Riverview/Apollo Beach
39 C E L E B R A T I N G
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January 2020 Volume 18, Issue 1 Ph: 657-2418 1 8
Y E A R S
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P U B L I S H I N G
P O S I T I V E
C O M M U N I T Y
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Wings Of Freedom Brings WWII Planes Longtime Area Educator Dr. Earl Lennard Leaves Lasting Community Legacy To Tampa For Tour & Flights Staff Report
states annually and is celebrating its 31st year, having been seen by tens of millions of people. The foundation developed the Wings of Freedom Tour to engage and educate future generations in WWII history through an immersive tour and flying experience. It is a flying tribute to those who flew, maintained, built and helped protect them and to the citizens that share the freedom the aircraft helped preserve. B-25s and B-24s were the backbone of the American effort in WWII from 1942 to 1945, famous for their ability to sustain damage and still accomplish the mission. Despite the risks of enemy attacks and sub-zero temperatures, many safely brought their crews home. P-51s, known as the bombers’ ‘Little Friend,’ saved countless crews from attacking Axis fighters. The Wings of Freedom Tour will arrive at 12 Noon on January 20 and depart after 12 Noon on January 23. Ground tour and display hours are 12 Noon-4:30 p.m. on January 20, 9 a.m.4:30 p.m. on January 21 and 22 and 9 a.m.-12 p.m. on January 23. The 30-minute flights are normally scheduled before and after the ground tour times. For more info, visit www.collingsfoundation.org or contact Hunter Chaney, director of marketing, at hchaney@collingsfoundation.org or 800-568-8924.
By Linda Chion Kenney
“He’s going to be remembered by the education community, but his roots were in agriculture,” said Tom Umiker, manager of the Hillsborough County Fair, which Lennard served as board member and past president. “Everybody knew him and I never Earl Lennard at his 2009 swearing-in heard a negative ceremony for Hillsborough County word about him. Supervisor of Elections, with his daughter, Missy (l.), charter principal of Stowers He’s a humble, Elementary, Annabel, his wife of 55 years homegrown icon.” and son Jeremy, a technology specialist One of nine at Bloomingdale High. siblings, Lennard From farm to schoolhouse, county worked on his fair to boardroom, Earl J. Lennard is family’s farm and remembered as a “humble, homegrown tended to the icon” whose teachings, kindness and details of its roadEarl Lennard, former leadership leave an indelible mark. Hillsborough County side vegetable The namesake of Lennard High superintendent of stand. A long-time School in Ruskin died Dec. 23, at age schools and supervisor member of of elections, passed 77, after a prolonged illness that led to away in the evening of Riverview United his hospitalization since Thanksgiving December 23, 2019 fol- Methodist Church, 2018. lowing a prolonged illness. Dr. Lennard was he taught Lennard entered the Hillsborough 77 years old. Gleaners Sunday County public school system as a firstgrader at Palm River Elementary and left Story Continued On Page 14 as its superintendent of schools upon retirement in 2005. Four years later, Gov. Charlie Christ appointed him Hillsborough In This County Supervisor of Elections, to Issue replace Phyllis Busansky, who died that year. Lennard served out the remainder CANINE CABANA ADDS TRAINING.....PG 3 of her term and then ran unopposed for DESSERT WARS ..................................PG 4 his own four-year term. Under his watch as superintendent, RIV CHAMBER ANNUAL DINNER........PG 7 Hillsborough grew from the 11th-largest SCOUTING FOR FOOD......................PG 13 to the eighth-largest school district in the nation, necessitating the addition and TRANSPORTATION UPDATE..............PG 17 renovation of more than 90 schools. He contended with the fears and budget EYE ON BUSINESS....................PGS 25‐26 shortfalls in the aftermath of the 9/11 terYEAR IN REVIEW......................PGS 28‐35 rorist attacks and in his wake left a contingency fund of more than $300 million. ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT...............PG 37 Court-ordered desegregation ended durREAD MORE LOCAL NEWS ONLINE ing Lennard’s tenure and he led the development of the school choice and www.ospreyobserver.com magnet school program.
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In honor of our WWII veterans, the Collings Foundation’s Wings of Freedom Tour will bring extremely rare bomber and fighter aircraft for a local living history display. The B-24 Liberator ‘Witchcraft,’ B-25 Mitchell ‘Old Glory’ bombers and P-51 Mustang ‘Toulouse Nuts’ fighter will fly into the Tampa Executive Airport on the main ramp at 6530 Tampa Executive Airport Rd. from Monday through Thursday, January 20-23. The B-24 is the last of its type flying in the world. The B-25 is best known as the bomber used in the Doolittle Raid. The P-51 was the first interceptor with the long range capability to protect Allied bombers all the way to a target and back. Visitors are invited to explore them. It is $10 for adults and $5 for children under 12 for up-close viewings and tours through the inside of the B-24, with discounts for school groups. Visitors can also take 30-minute flights aboard the aircraft. B-24 flights are $475 per person and B-25 flights are $425. P-51 flight training is $2,400 for a half-hour and $3,400 for one hour. For reservations and more information, call 800-568-8924. The Collings Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit educational foundation devoted to organizing ‘living history’ events that allow people to learn more about their heritage and history through direct participation. This tour visits around 110 cities in over 35
RIVERVIEW
Now Offering FREE DELIVERY Goodson Farms Strawberry Market, located at 12406 County Road 672 E in Balm, is now open for the 2020 Strawberry Season. Goodson Farms was started in 1979 by Don and Janet Goodson and is open Monday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. The market is open only seasonally until Strawberry Season ends in March or early April. Call 634-7790 and like Goodson Farms Strawberry Market on Facebook.
for purchases over $50 Serving Our Customers in 4 Locations: Lithia • Big Bend, Riverview • 301, Riverview • Sun City Center
405-8990 7441 US Hwy 301 South, Riverview (1 Mile North of Alafia River, Flea Market Plaza)
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Volume 18, Issue 1
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
From The Law Office of
Griffin & Associates, P.A.
Rachel L. Griffin
Eileen H. Griffin
Ryan W. Griffin
FAMILY LAW PROBATE & ESTATE PLANNING
(813) 681-2612 | 1430 Oakfield Drive • Brandon, Florida 33511 | www.egriffinlaw.com
January 2020
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
Canine Cabana Adds Group Training Classes To Luxury Boarding Facility
By Michelle Caceres
Pet owners Riverview. Its Jeremy and Carly unique ‘levels proBrook knew they gram’ gives pet needed dog training owners the option classes to help them to attend drop-in learn to communiclasses as often cate with their 8as they like during month-old, 85-pound a six, four or twocane corso puppy, month enrollment Samson, and so the period. Dogs couple turned to graduate from Canine Cabana’s Group training classes for your four-legged each of four levfriend are now available at Canine Cabana. els after masternew group training program. Using positive reinforcement ing the required skills. training, the team at Canine Cabana has “Our group training classes are helped their pooch learn foundational unique in that we offer flexibility in trainskills at his own pace. ing and the ability for owners to work with “We like the positive reinforcement their dogs at their own pace,” said training that they use here,” said Carly. “It Pickren. has helped us build a stronger connecTraining the dogs is the easy part, tion to our dog.” said Canine Cabana Animal Care and In addition to the commands sit, stay Behavior Manager Kristin Lemonde. and down, Samson is learning to look to Samson participates in a few classes his owners for direction, especially when a week. He doesn’t speak English so he wants to react to other dogs nearby. can’t be quoted here, but how do the “We don’t want to change his nature Brooks know he’s happy coming to because we wanted a guard dog,” said class? Jeremy. “We just want the reassurance “He starts whining in the car when that he knows how to listen to us.” we make the turn onto Carr Rd. from Canine Cabana owners Angela Boyette,” said Carly. “He knows where Pickren and Kendall Duncan said that we’re going and can’t wait to get here.” positive reinforcement, or rewarding posiIn addition to group training classes, tive behaviors, helps create a bond of private obedience training is also availrespect and understanding between a able with daycare or lodging. dog and its owner. Canine Cabana is open 365 days a “Building that strong relationship is year, Monday-Friday, 6: 30 a.m.-6:30 important in a family pet,” said Duncan. p.m., and Saturday-Sunday, 7 a.m.-6 Canine Cabana’s team of five fullp.m. time trainers offer group training classes For more information or to schedule in a new two-acre facility next door to its a group class, visit original location at 9708 Carr Rd. in www.caninecabana.biz or call 672-9663.
GRCC Executive Director Participates In Honorary Commander Program At MacDill
By Kathy L. Collins
On December 12, 2019, approximately 30 honorary commanders from around the Tampa Bay community participated in an immersion tour of the 6th Maintenance Group at MacDill Air Force Base in Tampa. The Honorary Commander Program helps to foster a supportive relationship between the community and the Air Force by providing opportunities to share experiences with each other. Tanya Doran, Executive Director of the Greater Riverview Chamber of Commerce got to participate in the tour. “This incredible opportunity will help me better understand MacDill; including learning about the various units and their responsibilities, plus MacDill’s global connections and economic impact. Meeting and building relationships with the dedicated indi-
viduals who serve, many whom live in the Greater Riverview community, is what I look forward to most,” said Doran. At MacDill Air Force Base, honorary commanders are selected every two years and paired up with squadron, group and wing commanders to experience the mission of the 6th and 927th air refueling wings. During this term, the honorary commanders gain access to the base and immerse with units across the wing to gain first-hand experience on how the mission gets accomplished. The Honorary Commander Program has the significant role of bridging the gap between the community and the military members behind the gate, and immersion days like these have helped make that gap smaller and smaller since its inception in 2009.
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Nothing Bundt Cakes In Dessert Wars Event Coming To Armature Works For the first time, Dessert Wars is coming to Tampa. This sweet event will be held on Sunday, February 9 from 3 to 7 Dessert Wars is coming p.m. at to Tampa. Get you tickets Armature now for the largest and Works, greatest sweet tasting event in the area. located at 1910 N. Ola Ave. in Tampa. This is a ticketed event, which sells out fast. Dessert Wars is a celebration of the ‘foodie’ lifestyle, featuring dessert vendors vying for the title of Dessert Champion. The event features a wide array of desserts ranging from cupcakes, cookies, ice cream and doughnuts. Dessert Wars is dubbed the Largest Dessert Festival in America. This event is perfect for the whole family. There are several layers of tickets available. This includes Sprinkle on Top, which gets you 50 sample tickets, a ‘gobox’ and an exclusive Dessert Wars Tshirt with entry beginning at 3 p.m. These cost $75 plus fees. VIP tickets include 50 sample tickets, a ‘go-box’ and entry beginning at 3 p.m. These cost $60 plus fees. General admission tickets include 30 sample tickets, a ‘go-box’ and entry beginning at 4 p.m. These cost $35 plus fees.
Volume 18, Issue 1
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
By Kathy L. Collins
Sample tickets are exchanged for dessert samples. There is no extra cost for dessert. Voting for People's Choice Champion ends at 6 p.m. and the Trophy Ceremonies begin at 6:30 p.m. Dessert Wars debuted in 2016. Each year, they host over 50 vendors and have traditionally sold out to a crowd of 3,000. You will be astounded as you walk through rows and rows of vendors with multiple selections of ice cream, donuts, cupcakes and more. Brad Matthews, director of Dessert Wars, said, “There is no other place that you can try out over 50 different dessert spots under one roof. It gives you the opportunity to discover unique desserts you might have never had in your life.” For vendors, Matthews added, “It gives all of these wonderful dessert places a chance to showcase their product in front of their direct audience—dessert lovers.” Confirmed vendors include Astro Ice Cream, Craving Donuts, Jeremiah’s Ice, Mike’s Pies, Nothing Bundt Cakes, Sprinkles and The Hyppo. For more information on Dessert Wars and to get tickets, please visit www.dessert-wars.com.
