces diversity at every level. The ofnificant hurdles for non-English speakers fice employs more than 400 staff across accessing driver’s licenses, vehicle registra- its eight locations, 70 percent of whom tions and other vital government services. represent minority populations. In JanuThe Hillsborough County Tax Collector’s ary, the office will introduce a Skill-based Office rolled out the Pocketalk handheld Incentives Pay Program supporting its translation devices in all offices earlier diverse team with monthly stipends for this year, providing real-time, two-way language proficiency and certifications. speech and text translation. The technol“Implementing Pocketalk technoloogy empowers staff to bridge language gy directly addresses a vital community gaps, making services more accessible and need,” said Millan. “The technology is not smoother for non-English speakers and re- a substitute for human connection, but a ducing repeat office visits. tool to enhance it. The handheld devices As the first tax collector in the state to foster greater connectivity between our adopt Pocketalk’s technology, Hillsborough staff and Hillsborough County residents, County’s successful rollout has inspired 13 ensuring that language barriers do not others across the state to implement it. hinder access to essential government Recognizing her commitment to inclu- services.” sion, Pocketalk awarded Millan with the For video footage of the Pocketalk deesteemed Community Builder of the Year vices in action, including testimonials from Award. Millan and Hillsborough County staff, visit “Nancy Millan is truly deserving of our www.youtube.com/watch?v=pbidgyktiig. inaugural Community Builder of the Year For further information regarding Award. As the first tax collector in Florida services, locations and to book appointto implement Pocketalk devices, Nancy has ments, visit www.hillstax.org.

The Florida StrawSunday, March 3 at berry Festival an7:30 p.m. nounced its upcoming The legendary headline entertainBellamy Brothers ment artists, and there perform on Monday, is certainly something March 4 at 3:30 to please everyone. p.m., followed by the This spring marks the iconic Southern rock Strawberry Festival’s band ZZ Top at 7:30 89th year of bringing p.m. Christian perfun, food and enterformer Mark Lowry The 2024 Strawberry Festival is bringing tainment to the com- headline artists who will entertain audienc- takes the stage on munity with more than Tuesday, March 5 at es for 11 days from Thursday, February 29 600,000 visitors en3:30 p.m., followed through Sunday, March 10. joying the festival’s headline entertainment, by Grammy-winning Christian artist Zach rides, youth livestock shows, crafts and, of Williams at 7:30 p.m. course, strawberry shortcake. The 2024 fesIconic country music singer Craig Mortival takes place for 11 days from Thursday, gan performs on Wednesday, March 6 at February 29 through Sunday, March 10. 3:30 p.m., followed by Riley Green at 7:30 According to Florida Strawberry Festival p.m. Bill Haley Jr. and the Comets will rock President Kyle Robinson, this year’s artists around the clock on Thursday, March 7 at once again encompass a variety of enter- 10:30 a.m., followed by legendary country tainment from many genres. singer Gene Watson at 3:30 p.m. Christian “The directors on our entertainment com- R&B performer Kirk Franklin rounds out the mittee worked diligently in planning and evening at 7:30 p.m. preparing for this highly anticipated anThe Commodores bring their smooth nouncement,” said Robinson. sounds to the stage on Friday, March 8 at The 2024 entertainment lineup is as fol- 3:30 p.m., followed by the much-anticipatlows: On February 29, the festival kicks off ed ban Foreigner at 7:30 p.m. On Saturday, at 10:30 a.m. with Jimmy Sturr & His Or- March 9 at 3:30 p.m., Jo Dee Messina perchestra, followed by the doo-wop sounds of forms her country hits, followed by rapper the Oak Ridge Boys at 3:30 p.m. and ending Flo Rida at 7:30 p.m. The festival ends with the day with the much-anticipated county a performance from beloved contempomusic artist Oliver Anthony at 7:30 p.m. rary country music artist Cody Johnson on The Beach Boys bring their iconic surf- March 10 at 7:30 p.m. sounds on Friday, March 1 at 3:30 p.m., folAdvance tickets for admission and for lowed by country-pop singer Jordan Davis headline entertainment shows can be purat 7:30 p.m. The award-winning Black Eyed chased online at www.flstrawberryfestival. Peas headline on Saturday, March 2 at 7:30 com, at the Amscot Main Ticket Office at p.m. and country singer-songwriter Parker 2209 W. Oak Ave. in Plant City and by phone McCollum brings his music to the stage on at 813-754-1996.

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January 2024

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2023 YEAR IN REVIEW The Tony Baroni Team wishes YOU and your family a great 2024!!!

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Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

RIVER HILLS COUNTRY CLUB COMMITMENT

TO IMPROVEMENT CONTINUES FOUR YEARS INTO OWNERSHIP TRANSITION By Makenzie Atkins Noel (Editor’s Note, this story was previously printed with editorial errors and has been corrected by the editorial team. Please forgive the confusion) River Hills Country Club has been on a journey of growth, improvement and commitment to providing an exceptional experience for members and guests. Conceived in 1988 as a daily-fee golf facility with amenities that far surpassed any in what was a fairly remote area of Hillsborough County, River Hills Country Club opened the Joe Lee-designed course and clubhouse in 1989. The developer realized that Tampa was a burgeoning market and built a community that offered a great golf course, superb dining, clay tennis courts and tremendous value just as it does to this day. With the decision for the HOA to purchase the amenity in September 2019, a commitment to continuous improvement has been a key factor in the continued growth and success of the club. “We pride ourselves on having an outstanding board, great staff and honestly a down-to-earth, great membership,” said Margie Martin, membership and marketing director at River Hills Country Club. “It’s like all those three things just work so harmoniously together, and it really does make River Hills special.” River Hills has also strengthened its ties with the community through events, workshops and social gatherings, and with goals to further enhance its offerings, this community connection will continue to grow. By giving the gift of membership to

River Hills Country Club, you are gifting exclusive access to premium facilities, participation in members-only events and a sense of community. A membership to River Hills grants you access to the 18-hole championship golf course and practice facility, eight Har-Tru tennis courts with tournament-quality lighting, exceptional dining, an active social calendar, a fitness center and a Junior Olympic heated pool. Individuals who join the club become part of a community that values connection and growth and strives to give a sense of community. “It makes you feel like you’re home, which I think for people moving into the area are looking for that little slice of home,” said Martin. The team at River Hills works hard to make every day fun at the club. From golf and tennis lessons to monthly social events, you can always expect a good time. With upcoming holiday events, clinics, a 2024 Concert in the Park series, Theme Nights and more, there is something for everyone. River Hills has made remarkable strides over the past year, with goals of a future that embraces inclusivity, sustainability and community engagement. Becoming a member at River Hills Country Club is about more than just golf; it’s about community. For more information or to inquire about membership, please contact Martin at 813-655-5203 or email mmartin@riverhillscountryclub.com.

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A Tampa resCawfee. “Everyident who has one involved suploved living in the ported our coffee area for over six shop throughout years has poured the process and his passion back we are excited to into the commusee and share the nity. final movie with K a r e e m our customers Everison filmed and community.” his most recent From crew members playing roles to the writer, ed“It’s an incredshort film, Guard itor and owner of the local newspaper, the Osprey ible feeling makMy Heart, around ing a movie here,” Observer, everyone pitched in to make this film. the Tampa Bay Pictured here are Ashley Comstock, Marie Gilmore said Everison. and Haley Blair. area, most nota“I’ve been in some bly at Chill Cawmovies that were fee in Valrico. made here before The film follows but there is no security guard Devin better feeling than Williams as he puts making one of your a stop to burglars at own.” his close friend’s art Everison would gallery and leaps into like to thank all cast action to “guard her and crew, including heart.” Judith Ricquel HarEverison wrote ris, Amanda JenGuard My Heart sen, Joshua Dupree, with Mike Mcclaskey, Alexia Rivera, someone he conAmanda Manez, (Left to right) Ace mover/burglar actor, pro siders a mentor. He Alvin C. Eberhardt, wrestler and music composer of Guard My also played the role Prestin Caine, Axel Heart Prestin Caine; ace mover/burglar of guard Devin WilAponte, Walter leader, actor and dancer Joshua Dupree; liams. Everison said Ashaad, Henry L. security guard Devin Williams, played by this film is important Kareem Everison; and ace mover/burglar Hill, Jude Bartheactor Michael Baker. to him because as a lemy, Misty Elliott, security guard and martial artist him- Haley Blair, Jim McDowell, Gordon Adself, he relates to the film. By leaning on ams, Alexis Baca, Mal Delgado, Rayfriends, family and community members mond Sostre, Christine Najera, Oscar to be a part of the film, Everison knows Najera, Blake Drivas, Cheyne Miles, that his heart is shown in the movie. Marie Gilmore, Samantha Kasner, Jeff “In this movie, I got the opportunity Turner, Michael Baker, Jose A. Roldan to have the fight scenes choreographed Jr., Steven C. Wilson, Kylee Nicole Peck, by my brother, Alvin (Ace) Eberhardt, Joel Goldberg, Angelene Tzokas, Susan from The Nappy Ninjas stunt team,” said Chaves Anchia, Ashley Comstock, JoceEverison, “as well to showcase some of lyn Alfonso and Andrew McGarr. my own original artwork.” Once the film is ready, it can be seen at Because the film called for a few the premiere at the Cinema 6 theater in scenes that showed a coffee shop and Port Richey and will eventually be availmany that needed an art gallery envi- able on streaming platforms. For more ronment, Chill Cawfee was the perfect information, you can email Everison at local place. kareemeverison1@gmail.com. “Being part of this experience and Chill Cawfee is located in Valrico at helping local artists was truly an hon- 3407 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. and in Riveror,” said Tom Quigley, owner of Chill view at 10528 Lake St. Charles Blvd.

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January 2024

TAMPA BAY RODEO ANNOUNCES

FIRST-EVER BULL BASH & COUNTRY MUSIC FESTIVAL JANUARY 26-27 Staff Report Tampa Bay Rodeo announces the first-ever Bull Bash & Country Music Festival, taking place on Friday and Saturday, January 26 and 27 at the Hillsborough County Fairgrounds. Country music Award-winning, multilegend John platinum country artist Michael Mont- John Michael Montgomery gomery and ris- headlines on Friday night, ing star Priscilla January 26 at the first-ever Block headline Bull Bash & Country Music Festival. the festival, with Montgomery taking the stage during the Bull Bash intermission on Friday night and Block taking the stage during the same competition break on Saturday night. The best bull riders in the region compete for the title and cash prizes in this multiround competition. After the music festival at intermission, the Bull Bash resumes with the final rounds to crown the winner. The second half includes the fan-favorite Hard Cash Giveaway, where cowboys test their speed, agility and courage as they race on foot to capture cash that is tied between the bull’s horns. Tickets are on sale now for this electrifying event. Montgomery is an award-winning, multiplatinum country music artist with gold record hits like “I Swear,” “Leave a Mark”

and “Brand New Me” to his name. Block, the first country music act to break from the social media platform TikTok, was nominated for the Academy of Country Music Academy of Country Music Award for New Female Artist nominee for New Female Artist of the Year Priscilla of the Year and Block performs on Saturday CMT’s Breaknight, January 27 at the through Video Bull Bash & Country Music of the Year. Festival. Fans can arrive early to enjoy live music from Tampa-area artists, eat delicious food, have a cold beer and test their skills on the mechanical bull before the Bull Bash begins. Randy McNeeley performs on Friday, and Cross Fire Creek performs Saturday night; their performances begin at 5:45 p.m. each night. Gates open at 5:00 p.m., the Bull Bash begins at 7:30 p.m. and the headliners take the stage at approximately 8:15 p.m. each night. The Hillsborough County Fairgrounds is located at the intersection of State Road 60 and Sydney Washer Road, just east of Brandon. General parking is free, with premium parking available at $25 per car. This is a rain-or-shine event. For more information, visit https://hillsboroughcountyfair.com/bull-bash/.

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Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

Volume 22, Issue 1

WATERMELON SWIM IMPACTS

SWIMMERS AND THE COMMUNITY By Lily Belcher

Watermelon Swim’s In addition to New Year’s resolution offering swim lesis to continue to grow sons and free waits impact on the comter safety educamunity in 2024. tion presentations, CEO Micha Seal said the company gives the family owned and back the commuoperated year-round nity through scholswim company hopes arships and donato open two new lotions to support cations in Brooksville local causes. and Zephyrhills. “ Wa t e r m e l o n Watermelon Swim encourages children to get in“We’re beyond ex- volved in consistent swim lessons for their safety. Swim aims to cited to be growing continuously give and reaching new areas back to the communiof our community to ty. Each year, we have a teach more lessons and pumpkin patch and the further our mission. The proceeds of this pumpmore students we can kin patch help us proteach, the better we can vide scholarships for our serve our community Swimmers with Disabiland develop safer swimities program,” Seal said. mers,” Seal said. Watermelon Swim’s The new locations will annual giving tree has extend Watermelon Swim’s impact be- served the Tampa Bay community over yond the four current indoor locations in the last ten years as well. The program Lutz, South Tampa, Wesley Chapel and provides the “entire holiday experience” Riverview. In 2023, Watermelon Swim for families in need. An application protaught over 300,000 swim lessons with cess allows Watermelon Swim to identhe help of 150 employees. tify families in need who would beneAt the beginning of the year, Water- fit from receiving holiday decorations, melon Swim will offer free Water Babies meals and gifts. classes for infants under six months old. “There’s an undeniable need for swim These classes engage parents and infants lessons and water safety education in in non-submersion lessons and offer an our community. Our mission is to grow opportunity for parents to bond with a community full of safer swimmers and their child. reduce the risks while increasing confiThese lessons lay the foundation for dence in and around water,” Seal said. future lessons at Watermelon Swim. The To enroll in swim lessons at one of company is offering a 10% tuition dis- the four locations or read Watermelon count for swimmers taking lessons mul- Swim’s blog, visit watermelonswim.com. tiple times a week to “encourage consis- For more information, contact the comtency and repetition in swim lessons.” pany at 813-229-7946.