Visit The Florida State Fair For Food, Fun And New Deep Fried Dash 5K Run
By Kelly Wise Valdes
Since 1904, the FFA students comFlorida State Fair mit hundreds of has been a staple in hours to their agriculTampa Bay and is ture projects.” returning to the Among the long Tampa Fairgrounds list of things to see from Thursday, and do includes February 6 to Cracker Country Monday where visitors step February 17 for back in time to 19th The Florida State Fair is century Florida at 12 fun-filled coming to the fairgrounds days. Who Tampa’s only living for 12 days beginning doesn’t love Thursday, February 6 and history museum, ending on Monday, some deep-fried open all 12 days of February 17. Oreos, exciting the fair. There are rides to the Midway, carnival games and also a variety of fun competitions for the live entertainment? There is something best quilt, pie or plant. Onlookers can for everyone of all ages at this year’s fair. enjoy a good old-fashioned demolition Known for amazing food and thrilling derby as they cheer on their favorite rides, there are also a few new events destructive drivers as they shake, rattle this year. If you love to run, the first annu- and roll through a series of obstacles to al Deep Fried Dash is race through the be the last car standing. And of course no fair on Saturday, February 15. For a visit to the fair is complete without a few chance to be the first ever Deep Fried rides on The Wipeout, Street Fighter and Dash 5K and Fun Run champion, register Midway Sky Eye ferris wheel. now for a fair-tastic deal. Opening day is also Hero’s Day on Also new is the Showcase Thursday, February 6 where first responCommunity Stage where you can see the ders, including law enforcement, EMT, best of the best local talent in this comcorrections officers and active or retired munity-driven show. military, along with guests, get free admisFrequent fair-goer and Ruskin resision to the fair. dent Amber Council is always excited The one-day admission price for about the Florida State fair. Her daughter, adults is $9 and for children ages 6-11 is Becky, is involved with Future Farmers of $5. Children under 5 are free. Other America (FFA) in school and is showing prices may vary and there is always speat the fair this year. cial pricing on armbands for the Midway “We always enjoy the rides and the rides. For a complete list of pricing and food,” said Council. “But, it’s also provides more information on the events, concerts, great agricultural opportunities. We will be live shows and other offerings, visit at the fair again this year because the www.floridastatefair.com.
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January 2020
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
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O S P R E Y O B S E R V E R WE’VE MOVED TO VALRICO!
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CATCH OF THE MONTH
TWO LOCATIONS TO SERVE YOU:
(813)296-7735 Hours: Mon - Sat: 6 AM - 7 PM Sun: 6 AM- 6 PM
Social Security Benefits Seminar Hosted By Angeloni Tax Advisory Group
Tuesday, January 21, February 18 and March 24; Wednesday, January 15 and February 12; and Thursday, January 9, February 6 and March 12 HCC campus at The Regent, 6437 Watson Rd., Riverview. Learn strategies and principles behind the proper timing of taking Social Security benefits; perfect for ages 58-67. Call 626-7575 to make reservations. Leave a message after 4:30 p.m.
Riverview Library Master Gardener Library Programs
10509 Riverview Dr., Riverview Garden Treasures Rediscovered; Tuesday, February 4 at 6:30 p.m. Discover ways to reuse items in the garden usually thrown out or considered useless. Learn inventive ways to make your garden unique, full of fun and beauty and also provide for garden wildlife. Contact Anne Marie Boehm at amblibrary@gmail.com or call 205-6621 for more information.
Calling All Marines, FMF Corpsmen And FMF Chaplains
First Tuesday of the month; 7 p.m. Alafia American Legion Post #148, 7240 US Hwy. 301, Riverview. The Sgt. Walter P. Ryan Detachment of the Marine Corps League is looking for new members. All Marines welcome. Other military branch members accepted too. Email mclsgtryan@gmail.com or call Ron (Doc) Essick at 503-0390.
VFW Riverview Post 8108 Events
7504 Riverview Dr.; 671-9845 Every Sunday; 9 a.m.-12 Noon – All You Can Eat Breakfast Every Monday; 7 p.m. – Bingo Night
Dancing With A Balance
Melissa Hartmann
6040 US 41 N, Apollo Beach 9851 US 41 S, Gibsonton
Sunday, January 19; 1-4 p.m. Sunset Grill at Little Harbor, Ruskin The event is free; cash bar; vendors welcome. Contact Rick at 210-2695 or Nancy at 597-5296; rmonsipapa@gmail.com Find it on Facebook ‘SouthShore Dog Club’ RSVP on meetup.com
By Jenny Kaukonen
• Frozen Bait • Live Worms (Small-Medium-Large-Jumbo) • Rod Repair • Bait Reservations Accepted • Live Shiners • Rods, Reels and Tackle • Live Shrimp
With Our Merchandise You Can Catch What You Want!!
Every Tuesday; 9:30-10:30 a.m. at Sun Towers Retirement & Rehab Community, 101 Trinity Lakes Dr., Sun City Center Do you like to dance but are worried about falling? Join this free line dancing class lead by trained therapists. Boot scoot and boogie safely together and make exercise fun. RSVP at 634-3347.
Life Challenges Support Group
Every Tuesday; 1-3 p.m. at Sun Towers Retirement & Rehab Community, 101 Trinity Lakes Dr., Sun City Center Rid yourself of depression, anxiety and frustrations with family, children, friends, life changes, health problems, finances and more. All welcome in complete confidence and free of charge. No appointment is necessary.
Tampa Bay Chief Petty Officers Meeting
Fourth Thursday each month; 6:30 p.m. Tampa Buffet, 3904 S. Dale Mabry, Britton Plaza, Tampa For information, call Chuck Peterman, President, at 767-1569
Parkinson's Support Group At Savannah Court Of Brandon
Third Tuesday of the month; 6 p.m. Savannah Court of Brandon, 824 N. Parsons Ave., Brandon Call 643-6767 to RSVP with Rhonda Fournier, Executive Director.
Pet Vaccination Clinic At Kim’s Natural Pet Foods
Saturday, March 7; 11 a.m.-12 Noon p.m. Kim’s Natural Pet Foods, 2110 Lithia Pinecrest Rd., Valrico EZ Pet Low Cost Pet Vaccination Clinic Call 684-3663 to confirm.
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The Firehouse Pub In Ruskin Is Great Venue For Entertainment In 2020
By Kathy L. Collins
Kick off 2020 theaters and conwith a visit to the cert halls to dirt lots Firehouse Cultural Prince is a Center’s Firehouse comedian that has Pub in Ruskin. The the ability to perform Firehouse Pub for various audioffers a great array ences regardless of of entertainment race, backgrounds The Firehouse Cultural Center in Ruskin that features music, offers fantastic entertainment for everyone and ages. His comat the Firehouse Pub. You do not have to edy style, best comedy and more. go far to see great musicians and First up, on described by him, is comedians, and you will be supporting a Saturday, January wonderful nonprofit arts organization as silly and superficial well. 11, come see Mitch yet satisfying. Woods sing the blues. Woods delivers a Extremely energetic and animated. It is masterclass in piano blues that opens often said that you burn calories just by with the classic Crescent City stylings of watching him perform. Solid Gold Cadillac and relentlessly delivCome back on Saturday, February 1 ers blues and R&B of the highest order. as TBone Hamilton and the Blues Next, on Saturday, January 18, Allstars return to the Firehouse Pub. This come see JP Soars who was nominated visit will feature Bryan Lee and Greg for Blues Rock Artist of the Year in the Poulos. 40th annual Blues Music Awards in 2019. Georgia Vahue, executive director Other nominees include Billy Gibbons, for the Firehouse Cultural Center said, Eric Gales, Kenny Wayne Shepherd and “In 2020, you can expect even more Tinsley Ellis. Soars has been touring the quality, energetic music and comedy perworld and is preparing to release a new formances. We will feature new performstudio album produced by Tab Benoit for ers along with our top stars.” release on Benoit’s Whiskey Bayou label Tickets to above events are $18 for later this summer. members and $23 for nonmembers Then on Friday, January 24, come to (advanced) or $23 for members and $28 Comedy Night featuring headliner Lou for nonmembers on the day of the show. Angelwolf with Kojo Prince. They will Firehouse Pub seating is communal, entertain the crowd and bring the laughs. which means you may have other guests Angelwolf loves his job, his life and at your table. A cash bar and refreshhis place on earth, and it shows. His ments are available. voice on the radio has been heard by The Firehouse Cultural Center is millions. His live stand up performances located at 101 1st Ave. NE. in Ruskin. span a dozen time zones and a widely Please call 645-7651 or visit www.firescattered demographic, from beautiful houseculturalcenter.org.
FINANCIAL FOCUS
Adam M. benAbram Financial Advisor
Volume 18, Issue 1
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
How Can You Make Your Money Last During Retirement?
It’s probably safe to say that many of us are concerned about having enough money to cover our retirement years. In fact, some surveys have shown that we are more frightened of running out of money than we are of dying. What can you do to help alleviate these fears? Your first move is to create a retirement income strategy, and you’ll want to develop it well before you need to use it. While there are many ways to develop such a strategy, you may want to consider these three key elements: • Withdrawal rate – Your withdrawal rate is the percentage of your portfolio you use every year during your retirement. So, for example, if you retire with a portfolio worth $1 million and you choose a 4% withdrawal rate, you’ll be taking out $40,000 per year. Your withdrawal rate will depend on several factors – your age at retirement, the size of your portfolio, potential earned income, date at which you start taking Social Security, and so on. Clearly, when deciding on a withdrawal rate, you’ll want to reach the “Goldilocks” solution – not too much, not too little, but just the right amount. • Reliance rate – Your reliance rate is essentially the percentage of your overall retirement income that comes from your investment portfolio – your IRA, 401(k) and other accounts. It’s called a reliance rate because you rely on this portfolio for your income. The higher your reliance rate, the more you will rely on your portfolio to provide income during your retirement, and the greater your sensitivity to market fluctuations. • Income sources – The more sources of lifetime income you have – such as Social Security and a pension from your employer – the less you may be relying on your investment portfolio to cover your retirement goals. However, many private
employers have moved away from pensions in favor of 401(k)-type plans, and Social Security will only provide about 40% of your preretirement income in retirement, assuming your earned income is average for U.S. workers, according to the Social Security Administration. Consequently, you may want to consider options such as annuities, which can provide lifetime income benefits. It will take careful planning to put these three factors together in a way that can help you build enough consistent income to last throughout your retirement – which could easily extend two or three decades. And there’s no single formula for everyone. For example, while an annuity could offer lifetime cash flow and help you reduce your reliance on your investment portfolio, it also involves fees and expenses, plus lower liquidity than other sources of income, so it may not be right for everyone. Fortunately, you don’t have to go it alone when taking all your retirement income factors into account. You may want to work with a financial professional – someone who can evaluate your individual situation and then recommend retirement income solutions based on your appropriate reliance rate, withdrawal rate and potential income sources. By getting the help you need and by following a suitable long-term strategy, you can ease some of the stress that comes from wondering if your life span might eventually exceed your financial resources. This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor. Edward Jones is a licensed insurance producer in all states and Washington, D.C., through Edward D. Jones & Co., L.P. and in California, New Mexico and Massachusetts through Edward Jones Insurance Agency of California, L.L.C.; Edward Jones Insurance Agency of New Mexico, L.L.C.; and Edward Jones Insurance Agency of Massachusetts, L.L.C.
Brandon Meals On Wheels Brings Joy To Those In Need During Holidays
By Libby Hopkins
Greater Brandon Meals on Wheels is a Brandon-based nonprofit and it has been a part of the Brandon community for 42 years.