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LITERACY COVID-19 STILL AROUND AS CELEBRATE LAUNCH INTO By Superintendent Van Ayres

AGENCIES MONITOR AND ADVISE

By Brad Stager While pandemic er COVID-19 rules protocols like “two regarding masking weeks to flatten the and vaccinations is COVID-19 curve” and the EMT training the following mask program operated and vaccine mandates out of Aparicio-Levy are pretty much in Technical College. the rearview mirror Students working for most Florida resiwith the program’s The CDC has COVID-19 vaccine formula dents, businesses and clinical partners are and shot schedule options it recommends institutions, the virus generally required to for people six months of age and older. is still circulating and follow their masking sickening people. and vaccine requireThe Centers for Disease ments. Control (CDC) continues Free COVID-19 tests are to monitor the presence of available from the CDC by COVID-19, and as it does invisiting www.covidtests. stitutions like Hillsborough gov, where you can also find County Public Schools are looking to the additional information about the current agency for ongoing guidance to set pol- state of the disease and recommended icies and inform families and students precautions. According to the agency’s who have questions. website, each home in the country can “The district continues to communi- order four at-home tests at no charge. cate CDC guidelines if and when a parent If the household has not requested any seeks guidance from our student health tests so far in 2023, a total of eight tests professionals,” said Hillsborough County can be ordered. Public Schools Chief of Chief of CommuThe CDC states on its website that nications Tanya Arja. if you know you have been exposed to Arja added that a doctor is the best COVID-19, you should wait at least five person to determine a student’s health days before taking a test. The CDC also status, and a basic guideline is that feel- suggests testing might be appropriate ing unwell is a sign to stay home and not before visiting someone, such as an oldstress too much over out-of-class time. er or chronically ill person, or attending “We let parents know that they should some social gatherings. follow the instructions from their doctor, As for how the virus may affect things which is typically to isolate for five days. like operating schools in Hillsborough Overall, if students and staff do not feel County, Arja said, “The health and wellwell, they should stay home. Our staff being of our students and staff is a priworks with parents on make-up assign- ority for the district.” ments that were missed due to illness.” The CDC’s www.vaccines.gov website Participation in one district educa- provides information about getting vaction program that may involve strict- cinated.

Why is third grade so and resources are designed important when it comes to help teachers become to literacy? That’s the more confident and sucgrade where students cessful in their capacity to transition from ‘learning help kids learn to read. to read’ to ‘reading to Our district also utilizlearn.’ Up until third grade, es myON, which is a peryou are learning the tools sonalized digital library at to improve your reading students’ fingertips. myON including phonics, letters gives students access to and sentence structure. more than 7,000 books. After that, reading is the Titles are matched to each tool to help further your student’s interests, grade, education. and reading level. Literacy, especially in myON is also a great early childhood, is critresource to use during a ical. We celebrate and family reading night. Make 6 !YRE promote literacy every it part of your routine. Evday in Hillsborough County Public Schools. ery evening, put aside 20 or 30 minutes to However, it gets increased attention and read as a family. Use myON, or take turns focus during one week in January for Cel- reading aloud, or sitting together quietly ebrate Literacy Week. This year, Celebrate with your own book. Literacy Week falls on Monday through For younger children, our district literacy Friday, January 22-26. It’s designed to team put together a series of phonics vidraise awareness about the importance of eos called ‘Learning Letters.’ These adorreading and to inspire Florida’s students able videos are hosted by two of our amazand families to make reading part of their ing early childhood educators, and they daily lives. take each letter of the alphabet and sound Our schools do a phenomenal job of com- it out, find words that begin with that leting up with ways to make literacy fun and ter and teach your child how to write that engaging. The district’s letter. I strongly literacy team is always urge you to check working on new initiathese videos out at tives to best assist our www.hillsboroughteachers with this imschools.org/learnportant job. Our district ingletters. has begun implementRemember, Celing UFLI, which stands ebrating Literacy for University of Florida Week is January Literacy Institute. UFLI 22-26, and our focuses on two main schools are planareas: teacher developning a lot of exment and reader develciting activities to opment. The programs Celebrate Literacy!

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Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

Volume 22, Issue 1

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Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

Union’s 25-county service territory have the opportunity to apply for financial support to continue their education, thanks to a $164,000 investment in scholarships by the Compiled by Jenny Bennett Tampa-based credit jbennett@ospreyobserver.com union’s Foundation. Applications are open until Wednesday, January 31 and are Eva Adams Concert In Sun City available at https:// educationfoundation. Center The United Methodist Church of Sun c o m /s e n i o r s c h o l a r City Center (SCCUMC) welcomes inter- ships. national singer and musician Eva Adams to its sanctuary for a 7 p.m. concert on Girl Scouts Perform Carols At Friday, January 12. Adams studied opera Retirement Home and piano in The Girl Scouts of Brownie the Czech ReTroop 33027 recently spread public and has holiday cheer to the residents been performof Osprey Heights retirement ing all over community by performing the world for carols and handing out canover 33 years. dy canes. Decked out in red She is a multiand green, the second gradlingual singer, ers sang a selection of clasperforming in sic Christmas carols, with many languagthe residents joining in. The es and styles smiles on the faces of the resfrom the 50s idents showed how much they to the 80s. Tickets are available online at appreciated the performance, and they www.sccumc.com/events, from the Pag- requested more visits in the future. es of Life Bookstore on campus or at the church office. The SCCUMC is located at Pepin Academies To 1971 Haverford Ave. in Sun City Center.

what it does and learn more about its therapeutic environment for students with learning disabilities. The open house will be held simultaneously on each campus on Thursday, January 25 from 9:30-10:30 a.m. Please RSVP at www.pepinacademies.com or email communications@ theacademies.us.

Concert, Pepin Academies Open House & More...

Suncoast Credit Union Foundation Scholarship

The Suncoast Credit Union Foundation is partnering with Hillsborough Education Foundation to offer six $2,000 scholarship awards to high school graduates in the Class of 2024. This year’s high school graduates in Suncoast Credit

Volume 22, Issue 1 MiraBay Village Shopping Center at 206 Harbor Village Lane off U.S. Highway 401 in Apollo Beach. For more information, call Frank at 856 373-8497.

Dementia Care-partner Support Group

Superior Residences of Brandon will be holding a monthly support group for family and friends of people living with dementia. The group will take place the second Monday of each month from 6-8 p.m., with the next meeting being on January 9. The group will be led by CherylAnn Haley, she is a Positive Approach to Care-certified coach and will share Positive Approach to Care skills Roamin’ Oldies Cruiser Of The that will explain some behaviors and Month show care partners how to support their In 1968, Ron Gaither bought a well- loved ones. Please call 813-657-8587 used, four-year-old Oldsmobile Cutlass or email tburnett@superiorbrandon. 442 convertible. com to reserve Fifty-five years a space. Superilater, it is the or Residences of Roamin’ Oldies Brandon is locatCar Club cruiser ed at 1819 Proviof the month. In dence Ridge Blvd. 1979, the 442 was in Brandon. retired as a daily driver and tucked SouthShore away in a garage; Christian in 2000, Gaither Wo m e n ’s and son, Geoff, embarked on a 10-year frame-off resto- Connection The SouthShore Christian Women’s ration. They did pretty much everything Connection is holding a luncheon on in the home Wednesday, January 10 at 11:30 a.m. at garage; only the Life Enrichment Center of the Unitthe seats and Host School Choice ed Methodist Church Sun City Center, interior panOpen House located at 1971 Haverford Ave. in Sun els were sent Pepin Academies is excited City Center. Eileen McGuire, a lifelong out for reupto announce a School Choice h o l s t e r i n g . health and wellness professional, is the Open House event for proThe Roamin’ speaker. She believes in empowering spective students, parents Oldies host others with the tools and knowledge and the community. This a cruise-in necessary to live healthier, longer and event will provide an excelfrom 1-4 p.m. more fulfilling lives. Please call 317-414lent opportunity for all attendees to tour the first Sunday of every month, with a 9062 or email sscwcflorida@gmail.com the school, learn more information about rain date the following Sunday, at the to make a reservation.

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January 2024

Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

Page 21

SENIOR DOGS AND CATS FIND NEW BRENDA WADE TEAM HOSTS 11TH PARTNERS IN GIVING EVENT TO BENEFIT A KID’S PLACE BEGINNINGS AT HILLSBOROUGH By Marie Gilmore COUNTY PET RESOURCE CENTER Staff Report

H i l l s b o ro u g h lovable ball of County Pet Refur will finally source Center stop growing. (PRC) is making Most senior a heartfelt plea dogs end up in for residents to shelters through consider the ofno fault of their ten-overlooked own. Reasons companionship can range from of senior dogs the passing of and cats. While their owners to the allure of Mulan, a senior dog at the Pet Resource Center, smiles families movfor the camera while standing in a kiddie pool. playful puppies ing into spaces and frisky kittens may be strong, the Pet that don’t allow pets. These seasoned Resource Center is shedding light on the companions, often facing unforeseen life unique benefits that come with adopting changes, deserve another chance to exa mature canine or feline friend. perience the joy of a loving home. These seasoned pets, often in the twiAdopting a senior dog isn’t just about light years of their lives, have so much giving them a home; it’s about offering a love to offer and are patiently waiting for second chance for a fulfilling life. These a chance to make a home complete. The dogs, having spent years in the comfort shelter is currently housing dozens of se- of a home, find themselves in unfamiliar nior dogs, each with a story and a longing shelter settings. The transition can be for a warm, loving family. challenging, but with a little love and unOne of the key advantages of adopt- derstanding, they can flourish in a new ing a senior dog is their temperament. environment. These mature companions generally need The Hillsborough County Pet Resource less exercise and exude a calm demeanor Center encourages potential adopters to throughout the day. This makes them an consider the rewards of bringing a senior ideal match for older owners or families dog or cat into their homes. No appointwith children. Forget the challenges of ments are necessary, and information the teething and chewing phase; most along with photos of dogs available for older dogs have already outgrown these adoption can be found on the PRC webbehaviors, and many have received some site at www.hillsboroughcounty.org/en/ level of obedience training. residents/animals-and-pets/pet-adopSenior dogs have settled into their per- tion/adopt-a-dog-or-cat. This holiday sonalities, allowing potential adopters season, consider making a difference in to more accurately gauge compatibility. the life of a deserving senior dog or cat Unlike the unpredictability of a growing by providing them with a new home and puppy, the size of a senior dog is fixed, a second chance to give back the love eliminating concerns about when that they’ve stored up over the years.

y, nl ! O e ble im aila T d v ite re A m a i a L rds r a Fo ft C Gi

The Brenda Wade team Partners in Giving event raised $23,500 for A Kid’s Place foster home this year.

For its 11th annual ‘Partners in Giving’ event, the Brenda Wade Real Estate Team and its community partners were able to come together and raise $23,500 for A Kid’s Place foster home in Brandon. The partner donations paired with a Giving Tuesday grant opportunity helped boost this year’s funding. “It means the world to us that Brenda Wade supports and invests in her local homegrown organizations,” said Brad Gregory, CEO. “She has been a terrific partner to A Kid’s Place for several years and a great role model for the community! This gift will improve the lives of many foster children here at A Kid’s Place.” Through the years, the Brenda Wade Team, the top real estate agents in Hillsborough County and one of the top 50 real estate teams in the USA, has donated more than $125,000 to local charities. “Each year, I match the amount of money our partners donate,” said Brenda Wade, president and CEO of the team, “so we truly are partnering together. We help families, day in and day out, as they buy and sell homes, so this was a wonderful opportunity to come alongside of families in times of need.” Wade is thankful to her business partners, who offered their support not only to her clients but to the community as well. This

year’s business partners include Joel Meek, Meek Insurance Group; Jeff Grove, DFCU Financial; Rebecca Gullick, All American Title; Jim Gaffney, Amerifirst Home Mortgage; Wayne Gonzalez Roofing Contractor Inc.; Patrick Latimer, United Mutual Funding Corp.; Matt Willums, Willums Home Services; Jim Klos, The Klos Appraiser Group; Brian Hodgers, Complete Choice Insurance; Jay Grechika, CertaPro Painters; Nicole Fielder, Lake Michigan Credit Union and Osprey Observer Newspapers “A Kid’s Place speaks to my heart. I was one of four growing up. My husband was one of eight. I can’t imagine being moved away from my parents for any reason, but I know being with my siblings would have made any trauma easier. I believe in families and home. A Kid’s Place serves both of those passions with excellence and is right here in our community,” explained Wade. “It is a privilege to be able to give for the most vulnerable in any season, but truly during the Holidays. I am grateful that it is so easy to get our business partners to join my teammates in giving.” “When we work together, we can make a difference,” she said. For information about A Kid’s Place, visit https://akidsplacetb.org/. For information about the Brenda Wade Real Estate Team, visit https://brendawade.com/.