Greater Brandon Meals on Wheels is a Brandon-based nonprofit and it has been a part of the Brandon community for 42 years. “The Greater Brandon Meals on Wheels, Inc. began in 1976 in an effort to make sure that Brandon community residents who were unable to leave their homes could be provided a noon meal,” said Greater Brandon Meals on Wheels President Guy Fultral. “Residents who need meals delivered are screened to ensure that they do not drive nor have access to transportation in order to shop for food. No one is denied if they meet the screening criteria.” Greater Brandon Meals on Wheels started through the cooperative efforts of Limona Village Chapel and St. Andrew’s United Methodist Church. “We currently have 17 churches that support our efforts,” said Vice President Elena LaRussa. “They are Westminster Presbyterian, First United Methodist Church of Seffner, Kings Avenue Baptist, Bell Shoals Baptist, Apostles Lutheran Church, High Point Church, St. Andrews, Nativity, First Presbyterian, Holy Innocents Episcopal Church, Presbyterian Church of Seffner, First Baptist Church of Brandon, St. Stephen Catholic Church, Brandon Christian
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Church, Rich Valley Church, New Hope Methodist Church and First Baptist of Dover.” These churches donate kitchen facilities for food preparation and volunteers to help prepare and assemble the meals. This program is truly a mission of many hearts and many hands that contribute to its success for the benefit of those in need in the Brandon community. Donations and volunteers from the community are what keeps Greater Brandon Meals on Wheels alive. “Donations from the community as this is one of our main funding sources,” LaRussa said. “Our clients also donate $2.50 per meal or pay what they can afford. No one is refused a meal if they cannot pay.” No government funding is received by Greater Brandon Meals on Wheels. Greater Brandon Meals on Wheels is currently accepting donations of ham, turkey, canned goods and monetary donations. “Our hope is that with the help of the community, we can continue serving the Brandon area for many more years as the need is here,” LaRussa said. “It’s very rewarding to get involved. We would also like to serve the FishHawk and Lithia areas. Hopefully we can get interests from more churches to sign up from this area in the future.” For more information or to donate, visit www.brandonmealsonwheels.com.
Call (877) 634-6617
20th
January 2020
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
Flotilla 75 Offers Boating Safety And Life Jacket Presentations For Children
By Elliott Seda
In 2018, the U.S. they are in a boat. Using variCoast Guard released ous types of props such as its annual report, titled plastic bags and samples of ‘2018 Recreational debris, Auxiliarists McAlvey, Boating Statistics,’ O’Reilly and Robbins demonwhich stated, “Where strated the negative effects of cause of death was debris in the water to marine known, 77% of fatal life. boating accident vicThe importance of weartims drowned. Of ing life jackets by adults and From left to right, Pat McAlvey children while on a boat was those drowning vicand Tony O'Reilly. tims with reported life then emphasized. The issue jacket usage, 84% were not wearing a life of ‘Wearing it Right’ and ‘Wearing it Tight’ jacket.” were discussed and demonstrated by stuIt also stated that, as it related to dent volunteers. The correct size for the boating instruction, 74 percent of deaths child and adult must be worn and the life had occurred on boats where the operajacket must fit snuggly with all straps tor had not received boating safety appropriately buckled. Videos were also instructions, but only 18 percent were on shown to help the children further underboats where the operator had received a stand these points. The children’s reacnationally-approved boating safety certifitions to the presentations and demonstracate. tions were positive. They asked many After detailed analysis, the Coast questions and also provided many comGuard expanded its focus on boating ments of their experiences of boating with safety instruction to include not only their parents. adults, but children as well. The U.S. Overall, this class takes 50 minutes Coast Guard Auxiliary has also been part and is recommended for grades K-5. It is of this instructional focus. On November endorsed by Hillsborough County Public 21, members of the Auxiliary, Flotilla 75, Schools. Apollo Beach, participated in the Great Flotilla 75 gives these presentations American Teach-In. to the Hillsborough County Park and Auxiliarists Pat McAlvey, Tony Recreation Department as part of its O’Reilly and John Robbins gave an interafter-school programs. active presentation on boating safety to For more information on the class, 346 students at Apollo Beach Elementary About Boating Safety (ABS), which will be School. They shared information with the offered on Saturday, February 22, or if students regarding the importance of not you are an organization interested in havlittering while on land or water and the ing a boating safety presentation at one importance of wearing life jackets or perof your events, contact Patrick McAlvey at sonal flotation devices (PFDs) anytime 214-232-5202. Visit Flotilla75.org.
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Riverview Chamber Awards Dinner Will Honor Business Of The Year Finalists
Staff Report
At the Riverview Chamber of Commerce’s December luncheon, checks were distributed to the Honorary Mayor candidates for payment to the charities for which they campaigned for.
This year, two candidates ran for 2020 Honorary Mayor of Riverview. Together, they successfully raised $34,848.22. These funds will support local charities, including ECHO (Emergency Care Help Organization), Impact Program, My Warrior’s Place and the South County Spartans Athletic Program. The two candidates were Daniel Cyral of Hypnotic Engagements and Deputy Mayors Bryan and Marijean Reith of Team Reith - RE/MAX Realty Unlimited. They raised the money through various fundraisers that each of them held. The winner of the race was introduced at the Greater Riverview Chamber of Commerce’s (GRCC) December luncheon. With over $18,000 collected by Cyral, he was pronounced the winner. His charities are My Warrior’s Place and the South County Spartans Athletic Program. Cyral will serve one year on the GRCC Board of Directors and the Reiths will be deputy mayors. As a team they will all help to deliver proclamations at GRCC Ribbon Cuttings and present the Pledge of Allegiance at the monthly luncheons. The Greater Riverview Chamber of Commerce 2019 Business of the Year finalists (listed in alphabetical order) were also announced. They are:
Organizations with 5 or less employees: Accent American Mo2vated Photography Pearson Capital
Organizations with up to 20 employees: Impact Taekwondo Center Osprey Observer Newspapers Restoration 1 of Tampa Bay Organizations with over 20 employees Electric Today Fuzzy's Taco Shop St. Joseph's Hospital – South
The award winners will be announced at the GRCC’s Annual Membership and Awards Dinner and Celebration on Friday, January 17 from 5:30-9 p.m. at The Regent, located at 6437 Watson Rd. in Riverview. The Greater Riverview Chamber of Commerce 2019 Business of the Year Award winners will be announced alongside several other prestigious awards with the installation of the 2020 board of directors. This year's dinner theme is Caribbean Nights. You are invited to bring your friends and reserve a table to participate in the first annual table decorating contest. All reserved tables are encouraged to be decorated in the Caribbean Nights theme. Sponsorships are also available from $55 up to $5,000. You can also call the chamber office to create a custom package. For more information, contact the chamber office at 234-5944 or visit www.riverviewchamber.com.
Page 8
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
, t n e m a rn u o T f l & Go e v i r D Diaper ore… M
Sixth Annual Golf Tournament Hosted By Former Yankees Pitcher Ramiro Mendoza
Iglesia Cristo La Senda (CLS Church) will hold its sixth annual Golf Tournament on Saturday, February 8 at 12:30 p.m. The tournament will be hosted by former Yankees pitcher and fivetime World Series Champion Ramiro Mendoza. It will take place at Summerfield Crossing, located at 13050 Summerfield Blvd. in Riverview. The purpose is to continue raising funds for the church’s new Youth & Children’s Community Center, which will impact young people throughout the area. The church expects to build and extend a faith-based environment where children and youth can grow in their devotion while being in a safe and secure setting. Please consider supporting and becoming a sponsor for this event. Participation can include joining a team, sponsoring a hole or donating items for raffles and the auction. To register, please visit www.iglesiacls.org , scroll to the ‘Golf Ball’ and click on it to register. For more information, please contact Event Coordinator Maribel Lorenzo at 365-0171 or the church office at 571-7174.
ti, Colesan ichelle M y b ed com Compil spreyobserver. o @ e michell
Community Day At St. Stephen Catholic School
In celebration of National Catholic School Week, on Monday, January 27, St. Stephen Catholic School in Riverview will open its doors to friends of the parish community. All are welcome to visit the classrooms, meet the teachers and experience the joy of the children. Tours will be available from 9:30-11:30 a.m. and refreshments will be served. Reservations are not required. St. Stephen Catholic School is located at 10424 St. Stephen Cir. Call the school office for any questions at 7419203.
Grocery Give Away And More
Tampa Bay Mission of Hope will hold a Grocery Give Away on Saturday, January 18 from 9 a.m.-2 p.m. It will take place at Kensington Garden on 6008 Farmington Oaks Pl. in Riverview. Student Activities – Empowering Families To Thrive. Speakers will talk about financial literacy, home buying, health and wellness, credit repair and women empowerment. Students and volunteers are needed. Books, gifts, cards, gift bags and refreshments are needed, and donations are welcome as well. Call Dr. Reba Haley at 716-3996 for more information.
Volume 18, Issue 1
Drive. The nonprofit seeks to protect the sanctity of life by promoting biblical sexuality and educating new parents. Choices centers also offer a variety of support for expecting mothers and new parents. The ministry educates as it provides physical, emotional and spiritual support. The collection of diapers and wipes helps sustain the Choices centers in Brandon and SouthShore for the year. Choices centers provide diapers and baby clothing to families in need through its ‘Earn While You Learn’ program as it builds relationships to share Christ. Vendors who would like to participate in Grace Community Church’s first Spring Market on The nonSaturday, March 21 should email profit is bosefer11@yahoo.com or call 361-1724. requesting located at 5708 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. in diaper sizes newLithia. born to 5, with the Organizers are seeking vendors to greatest need for sell a variety of products, such as arts sizes 3, 4, 5 and clothing from sizes and crafts, jewelry, clothing and newborn to 2T. The ability to ship more. National companies will be on a items directly to its admin office from first-come, first-served basis. For Amazon is also available. For more example, only one Mary Kay represeninformation or to donate, visit tative or one Premier Jewelry vendor www.empoweredtochoose.net or conwill be allowed. tact Jessica Rickenbach at The fee for a 10 ft. x 10 ft. space Jessica@choicesclinics.org or 654is $25. Proceeds help support mis0491. sions in the community. The market will be outdoors, and vendors are Seeking Vendors For Lithia Spring asked to provide their own tents, Market In March tables and chairs. Food will be availVendors are being sought by able for purchase. Grace Community United Methodist For more information and a vendor Church in Lithia for its first Spring application, visit www.graceholidayMarket on Saturday, March 21. Much market.com or contact Event like the Holiday Market, this event, Organizer Susan Ferraro at bosefrom 9 a.m.-2 p.m., is being presented fer11@yahoo.com or 361-1724. by the Women of Grace. The church is
Local Nonprofit Asks Local Community To Support Diaper Drive
Choices, formerly known as the LifeCare Network, is asking the community to help with its January Diaper FREE ESTIMATES
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January 2020
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
Page 9
Brenda Wade Team Partners With Local Businesses To Donate $18,000 To Local Charities This is the season of giving and Brenda Wade and her Real Estate Team have focused on giving back to the community in small and large ways, year after year, season after season. They have given over $65,000 in the last seven years through their ‘Partners in Giving’ events, plus additional giving exceeds $10,000 annually to other local charities. Brenda believes in giving back where she lives and works and said, “We are so fortunate to live in a great community and if everyone gives a little, no one goes without.” One of their favorite ‘giving back’ events of the year is their ‘Partners in Giving’ fundraiser. Brenda and her team just hosted their Seventh Annual ‘Partners in Giving’ event where Brenda and her agents spent a day learning from business associates who donate money to the chosen charity. Brenda matches every dollar the business partners contribute so together they have a larger impact in the community. The Brenda Wade Team wants to be the most knowledgeable and giving team in real estate, and to work together with like-minded companies and individuals to give back to our community. Brenda said, “Our goal was to exceed the $12,600 amount we raised last year, and we were so very excited to raise and donate $18,000 divided between two local charities, Seeds of Hope, Inc. and LifeCare. Seeds of Hope has been in the Brandon/Valrico/Lithia community for over nine years and began with local resident Leda Eaton helping her then
By Barbara Kern
high school students receive meaningful community service hours. That was the beginning of the FishHawk Turkey Trot and from that Seeds of Hope was created to use the money generated to help alleviate local hunger. The organization has maintained its original commitment to providing meaningful community service for students but has grown as an organization to combat hunger in three ways by providing weekend backpacks of food for school children, boxes of food to families on Thursdays, and a weekly mobile pantry aimed at short term food relief. Eaton is proud of the impact the charity has had, “Before Hurricane Irma, we were a food relief organization. After Hurricane Irma, we added disaster relief to our resume. It’s not something I ever would have planned but am so thankful we were there. It was amazing to be a part of the overwhelming groundswell of community support.” For more infor-
mation, visit www.sohopefl.org. LifeCare, now called Choices, is all about babies so this ministry is near and dear to Brenda Wade’s heart, as she and her husband have been beyond blessed with two grandbabies this year. LifeCare of Brandon /Choices has served families in the Brandon Community for over three decades. They reach out to families in the midst of pregnancy decisions with compassion, help and hope. They have worked with thousands of families over the last 32 years supporting them in their pregnancies, childbirth, parenting, and life skills. All of their services are free, confidential, and available to everyone. Their pregnancy medical clinics are named CHOICES with locations in Brandon and Ruskin. These clinics are where families receive free pregnancy tests, limited ultrasounds, and ongoing support. They work with families throughout their preg-
nancy and until their baby is a year old teaching them about healthy pregnancies and positive parenting. For more information please visit www.EmpoweredToChoose.net Brenda is so very thankful to this year's “Partners in Giving” business partners for serving her clients all year long and graciously pulling alongside of she & the Team in support of the people served by Seeds of Hope and LifeCare/Choices: Adela’s Pro Cleaning Service, All American Title, Brian Hodgers of Complete Choice Insurance, Chad & Bill Kalgren of Kyzo Unlimited LLC Painting & Pressure Washing, Couture Painting, Gonzalez Roofing, Hank & Mary Lobdell of Radiant Property Inspections, Hillsborough Title, Janelle Weeden of Old Republic Home Warranty, Joel Meek of Meek Insurance Group, Jon Howard of American Mortgage Service Co, Marie Gilmore of Osprey Observer, Mike Yeager of Buyer’s Choice Home Inspection, Patrick Latimer & Erica Guthrie of United Mutual Funding Corp., Pilka & Associates, P.A. Law Firm, Rory Weiner, P.A. Law Firm, Terry Beamer of CertaPro Painters, Todd Martin of Guaranteed Rate, Trease Sinclair of Suddath Movers and The Rice Financial Group. A HUGE thank you to our business partners! Brenda Wade and her Real Estate Team love this community and the privilege of working throughout the year to support the many charitable organizations and ministries that assist people who need a hand up.
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Page 10
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
Local Home Builder Sabal Homes Brings Affordability To Luxury
Honor Their Sacrifice, Educate Their Legacy, Is The Motto Of Folds Of Honor
By Gwen Rollings
women who have died or been disabled while on active duty. These scholarships have been awarded to family members in all 50 states and some U.S. territories. There are more than one million disabled and fallen United States service members affected by war, nearly two million dependents of those disabled and fallen and the cost is more than nine billion to provide educational scholarships to all these dependents, according to Sunset Grill in Ruskin held a charity event for Folds of Honor in November. There was a golf Folds of Honor. scramble, live music, raffles, silent auction and A local business joined the veteran services and support booths. cause to raise funds for these miliLieutenant Colonel Dan Rooney, an tary dependents. Sunset Grill in Ruskin F-16 Fighter Pilot in the Air Force held a charity event for Folds of Honor in Reserves, was returning November. There was a home in 2007 from his secgolf scramble, live music, ond tour of duty in Iraq raffles, silent auction and when his mission in life veteran services and supchanged. After the flight port booths. Scott landed, Rooney watched as Campbell, general managa flag-covered casket was er of Sunset Grill, was removed from the plane enthusiastic in his support and directed toward a waitof Folds of Honor. “There were many reaing family. Among the family was the sons we chose to hold the charity event young son of the fallen hero. Rooney here. We wanted to show our support to knew he had to do something to not only the veterans and their families. We owe pay tribute to American service members our veterans respect, and there are a lot and their families but to live as a reminder of veterans in the Ruskin area. We conamong civilians that it is our duty to honor sider ourselves to be ambassadors for the sacrifices of the ones who preserve Folds of Honor and anticipate a West our freedoms. That same year Rooney Florida chapter forming in the future.” founded the Folds of Honor Foundation. Funds raised were to be distributed as Folds of Honor is a 501(c)(3) nonlocal scholarships. profit organization that has provided nearFor more information on donating or ly 24,500 educational scholarships since scholarship application, visit www.fold2007 to families of U.S. servicemen and sofhonor.org.
Volume 18, Issue 1
In business since 1976, Sabal Homes of Florida has established itself as an awardwinning builder of luxury homes that reflects the interests and lifestyles of the families who live in them. Operating out of its Brandon Sabal Homes has been building luxury office, the familycustom homes for owned company more than 43 years. has built more than 600 homes that can be found in some of Hillsborough County’s most in-demand communities, as well as on private lots. But wherever they build, the company’s mission statement—which says in part, “To build semi-custom homes for our customers like those we would build for our own families,”—applies. Three generations have spent 43 years at Sabal Homes working closely with buyers to provide the distinctive touches that make a house a personal home. That process begins with a design that’s hand-drawn by Bill Lee, president of Sabal Homes and son of the company’s founders, Ann and Jim Lee, before final construction plans are created by computer software. According to Brian Lee, who represents the third generation of the family business, the hands-on aspect helps make buyers’ wishes come true. “We end up building their dream home,” he said. Personal design features they have included range from indoor golf
By Brad Stager
simulators to disability accommodations like enlarged doorways or suites outfitted for elderly family members. “We are a semi-custom homebuilder,” added Brian, “but we’ve never built the same home twice.” Sabal Homes started out building individual homes on private lots and ventured into communities like FishHawk Ranch in 1999. Currently, Sabal Homes has homes available in the Preserve at FishHawk and Hidden Reserve developments, but according to Bill, the company is returning to the original ‘on your lot’ luxury home business model with a focus on its hometown of Brandon. It is a move expected to improve construction efficiency and, ultimately, affordability for the highly customized product they build. “We are going to be moving into a market that’s more mainstream for the Brandon community and the buyers that live here,” said Bill. People interested in homes priced at around $500,000 are buyers the Lees hope to serve. For more information about Sabal Homes of Florida, you can visit sabalhomesfl.com or call 655-7475.
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January 2020
Page 11
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
Ace Hardware Joins The SouthShore Community With New Store Location
For Aesthetic Appointments Call 813-514-4711 Serving the Tampa Bay Area since 1988
By Libby Hopkins
Steve Jobs once makes Ace Hardware said, “Great things in stores different from business are never other hardware stores in done by one person. the Tampa Bay area, They are done by a they will tell you it’s the team of people.” Billy variety of items and Atchison and Tim services Ace Hardware Gibson would agree has to offer their cuswith Mr. Jobs because tomers. “Ace Hardware they have been busioffers the best selection, ness partners for years convenience and service and they currently own for your home maintefour Ace Hardware nance and animal supThe SouthShore community stores in Southern ply needs,” Gibson said. recently welcomed Ace Hardware. The store is located at 16440 S. “We strive to provide Hillsborough County. US Hwy. 301 in Wimauma behind expert advice and a “We started in 2003 the Walmart. It is 10,000 sq. ft., with the first store in which is double the size of its old friendly smile. We also location in Sun City Center. Lithia,” Gibson said. offer free local delivery “We opened the second store near Big on orders over $50.” Bend in 2005. We acquired the Sun City What Gibson and Atchison like most Center store in 2015 at its previous locaabout owning multiple Ace Hardware tion. Our fourth store was opened in 2017 stores is that they get to be problem on Hwy. 301 in Riverview.” solvers. “Our favorite part of being in the Gibson and Atchison recently relocat- Ace family is helping others solve probed the Sun City Center to Wimauma this lems,” Gibson said. “It's very rewarding to past November and reopened their new help someone find the right solution to Ace Hardware on December 20, 2019. their home or pet needs.” “We moved the Sun City Center store to Their new Ace Hardware store will the new location 1.7 miles away at 16440 have many things to offer the SouthShore S. US Hwy. 301 in Wimauma behind the community. “The new location will have Walmart,” Gibson said. “It is 10,000 sq. ft., twice as much product, a full line of which is double the size of the old locaPurina feeds, Benjamin Moore paints, tion, allowing us to offer wider aisles and propane refills, screen repairs and the better selection. It is conveniently located same helpful faces, plus a couple of new at the traffic light for golf carts to cross ones,” Gibson said. Hwy. 301. We officially opened on If you would like to learn more about December 20 after some construction the new SouthShore Ace Hardware store, delays and the response has been you can visit the store’s website at tremendous.” www.crossroadsace.com or call 634If you ask Gibson and Atchison what 5363.
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Volume 18, Issue 1
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
ir o h C r o Seni s, Brain Begin More… Bus & anti, e Coles ll e h ic ed by M com Compil spreyobserver. o e@ michell
Senior Community Choir Begins In January
A new senior community choir in Riverview is seeking singers with all levels of singing experience. ‘Joyful Voices’ will hold rehearsals every Monday from 1:30-2:30 p.m. beginning Monday, January 27. This choir was created for older adults who have a love of music and a desire to sing. “Singing has a way of lifting spirits and stimulating memories,” stated the choir’s music director, Janet Formato. The idea for the senior community choir came as a result of a number of residents at The Bridges who love to sing. Executive Director Donna Steiermann is excited about the choir. “In addition to a number of our residents, many seniors from the Greater Brandon/Riverview community will be joining us. We especially welcome those with mild cognitive impairment,” explained Steiermann. Rehearsals will be held at the Cambridge Clubhouse at The Bridges, located at 11202 Dewhurst Dr. in Riverview. A spring performance will be held in April. For information and to reserve your spot, please call 413-8900.
throughout Florida. On Tuesday, January 14 from 10 a.m.-12 Noon, it will be at Superior Residences on 1819 Providence Ridge Blvd. in Brandon. Learn about 10 warning signs of Alzheimer’s, 10 ways to love your brain, steps to an accurate diagnosis and advancements in research. Paymaster Larry Westcott (behind Scouts) of the Sgt. For more informaWalter P. Ryan Detachment of tion, visit alz.org or call the Marine Corps League in the 24/7 helpline at 800Riverview presented three Good Citizenship Awards at the 272-3900.
South Bay Genealogical Society Meeting
On Tuesday, January 21 at 10:30, the South Bay Genealogical Society will meet at the United Methodist Church in the Life Enrichment Center (LEC) on 1210 W. Del Webb Blvd. in Sun City Center. The round table discussion will be Jack Parry from Online Print Smart donated $1,000 to the South Shore Coalition, where followed by a sit-down funds are used to educate the community luncheon at 12 Noon. about memory screenings, care for Scouts Court of Honor on The main presentation Parkinson’s patients and print collateral for December 19 to (front, L-R) Vehicle Registration new initiatives such as Wraparound for Parley David, Joseph David by guest speaker Seniors. and Jonathan Tamoama. Can Now Be Renewed Karen Fortin will be at 1 7856 or sharonlAt Three Publix Locations p.m. She will talk about the pilgrims of vasquez@verizon.net. Because renewing your vehicle registhe Mayflower. The presentation will The ABWC’s primary mission is protration should also be a pleasure, three show who these passengers were, their viding scholarships for educating and Publix locations in Hillsborough County beliefs and why they came to New training of students who live in Apollo now host tax collector self-service kiosks. England. The cost is $15 per person for Beach and the surrounding areas with a The new kiosk program, Florida MV lunch. For reservations and information, demonstrated financial need. The third Express, allows customers to get a new call Sheila at 319-631-4457. Mail checks annual Mystery Luncheon and silent auc- registration card and license plate sticker to SBGS, P.O. Box 5202, Sun City tion will be held at Southshore Falls on in a matter of minutes, as opposed to Center, FL 33571 by Wednesday, Friday, March 15. The Pelican Players will several days. The blue and yellow kiosks January 9. present Lethal Luau. Tickets are on sale. will be available at the grocery chain’s To learn more about the ABWC, visit Citrus Park location at 7835 Gunn Hwy., Apollo Beach Woman’s Club February www.apollobeachwomansclub.com or Plant City’s Walden Woods store at 2202 2020 Luncheon And Upcoming contact the Second Vice President of James L. Redman Pkwy. and the Lake Events Membership Liz Pedersen at 777-8215 or Brandon Plaza Publix at 11255 The Apollo Beach Woman’s Club kenlizpedersen@msn.com. Causeway Blvd. February 2020 luncheon will be held on The kiosk program soft-launched last Wednesday, February 12 at 11:30 a.m. at Visit The Alzheimer’s Association February at four tax collector locations in the Apollo’s Bistro located at 6520 Richies Brain Bus At Superior Residences Brandon, Drew Park, North Tampa and Way in Apollo Beach. The luncheon costs The Alzheimer’s Association Brain Ruskin, and has already processed $18. Reservations must be made and Bus, a statewide mobile outreach initia20,000 vehicle registrations. paid for by Friday, February 7. A repretive, raises awareness of Alzheimer’s and While you can still register your vehisentative from the Hillsborough County related dementias and addresses the cle online or at a tax collector branch, neiFire Department will give tips on home benefits of early detection, early diagnother of those options come with the ability fire safety. For menu details and reservasis, brain health and risk reduction. With to take home a Publix chicken tender tions, contact Sharon Vasquez at 641two mobile units, the Brain Bus travels sub. Visit https://flmvexpresskiosk.com/.