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Page 22

Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

Volume 22, Issue 1

SCORE TAMPA LOOKS TO THE COMMUNITY ZOOTAMPA PROVIDING EXPERT FOR SMALL BUSINESS MENTORS CARE TO NEW MANATEE ARRIVALS, By Libby Hopkins

SCORE is a Tampa nonin all areas.” profit organization that is The Tampa Chapter a resource partner of the presents workshops, U.S. Small Business Adseminars and webinars ministration. for the public throughout “Our chapter has about the year. 50 volunteers/mentors,” “Every month, we said Kevin Dorsey, leadhave two three-hour er of the Tampa/Hillsworkshops: Going Into borough County SCORE Business and How To Chapter. “Nationwide, Create a Great Business SCORE has more than Plan,” Dorsey said. “We 10,000 volunteers. also do the judging for We provide free small the Valrico/FishHawk business mentoring for Chamber of Commerce SCORE can help you start, grow startups and existing Businesses of the Year or successfully exit a business. small businesses. We can winners.” Small business owners who tap volunteers across the SCORE is currently receive three or more hours of U.S. who may have spelooking for mentors. mentoring report higher revenues cific backgrounds and “We need mentors with and increased growth. knowledge to best serve all different backgrounds,” our clients locally. Mr. DuPont of the Du- Dorsey said. “Current or retired small busiPont Corporation started the SCORE model ness owners are perfect. A great need we in 1953.” have currently is for digital and social media By 1964, SCORE had grown too large marketing people, government regulations to be manage, so oversight of SCORE was and compliance, bank SBA loan officers, turned over to the U.S. Small Business Ad- marketing experts, sales, CPAs and many ministration in 1964. others. The time commitment for training is “The Tampa/Hillsborough Chapter has about 15 hours over 30 days, and the ongobeen active since 1968,” Dorsey said. “Of ing mentoring requirement is around three our 50-ish volunteers, 40 percent of our to five hours per week minimum.” mentors are retired, and 60 percent are still Currently, SCORE has 1,036 requests for running businesses or working corporate mentoring and only 50 volunteers. executive positions.” “We need to increase our number of menLast year, SCORE had over 1,000 re- tors and volunteers to around 100 plus in quests for mentors in Tampa/Hillsborough the coming year,” Dorsey said. “We also County. need sponsors to gather financial support. “Approximately 65 percent of our clients We get around 35 percent of our basic anare women, 28 percent African American, nual budget from the U.S. Small Business 10 percent Hispanic and 9 percent veter- Administration.” ans,” Dorsey said. “Around 40 percent of Tto learn more about SCORE or become a our clients have not started a business yet mentor or volunteer with the program, you and need help walking through the process can visit its website at www.score.org.

ROMEO AND JULIET

Staff Report

With round-theBoth Romeo and Juclock care and medliet have moved to the ical interventions in zoo’s rehabilitation place, elderly and pools and are socialoverweight manatees izing with other manRomeo and Juliet, who atees — an important arrived at ZooTampa aspect for a manaat Lowry Park last tee in human care to week, are gradually thrive. acclimating to their “As two of the oldnew environments. est living manatees, “It’s going to be a Romeo and Juliet delong road, but there is Romeo and Juliet, a pair of elderly man- serve the best care no facility better pre- atees relocated from the Miami Seaquar- possible as they live pared to address the ium, have been successfully transported out their final years,” urgent health needs of and are receiving state-of-the-art care at Stringfield added. ZooTampa. these manatees while For nearly three the Manatee Rescue & Rehabilitation decades, ZooTampa has been entrustPartnership identifies the best option for ed in emergency situations to intervene, their long-term placements,” said Dr. Cyn- triage and save critically injured, sick thia Stringfield, manatee critical care vet- and orphaned manatees. The zoo’s Daerinarian and senior vice president of an- vid A. Straz, Jr. Manatee Critical Care imal health, conservation and education. Center has three 16,500-gallon medical While initial blood tests do not reveal care pools with controlled floors and two any major abnormalities for either Romeo manatee recovery habitats containing or Juliet, there are aspects of their overall 200,000 gallons of water combined. health that are unknown. The zoo invests nearly $1 million every “Both animals are over 65 years old,” year in manatee work. ZooTampa has Stringfield said, “At this age, we always cared for more than 500 manatees. Curhave concerns about cardiac health, rently, there are 18 manatees at ZooTawhich is difficult to evaluate in manatees mpa. due to their size.” More than 1.1 million visitors annualStringfield said it is uncommon for ly visit the zoo and are educated on the manatees, often called ‘sea cows,’ to be plight of the manatees, the importance of as heavy as Juliet who is 3,045 pounds. aquatic and marine habitat conservation Eating regularly is essential to her overall and the steps the public can take to prohealth, so the ZooTampa team provided mote manatee conservation. Visit https:// supportive care to Juliet, who had not zootampa.org/ for more information or been eating, which is common for mana- follow along on their social media @ tees after transport. ZooTampa for up-to-the-minute news.

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January 2024

Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

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Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

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Volume 22, Issue 1

Riverview/Apollo Beach

2024, Vol. 22, Iss. 1

COMING SOON

FEBRUARY 29-MARCH 10

Tampa Electric Dubbed StormReady By NOAA

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has recognized Tampa Electric as being StormReady, making TECO the first Florida utility to receive this prestigious designation. NOAA assessed Tampa Electric’s storm preparedness, including year-round training, written plans, facilities and communication with employees and community partners. The review also considered how the company monitors weather and how it receives and shares severe weather warnings. “The StormReady designation is not just a label; it signifies that we’re on the forefront of advanced storm planning and preparation,” said Lee Connelly, Tampa Electric’s Emergency Management manager. “Being pre-

pared for storms — and being able spired and barbecue dishes. It is located to quickly recover from them — is essenat 775 Brandon Town Center Dr. in Brantial to provide reliable electricity to our don. For more information, visit its webcustomers when they need it the most.” site at www.clasicobrandon.com or call 813-444-5188.

commitment to providing the epitome of elegance for life’s most memorable occasions. Appointments for the showcase can be booked online at www. satinandlacebridalboutique.com. For any other enquiries, call 813-381-4110. Satin & Lace Bridal Boutique is located at 11286 Sullivan St. in Riverview.

Clásico Chophouse And Taproom Celebrates One-year An- Satin & Lace Bridal Boutique Strawberry Festival niversary With A Ribbon-cut- Unveil Posh Frocks ting For five years, Satin & Lace Bridal Bou- Tickets On Sale Now Great food was the theme of the oneyear anniversary celebration and ribbon-cutting by the Brandon Chamber of Commerce for Clásico Chophouse and Taproom. Guests were treated to a variety of delicious dishes from Chef Davis Locke, including slow-smoked beef ribs, house-made meatballs and more. Clásico Chophouse and Taproom has a wide menu, which includes both Italian-in-

tique has been Tampa’s top choice for sophisticated bridal attire. Its curated collections ensure that there’s something for every bride, groom and now moms too. Join Satin & Lace Bridal Boutique from Friday through Monday, January 19-22 to witness the unveiling of its new Posh Frock Collection. The event promises to be a captivating display of gorgeous dresses, marking a defining moment in its

Concert

Concert and admission tickets for the 89th ‘Out of This World’ Florida Strawberry Festival in Plant City are on sale now. The festival takes place from Thursday, February 29 to Sunday, March 10. Tickets can be purchased online at https://flstrawberryfestival.com/, at the Amscot Main Ticket Office at 2209 W. Oak Ave. in Plant City or by phone at 813754-1996.

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Page 26

Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

BAY LIFE INVITES YOU TO

PLANT SEEDS, GROW PRODUCE AND CREATE COMMUNITY By Kelly Wise Valdes In recent years, comfrom 8-10 a.m., people munity gardens have of all ages come toincreased in popularity, gether help in the garas they provide opporden. The workdays for tunities to learn gar2024 begin on Janudening, grow your own ary 13 and run through healthy food and meet July 13. others in the commu“I did not know anynity. The Seeds of Faith thing about gardening Community Garden, and what it took to Bay Life Church invites the community sponsored by Bay Life to its Seeds of Faith Community Garden, maintain a garden,” Church, is an on-camsaid Armstrong. “With where growers can harvest their own pus garden created to produce as well as help give back to local volunteering, it is cool be a place for learning, to see how dedicated food banks. fellowship and providing food for local food some of them are and how much time they pantries. put into doing something they love.” The garden was started by Bay Life Volunteers are needed to do anything Church in 2010 with seven volunteers and from harvesting, mulching, weeding and an empty plot of land. Throughout the last more. There’s a job for everyone and no 14 years, the ministry has faithfully grown sign-up is needed — just bring a water thousands of pounds of fresh produce for bottle and wear comfortable gardening families at ECHO and Hope for Her. clothes. This community garden is unique beLast year, the garden yielded nearly cause it’s divided into two sections — with 3,800 pounds of produce, and this year’s individual grower beds and donation beds. harvest is similar. Some of the produce The individual grower beds can be rented grown are beans, carrots, cucumbers, radout to people who are interested growing ishes, Florida gold potatoes, collards, kale, their own produce, while the donation beds lettuce, cherry tomatoes, cabbage, beets, are run by volunteers to harvest produce eggplant and peppers. that is donated to local food banks. It costs $35 to rent a bed, which requires Jordan Armstrong, Bay Life missions a 10-hour volunteer commitment per year, assistant, explained that the best way to or the cost is $60 without volunteering. serve at Seeds of Faith is to help at the gar- Students who work in the garden can earn den work days. community service hours. “The community is involved with the garIf you are interested in renting a plot to den,” said Armstrong. “It is a great way for grow or volunteering, please email misthose who may not have the room to start sions@baylife.org or call 813-661-3696. their own garden but want to, so they now Check out the group’s Facebook page at have the option with the open beds that we www.facebook.com/seedsoffaithgarden. have in the garden.” Bay Life Church is located at 1017 KingOn the second Saturday of each month, sway Rd. in Brandon.

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Volume 22, Issue 1

CASTAWAY FALLS, ADVENTURE ISLAND’S

ALL-NEW 2024 ATTRACTION, WILL FEATURE MORE THAN 100 PLAY ELEMENTS

Staff Report

Adventure Ispark-wide modland®, Tampa’s ernized theme, premier water the recently park, will debut opened Shaka-LaCastaway Falls in ka Shores, wathe spring. The ter slides Rapids all-new multilevel, Racer and Wahoo interactive waRemix, the renoter-play attraction vation of Captain will feature more Pete’s, the popular Castaway Falls at Adventure Island is slated to than 100 play elfull-service Hang ements, including open in the spring and will feature more than 100 Ten Tiki Bar and play elements. two giant tipping new lounging arbuckets that dump more than 1,300 gal- eas and cabanas. lons of water combined. Adventure Island’s annual pass is the Castaway Falls will have four exciting best way to enjoy year-round family fun water slides, soakers, flow pipes, hose under the sun, such as the new Castaway jets, spray jets, water shooters, water cur- Falls and seasonal events included with tains, tipping troughs, spinning and sliding admission. Passholders enjoy monthly rebuckets and much more. The new attrac- wards on top of unlimited seasonal admistion replaces the former splash area and sion and benefits like free parking, in-park is double the size of the former Splash discounts and more. Attack, making the new addition to AdLocated right across the street from venture Island bigger and splashier than Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, Adventure ever before. Island features a combination of exhila“We are thrilled about Adventure Is- rating water slides and tropical, tranquil land’s 2024 season,” said Stewart Clark, surroundings. At Tampa’s Island Paradise president of Busch Gardens® Tampa Bay await thrilling slides, such as Rapids Racand Adventure Island. “With the unveiling er, Wahoo Remix, Solar Vortex®, Vanish of Castaway Falls, the largest expansion in Point™, Caribbean Corkscrew® and Cothe water park’s history continues, adding lossal Curl™, waterfalls, a 17,000-squareattractions, dining options and events to foot wave pool, a children’s splash and enhance the guest experience.” play zone, Shaka-Laka Shores and other Harmonizing with the water park’s family attractions. Guests can dig their paradise-like ambiance, Castaway Falls toes into the sand or relax in lounge chairs resembles a splash haven and a fun-filled or a private cabana. retreat for the young and young at heart. Guests can visit https://adventureisland. Castaway Falls will immerse park guests com/ to purchase tickets and learn more in a watery world of excitement perfect about the annual pass program benefits, for all, even the littlest splashers. new events, special deals and future anCastaway Falls is part of the water nouncements. Follow Adventure Island on park’s largest expansion in more than Instagram, Facebook, X and YouTube for four decades. Said expansion includes a even more up-to-the-minute information.

Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

January 2024

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Page 27

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Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

FLIGHT TO HONOR POLK MISSION 9 PREPARING FOR DEPARTURE

Volume 22, Issue 1

Unlock Your Dream Home

By Brad Stager

Call Me Today!