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Page 13
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
Scouting For Food Aims To Impact Hunger With Canned Food Collection
Staff Report
Scouting for The Boy Food seeks to Scouts of America collect a recordis a program that setting amount of teaches young food to fight men and women hunger, powered values, leaderby thousands of ship, adventure boys and girls in and—most imporlocal Boy Scouts tantly—how to of America lend a helping groups across hand and assist West Central those in need. Florida. More than Scouts ages 5 through 17 will go door-to- 15,000 Scouts Scouts ages door in their neighborhoods to place door 5 through 17 will are members of hangers with information on Scouting for Food on Saturday, January 25, 2020 and lead the way, the local branch then will return to collect nonperishable food of Boy Scouts of going door-todonations left on front porches on Saturday, door in their America, the February 1, 2020. neighborhoods to Greater Tampa place door hangers Bay Area Council. The with information on council and its Scouting Saturday, January 25, for Food effort covers 2020 and then will nine counties, stretching return to collect nonfrom Crystal River to perishable food donaLake Placid and including tions left on front the counties of Citrus, porches one week Hardee, Hernando, later on Saturday, Highlands, Hillsborough, February 1, 2020. Pasco, Pinellas, Polk and Scouting for Food Sumter. Food collected in will take place on the weekends lead- our community will benefit ECHO ing up to the Super Bowl, and the food banks. Greater Tampa Bay Area Council— “Our Scouts and adult leaders will our region’s branch of the Boy Scouts hand-deliver all the collected food of America—is joining more than items to local food banks in their 4,000 participating groups in the communities,” said Jim Rees, CEO of Souper Bowl of Caring, a nonprofit the Greater Tampa Bay Area Council. organization that collected more than “We believe this will be our region’s 4,500,000 pounds of food in 2019. biggest food drive by Boy Scouts “Serving others is at the heart of ever.” what Scouting is all about,” said To stay up to date on the Scouting for Food Event Chair progress of Scouting for Food in Melissa Snively, who serves as chair 2020, follow on Facebook or visit of the Hillsborough County School TampaBayScouting.org. Board. “In Florida alone, more than The Boy Scouts of America has 850,000 children struggle with programs for both young men and hunger. Our scouts will be energized women, from kindergarten until the knowing they are helping other young age of 21 years old. For more inforpeople through Scouting for Food.” mation, visit TampaBayScouting.org.
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Page 14
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
Volume 18, Issue 1
Citizen Effort Needed To Preserve Our North American Bird Population
Con’t From Page 1....Dr. Earl Lennard
If you’ve been seeresult, this hinders a ing fewer birds in the bird’s survival. Don’t past few decades, you’re use rat poison, either. If right. There’s a reason, an owl or hawk eats a and it’s not a good one. poisoned rat, that rapMore than one in tor can be poisoned. four North American 3) Keep cats birds—nearly three bilindoors. Outdoor cats lion—have vanished kill about 2.4 billion since 1970, according to birds a year in the U.S. a study published in the Outdoor life isn’t journal Science. healthy for cats, either. The study’s lead They can be hit by cars author, Ken Rosenberg, or killed by predators is a senior scientist at the and are exposed to disCornell Lab of eases. Ornithology and 4) Reduce plastics. American Bird Plastic is harming Conservancy. wildlife, including birds More than one in four North The reasons for the that eat plastic or get American birds—nearly three billion—have vanished since 1970. tangled in it. loss vary, including loss Pictured: an eastern meadowlark. of habitat, domestic cats, 5) Make your wincollisions, pesticide use and climate dows safer. Birds can die when they hit a change. Birds are indicators of environwindow. Install screens or break up reflecmental health—and their loss signals a tions on windows with film, paint or widespread ecological crisis. Acopian BirdSavers. The loss is caused by humans, so it’s 6) Drink shade-grown coffee. Most up to us to help. Here are things you can coffee farms grow their plants in the sun, do now, according to bird experts at the which destroys forest wildlife’s sources for Cornell Lab of Ornithology: food and shelter. 1) Reduce your lawn and incorporate 7) Become a citizen scientist. Citizen native plants into your landscaping. They science programs protect birds by providuse less water and attract bugs and ing data that helps conservation insects that birds need to live. Use researchers and land managers make Audubon’s database to find native plants appropriate, informed decisions. that work for your area: To learn more, visit www.audubon.org/native-plants. www.TampaAudubon.org. To find out how 2) Say no to pesticides. Pesticides kill to help birds, visit insects that birds eat and exposure to www.birds.cornell.edu/home/seven-simpesticides can delay migration. As a ple-actions-to-help-birds.
School there up He received numerous until his illness. His awards for decades of daughter, Missy, in service and lent sup2009 became the port and leadership to, charter principal of among other groups, the elementary the Greater Brandon school in and Greater Riverview FishHawk named chambers of comfor Richard “Dick” merce and the Boys & Stowers, who died Girls Club in Brandon in January. and Riverview. “Earl and Dick “Dr. Lennard was a are probably the part of us in the field of two best education working with historians youth and community, of this who gave us the idea area and we could do this work “Dr. Lennard was a respected and make a differI loved leader who cared about his hearing ence,” said Jefferson community,” said Helen their stoMulrennan Young, with Earl High graduate and forLennard at the 2010 Brandon mer NBA player Ricky ries,” High School Grand Reunion. attorney Gallon, now metro Helen said Lennard “was a B. Lee great friend to the Mulrennan community liaison for family and worked on the farm Boys & Girls Clubs of Elam said. “Earl was a with my brother Bud.” totally selfless person. Tampa Bay. “He could Any talent he had, any information he see something in you that you couldn’t had, any way he could help, he would, see yourself, and help you quantify it and and he wanted to take no credit for it. put it to good use.” Stowers, of course, was cut from the East Bay graduate Tanya Doran, the same cloth.” Riverview chamber’s executive director, Senator Tom Lee, a Brandon High agreed. “He saw something in me I did graduate, agreed. not see in myself,” she said. “Earl is a “Over the past 20 years we’ve lost man who inspired generations.” many of Brandon’s greatest generation,” A Celebration of Life is set for 2 p.m. he said. “Together they built this town and Jan. 11, at Dr. Earl J. Lennard High it was honor to have lived and served in School in Ruskin. In lieu of flowers, donatheir time.” tions can be made to Riverview United A lifelong history buff, Lennard taught Methodist Church, general fund, for a at Ruskin Elementary and at East Bay scholarship program in Lennard’s name, and Tampa Bay Technical high schools. soon to be announced.
By Sandy Townsend
Leaves Lasting Community Legacy
By Linda Chion Kenney
January 2020
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
Rachel Napoli
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Page 16
Volume 18, Issue 1
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
Ex-Circus Tigers From Guatemala Find New Home At Big Cat Rescue
Staff Report
Saved from a circompleting similar cus in Guatemala missions in Bolivia, by Animal Defenders Colombia and International (ADI), Peru, ADI sprang Bengal tigers Max, into action. Simba and Kimba Launching arrived at their forever Operation Liberty home Big Cat in May 2018, ADI Rescue (BCR) in quickly established Florida in time for a temporary resThanksgiving. cue centre in the Jan Creamer, country to care for Three male Bengal tigers were recently saved from a circus in Guatemala and now the rescued anipresident of ADI, call Big Cat Rescue in Tampa home. said, “Never again will mals until they these tigers be abused or made to percould be relocated to their forever form in the circus. The suffering is over. A homes. real team effort, we are delighted that ADI has rescued a total of 15 tigers Max, Simba and Kimba were home in and six lions during its 18-month-long time for Thanksgiving and will be able to Operation Liberty mission. At ADI’s temlive the rest of their lives in peace.” porary rescue centre, all of the animals The relocation of the three male have received veterinary care and some tigers began on November 24 when Max, emergency treatment, including dental Simba (both 9 years old) and Kimba (2.5 surgery to repair painful, damaged years old) were coaxed into travel crates teeth. Like many of the big cats ADI has for the journey of a lifetime. rescued, a number of the animals, Big Cat Rescue Founder and CEO including Simba, have been declawed, Carole Baskin said, “All three of our new a cruel mutilation that doesn’t just tigers from Guatemala are settling into remove the claws, but the toes at the their new home here at Big Cat Rescue first joint, causing ongoing discomfort, very quickly. Each has been eating well, which can lead to painful disability later drinking water, exploring their new encloin life. sures, enjoying their platforms and dens The other tigers and lions rescued and chuffing happily to our keepers. We during the mission will be relocated to are so grateful this Thanksgiving to finally the ADI Wildlife Sanctuary in South have these precious boys here in their Africa, already home to 25 lions resforever home.” cued by ADI from circuses in Peru and Banning the use of animals in circus- Colombia. For more information or to es in 2017, the government of Guatemala donate to ADI, visit donate.ad-internationinvited ADI to help enforce the law after it al.org/guatemala. came into effect 12 months later. With the For more information on Big Cat London-based organization successfully Rescue, visit https://bigcatrescue.org/.
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TECO Manatee Viewing Center Reaches Its 34th Season By Tatiana Ortiz
Free parking and admission are provided as well at the center. When the waters reach 68 degrees or colder, visitors can see multiple manatees. At the on-site environmental education building, visitors can learn about manatees, Tampa Electric Company’s power plant, stewardship programs and more. It also includes puzzle tables and manatee bones to Stroll along the TECO touch, just to Manatee Viewing Center, name a few. which is near the Big Bend While visiting, Power Station in Apollo check out the Beach, as it reopened on butterfly garNovember 1 for its 34th seaden, gift shop son and you can visit until and concesApril 15, 2020. Besides getsion. ting the opportunity to spot There are many manatees, it also Part of the tidal walk at the TECO about 35 voloffers a wide array of activiManatee Viewing Center. unteers who ties for all ages, such as the work at the center. The volunteers are 900 ft. tidal walk, the 50 ft. wildlife obsereducators who provide information about vation tower, the Rays touch tank that is the Florida manatees, birds and more. in partnership with the Florida Aquarium “All in all, this is a great fun place to and more. learn about manatees and more with TECO’s Senior Environmental friends and family,” Woodlee said. Technician Jamie Woodlee said, “I have For more information, visit www.tambeen a permanent part of this facility for paelectric.com/company/mvc/ or check about 20 years and feel excited to see out its Facebook page at how much it has grown.” www.facebook.com/ManateeViewingCent The Tampa Electric Company has er/. owned and operated the center since its The Manatee Viewing Center is establishment in 1986. On average, it located at 6990 Dickman Rd. in Apollo draws more than 300,000 people during Beach and is open Monday through its season. People from all over the Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. It closes globe, such as Ireland, Japan, New on Christmas Eve at 3 p.m. and is closed Zealand and other places, travel to check on Christmas and Easter. For more inforout the manatees. The average daily visimation, call 228-4289. tor attendance for the center is 2,400.
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Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
South County Transportation Improvement Projects Approved And Funded Through 2025 On November 5, the Hillsborough Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) presented the 2045 Long Range Transportation Plan (LRTP) for Hillsborough County, which provides a detailed overview of investment plans for funding local transportation options. The MPO is made up of local elected and appointed officials and acts as a forum to build a consensus between the public and stakeholders that own, operate and maintain transportation infrastructure with five of our seven current BOCC members on the governing board. Transportation projects Hillsborough County, can be funded through a variwhich represents 63 ety of sources that use federal, percent of the total state and local dollars, or any funding of over $1.1B combination of the three. After with project T-27 (the assessing available funds, eliwidening of Lithia gibility requirements, funding Pinecrest Rd. from scenarios and the region’s Lumsden Rd. to transportation needs, the MPO Fishhawk Blvd.) repdetermined the cost feasibility resenting the single of prospective projects (i.e., most expensive projwhat we can afford and when) ect over the next five and matched it to the commuyears at $183M. nity’s goals. Also of interest Summary list of projects to be completed in the next five years. Several projects have would be T-3/T-20 2025-2045). already been approved and funded (Big Bend Rd. improvements), T-16 Below is a brief summary of projects through 2025 (First Five Years), with (improvements to the Bloomingdale already approved that will have significant many other projects selected for funding Ave./US 301 intersection) and T-7 (extenimpact on our communities (First Five over the next two decades and/or are sion of Balm Rd./Paseo Al Mar Ave. from Years). Eighteen of the 27 major projects considered a high priority for dollars that US 301 to US 41 utilizing a flyover of Iwill benefit Eastern or Southern have been set aside (Cost Feasible 75), as well as the Bell Shoals Rd.
By Brian Bokor
widening project (T-21) already underway. The Selmon Expressway (T-17/T-18) will be getting two additional lanes added (one in each direction) from the I-4 connector to I-75. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd. will be widened from Kingsway Rd. to McIntosh Rd. (T-1), and there will be improvements to the I-75/I-4 intersection (T-4). In the Progress Village area, Madison Ave. will be improved, with lanes added from 78th St. to US 41. For information for the complete presentation, please visit the website at www.planhillsborough.org/wpcontent/uploads/2019/10/HillsboroughMP O-LRTP2045-New-PublicHearingDraft102919.pdf. For more information, contact Beth Alden, AICP, MPO Executive Director at 273-3774 x318 or aldenb@plancom.org.
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Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
Page 21
Join The Fun At CATE’s 2nd Annual Community Day & Chili Cook-Off
Boy Scout Troop 61 Hosts Second Annual Taste Of Scouting BBQ Fundraiser
If you’re looking funds to assist its misfor some fun family sion, such as paying for time, then mark your its programs, building calendar for the rent, workbooks and CATE Foundation’s utilities. second annual The 501(c)(3) nonCommunity Day to profit aims to educate be held on Saturday, the community about February 1. the scientific nature of Guests can addiction, provide eduexpect all kinds of cational and treatment family entertainment, resources for recoverlike jumping around ing addicts, empower Cerra Sauce, a vendor from the first those in recovery to be in bounce houses, annual Community Day. If you’re getting their faces interested in /being a vendor for the better members of the painted, doing arts community and help next Community Day, make sure to apply on CATE’s website. and crafts, fun with overcome the stigma of balloons, chances to addiction. win various prizes in raf“Our doors are open; fles and more. we give people who come CATE is currently to our classes workbooks seeking vendors. As of now, there will be and things like that. Everything that we do about 40 vendors, so there’s plenty of at CATE doesn’t cost anything, it’s all variety for all kinds of tastes. free,” said Tina McGlynn, president and Speaking of taste, people who love to co-founder of the CATE Foundation. cook and eat chili can look forward to the CATE recognizes that there are second annual Chili Cook-Off. There’s no many types of addictions and will help better time to show off your favorite chili anyone who seeks them, be it for drug, recipes and see how much everyone alcohol, gambling, food or other addicenjoys them. It costs $25 to enter, and tions. It also helps the family and friends there’ll be cash prizes for first, second of those in recovery. and third place. Community Day will last from 11 To register for the Chili Cook-Off or a.m. to 4 p.m. at E.G. Simmons find the vendor application, visit the Regional Park on 2401 19th Ave. NW. 2cate.org and select ‘EVENTS’. You must in Ruskin. It is free to attend, but the register by Wednesday, January 29. park’s entrance fee is $2 per vehicle, up Judging for the Chili Cook-Off will start at to eight people per vehicle. 12 Noon, and chili will be ready for samFor more information, call 773pling by 1 p.m. for $5. 7175, email contact@2cate.org or follow CATE presents this event not only to CATE’s Facebook page provide good times, but also to raise @CateFoundation.
Boy Scouts Bloomingdale from Founder Sir Robert 11 a.m-6 p.m. The Baden-Powell once troop will be serving said, “Remember, it a choice of brisket, is not what you turkey or pulled have, but what you pork along with give that brings sides of coleslaw, happiness.” John baked beans, a roll Zelatis would agree and a drink. Prices with Sir Badenrange from $10Powell because $13. The troop will Scout Troop 61 will host its Second scouting has been Boy Annual Taste of Scouting on Saturday, be holding a few an important part of February 1 at Presbyterian Church of activities throughout Bloomingdale from 11 a.m.-6 p.m. his life. “One of my the day as well. fondest experiences growing up was “The troop’s decision to hold the being a Boy Scout,” Zelatis said. “So, Taste of Scouting is two-fold,” Zelatis when my son became of age, I was said. “First, to help raise funds for our excited to introduce him to the Scouting program and the Scouting program.” Presbyterian Church of Bloomingdale. His son chose Boy Scout Troop Second, to increase awareness in our 61, which is based out of community and throughout that Presbyterian Church of Bloomingdale. Scouts BSA is one of the best pro“I asked my 11-year-old why he chose grams that help prepare young peothis troop and he said, ‘I feel comfortple for life. The Scouting program able here.’ I understood him,” Zelatis instills in our youth the core values said. “I felt the same way. There was and principles of the Scout Oath and a sense of pride and certainty in the Scout Law while having fun these young boys and young men.” exploring outdoors, learning new Troop 61 has been around for things and preparing for the future.” more than 30 years. Its success is A portion of the funds raised will due to the support they receive from be utilized to purchase new/upgrade the chartered organization, existing camping equipment and proPresbyterian Church of Bloomingdale, vide Scout families assistance the Greater Tampa Bay Area Council, through scholarships in case of finanthe Brandon community and the tirecial hardships. less leaders that keep the program The troop is currently preselling vibrant and strong. tickets for the event. Visit The troop will host its second www.bstroop61.com. Presbyterian annual Taste of Scouting on Saturday, Church of Bloomingdale is located at February 1 at Presbyterian Church of 710 E. Bloomingdale Ave. in Brandon.
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Page 22
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
including one day during a wartime period, may be eligible to receive up to $1,912 per month for assisted living expenses if they served during World War II, the Korean , Wimauma Native War, the Vietnam Era ti san lle Cole e h ic M Graduates or other more recent d by m Compile preyobserver.co LifeSkills Course conflicts (duration of @os michelle service required may Intelligence vary). Surviving spousSpecialist es may qualify to Seaman receive up to $1,230. Stephanie Dennis Mont’Ros, Harrison is a Everyone Invited To Check Artists from L-R: Johanna Pol, Deborah McCanna, Vicki Knauff, veteran service officer recent LifeSkills Out Spurlino YMCA At OneLynda Cook, Roy Castleton, Helen Monte, Linda Flaunder, Pat with Hillsborough graduate, NAS Year Celebration Kappas and Patty Hay. County’s Department Oceana Dam Spurlino YMCA will hold a one of the previously mentioned topof Consumer and Veterans Services, Neck Annex. one-year celebration on Friday, ics. will provide information and answer The January 10 from 4-8 p.m. This For many of the new Sailors, questions about this benefit. This free LifeSkills curis an open house event and these classes provide them with skills seminar will be held at The Bridges, riculum inspires everyone is welcome to come as they begin Navy life. located at 11202 Dewhurst Dr. in apprentice-level try it out. On the same night, a Harrison is the daughter of Mr. Riverview, from 11 a.m.-12 Noon, with Sailors to have movie night will be held on the and Mrs. Jeffery Harrison and has lunch provided. Seating is limited. good decisiongrass (located on the soccer been in the U.S. Navy since Please reserve a seat by calling 413making parafields). Spurlino YMCA is locatSeptember 2019. 8900. digms when ed at 9650 Old Big Bend Rd. faced with in Riverview. Call 436-5890 for The Bridges Retirement Intelligence Specialist Seaman issues involving Southshore Regional Library And more information. Stephanie Harrison. Community Hosts Veterans SBGS Expand Genealogy suicide prevenAssistance Seminar Volunteers tion, sexual harassment, equal opporSouthshore Fall Clubhouse Hosts The Bridges Retirement tunity and overall decision-making in The South Bay Genealogical Local Artist Creations Community is hosting a veterans general. The content itself is divided Society will expand the volunteer The Southshore Falls clubhouse assistance seminar on Tuesday, into primarily personal financial manservices that are now provided at the was alive with color over the February 4 to educate wartime veteragement lesson topics, interventional SouthShore Regional Library beginThanksgiving weekend in the form of ans and their survivors about a benefit ning on Thursday, January training and Navy core values. various canvases, cards, mugs and through the U.S. Department of The program is taught by Navy 9. Currently, member volunteers are palm fronds. Paintings of animals, Veterans Affairs’ ‘Improved Pension military training instructors who proavailable to assist anyone who needs birds, snowy landscapes and with Aid and Attendance.’ This benefit vide leadership, training and profeshelp with their genealogy research in seascapes and flowers to mention a can help offset the cost of living in a sional development of accession-level the Jack Fischer Genealogy Center few graced the walls of the clubhouse retirement community for a wartime Sailors prior to their arrival to the fleet. on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Friday for three days to give spectators a veteran or his/her surviving The training uses several scenariofrom 10 a.m.-12 Noon. Volunteers will chance to enjoy the art. The artists, spouse. Veterans of any branch of the be added on Thursday evenings from based questions then selected coursunder the guidance of Johanna Pol, armed services who served for 90 es of action, which subsequently 6-8 p.m. to help those who cannot used acrylic and oil paints. Have you consecutive days on active duty, leads into a specific lesson relating to make it to the earlier times. always wanted to paint? Pol encour-
ar e Y e n O Spurlino Veterans ion, t a r b e l e C re… o M & r Semina
ages anyone with that desire to contact her and join in the fun. The classes are small and reasonably priced. You can call her at 649-1743.
Volume 18, Issue 1
Open to the Public
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January 2020
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
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Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
Volume 18, Issue 1
Riverview/Apollo Beach
January 2020
Volume 18, Issue 1
Seminar Teaches How Image Lift Can Help You Refresh And Look Younger
Would you like to look younger, yet avoid surgery? Dr. Rich Castellano is an artist and an awardwinning double board-certified facial plastic and reconstructive surgeon. He is currently the #1 Bellafill facial filler injector in the United States, and he has performed more than 3,500 facelifts under local anesthesia. Before you have a facelift or filler injection, make sure you meet Dr. Rich. You are invited to a Facial Beauty Social Mixer Seminar on Thursday, January 16 at 1 p.m. at the Sun City Center Club Renaissance, 2121 S. Pebble Beach Blvd. Lunch will be served. Call 888875-3223 now as seating is limited. ImageLift is located at 3314 Henderson Blvd., Ste. 201 in Tampa. Hours are Monday to Friday from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Call 463-9245. Visit www.ImageLift.com or Facebook. com/ImageLift.