Flight to Honor Polk veterans have a chance to tour the nation’s capital.

Preparations for Flight to Honor Polk Mission 9 to fly local military veterans to Washington, D.C., are underway, and the call is out for participants. The series of missions, which began in 2015, have allowed veterans a chance to visit the greatest monuments in Washington, D.C., that honor the sacrifices of them and their comrades. Applications for the Tuesday, April 30 mission are now being accepted from veterans and guardians to accompany them. There is no charge for participating veterans, with priority for the flights given to those dealing with severe medical conditions first, followed by veterans who served in the Second World, Korean and Vietnam wars. Veterans are accompanied during the day by designated guardians who volunteer to serve on the missions. The guardians’ purpose is to assist their veterans with the travel and memorial sightseeing activities. If a guardian applicant is chosen to participate, a $500 donation to defray the cost of the mission will be requested. Guardians are assigned to a veteran in the order that applications are received.

The flights take off early in the morning from Lakeland Linder International Airport to arrive in the nation’s capital for a day of touring monuments like the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier at Arlington National Cemetery. The Flight to Honor Polk missions are among many activities of the Polk County Veterans Council, which has been supporting veterans since 2003. Among the events featured on their websites are opportunities to meet with VA representatives and support various veteran-related causes as well as events and ceremonies like retirement of U.S. flags. Their support of this year’s Lakeland Veterans Day Ceremony and related events brought praise from Johanah Moran, who expressed her appreciation on the organization’s Facebook page. “So glad you Honor Veterans with a parade,” she wrote. You can keep informed about Flight to Honor Polk Mission 9 and other veteran-related activities by visiting the Polk County Veterans Council website at www.polkveteranscouncil.com and its Facebook page, where you can also find links to downloadable applications for veterans and guardians.

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Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

January 2024

GET THE DIRT:

MORE NEW YEAR’S RESOLUTIONS FOR YOU AND YOUR GARDEN BY LYNN BARBER, URBAN HORTICULTURE AGENT With New Year’s Eve right around the corner, it’s time to ponder your resolutions for 2024. Many involve gardening activities, which can include improving your fitness and outlook, helping you lose weight and save money. Gardening provides exercise, satisfaction, meeting neighbors and making new friends. Again this year, I asked our Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ team to give me their garden-related resolutions for the new year. Mine are also included. Will would like to attempt to grow oyster mushrooms (Pleurotus ostreatus) in his home and learn how to preserve the vegetables he is growing through canning. Makes sense to me, considering his role with community gardens. Mollie wants to establish a mist propagation system to facilitate the successful cultivation of plant cuttings from her garden. She would also like to experiment with her success rate using different propagation techniques, particularly the art of grafting and air layering plants. I’m shaking my head, yes, as Mollie teaches water conservation, which includes misting. Heather has decided it’s time to remove her fruit trees from pots and plant them in the ground. She needs to relocate two garden beds because she inadvertently placed them on top of her in-ground sprinkler heads last season. She will be installing microirri-

gation in those beds. Michael plans to reestablish his seed bank with new varieties of crops, learn to propagate 10 new plants and design and install a memorial garden at his grandfather and father’s final resting sites. I know they will appreciate his gardening skills. My gardening resolutions include adding one or two more bird feeders because I thoroughly enjoy seeing our great variety of feathered friends in my yard. Having pretty much mastered weeding the perennial peanut easement bed, I can spread the 70 bags of pine bark mulch I moved around the front and backyard. I will be heading to Gainesville soon, so I must go to the UF/IFAS Bookstore in Gainesville. Check out their website at http://ifasbooks. ifas.ufl.edu/. I am also somewhat committed to putting my wooden raised garden bed together and planting it with collards, eggplant, peppers, broccoli and Brussel sprouts. Lastly, I am committed to cleaning out my rain barrel this month. Guess what I teach? Correct, rainwater harvesting. For information about our upcoming horticultural programs, please check out the website by visiting http://sfyl.ifas.ufl.edu/ hillsborough/. Wishing all of you safe and wonderful holidays. Hope you can get outside and garden! For more info, contact Lynn Barber at labarber@ufl.edu.

Page 29

MOTORING: BENZ INTRODUCES AN IMPOSING PLUG-IN HYBRID GLE450e

By Nitish Rele

Fitting it between the and center console is smaller GLC and the bigcomplemented by alger GLS, the Benz GLE luring wood and lush is a wonderful blend of leather to give the SUV power and sophistication a classy feel. A touchpad that offers spice and encontrols the audio, nav tertainment both on and and phone infotainment off-road. And for 2024, on the massive 12.3-inch it gets an impressive allscreen, also similar in new plug-in hybrid edisize to the digital instruBENZ GLE450e Tires: 255/50R19 tion, GLE450e. ment cluster. A personal Wheelbase: 117.9 inches Under the hood of the infotainment system, the Length: 194.3 inches five-seater 4Matic (allMBUX (Mercedes-Benz Height: 70.7 inches wheel drive) SUV sits a User Experience), works Width: 76.7 inches 2.0-liter inline-four turbo through voice, touch and Weight: 5,754 pounds Fuel capacity: 22.5 gallons and intercooled engine even hand gestures (just cranking out a combined Combined city/highway: 24 mpg say, “Hey Mercedes!”). It Electric + gas: 58 MPGe 381 horsepower and 479 can’t get any more intuitive Base price: $69,500 pounds-feet of torque. It and personal for new Benz Price as tested: $86,770 is complemented by a synowners. Other creature Website: www.mbusa.com chronous motor powered comforts include dual auto by a 23.3-kWh lithium-ion battery. Plug it in AC, a power/tilt slide moon roof, 10-way for a charge and you can essentially go up to power front heated seats, 40/20/40 fold40 miles on battery alone. This is no speed- ing rear seats, wireless Apple CarPlay and ster, but 0 to 60 in 5.8 seconds and a top Android Auto and copious aluminum and speed of 130 mph are no small feats. Power chrome accents. reaches all four wheels via a meaty, crispy Dual front and side airbags, a side curand accurate nine-speed auto gearbox. The tain airbag, a driver knee airbag, electronic independent double-wishbone front and stability and traction control, four-wheel multilink rear suspension with coil springs antilock brakes, active parking/brake and works well to absorb unpleasant bumps lane keep assists, a blind-spot monitor, Preand sudden turns on the road. Handling and Safe, forward-collision and lane departure steering feel were good overall, thanks to warnings, a rearview camera, a tire pressure the electro-mechanical rack-and-pinion. Tow monitoring system and daytime running capacity for the steel unibody structure is lights are standard. admirable at 7,700 pounds. Loaded with tech and infotainment-ladUp front, the face is instantly recognizable en features, the GLE450e delivers perforas a Benz, highlighted by two horizontal, mance and class that’s matchless for the chrome-accented louvres crisscrossing a ra- money. The plug-in feature makes the vehidiator grille with the familiar three-pointed cle even more desirable for daily short-comstar emblem. Power domes on the bulging mute drivers. You will be hard-pressed to hood meet up with horizontal LED head- find a midsize luxury SUV that will pay heed lights to convey an attractive stance. Space to your command (“Hey Mercedes!”) as you is ample in both rows and the dashboard experience the outstanding ride.

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Page 30

Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

Volume 22, Issue 1

LOCAL 11-YEAR-OLD GAVIN SHREEVE ARE YOU READY FOR SOME FOOTBALL? TIPS TO THROW A MEMORABLE WINS AWARD FOR IBD ADVOCACY By Taylor Wells SUPER BOWL PARTY Gavin Shreeve, an his first IBD fund11-year-old Lithia resiraising event at 6 dent, recently received years old. By age a special award. He has 7, he became a been battling Crohn’s guest speaker at disease since age 5, multiple events and from then on, as for his local chaphe struggled with it, ter of the Crohn’s he has strived to fight & Colitis Founagainst IBD (inflamdation, including matory bowel disease) Tampa’s Toast for and find a cure. Gavin’s a Cure and Orinspiring story earned Gavin Shreeve with his dad and mom, Mike lando’s A Night him over 600 votes and Christina Shreeve, as they hold the letters of Hope Gala, for ‘cure’ at the Toast for a Cure 2022 event. throughout the Crohn’s and later on be& Colitis Foundation’s It Takes Guts com- came featured on local news broadcasts petition, resulting in him becoming the passionately advocating for a cure. Gavin first-ever winner of the It Takes Guts has raised over $70,000 for IBD so far Award. through his Take Steps team, Braver Than “Basically, it’s an advocacy award hon- Most. oring patients who are helping to make His resilience, dedication and selflessIBD visible. … It’s an ‘invisible’ disease ness make him an exceptional advocate in that it can be scary for people to talk for the Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation. With about. Nobody wants to talk about it,” all his passion and efforts in raising awaresaid Christina Shreeve, Gavin’s mom. “So, ness and funds for pediatric IBD patients, [the Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation’s] catch- it’s little wonder that Gavin had received phrase is like, ‘Let’s make IBD visible,’ and so many votes in the competition. so the advocacy award is for patients who “He was excited. … It’s nice to know your are … helping to end the stigma of em- efforts are recognized,” said Christina. barrassment around the disease and just “So many children get diagnosed, and helping to bring awareness to the disease they’re scared. They don’t know what to and working toward finding a cure.” expect,” she added. “It’s really important IBD — which includes Crohn’s disease for other children to speak up about it and and ulcerative colitis — is a serious dis- to make this a safe thing to talk about, esease that impacts nearly one in 100 Amer- pecially when they get into their college icans. During Crohn’s & Colitis Awareness years and young adult years.” Week, the foundation invited nominations For more information, visit www.crohnfor IBD warriors, caregivers and health scolitisfoundation.org. care heroes to raise public understanding To make a donation to Gavin’s team, of IBD and honor those spreading aware- visit https://takesteps.crohnscolitisfounness. dation.org/index.cfm?fuseaction=donorGavin’s journey of advocacy began with drive.team&teamid=9150.

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Football season and all ages. If you find the tailgating parties a good team-themed that go with it may cocktail or mocktail, be winding down, but batch make it ahead there is still Super of time. This is also an Bowl LVIII to look foropportunity to show ward to in February. off a local beverage or Even if you aren’t lucky micro brew popular enough to be in Las Vein one of the teams’ gas at Allegiant Stadihome cities. If you do um on February 11, you choose to serve alcocan still throw a party hol, consider hiring to cap off another exyour favorite teenagcit-ing football season. er to be a designated Super Bowl parties driver. bring out the best in Before the game, party food. Wings, check your TV and chili, pizza and assortstreaming or cable ed dips seem to top the Super Bowl parties are known for festive connection to make list but don’t be afraid sure all is in work-ing food and fun and may be easier to host than you think. to think outside the order. Is it time for box. Look for themed food related to the an updated television? Look for electronics home cities for the NFC and AFC champs sales leading up to the Su-per Bowl. (Cuban sandwiches would be ideal if the You don’t need a Pinterest worthy parBucs made our dreams come true with an ty to have a good time, but the internet appearance, for example). And don’t for- is a helpful re-source for recipes and parget dessert! Football shaped brownies or ty ideas. Add to the ambiance with party cookies, cupcakes iced in team colors and games and decorations. Try trivia related chocolate covered pretzels are all favor- to the host city or participating teams. If ites. you don’t have a favorite in the Big Game, If you are trying to stick to a resolution use both teams’ colors to decorate and to eat healthier, you can often find low cal- split the room or decorate your snack taorie and low fat versions of your favorite ble to look like a football field. game-day snacks online. If you are on a Plan to start the party no more than 90 budget, consider a pot-luck style party to minutes before kick off. This gives guests keep things low stress and low budget. just enough time to mingle and snack withFor drinks, offering canned or bottled out over doing it. Whether they are there beverages from a cooler allows your guests for the game, the leg-endary commercials to easily help themselves. There are plenty or just to socialize, having friends and famof canned and bottled options on the mar- ily to share in the fun is what truly makes ket with or without alcohol to appease the party. May your favorite team win!

2 24

January 2024

Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

LOCAL GIRL MAKES JEWELRY TO HELP ANIMALS INVOLVED IN MAUI FIRES By Ashley Abene In August 2023, that this would greatly a series of wildfires impact wildlife and anbroke out on the island imals (as well as peoof Maui, Hawaii. One ple), so she decided to FishHawk girl who atmake necklaces to sell. tends Bevis Elementary We work a lot with School, Brynley LavayPeacefield Farm Sancen, was very concerned tuary (owned by John for the welfare of the and Emma Hoel) and animals on the island knew they had friends exposed to that fire. in rescue in Maui. We She has a passion for asked for recommenanimals, and she knew dations for rescues Brynley Lavayen sells necklaces at this wildfire had to that were in the area Peacefield Farm Sanctuary to raise have a negative impact that were affected by money for animal rescues in Maui, on the animals in Maui. the wildfires.” Hawaii to help animals who have She decided that she As of now, Brynley suffered in the wildfires. needed to find a way to has raised over $1,000 help. from selling these After brainstorming necklaces. Every dollar ideas with her mom, donated through the 8-year-old Brynley bepurchase of a necklace gan making and sellis split and sent directly ing necklaces to raise to two animal rescues money for a couple of in Maui: the Good Cat animal rescues on the Network and Leilani island. Brynley sells Farm Sanctuary. The her necklaces through Good Cat Network resword of mouth, social cues cats and kittens media sites and in-perfrom Maui and puts son events at Peacethem into good homes Brynley Lavayen loves helping animals field Farm Sanctuary in on the mainland (since in any way that she can. Gainesville. Maui is overcrowded Customers can make specific requests with feral cats). Leilani Farm Sanctuary for necklace designs, such as picking a rescues cats and farm animals. To find chain or ribbon and choosing a charm or out more information about these animal even a birthstone. The cost of each neck- rescues, visit https://goodcatnetwork. lace is $15. org/mauistrong/ and https://leilanifarmBrynley’s mom, Heather Lavayen, said, sanctuary.org/. “Brynley has lived her whole life helping To find out how to support Brynley in animals. She is a huge vegan and animal her efforts to help animals impacted by rights advocate. When we were speak- the wildfires in Maui, contact her mom at ing about the Maui wildfires, she knew heatherch3@gmail.com.

Page 31

FINANCIAL FOCUS

NEW YEAR’S FINANCIAL RESOLUTIONS Now that we’ve reached 2024, you might be thinking about your goals and hopes for the new year. But in addition to whatever personal resolutions you might make — volunteering, going to the gym more, learning a new language and others — why not make some financial resolutions, too? Here are a few to consider: • Boost your retirement savings. If you can afford it, try to increase your contributions to your IRA and 401(k) or similar employer-sponsored retirement plan. The more you put away in these accounts, the greater your chances of reaching your retirement goals. At a minimum, contribute enough to your 401(k) to earn your employer’s match, if one is offered. And whenever your salary goes up, consider raising the amount you put in to your 401(k). • Reduce your debts. It’s not always easy to reduce your debts — but it’s worth the effort. The lower your debt load, the greater your monthly cash flow. So, look for ways to consolidate debts or find other, possibly more productive, ways of using credit. And if you truly can’t afford something that’s nonessential, don’t go into debt for it. “Live within your means” is an old piece of advice, but it’s just as valid now as ever. • Build an emergency fund. If you suddenly needed a major home or car repair, or received a large medical bill not fully covered by insurance, would you have the funds available? If not, you might be forced to dip into your retirement accounts or other long-term investments. To avoid this possibility, try to build an emergency fund containing several months’ worth of living expenses, with the money kept in a liquid, low-risk account that’s separate from the ones you use to meet your daily expenses. It can take a while

to build such a fund, but if you make it a priority and contribute regular amounts each month, you can make good progress. • Avoid emotional decisions. Too many people overreact to events in the financial markets because they let their emotions get the better of them. If the market is temporarily down, it doesn’t mean you need to sell investments to “cut your losses” — especially if these investments still have good fundamentals and are still appropriate for your portfolio. It can be hard to ignore market volatility, but you’ll be better off if you focus on the long term and continue following an investment strategy that’s designed to meet your needs. • Review your goals. Over time, your goals may have changed. For example, while you once might have wanted to retire early, and planned for it, you may now find that you’d like to work a few more years. If that’s the case, you may also need to adjust your financial and investment strategies. • Revisit your estate plans. If you’ve married, divorced, remarried or added children to your family within the past few years, you may need to review the account titling and beneficiary designations on your 401(k) and other retirement assets, along with your estate-planning documents, such as your will or living trust. You might also need to revise these documents in other ways. Of course, you may not be able to tackle all these resolutions at one time, but if you can work at them throughout the year, you can potentially brighten your financial outlook in 2024 — and beyond. This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor. Article 16 – Jan. 1, 2024

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January 2024

Year In Review-Updates On The Top Stories From 2023 Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

Page 32

EXPERIENCE THE OLDEST THINGS

CERTIFIED ROOFERS GIVE BACK TO TAMPA BAY HAS TO OFFER IN JOSHUA THE COMMUNITY IN THE NEW YEAR By Libby Hopkins GINSBERG’S BOOK By Taylor Wells

Since the release nally designed,” and of Oldest Tampa in he included subjects September 2022, that are significant author Joshua Ginsto Tampa Bay’s berg has been keephistory as ‘the olding busy. In addition est preserved.’ The to making dozens book is split into of local appearancthree sections coves, his latest book, ering different parts Secret Orlando: A of the bay: HillsGuide to the Weird, borough County, Wonderful and ObPinellas County and scure, which he Manatee and Saraco-authored with Joshua Ginsberg, author of Oldest Tampa Bay, sota counties. John Brown, was with a copy of his book inside a Barnes & Noble. In Hillsborough, published in Sepjust to name a few, tember 2023 and is available now at you can find the oldest map of the Tampa www.secrettampabay.com. He is cur- Bay area, created in 1757 thanks to Don rently finishing his fifth book, Haunted Franscisco Maria Celi of the Spanish RoyOrlando, for the History Press, which is al Fleet; the oldest restaurant, Columbia expected to be released in 2024. He has Restaurant, started in 1905 as a small also been writing short fiction, which corner cafe by Cuban immigrant Casimiro has been published in Trembling with Hernandez Sr.; and the oldest alligator Fear, The Chamber Magazine, 365 To- attraction, Croc Encounters, which was morrows and elsewhere. established in 2005 and started with the Original Story Printed January 2023. founders taking care of Amos the out-ofIn Tampa Bay, there’s much to enjoy state alligator, who’s still with them today. and many places to explore, much more “As I was writing this book, I had the than many might realize, and within the task of trying to write faster than change. area is a history dating back thousands It happened more than once that I would of years. From around the 10th century to show up to take pictures or write about the past decade, you’ll find plenty around a place and the place wasn’t there; there that could be called the oldest. Such is the were just construction crews,” said Ginssubject of Joshua Ginsberg’s latest book, berg. Oldest Tampa Bay, in which he offers exTo purchase Oldest Tampa Bay, visit citing research and knowledge in over 80 www.reedypress.com, www.amazon.com chapters’ worth of history. and other places where books are sold. Each chapter describes what Ginsberg ents. I hope we can continue that upconsiders ‘the oldest’ of its kind, meaning wards trajectory.” Visit http://newsome“the oldest currently or continually oper- band.com/ or follow newsomewolfpackating in the manner for which it was origi- band and nhs.color.guard on Instagram.

Th r o u g h o u t 2023, Certified Roofers & General Contractors Inc. donated a roof to a charity each month, including A Kid’s Place, High 5 Inc., the Angel Foundation Alex Sanchez, owner and FL , the Chrispresident of Certified tian Michael Roofers, and his staff are H e r n a n d e z giving away a roof every month in 2023 to local Fo u n d a t i o n , charities. Camp Florida, FishHawk TNR, the Brandon Rotary Club Scholarship Fund, the June Rogers Foundation, Outreach Free Clinic of Brandon, Seeds of Hope, ECHO and Hope for Her. In addition, for every new roof installed, Certified Roofers donated a percentage of its sales to its charity of choice each month. Original Story Printed January 2023. Certified Roofers has been a part of our community since 1981. Its quality of service is well known in the community. “Certified Roofers was founded by my father when he was just 18 years old,” said Certified Roofers’ owner and president, Alex Sanchez. “He spent his entire life building the business right here in our community. We unfortunately lost him in 2015, but we have carried on in his honor ever since.” Sanchez was born and raised here in Valrico. He attended Riverview High School where his mother was a teacher for many years. “I went on to work

in the family business while attending USF and have never left the business,” Sanchez said. “I married my wife, Sara, in 2008 and have three sons, Clark, 10; Patrick, 9; and Andrew, 7. Sara left her corporate job this last year to open a bookkeeping business meant to service other local small businesses. I am very active at my Rotary Club, the Brandon Rotary Club where I currently sit as the membership chair.” For 2023, Sanchez and his team want to give a roof away to a local charity each month. “What we are choosing to do this year is, in addition to those roofs, we want to honor a different local charity every month where we will donate a portion of revenue to each charity every month,” Sanchez said. “The charities were chosen due to my current charitable activities, and other local outfits that bring positive change to our community. All charities we donate to will have a local presence, no national exposure, because we strongly believe in focusing our attention here at home.” Visit its website at www.certifiedroofers.com or call Sanchez at 813-6438333. Certified Roofers’ office is located at 4331 Lynx Paw Trl. in Valrico.

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Page 33

Year In Review-Updates On The Top Stories From 2023 Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

MOFFITT AMBULATORY CENTER

COMING TO SOUTH HILLSBOROUGH

By Brian Bokor

four exam rooms, along with two linear accelerator devices (LINACs) and a CT simulator to provide optimum setup accuracy for patients who will be receiving radiation therapy. A LINAC delivers high-energy X-rays or electrons to the region of the patient’s tumor. A detailed overview of Moffitt Cancer Center’s new facility in Ruskin. The radiology department will have four CTs, Construction of the Moffitt Cancer Center’s new Ruskin facility is progress- four MRIs, two mammography machines, ing well. It is on track to be completed one DEXA machine to measure bone density in December this year, and all project as- and one X-ray. Additionally, nuclear medical pects, including construction, operational treatment will be offered at the facility with readiness and IT, are also on track. The a nuclear camera, also referred to a gamma facility is expected to welcome its first camera, available on-site. Patients are injected with a gamma-ray-emitting substance patient on January 27, 2025. that accumulates in the organ of interest, Original Story Printed April 2023. Moffitt Cancer Center has acquired 9 and a special camera records the gamma acres in Ruskin, offering access to thousands rays. It differs from a CT scan, which is usumore patients in need of cancer treatment. ally a series of X-rays taken from different The new facility will be located at the south- directions that are then assembled into a east intersection of East College Avenue and three-dimensional model of the subject in a 27th Street South in Ruskin, less than a mile computer. With locations at the University of South from Interstate 75. Moffitt plans to build a 75,000-square- Florida, Wesley Chapel, International Plaza foot facility, with construction starting in and Fowler Avenue, a presence in Southearly 2023 and to be completed by late eastern Hillsborough County will allow lo2024. The 2-story facility will employ cut- cal residents the care provided by Moffitt ting-edge technology that covers the gam- without the hassle associated with the trip ut of cancer treatment options, including to other campuses, as some patients require screening and diagnostics, radiation oncolo- daily treatment. Moffitt is also developing 775 acres in gy, biopsies, medical oncology, infusion, clinical trials and a pharmacy. Moffitt is expect- Pasco County, the largest expansion in the ing to serve nearly 9,000 patients by year cancer center’s history. The multiyear, multiphase project will include about 16 million four and create 150 jobs by year five. Included in the new building will be 16 square feet of research lab, general office clinical examination rooms, 20 infusion bays and clinical building space. For information, reach Steve Blanchard,, (four private) and 10 blood draw labs. The radiation oncology department will offer at steve.blanchard@moffitt.org.

Volume 22, Issue 1

SELMON EXPRESSWAY

ENHANCEMENTS ADD RAMPS AND LANE By Brian Bokor

THEA comexpressway. pleted the conOne of Slater’s struction of the goals is to create two new slip a balance of usramps on the reage between the versible express upper and lower lanes. Since the lanes as well as Photo courtesy of the Tampa Hillsborough Expressway ramps’ opening, reduce congesAuthority (THEA). THEA has also tion for morning observed reduced congestion between westbound commuters. A major compoU.S. 301 and 78th Street. It is now con- nent will be the installation of two new ‘slip’ ducting a Project Development and En- ramps on the Selmon that are now under vironment study to evaluate capacity construction, one near I-75 with the second improvements along the eastern section near the I-4 connector. Additionally, alterof the Selmon Expressway. native routes will be open near the Twiggs Roadway and ramp improvements will Street off-ramp at Nebraska Avenue, makbe evaluated to address safety, efficien- ing for easier access through downtown. cy and capacity needs through 2045. It Slater is also working closely with the Floris anticipated that the improvements ida Department of Transportation in solvwill primarily be within the existing ing the backup at I-4, although that project right-of-way. A public hearing to pres- is not under THEA authority. ent the results of the study will take Slip ramps are on and off-ramps between place in March 2024. the Selmon Expressway’s lower local lanes Original Story Printed April 2023. and upper reversible express lanes (REL). Traffic issues have become a common The new East Selmon slip ramps will allow occurrence around parts of Hillsborough drivers westbound to enter the upper-level County. Greg Slater, CEO and director of the REL near I-75, and then exit near IKEA. The Tampa Hillsborough Expressway Authority addition of the ramps will reduce morning (THEA), is fully aware of this, as the view congestion on the westbound Selmon Exfrom his office on Twiggs Street in down- pressway near I-75, along with helping to town Tampa overlooks the backup of cars avoid congestion near the I-4 connector that represents the Selmon Expressway’s and reduce backup at the Twiggs Street elevated express-lanes exit ramp during exit ramp. Slater expects the ramps to be morning commutes east from Brandon. operational by the end of the summer. Slater joined THEA last February and For more information, Sue Chrzan, brings with him over 20 years of experi- THEA’s director of communications and ence in public service, most recently as public affairs, can be reached at www. secretary of the Maryland Department of tampa-xway.com. THEA is located at 1104 Transportation, and sees first-hand where E. Twiggs St. in Tampa. Call THEA at 813there are still opportunities to improve the 272-6740.