South Shore Boutique Moves To FishHawk
Shelly Molter, owner of South Shore Boutique, recent moved the store from Apollo Beach to 5492 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. in Lithia. This is a boutique store specializing in women and children’s monogrammed gifts and accessories. Your
Ph: 657-2418
ly staff members were on hand to welcome everyone. A zesty offering of Latin fare, including a fajita bar, mini empanadas, Riverview Chamber of Commerce (GRCC) members gath- fresh salsas, ered to celebrate with a ribbon cutting and official grand and a sweet The Greater Riverview Chamber opening ceremony for Cali Aji of Commerce recently spread of and part time positions announced the opening of its assorted bakery items, were beautifully online store in partnership with offered. displayed for all to sample and enjoy. local apparel company and memOn Monday, January ber Manatee Apparel and Cali Aji is a Latin kitchen, market, 28 from 12 Noon-3 p.m. Graphics. and bakery. Open for breakfast, lunch, at Job Connection, imagination is and dinner, it offers a variety of scratch 10739 Big Bend Rd. in Riverview will the limit. You can personalize pieces made dishes and bakery items from hold interviews for Teacher’s Aides, on just about anything a needle can many Latin countries. Some of the Teacher’s Assistants and Preschool pierce. menu items include the Mexican street Teachers. You must be 18 or older and Stop by to check out the great taco, Peruvian Lomo Salteado, a DCF 45 training hours is a plus. For items. Molter also carries Simply Spanish Paella, Colombian style more information, contact Rebecca at Southern in the boutique. empanadas, and fresh brewed coffee 727-578-0999 or tampa.recr3@childCall 466-9461 for more informadrinks and smoothies. The restaurant carecareers.net. tion. You can also shop online at first opened its doors earlier this year, https://southshoreboutique.com. but this gathering marked the official Greater Riverview Chamber of grand opening celebration. Commerce Celebrates Official Recruitment Event For ChildCare Cali Aji is located at 10662 USGrand Opening of Cali Aji Careers 301, Riverview, FL 33578. This is on In November, the Greater the East side of 301, just south of the ChildCare Careers (CCC) is the Riverview Chamber of Commerce Gibsonton/Boyette intersection of 301. largest staffing firm dedicated to the (GRCC) members gathered to celeKeep an eye out for the sign with their child care field. CCC provides fully brate with a ribbon cutting and official logo featuring a chili pepper and qualified and pre-screened teachers, grand opening ceremony for Cali Aji. flames. You can also reach Cali Aji by assistant teachers and site directors to Owner, Edgar Vallejo, restaurant phone at (813) 443-1543. child care centers, preschools and Manager, Carlos Ledesma, and friendbefore and after school programs. Full
Continued on Next Page
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Volume 18, Issue 1
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
Business Column Continued...................
By Michelle Colesanti
U.S. Census Bureau Is Hiring
The U.S. Census Bureau is recruiting for over 3,000 positions in Hillsborough and Manatee County. Events will take place for Recruiting Assistants, Clerks, Office Operations, Supervisors and Census Takers at Job Connection, 10739 Big Bend Rd. in Riverview. Hour-long info sessions will be held for job seekers to gather information and meet with a recruiter. These events will take place on Wednesday, January 15, 22 and 29. Session times are 11 a.m.-12 Noon, 12 Noon-1 p.m., 1-2 p.m. and 2-3 p.m. Pay starts at $18.50, $.59/mile for travel, flexible hours (30-45 per week). You must be 18 years or older and a U.S. Citizen, Registered for the Selective Service (males only – if born after 1960). For more information, call Gloria at 703-887-3868 or visit https://2020census.gov/en/jobs.html.
Greater Riverview Chamber of Commerce Announces New Online Store For Riverview Swag
The Greater Riverview Chamber of Commerce (GRCC) is now selling apparel and merchandise via an online store. The over 780 member-strong Chamber announced the opening of its online store, in partnership with local apparel company and member, Manatee Apparel and Graphics, at its monthly membership luncheon in November. GRCC President, Michelle Mosher, presented samples and encouraged folks to make purchases to support local business. The store includes over a dozen apparel and merchandise options, from standard T-shirts and baseball caps, to professional tote bags, thermoses, and even onesies for the littlest Riverview residents. The products all feature GRCC's logo, a palm alongside a river making the shape of an R, and the Chamber’s name. Some items also include the ‘Riverview Mytown’ slogan GRCC created to recognize or instill pride the local residents have of their beloved Riverview town. Although the city has grown and continues to grow each year, there is still rich history and small-town vibes present in the community. GRCC dedicates efforts to keep local businesses connected to
each other and to support one another. The purpose of GRCC is to create a family environment that ensures the success of the Riverview community and their members. This is just one of the many ways GRCC continues to strive to fulfill that purpose. You can visit GRCC’s online store at www.riverviewchamber.com/ or Facebook page at www.facebook.com/theriverviewchamber/.
Kahwa Seeking Passionate Individuals To Join Growing Company
Kahwa Coffee Roasting Company, headquartered in St. Petersburg, announced the initiative to hire an estimated 20 individuals to join the growing Kahwa family, allowing the fulfillment of multiple positions within the corporate office, roastery and retail locations. Kahwa has become the largest independent coffee roaster in the state of Florida and doesn’t show signs of slowing down. In the past year alone, the brand relocated its headquarters to a new, larger space, unveiled two canned cold brews as well as announced three new locations — currently 15. For more information on Kahwa’s career opportunities or to send your resume, please contact: jobs@kahwacoffee.com or Jessica at 727-3881340.
more benefit in showcasing what they offer to clients. On the Move Productions provides DJ services as well as audio visual, gaming, chairs, and much more. They specialize in weddings, corporate events, and parties – all the essentials A new Holiday Inn Express & Suites recently opened at you need for your dream 226 Teco Rd. in Ruskin. celebration. On the Move New Renovations At Courtyard Productions is located at 11704 N. US Marriott Tampa Brandon Hwy. 301 in Thonotosassa (about In December, GRCC members seven miles north of the MIDFLORIDA gathered to celebrate the recent renoCredit Union Amphitheater). Visit vations of the Courtyard Marriott www.otmproductions.com. Tampa Brandon location. The ribbon cutting allowed guests to enjoy light appetizers, beverages, live music, and MPH Hotels, Inc. Announces New Holiday Inn Express & Suites® In door prizes which included an Apple Watch, Tampa Bay Buccaneers tickets, Ruskin Open MPH Hotels, Inc. recently and a stay at Streamsong. Tours of the announced the opening of the newfresh new space were offered to those build, 92-room Holiday Inn Express & in attendance as well. Suites® hotel in Ruskin. The Tampa Brandon location InterContinental Hotels Group offers everything you would need for a (IHG), one of the world’s leading successful stay. Stylish rooms come hotel companies, is the parent comwith free Wi-Fi, plush bedding, and pany of productive workspaces. the Starbucks coffee as well Holiday as beer and wine selecInn tions in the Bistro are Express offered. Breakfast and brand. dinner options are also Jason available. Guests can Kennedy, also enjoy the refreshing sales indoor pool and fitness manager center to help maintain a said, “We healthy balance are very when traveling. excited to The Tampa be in Brandon locaRuskin. tion is located at The city On The Move Productions hosted a ribbon 10152 Palm cutitng with the Riverview Chamber. has been River Rd. in great to work with and the community Tampa (Hwy. 60 and I-75). has been so welcoming and supportCall 661-9559 or visit www.marriott.com/hotels/trav- ive of the hotel. The Holiday Inn Express brand seems to be a perfect el/tpabr-courtyard-tampafit to the fill the need for a quality brandon/ for more informamid-scale hotel in Ruskin. We are tion. excited to be open for business and look forward to being involved in the GRCC Celebrates TheOpening Of community.” On the Move Productions The Holiday Inn Express brand is GRCC members were happy to be the smart choice for travelers seeking invited to check out the new space a hotel that will help them rest and from On the Move Productions. go while staying productive. The Members and community came out to 2,600 Holiday Inn Express hotels support the event and enjoyed the worldwide offer a simple and efficient complimentary food, giveaways, warestay through the uncomplicated yet house tour, photo booth, and personal service travelers expect ambiance of the newly decorated from the brand. space. The hotel is located at 226 Teco On the Move Productions moved Rd. in Ruskin. Reservations can be into a bigger warehouse to allow more made by calling 1-800-HOLIDAY or at space for tables, linens, lighting, pipe www.hiexpress.com/ruskinfl. & drape, etc. This space gives them
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Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
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Page 28
Volume 18, Issue 1
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
Year In Review- Updates On The Top Stories From 2019
Big Moves, Big Year, 2019 Is One For the Record Books
Thank you again for participating in the Our Favorite Things Sweepstakes Program this holiday season! This year, we had the most successful campaign we have ever done and we were able to surprise three local families with amazing prizes! The Early Bird Big Green Egg Minimax from Rolling Pin Kitchen went to the Yick family. The diamond and blue topaz earrings from McAuley Fine Jewelry went to USF Sophomore Claire Eberhart, A Bloomingdale High School grad and polite young woman pursuing her nursing degree. And, the Grand Prize with a mountain of gift baskets and gift certificates went to the Morin Family who just moved to Riverview from Alaska 2 months ago and Mom Leah and
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daughters Kai and Zoe can NOT wait to get into the community and try all of the great gift certificates and prizes! In addition, we were able to donate $500 to the foster care home, A Kid's Place for them to purchase gift items and gift certificates movie passes for the teens in foster care. There are always 60 foster children at A Kid's Place right on Lithia Pinecrest Rd. And finally, we were able to donate 100 toys to Toys for Tots which is a program through the Marines to get gifts to kids this season! In addition to all of this holiday excitement, the Osprey Observer has moved its offices to our new location at 2109 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. and we look forward to welcoming the community this year! January marks our 18th year of publishing positive community news and we couldn’t do it without you! Thank you for being a special part of our holiday season and please let us know if there is anything we can do for you or your business! Email me anytime at editor@ospreyobserver.com
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Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
Year In Review- Updates On The Top Stories From 2019 Spurlino Y Opening Meets Quick Success
By Michelle Caceres
obligation to all community stakeholders to make responsible decisions with the resources provided. Future Tampa Y projects will reflect a modern design and an energy-efficient infrastructure. The money saved from operating more efficient buildings will be reinvested into a Tampa Bay community that needs a strong YMCA now more than ever.” Original Story printed February 2019 Members of the community and civic leaders Located at 9650 Old Big Bend attended the ribbon-cutting ceremony at The Rd. in Riverview, the 33 acre Spurlino Spurlino Family YMCA. Family YMCA complex is more than Since its January 10, 2019 grand a gym. In addition to group exercise proopening, the Spurlino Y team has been grams and equipment, it features a pavilproviding much-needed services to ion perfect for picnics with friends and more than 14,000 members in the rapfamily, outdoor soccer fields, Airmasium idly growing Riverview/Gibsonton (outdoor basketball), a one-mile outdoor community. In less than a year, the walking track, a two-story kids’ play area, Tampa YMCA’s first new family facility wellness programs and a lap swim pool in nearly 18 years is already awardconnected to a zero-depth entry family winning. At the Hillsborough County pool with fun play features and a waterPlanning Commission’s 37th annual slide. Planning & Design Awards, the Riverview resident Ella Fernandez Spurlino Y received an environmental was attending as one of the facility’s and entertainment merit award. The newest employees. special award recognizes the fact that The 17-year-old has wanted to work the Spurlino Y will be the first LEED at the YMCA since she first heard that it Gold-certified Y location and the secwas coming to Riverview. She applied ond LEED Gold-certified Y building in and was hired as a lifeguard. Hillsborough County. “I look forward to being a welcoming “Thanks to the hard work and face and making people feel safe and dedication of Creative Contractors, comfortable,” said the teen. Fleischman-Garcia Architects and Facility hours are Monday to Friday 5 Real Building Consultants, the a.m.–10 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday Spurlino Y has set a new standard for 7 a.m.–6 p.m. Membership fees start at future Y buildings throughout Tampa $37 per month. Bay,” said Matt Mitchell, Tampa YMCA For more information, call 436-5890 President and CEO. “We feel it is an or visit www.tampaymca.org.
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Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
Volume 18, Issue 1
Year In Review- Updates On The Top Stories From 2019 Newland Communities Donates More Than 22,000 Meals To Fight Hunger
School District Breaks Ground On New South County High School TTT
Original hunger. For every dollar Story printed donated, Feeding February 2019. Tampa Bay can provide The hun10 meals. dreds of concert“The number goers who of people in our area attended who are in need of Newland nutritious food donaCommunities’ tions to feed themannual Concerts selves and their families for a Cause is staggering,” said series did more Pam Parisi, vice presithan just enjoy dent of marketing for an evening of Newland great live music. Newland Communities’ Concerts for a Cause Communities, develhelped provide more than 22,000 meals to opers of Waterset and They helped neighbors in need. Feeding Tampa Bexley. “We’re grateful Bay provide more than 22,000 meals to to our residents who year after year show neighbors in need. their generosity though our Concerts for a The concert series, along with Fall Cause series. Not only does it bring our Festivals held at Waterset in Apollo community together, but the donations Beach and Bexley in Land O’ Lakes, collected make an enormous difference brought in a total of 2,155 lbs. of non per- for people in need.” ishable foods and more than $2,000 in "Concerts for a Cause brings comcash donations. All totaled, the donations munities together, which is what we are will provide Feeding Tampa Bay 22,066 all about at Feeding Tampa Bay,” meals. The organization is the area’s added Thomas Mantz, executive director leading food bank, which provides food to of Feeding Tampa Bay. more than 700,000 people in a 10-county “This partnership with Newland area of West Florida, including Communities connects families to their Hillsborough and Pasco Counties best self through giving while providing The series of popular outdoor conthousands of families in need the opporcerts featured local and regional bands tunity to share memories around a table and took place between September and where meals are too often lacking." October at the two communities. In lieu of Waterset is a master-planned comadmission, concertgoers were asked to munity located in Apollo Beach featuring bring non perishable food items or mone- a variety of amenities that include three tary donations to benefit Feeding Tampa community pools, fitness centers, sports Bay. In Tampa Bay, one in seven adults courts, Fit Trail and Greenway. Call 235and one in four children struggle with 0154 or visit www.watersetfl.com.