January 2024

Year In Review-Updates On The Top Stories From 2023 Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

PROFESSIONAL WOMEN’S SOCCER IS COMING TO TAMPA BAY

Staff Report

The new prouniting our Tamfessional wompa Bay commuen’s soccer nity. We’re ready team has choto build a team sen their name, that not only colors and logo. wins on the field The team has but also makes officially been a positive differbranded as the ence off the field. Tampa Bay Sun To us, success Football Club, comes when you selected blue become part and yellow as of the fabric of Photo Courtesy of SuperLeague Tampa Bay. its colors and your commuThe new Super League Tampa Bay ownership are represent- group, from left to right: David Laxer, Darryl Shaw nity,” said Dared by a stylized ryl Shaw, who and Jeff Fox. b l u e - a n d - ye l joined his childlow sun circled by the hood friends, David Laxteam’s name. er, co-owner of Bern’s What’s more, the Steak House, and Jeff team has a head coach, Fox, former chief inforUniversity of South mation officer of BlueFlorida women’s socPearl Pet Hospital, as cer coach Denise Schilte-Brown, who is the owners of the new team. building the player roster, and the first USL Super League will be the highest Tampa Bay Sun FC retail collection is level of professional women’s sports to available online. ever field a team with Tampa Bay on its To see Tampa Bay Sun FC’s logo, find jerseys. Once it is sanctioned by U.S. Socadditional information and more, visit cer as a Division I league, it will rank on www.tampabaysunfc.com. par with other top professional sports Original Story Printed June 2023. leagues and feature players who repreA new professional women’s soccer sent their countries in international comteam is set to kick off in Tampa Bay in petitions such as the FIFA Women’s World August 2024. As part of the USL Super Cup and the Olympic Games League, the new Tampa Bay franchise will The team will start playing in August compete at the highest level of women’s 2024 in a temporary home until a perprofessional soccer. The team will bring manent, soccer-specific stadium can be top-tier women’s pro sports to the region built. With that stadium, the team intends for the first time, joining 10 to 12 clubs in to create a year-round venue that will be the league’s initial market. used for a wide range of activities, includ“This is about inspiring, energizing and ing opportunities with youth.

Page 34

RIVERVIEW TALENT CRUZ FLATEAU PURSUES

ENTERTAINMENT CAREER By Jonathan Hurst

Cruz Flateau continit’s cool. I’ve always ues to reach new mileliked singing, but dostones in his career. ing voice-over allows Superkitties was picked me to do both lead and up for season two, so he background vocals, I will continue to voice enjoy that. The biggest the character Sparks. inspiration is being able Additionally, it was reto do fun work and see cently announced that it all come together on he will be voicing the screen. Doing the work character Fernie, one is where I get to be creof Ariel’s best friends, ative,” said Cruz. in the upcoming show Working at such a Disney Junior’s Ariel, young age is not an expected to air on Diseasy road though, as his ney platforms in 2024. mother, Raven Flateau, There’s more to come is keenly aware of. Riverview resident Cruz Flateau is on other voiceover making a name for himself in the enter“As a parent, it’s very tainment industry. roles, so stay tuned. important for me to first Original Story Printed August 2023. give Cruz an understanding that this is a Cruz Flateau, a local Riverview student, is process and a journey. So, with that means aiming to make it big in the entertainment you may audition for many projects, but you industry and has already made quite an im- won’t book everything you go out for.,” said pact. Cruz is a multitalented individual who Raven. has been involved in acting, voice acting, Having such maturity at a young age has modeling and even singing at times. While allowed Cruz to do an excellent job every he is now 11 years old, he has been accepting time he books a role and has even led to him jobs since he was just 5 years old and has taking on roles outside of the kids’ entertainbeen pulling increasingly impressive jobs as ment world. Most recently you can find him he has grown up. playing “Young Joe” on the show Average Cruz is currently one of the lead voice ac- Joe, currently streaming on BET+. tors on the Disney show SuperKitties, where Working as a child does not stop Cruz he voices Sparks, the brains of the SuperKit- from enjoying his childhood though, as he is ty team, which he booked around his birth- routinely involved with sports and hanging day and said was his best memory of his out with his friends when not working — career so far. Cruz looks at performing and back to “everyday Cruz,” as his mother said. acting as an avenue for his creativity and a To follow Cruz on his journey and see more very cool experience thus far. updates on his career as they unfold, check “I get to sing a lot with voice-over, so out his Instagram, @cruzflateau.

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Page 35

Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

LAUNCHES CAPITAL CAMPAIGN By Libby Hopkins The Spurlino goal is to wrap up Family YMCA our capital fundhas formed its raising efforts by steering comthe end of Janmittee, though uary of 2024,” a few more Williams said. “It members are is a tight window, sought, and it is but I am conin the fundrais- The Spurlino Family YMCA is about to embark on a fident that our ing process but capital campaign project which will bring a state-of- community will will move for- the-art, 17,000-square-foot indoor basketball court to rally around this the Riverview community. ward with the cause and bring project. Its capital fundraising efforts this amazing new amenity to its residents are now estimated for completion in as quickly as possible.” March. Also, sponsors and donations are Williams is currently putting together a still needed. team to help raise the funds for the indoor The ceremonial groundbreaking is basketball court. “Our steering committee tentatively scheduled for Wednesday, will be finalized in early September,” WilJanuary 10. The Y is waiting on more liams said. “From there, we hope to use the details, but the actual groundbreaking is resources of the committee to identify and projected to begin a few weeks after the secure key sponsorships from community ceremonial event. champions. It is important that we partner Original Story Printed September strategically with sponsors who are aligned 2023. with the mission of our Y and want to help The Spurlino Family YMCA is about build a stronger community together.” to embark on a capital campaign projThe YMCA’s mission is to put Juect which will bring a state-of-the-art, deo-Christian principles into practice 17,000-square-foot indoor basketball court through programs that build healthy spirit, to the Riverview community. “The idea for mind and body for all. Its focus areas inthe indoor gymnasium was always in the clude youth development, healthy living and works from the moment we broke ground social responsibility. “Anybody in the comon the main facility,” said Spurlino Family munity who is interested in contributing in YMCA executive director Jarrod Williams. any capacity — financially, time, expertise “It had always been a phase two of our — can reach out to me directly at jarrod. overall plan. However, the demand we are williams@tampaymca.org,” Williams said. seeing for our programs and services has “We are looking for community champions forced us to expedite this next phase so who are ready to leave their mark on the that we can continue effectively serving future of Southern Hillsborough County.” our rapidly growing community.” The Spurlino Family YMCA is located at Williams and his team at the Y are look- 9650 Old Big Bend Rd. in Riverview, visit ing to raise $1,000,000 in capital funding www.tampaymca.org/locations/spurlinoto bring this project to the finish line. “Our family-ymca-big-bend-road.

Volume 22, Issue 1

APPROVES USF’S PLAN FOR A NEW ON-CAMPUS STADIUM

Staff Report

The initial renUSF football and derings are conwomen’s lacrosse, as ceptual and will well as concerts and evolve as the deother events. The sign process constadium will provide tinues and more an opportunity to detailed design enhance campus culelements are finalture, serve ized. Along with as a powerWith the approval of the Florida the images, USF reful recruiting leased several new Board of Governors, the University tool and raise of South Florida Bulls are getting details about the USF’s overall financing for a new stadium. stadium, including: profile. An east-west build to help maximize “Bulls Nation deserves to have a stadium shade for daytime events. on USF’s campus. Our time has come. Our A dedicated section for students in the 50,000 students, our alumni, faculty, staff west end of the stadium that includes a and our greater community all deserve the design unique to USF featuring Bull horns benefits that come with a stadium on our and amenities that will cater to the stu- campus,” Weatherford said. “The stadium dent experience. will be a rallying point that brings people An open concourse around a majority together and helps connect and inspire genof the stadium that provides views of the erations of Bulls fans far and wide.” field, even as fans are walking to concesThe proposal approved by the BOG is for sion or restroom areas. a stadium estimated to cost approximately A large tailgating space on the north $340 million. The USF Financing Corp. will side of the stadium. issue a debt of up to $200 million that the A variety of premium seating options, university will repay from several sources, including suites, loge boxes & club areas. including operating revenues from the staOriginal Story Printed October 2023. dium and other revenues generated by USF On September 8, the Florida Board of Gov- Athletics. USF has also identified the other ernors (BOG) voted in favor of the financing funding sources on the project, including plan for the University of South Florida’s capital gifts ($50 million, of which nearly (USF) new on-campus stadium, signaling $40 million is already raised); the Capital state-level support for the transformational Improvement Trust Fund ($31 million); confacility scheduled to open in fall 2026. tingent cash contribution from the sale of USF Board of Trustees Chair Will Weather- educational broadband service licenses ($25 ford and USF President Rhea Law presented million); auxiliary expenditures ($15 million); the BOG with their vision for a 35,000-seat auxiliary funds ($11.5 million); and proceeds stadium by detailing how the project will from a 2017 Federal Communications Compositively impact the university community mission auction ($8 million). For more inforand broader Tampa Bay region as it hosts mation, visit www.usf.edu/stadium.

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Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

Volume 22, Issue 1

NEW MOBILE BUS PROVIDES FREE HEALTH CARE FOR LOW-INCOME RESIDENTS By Kathy L. Collins Hillsborough prong in helping County’s Office of to minimize fiCommunity Imnancial barriers pact celebrated for patients that its grand opencan be long term ing of Housing and sustainable. Is Healthcare, Cheryl Howell, which brings assistant county health care to administrator the doorstep of for the Office of those who need it Community Immost. The grand Hillsborough County officials, Office of Community Im- pact, said, “The opening was cel- pact staff, Affordable Housing Services staff and Tampa H i l l s b o r o u g h ebrated with a Family Health Centers staff attended the ribbon-cutting County Housing ceremony for Housing Is Healthcare. ribbon-cutting Is Healthcare on November 16, initiative, in col2023, at Kenslaboration with ington Gardens, the Tampa Familocated at 6008 ly Health Center, Farmington Oaks represents a pioPlace in Riverneering effort to view. Housing Is Healthcare is a new mo- intersect housing and health. By synergizing bile bus that will bring free basic health care efforts to navigate health care systems and services to low-income neighborhoods. enhance built environments, the initiative Hillsborough County, in partnership with improves the access and knowledge of Tampa Family Health Centers, is planning healthy living.” for the Housing Is Healthcare mobile bus Howell added, “Through our partnership to visit affordable housing sites to reach with the Tampa Family Health Center, we residents who may not have access to af- leverage their expertise to empower comfordable health care services. The program munities in understanding and accessing will offer a holistic approach to health and health care resources. This collaboration not wellness services by providing residents only offers solutions to access health care with not only basic medical services but resources but also fosters enduring commualso behavioral health, chiropractic care and nity resilience. Together, we are advancing a dental care. holistic approach that can potentially transThe link between housing and health form the intersection of housing and health care has been extensively studied. Many care.” low-income residents suffer from chronic The schedule and locations for the Housdisease or disability and find it difficult, if ing Is Healthcare mobile bus will be annot impossible, to get the health care they nounced soon. For more information, please need. People face insurmountable challeng- visit the Housing Is Healthcare events page es in accessing care. A mobile medical bus found at www.hillsboroughcounty.org or such as Housing Is Healthcare could be the call 813-272-5074.

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Page 37

ABOUT 14 PERCENT OF TAMPA

ELECTRIC’S ENERGY CAN COME FROM THE SUN Staff Report

Four new Tampa Electric solar plants began producing electricity from the sun this month, completing the next phase of the company’s significant solar expansion. Tampa Electric’s solar projects can now produce 1,252 megawatts of electricity, also called 1.25 gigawatts, enough to power more than 200,000 homes. This wave of solar construction includes Dover Solar in Hillsborough County, Juniper Solar in Pasco County and Alafia Solar and Lake Mabel Solar, both in Polk County. “Thanks to our strategic investment in solar power, Tampa Electric customers have saved about $200 million in fuel costs in the past five years,” said Archie Collins, president and chief executive officer of Tampa Electric. “We know how important these savings are for customers, and in coming years, we expect to generate even more power from the sun.” Construction will begin this month for the next phase of solar power, with more planned by the end of 2026. At that time, Tampa Electric will have more than 1,600 MW of solar, which will be able to serve 260,000 homes. When those projects are complete, Tampa Electric will have about 17 percent of its energy generated from the sun — the highest percentage of solar generation of any utility in the state.

Tampa Electric’s investment in solar energy helps to: • Save fuel costs for customers and assist in reducing the impact of volatile natural gas prices. Since 2017, solar power has saved customers about $200 million in fuel costs. • Conserve water. By repurposing former agricultural land for solar investments, Tampa Electric has saved more than 4.3 billion gallons of water in an area of Florida with critical concerns about water use. • Reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Tampa Electric is committed to a cleaner-energy future, and when complete these projects will reduce carbon dioxide emissions by more than 2.35 million tons every year, which is roughly equal to removing 500,000 cars from the road. Customers wanting more information about solar energy can visit Tampa Electric’s new webpage at www.tampaelectric.com/solarsolutions. Tampa Electric, one of Florida’s largest investor-owned electric utilities, serves about 830,000 customers in West Central Florida. Tampa Electric is a subsidiary of Emera Inc., a geographically diverse energy and services company headquartered in Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada.

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Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

Grace Notes

Lean It And Mean It By Debora Coty For the past decade, each New Year’s Day, I’ve been choosing a special word for the upcoming year. Many folks do this. Do you? I highly recommend it. I like to sticky-note my word for the year to my workspace just above my computer so I’ll see it every day. I’ve found my word for the year to be very helpful in keeping me motivated toward spiritual growth and focused on the Lord’s manna (daily provision) in the desert places of my life as the new year progresses. For 2024, I’ve chosen the word ‘lean.’ According to my trusty thesaurus, synonyms include ‘place hope in,’ ‘trust wholeheartedly’ and ‘choose to be optimistic.’ Yes, please. By my own definition: Leaning is bracing your weary self against something stronger; something that will securely hold you up and keep you from falling flat on your face (again). That supportive, immovable, sturdy-as-

Mt. Rushmore something for me is Papa God (modern translation of the Aramaic biblical name for God, ‘Abba’). But sometimes I forget that I have a mountain of strength to draw from and try to push boulders of trouble uphill all by myself. Inevitably, I end up either crushed by the weight or score an epic fail because my own resources are simply too limited. Too finite. Too wimpy. How foolish of me, when I have the infinite source of all wisdom and power standing by to support me as I seek to do His will. Trust is the password. Yep, 2024 is my time to learn to truly lean. What will be your spiritual focus for the new year, my friend? “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths,” (Proverbs 3:5-6 NKJV).

Debora M. Coty is an inspirational speaker and award-winning author of over 40 books, including the bestselling Too Blessed to be Stressed series. Visit with Debora anytime at www.DeboraCoty.com.

Volume 22, Issue 1

THE CASE FOR MERCY By Derek Maul “Speak and act as those who are going to be judged by the law that gives freedom, because judgment without mercy will be shown to anyone who has not been merciful. Mercy triumphs over judgment,” (James 2:12-13). During December’s holiday season, my thoughts focused on ‘light,’ ‘grace,’ ‘mercy’ and ‘reconciliation.’ They are all useful ‘words to live by’ for the New Year, but I find myself thinking about ‘mercy’ the most in the current climate of acrimony, revenge and retribution. Mercy is: “Compassion offered to the powerless by those who have power. Mercy suggests compassion, forgiveness, benevolence and kindness.” And I am not just thinking about politics but each one of us as individuals, and the sad fact that the fabric of so much of American community is being torn, thread by thread, by our inability to listen to and respect one another. Also, the current international world situation. The message Jesus came to teach, the message he went on to illustrate throughout his ministry, stands as a clear indictment of our 21st-century default position. Jesus teaches that vulnerability, humility, self-giving love, service to others and reconciliation are the path to peace and to justice. • Peace and justice in Gaza? “Mercy triumphs over judgement.” • Peace and justice in politics? “Mercy

triumphs over judgement.” • Peace and justice in the community? “Mercy triumphs over judgement.” • Peace and justice in our homes? “Mercy triumphs over judgement.” • Peace in heart and soul? Listen to the words from the New Testament: “Mercy triumphs over judgement.” A handful of readers complain when I ‘dare’ to bring the witness of Christ to bear on current events, and the sad state of affairs that is American politics. Well, you know what I say to that? “Mercy triumphs over judgement.” If you don’t like it, have a chat with the New Testament writers, and Jesus: “But love your enemies, do good to them, and lend to them without expecting to get anything back. Then your reward will be great, and you will be children of the Most High, because he is kind to the ungrateful and wicked. Be merciful, just as your Father is merciful.” Peace in the New Year — DEREK Derek Maul has written for many news outlets, including the Tampa Tribune, The United Methodist News Service, All Pro Dad, FOCUS Magazine, Newsweek, USA Today, The Christian Science Monitor, Presbyterians Today, Guideposts, Chicken Soup for the Soul and many other publications. Read Derek Maul’s daily blog posts at www.derekmaul.wordpress.com

Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

January 2024

Page 39

NUCYCLE ENERGY PRODUCTS FRAMEWORKS OF TAMPA BAY KEEP WASTE OUT OF LANDFILLS

OFFERS TEENS IN ACTION

Achieving better livprocesses that burn a ing through code enlot of fuel to produce forcement in Hillsborrequired amounts of ough County includes energy. conducting campaigns The partnership like the recently conwith Hillsborough cluded Sign Off Day County’s Sign Off Day Tampa Bay, which focampaign began last cuses on removing illeyear, and according Collected signs will be recycled into fuel gal road signs that are to Kyle Pukylo, NuCyunsightly and create cubes such as these, reducing landfill waste cle Energy’s director and providing a green energy choice. driving hazards. A loof sales and procurecal company is helping ment, their work to take that effort a step beautify and energize further by using the will continue. collected ‘snipe’/‘ban“It’s something we dit’ signs to create a plan on doing every source of green eneryear,” he said. gy. Pukylo added that After any metal NuCycle has also made is removed from the an agreement with the signs, which advertise services such as city of Lakeland which will help turn more trash removal, they are then collected off waste into nonfossil energy. public rights-of-way for recycling, and the The cleanup was a cooperative effort by remaining material is turned into a non- local governments, with code officers repfossil energy source by NuCycle Energy. resenting Hillsborough County as well as The leftover scrapped signage is then the cities of Tampa, Temple Terrace and hauled to Plant City, home of NuCycle En- Plant City to remove illegal signs from loergy’s facility that will turn it into chunks cal streets. of alternative fuel which can generate enWhile some businesses posting the ergy for industrial uses like cement and signs may think of it as cheap advertising, lime manufacturing. they are prohibited by local ordinances The company produces what it calls if they are displayed on public property Enviro-Fuelcubes® out of waste materi- without a permit. al by using processes and technology it According to Pukylo, the reason to developed for the purpose of producing develop and use technology that keeps a nonfossil fuel source that can be used waste out of landfills, such as Enviro-Fuin any suspension burning combustion elcubes, is simple: “We stopped making boiler. According to the company web- land a long time ago.” site, the Enviro-Fuelcubes are designated You can learn more about NuCycle Enas capable of partially or completely re- ergy by visiting https://nucycleenergy. placing fossil fuels like coal for industrial com/ online.

Frameworks of Tampa enriching both the comBay is a nonprofit orgamunity and themselves.” nization whose vision is Participating teens to be the local expert in can earn up to 36 comemotional intelligence for munity service hours youth, which is achieved that can be used toward through services includa Bright Futures Scholing school and district arship. Teens select a consultation, educator partnering service site and mentor professional in their field of interdevelopment, teacher est to volunteer at on a Teens in Action (TIA) is one of the coaching, parent and weekly basis and apply programs offered by Frameworks of community engagement Tampa Bay for local teens in the com- the emotional intellisessions as well as data munity. Teens in Action is a 10-month gence skills they learned and evaluation services. at monthly workshops. civic engagement and leadership Its mission is to em“Ultimately, participrogram grounded in emotional power educators, youth intelligence skills. TIA will be hosting its pants develop a deeper services professionals, annual Connection Networking Event level of empathy for othparents and guardians at Brandon High School on January 31, ers and leadership skills 2024, from 10-11 a.m. with training, coachto carry forward to coling and research-based resources to equip lege and beyond,” Zuloaga said. “In addition youth with emotional intelligence skills. to weekly community service at their site, “We support adults in helping children teens have optional but encouraged opporbuild the skills to identify and manage emo- tunities to provide additional, ongoing sertions in constructive ways, preparing them vice to the community and to support oneto succeed personally, academically and time events needing volunteers.” one day professionally,” said Frameworks of TIA will be hosting its annual Connection Tampa Bay’s senior community programs Networking Event at Brandon High School specialist, Miracle Zuloaga. on Wednesday, January 31 from 10-11 a.m. Teens in Action (TIA) is one of the pro“We are looking for community leadgrams offered by Frameworks of Tampa Bay ers to volunteer an hour of their time to for local teens in the community. Teens in work with our Teens in Action students Action is a 10-month civic engagement and on their networking skills,” Zuloaga said. leadership program grounded in emotional “This workshop is dedicated to guide and intelligence skills. help students build upon their communi“Teens in Action’s ninth through 12th cation skills and confidence while also givgrade participants from schools across Hill- ing helpful feedback to the students at the sborough County engage in workshops with event.” insightful guest speakers to equip them with If you’d like to learn more about Teens the emotional intelligence skills necessary in Action or attend its annual Connection for personal, academic and professional suc- Networking Event, you can visit Framecess,” Zuloaga said. “The teens then apply works of Tampa Bay’s website at https:// these skills through weekly volunteerism, myframeworks.org/.

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Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

2024 OPERA TAMPA SEASON INCLUDES MASTERPIECES BY MOZART, HUMPERDINK AND VERDI

Staff Report

Opera Tampa proudly pres• Humperdinck’s Hansel ents the 2024 season at the and Gretel on Friday, March 8 Straz Center, which will feaat 8 p.m. and Sunday, March ture the work of Wolfgang 10 at 2 p.m. in Ferguson Hall. Amadeus Mozart, Engelbert • Verdi’s La Traviata on Humperdinck and Giuseppe Friday, April 19 at 8 p.m. and Verdi. Love and betrayal take Sunday, April 21 at 2 p.m. in center stage as three grand Ferguson Hall. opera classics anchor Opera In addition to the three Tampa’s 2024 mainstage mainstage performances, season. With the ultimate the Opera Tampa season also scoundrel in Don Giovanni, a incorporates a variety of spewicked witch luring children Engelbert Humperdinck’s Han- cial events, including perforwith sweetness in Hansel sel and Gretel will be performed mances by the Opera Tampa and Gretel and a great love by Opera Tampa in March and Singers, pre- and post-persacrificed in La Traviata, will include Patel Conservatory formance receptions and vocal students and dancers Opera Tampa will hit all the the elegant Opera Tampa from the Patel Conservatory high notes. Grand Gala, which is schedYouth Ballet. A hybrid of drama and uled for Saturday, March 2. music and visual spectacle, Opera Tampa provides it’s for good reason that opmeaningful arts education era is known as the ‘queen of and community engagement the performing arts.’ Opera experiences for children and Tampa’s 2024 season promadults throughout the year. ises to be a sparkling jewel During the last decade, the in the queen’s crown as the transcendent Opera Tampa Singers have engaged more music of these classic works washes over than 70,000 students, teachers, families the Straz Center’s audiences in a cascade of and seniors in the joy of opera at more sound. than 300 locations throughout the Tampa “Our 2024 season lineup promises to thrill Bay region. This comprehensive outreach audiences with the grand composition and program includes school assemblies, popmagnificent spectacle that only opera can up performances, artist residencies and so deliver,” said artistic director Robin Stamp- much more. er. “Veteran opera fans and curious novices And every year, hundreds of students — alike will delight in the depth of human emo- many experiencing operas for the first time tion brought into focus on our stage through — attend dress rehearsals of Opera Tampa’s this glorious music.” mainstage productions. The 2024 Opera Tampa season includes: Call the Straz Center Ticket Sales Of• Mozart’s Don Giovanni on Friday, Febru- fice at 813-229-STAR (7827) or visit ary 2 at 8 p.m. and Sunday, February 4 at 2 www.strazcenter.org or visit www.operp.m. in Ferguson Hall. atampa.org.

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SUN CITY CENTER RESIDENT HAROLD EMANUEL WRITES COZY MYSTERIES

By Kathy L. Collins

Harold Emanuel of mysteries inspired me Sun City Center is to write Murder in the an author of a genre Sunset Years and Murknown as cozy mysterder Replayed.” ies. A cozy mystery is For Emanuel’s next best described as one project, he explained, that often has a mur“I am switching genres der or serious crime for my current writing in it, but the victim is project, a multigenan unlikeable characeration Jewish family ter. As such, it is not a saga. It begins in 1881 big tragedy that they when the first and secare dead. Books in this ond-generation escape genre do not focus on Harold Emanuel is an adjunct pro- death during a Russian violence but rather on fessor at Hillsborough Community pogrom in a Jewish vilCollege in Ruskin and an author of the process of solving lage and settle on New cozy mysteries featuring informathe crime. York’s Lower East Side. tion technology professor Lionel Emanuel explained It ends in 1946 when Trevor. For Emanuel’s new project, who the protagonist is he is switching genres; the book will the fourth-generation in his books: “Informa- be based on American history and son and daughter refeature Lazar Hermanski and his tion technology profesturn home after servdescendants. sor Lionel Trevor is the ing in World War II. main character for my mystery series.” Throughout the book, family members Emanuel added, “Each book is a col- participate in historical events, such as lection of five murder mysteries, all of the Triangle Shirtwaist Factory fire and which take place on Florida’s Gulf Coast. the sinking of the Lusitania, and interact Professor Lionel Trevor leads a work- with historical figures, such as Fiorello shop for college students who are study- La Guardia and Charles Lindbergh.” ing forensic technology. The professor He added, “My interest in modern and his students use forensic technology American history and my family’s stories to help local Sheriff Tony Maggio solve about how they settled in New York is murders.” inspiring my current project.” Emanuel moved to Florida in 2009 Emanuel sees writing as both a hobby after retiring from a career in informa- and a second career. In addition to writtion technology, about which he said, “I ing, he enjoys cooking. wanted warm weather and beaches.” “I developed this interest during the Emanuel holds a bachelor’s degree in COVID lockdown when my wife and I American history from the University of were not able to enjoy our local restauCincinnati and a master’s degree in in- rants. I make a wicked broiled steak, formation technology from the Universi- veal marsala and twin lobster tails,” said ty of Baltimore. Emanuel. Emanuel said, “My dual interest in inYou can find Emanuel’s books at www. formation technology and cozy murder amazon.com.

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Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

January 2024

Page 41

Community Arts &Events START BUYING

By Kathy L. Collins, Art & Entertainment Director

A CALL TO ARTISTS HAS BEEN ISSUED FOR THE 2024 FLORIDA STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL FINE ART SHOW A call to artists has iature art (2D). The been issued by the categories for youth East Hillsborough Art (ages 6-17) are oils, Guild (EHAG) for the acrylics, watercolors, 2024 Florida Strawgraphics/mixed media berry Festival Fine Art and sculptures. Show, which runs from The adult entry fee Thursday, February for professionals is 29 through Sunday, $15 and $12 for amMarch 10 at the fesateurs and miniature tival grounds in Plant art. The entry for City. Artists of all ages are encouraged to apply youth is $5. This year, the show to be a part of the 2024 Florida Strawberry There are multiple will be presented in the Festival Fine Art Show, which will be held prizes available for Neighborhood Village at the festival grounds in Plant City from adults. These include near Gate 4. There is Thursday, February 29 to Sunday, March Best of Show, which very limited space, so 10. This is a great opportunity for artists earns the winner artists are encouraged of all levels to gain experience and have $300. The Strawberry to apply early via mail. their art seen by hundreds of thousands of Theme award (which festivalgoers. Entries will be acceptincludes entries which ed on a first-come, first-serve basis. feature strawberries or reflect the 2024 Adult artists, both professional and theme of Out of the World) is $100. There amateur, as well as youth artists are en- is also prize money for first and second couraged to apply. Karen Crumley, chair of place, as well as Business Leaders Choice the Fine Art Show, said, “There are over and Special ‘In Honor Of,’ which net $50 400,000 who come through the gallery for the artist. every year. We will likely have even more There is a Best Youth Entry award, which this year due to the new location. This is is $30 and sponsored by Jarrett Scott Ford a great opportunity for all artists to learn of Plant City. Youth first and second also how to present their art to the public.” receive prize money. All youth participants Crumley added, “I really want to encour- will receive a participation ribbon. age our youngest artists, especially those Early entries are accepted via mail until in high school, to apply. This will get them Thursday, February 8. Artists should mail exposure and the experience of having their forms and fees to East Hillsborough their art seen by the public.” Art Guild, P.O. Box 3055, Plant City, FL The categories for adults, both profes- 33564. Complete rules and entry forms sional and amateur, are oils, acrylics, wa- can be found at https://flstrawberryfestercolors, graphics/mixed media and min- tival.com/.

TAMPA THEATRE PRESENTS ITS 21ST ANNUAL WINEFEST FUNDRAISER

Tampa Theatre will celebrate over two decades of its signature fundraiser, WineFest, this March. The theme for this year’s WineFest is Grapebusters. WineFest is the organization’s biggest annual fundraiser. WineFest has raised more than $1.5 million over the past 21 years for the non-profit Tampa Theatre. WineFest, which is for those 21 years and older, will kick off on Friday, March 1 at 7 p.m. with a two-tiered wine tasting. Guests will taste dozens of boutique wines and sample fares from Tampa’s top independent restaurants. Guests will also have the opportunity to bid on premium silent auction items from area retailers, restaurants, services and attractions. Tickets for the Premium Tasting, which begins at 7 p.m. and features exclusive wines for a limited audience, are $125, or $115 for Tampa Theatre members. Tickets for the Grand Tasting, which begins at 8 p.m., are $80, or $70 for Tampa Theatre members. On Saturday, March 2, the Tampa Theatre’s historic stage is transformed so that 275 people can sit for a wine pairing from 6-10 p.m. The multicourse menu, created through a collaboration between Mise en Place and Metropolitan Ministries’ culinary and hospitality teams, will feature delectable small plates expertly paired with exquisite wines. There are a limited number of tickets left for this Saturday event.

Hablamos Español

There will be a fun live auction featuring once-in-alifetime trips, exclusive experiences and a high-stakes wine pull. Tickets for the wine pairing are $400 for individuals and $750 for a pair. While the theme may seem positively ectoplasmic, WineFest’s purpose is quite solid. It is the organization’s biggest annual fundraiser. WineFest has raised more than $1.5 million over the past 21 years for the nonprofit Theatre. Event Chair Zac Foster said, “I do not believe in UFOs, astral projections, mental telepathy, ESP, clairvoyance, spirit photography, telekinetic movement, full-trance mediums, the Loch Ness monster or the theory of Atlantis, but I do believe in the mission of Tampa Theatre, and the Stay Puft Marshmallow Man-sized amount of support this community brings to the table each year to support its artistic, educational and community programming, and the preservation of this landmark building as we look forward to celebrating its centennial in 2026.” WineFest guests are encouraged to dress as their favorite character or come in a Ghostbusters-inspired costume. You can get tickets at the box office, located at 711 N. Franklin St. in downtown Tampa, or go online at https://tampatheatre.org/winefest/.

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Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

Volume 22, Issue 1

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Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

January 2024

Page 43

39TH ANNUAL 2024 FLORIDA RV WHAT IS ROTARY? A LOOK INSIDE THE GROWING INTERNATIONAL SUPERSHOW DRIVES INTO TOWN By Sharon Still SERVICE ORGANIZATION

For nearly 40 “You can bring years, the Florida your hunting gear, RV Trade Associafishing equipment, tion (FRVTA) has bikes and anything hosted one of the else you have room largest RV shows in for. And if you get the country. Every tired of your view January, RV enthuor your neighbors, siasts from near all you have to do and far flock to the is move on,” he said. Florida State Fair- Every major RV manufacturer will be showcased The SuperShow grounds to check when the 2024 Florida RV SuperShow comes to offers educational town in January. out the latest and opportunities and a greatest RV models from evway for newbies to get their ery major manufacturer, plus feet wet, while also offering hundreds of supplier booths seasoned RVers a place to showcasing camping accestrade in their RV or take adsories and more. vantage of some of the best Mark your calendars for camping opportunities found Wednesday through Sunanywhere. day, January 17-21, and, as Seminar topics include the event’s theme suggests, RVing to Alaska, guided RV “Rock on Down the Highvacations, generator mainteway!” to the 39th annual nance and fire safety, among 2024 Florida RV SuperShow. others. “We will have more suppliAdmission to the Suers’ booths and every type, perShow is $15 for adults, Strolling entertainers are a size and style of RV on the crowd favorite at the Florida which includes free secmarket,” said FRVTA execuond-day admission. Children RV SuperShow. tive director David Kelly. under 16 are admitted for free. He added that there will be more enter“We’re also renewing the two-day pass so tainment and additional seminars offered the public will have two full days to see evthis year, as record crowds are expected. erything at the SuperShow at no additional Guests can expect to see strolling entertain- cost,” said Kelly. Event hours are Wednesers, such as clowns, unicycle riders, barber day through Saturday, 9 a.m.-6 p.m., and shop quartets and bagpipe bands. Sunday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m., at the Florida State According to Kelly, interest in RVing is at Fairgrounds. Seniors will receive $2 off adan all-time high and more younger people mission from Wednesday through Friday. are embracing the lifestyle. He noted that The Florida RV Trade Association is loRVing is no longer just for older generations, cated at 10510 Gibsonton Dr. in Riverview. as others are discovering the opportunities For more information, contact the FRVTA at it affords. 813-741-0488 or visit www.frvta.org.

By Ava Benedict

Rotary Internationlives, allowing them al has been a symbol a sense of comfort of service and givduring difficult times. ing back for over a Service projects play century. With over an integral role with1.4 million members in Rotary, as these and 47 million volunevents encourage givteer hours each year, ing back and creating the Rotary Club has change within helped to foster mathe communijor change within our Rotary Clubs across the nation ty. Some serworld. From helping to vice projects inspire millions to become eradicate polio to proactive volunteers within their by local chapcommunities. viding clean drinking ters include water in underdeveloped countries, Rota- the landscaping of Burns Middle School ry has become a beacon of hope and pros- by the Interact Club of Tampa Bay and an perity throughout the globe. But what is upcoming trip to build homes in Honduras Rotary truly about? by the FishHawk-Riverview Rotary Club. The Rotary Club was originally founded Rotary is not religiously or politically afin 1905 by Paul Harris as a way to create filiated and welcomes people from every social bonds between community mem- background and walk of life, all with the bers. It soon evolved into a platform for purpose of providing service to those in change focused on creating healthy envi- need. The clubs meet both in-person and ronments for all people in every part of online. Some are cause-based clubs, while the world. Since its founding, Rotary has others are geographically based. However, expanded to new heights and implement- joining a Rotary Club is not necessary to ed new goals. Now, local Rotary Clubs become involved. Field experts are needmeet and discuss relevant issues within ed in Rotary Action Groups and anyone their communities that can be addressed can join a Rotary Fellowship in their interthrough volunteer work. Its motto, “Ser- est areas, as these are both online intervice Above Self,” represents the main goal national groups. The Rotary Foundation is of modern Rotary: to make a difference in always in need of contributions to create the world. In Florida alone, there are over even more impact within the world. 500 active Rotary Clubs that participate Rotary is an extremely rewarding expein a wide variety of events. rience that allows anyone and everyone Recently, the Brandon Rotary Club to make a difference. For those interesthosted a Teddy Bear Drive for the Rough ed in joining a Rotary Club in their area, Riders to give to children in the hospitals visit the Rotary International website at within the Tampa Bay area. These toys www.rotary.org/en or the Rotary Intermake a big difference within children’s national Facebook page.

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Page 44

Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

Volume 22, Issue 1

Over $20 million in sales in 2023 RE/MAX Hall of Fame, Top 1% among all agents across Tampa Bay Certified Luxury Home Specialist 32-year resident of Riverview “I live here. I love it here. And I sell here like no one else!”

Regular readers know I usually give free ad space here to groups or events that improve our community. Call me with your ideas! — Ann Marie

BUYERS My market knowledge is a key reason buyers ask me to help them navigate & negotiate such a significant step. I spent months working with clients overseas who bought this 3,900-SF new home in Hawkstone southeast of Riverview. Sold in June for $860,000.

SELLERS Listing, advertising & selling homes is the largest portion of my business. I’ll give you every advantage to get the best price! This 5,000-SF custom home in FishHawk’s Kestrelglen enclave was my highest-price success of the year. Sold in July for $1,400,000. SERVICE I’m often willing to do much more than many agents! On an acre just west of Bloomingdale, I coordinated key service providers to help the elder couple selling this 3,250-SF custom home & guest cottage. I had sold it to this couple a decade before. Sold in April for $699,000.

NEW CONSTRUCTION In a new community north of Bloomingdale, the buyers of this big & beautiful townhome figured out what many others don’t: I can save or earn you money by representing your interests with a builder! At nearly 2,600 SF, this home sold in December for $493,000.

BOTH-SIDERS I offer client incentives in several scenarios, especially if you buy & sell with me! I connected clients selling this 4,100-SF former model in FishHawk West with an exclusive builder & of course discounted my role in the process. Sold in November for $1,200,000. INTEGRITY I’ve built my reputation on trust, which is vital when a new client only knows me from being referred by friends. In Hawkstone southeast of Riverview, I helped an out-of-state couple purchase this 3,450-SF home before we even met in person! Sold in July for $609,000.

EXPERIENCE I became a Realtor in 1984, & clients rely on my long experience. In Harvest Field north of Bloomingdale, it made a difference for former buyers (with another agent) who years later remembered & hired me to list this 2,700-SF home for them. Sold in May for $600,000.

UNDERSTANDING Real estate is about people, not just business! Helping owners of this 1,720-SF home in FishHawk sell & buy a retirement villa elsewhere became a very challenging time of not letting the unexpected turn into the unpleasant. Sold in November for $465,000.

NETWORKING Relationships with other agents can make a difference for clients! I stayed in touch with other agents through Open Houses & other means more than a month until we found the right buyers for this 2,550-SF home in FishHawk West. Sold in May for $535,000.

MARKETING Agents who sell less have less money to spend marketing your property! I can afford to cast a wide net in advertising & pay for extras such as aerial photos, which helped this home in Riverglen sell at full list price in only 5 days. Sold in July for $475,000. INVESTMENT My extensive market research creates good advice for investors! This helps them turn a profit on residential or commercial portfolios for renovation or rental such as this FishHawk home. Sold in June for $523,500 & quickly rented for a monthly rate of $3,290.

Email: annmarievaughan @verizon.net Web: annmarievaughan. realtor

MANAGEMENT Nobody beats the deal I give owners when I manage rental homes! Ask me for the details. I’ve taken care of this Channing Park home since the year after I helped the owner buy it new in 2015. I moved in the latest tenants in August for a monthly rate of $2,795.