Progress is underway for the new Hillsborough County school set to relieve overcrowding at Newsome, Durant, East Bay and Lennard highs. Hillsborough County officials, community leaders and construction experts met at the school site, located at 10650 C.R. 672 in Riverview, last month to officially break ground on the project and share artist renderings of the school with those in Hillsborough County Public Schools recently broke ground on the new “High attendance. School TTT” located off C.R. 672 in “Construction is booming in South Riverview. The school is expected to open Hillsborough County with thousands of in August 2020. students expected to be entering our 2019 was an exciting year for anyschools over the next three to five years,” one associated with High School TTT, said Hillsborough County Public School’s now named Jule F. Sumner High Tanya Arja. “The high schools in that area School. Construction is on schedule are already near or over capacity.” to be completed so that the first stuThe new school, currently known as dents will be able to enter the school “High School TTT” for planning purposes, in August for the 2020-21 school year. will cost an estimated $70 million to build, Dave Brown, who most recently held funded by three years of impact fee colthe position of principal at Strawberry lections. Enrollment is expected to reach Crest High School, was named princi3,000 students at the 239,000 sq. ft. pal as has spent the last few months building, which is planned to open in working to staff the school and make August 2020. This is the first high school sure it will be ready for students in the to be built in the area in 10 years. fall. Local parents and students chose The new school will be located on the Stingray as the school’s mascot. the north side of C.R. 672 (Balm Rd.), Sumner will also host Academy 2027, east of U.S. Hwy. 301. a one of a kind middle school program Residents interested in learning more for students who will graduate high about the attendance boundary changes school in the year 2027. Academy are invited to attend the Hillsborough 2027 will accept students through County School Board meeting on school choice. For more information, January 15 at 901 E. Kennedy Blvd. in contact Brown at Tampa. For more information, visit David.Brown@sdhc.k12.fl.us. or visit www.sdhc.k12.fl.us or call 272-4608. To www.sdhc.k12.fl.us. submit questions or comments, email Original Story printed January boundaries@sdhc.k12.fl.us. 2019.
By Candace Rotolo
By Kate Quesada
January 2020
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Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
Year In Review- Updates On The Top Stories From 2019 Middle School Makes Big Impact With Dodgeball Tourney To Fund Crossing Guards
By Kate Quesada
Parents at Mulrennan Middle School in Valrico held a dodgeball tournament last month to fund three crossing guards to assist students get to the school safely.
After raising over $13,000 for private crossing guards at Mulrennan Middle School last year, Commissioner White added ‘finding funding’ on the agenda in February 2019. The vote, which took place in April, was unanimous; 7-0 in favor of funding crossing guards for middle schools. PTA President Danielle Waymire said, “After advocating for so long for crossing guards, it was a great moment to be present for the vote. We felt that our county commissioners and Sheriff Chronister took our children’s safety seriously.” The implementation of crossing guards was to be over a three-year period of time and more than 100 crossing guards were needed. Sheriff Chronister started immediately hiring and training guards so that on the first day of school in August, county middle schools had crossing guards for the first time. Original Story printed February 2019.
A group of parents at Mulrennan Middle School took their children’s safety into their own hands last month. Frustrated by the conditions for students who walk to the Valrico middle school, the parents raised $13,000 through a dodgeball tournament to fund three private crossing guards. Valrico resident and mother of three Mulrennan students, Danielle Waymire spearheaded the fundraiser when one of her children was almost hit by car while walking to school. “It got to the point where enough was enough,” said Waymire, who walks her children to school every day. “I couldn’t just watch cars regularly not yielding and children almost getting hit without doing something.” Once funded, it took less than two weeks for the crossing guards to take their places twice a day directing students and traffic. “They have already made a huge difference,” said Mulrennan parent and Valrico resident Bridget Wilson. “We are so proud of our school and the fact that we were able to make this happen,” said Wilson. “But we are even happier that local politicians have noticed. We are hoping that by the next school year we won’t have to do this anymore.” Mulrennan Middle School is located at 4215 Durant Rd. in Valrico and can be reached at 651-2100.
The Florida Aquarium Opens $4 Million Sea Turtle Rehabilitation Center In Apollo Beach The Florida Aquarium’s Sea Turtle Rehab, which opened early in 2019 in Apollo Beach, has been busy doing what it was designed for: rehabilitating turtles from around the state and even nationally, then releasing them when they are healthy enough. The Aquarium received three critically endangered loggerhead sea turtles in December 2019. The turtles were found stranded on Cape Cod after being severely affected by the cold-water temperatures in New England, experiencing what is called a ‘cold-stun.’ The turtles were then transported to the New England Aquarium’s sea turtle hospital for triage. They were then transported by private jet to Tampa. The Florida Aquarium’s Animal Response Team, supported by Florida Blue, picked up the sea turtles from the airport and transported them to the Aquarium’s Sea Turtle Rehabilitation Center in Apollo Beach. The sea turtles will remain at the Center until they are fully rehabilitated and will hopefully be returned to the sea. Original Story printed February 2019. The Florida Aquarium officially opened its $4.1 million Sea Turtle Rehabilitation Center in January in Apollo
By Preston Rudie
Beach. The two-story, 19,000 sq. ft. center features five different rehabilitation pools including one of the state’s deepest turtle-exclusive dive pool with observation window. “We rescue sea turtles from around Florida and beyond, but during winter months, there is a growing need for more animal care facilities to rehabilitate cold stunned sea turtles,” said The Florida Aquarium President and CEO Roger Germann. “This center is opening at the right time, and The Florida Aquarium will be able to dramatically increase the number of sea turtles it cares for during the year.” The pools at the new care center range in size from 1,500 to 25,000-gallons. The sea turtle dive pool, which reaches a depth of 11 ft., will be used to assess buoyancy issues, swim conditioning and food trials before turtles are cleared by FWC to be returned back into the wild. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) contributed $3 million, The Spurlino Foundation and others donated $690,000. The Florida Aquarium contributed more than $400,000 and TECO Energy helped make through a generous land use agreement. Since inception, the Florida Aquarium has helped rescue and rehab more than 150 threatened or endangered turtles.
Page 32
Volume 18, Issue 1
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
Year In Review- Updates On The Top Stories From 2019 Local Couple Finds Niche With New 90 Day Dream Home Series On HGTV
Local Resident Is In Need Of A Helping Paw From A Service Dog
explained, “Mika takes her clients around to three or four inspiration homes. They may like a kitchen in one house but not the bathroom or the master bedroom but not the backyard, so we take all the elements of everything they like from all those houses and put them into one perfect house for them. We then build it Local residents, Brian and Mika from the Kleinschmidt, filmed their new HGTV show, ground up in 90 days or less.” 90 Day Dream Home, in the Tampa Bay area. The show aired its pilot premiere on Brian explained, “We saw a niche in April 27 at 10 p.m. on HGTV. doing a new construction home on HGTV has decided to pick up HGTV. No one else is doing it. All of the the 90 Day Dream Home show and shows on the network are about flips and the entire season is currently in renovations. We wanted to bring somethe process of being filmed. Air thing different and unique.” time for the new episodes will Mika and Brian met in high school at probably take place in the late Riverview High School about 20 years spring/early fall. ago. While they never dated in high Original Story printed May school and life took them on different 2019. paths, they reconnected about 10 years Local residents, Brian and Mika ago. They built four Anytime Fitness Kleinschmidt, are hosts of HGTV’s gyms together. They then sold one of the newest show, 90 Day Dream Home. The gyms and used the proceeds to focus on show aired with its pilot premiere on April real estate. 27 at 10 p.m. on HGTV. This is the first When asked how and why they got time that a show on HGTV has been into doing a show, Brian said, “I am not based and filmed in Florida. really sure if we found the show or the Each one-hour episode will cover the show found us.” Now that the show has complete construction of a new home. had its pilot premiere, HGTV will decide Mika is a licensed real estate agent and whether to air a six or 13-episode seaBrian is the project manager. Brian son. Stay tuned and find out.
After months VMSD is located at of effort, Crystal 2036 Lake View Hook has Ave. in Chuluota. received a servOriginal Story ice dog of her printed May 2019. own named Local Resident Valorie. After Crystal Hook, age switching 28, was born with between service developmental dog organizadelays, is nonverbal tions, mother and is 90 percent Gerri Schulz blind. She has troufound help ble with everyday life through Valor because of her disMedical Service abilities, such as havDogs (VMSD). ing tantrums over Valorie is parwalking or going to tially trained, so the restroom. The her training condisabilities have left Crystal Hook with her new service dog, her without friends tinues with Hook Valorie, a 1-½-year-old German at VMSD twice or due to being unable Australian Shepherd mix. The two are three times a doing great and go everywhere together. to connect well with month for about three hours each others. visit, along with training at home, Hook is in need of someone to which will last around a year. help her through daily problems and VMSD helps people through a give her the warmth and comfort of pay it forward method with the companionship, so what better than requirement that they spread the man’s best friend? A service dog will word, rather than charging people not only assist Hook with her blindindividually. Someone who came ness and mobility problems, it will also before Hook helped Schulz raise be a source of stability and emotional funds for her service dog, so she in support for her. She might be also able turn will help raise money for to form new connections with people another person and let people know due to her service dog acting as a about the nonprofit. social bridge. For more information about Schulz said she wants to help her VMSD or to donate, visit valormeddaughter get out in the community. icalservicedogs.com, search for “The dog would be there in case she ‘Valor Medical Service Dogs’ on ends up having not a very good day Facebook or call 321-696-0303. like most of us usually do,” she added.
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Page 33
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
Year In Review- Updates On The Top Stories From 2019 Design Phase Complete On New 10-Mile Opening Dates Announced As Bloomingdale Square Reconstruction Continues South Coast Greenway Trail By Kate Quesada
explore different areas. Original Story printed June 2019. Hillsborough County has good news for residents who enjoy the outdoors. Representatives recently hosted a public meeting showing design plans for the first phase of the South Coast Greenway Trail, a 10mile project that will extend from Little Manatee River Preserve to Symmes Rd. in Riverview. The first phase, known as 1 A, is a 1.2 mile stretch in the Ruskin area that will extend from Shell Point Rd. to 19th Ave. near 30th St. The trail will be 12 feet wide and will be paved to accommodate travel, exerPlans are in the design phases for the first phase of cise and recreational uses the South Coast Greenway Trail which will eventually for cyclists and pedestrians extend from Little Manatee River to Symmes Rd. in between Hillsborough and Riverview. The first phase is a 1.2 mile stretch in Ruskin. Manatee counties. Southeastern Hillsborough “The proposed design includes a County residents will have to wait 492-foot-long pedestrian bridge, a little longer to experience the wayfinding signs and pavement marknew section of the South Coast ings, landscaping, benches, bike racks, Greenway Trail. According to shade shelters and trash receptacles,” Hillsborough County’s Chris said Wilkerson. Wilkerson, construction on the trail In addition, the trail will provide in Ruskin between Shell Point Rd. connectivity to Hillsborough Community And 19th Ave. near 30th St. is now College’s (HCC) Southshore Campus. set to begin this summer. However, The projected cost for the project is sections of the trail, which runs $1,702,000, with $85,000 for design from Hillsborough to Manatee and $1,617,000 for construction. counties are open and provide a To learn more about the project, great opportunity for residents to please visit www.HCFLGov.net.
The construction continues at Bloomingdale Square. There is a light at the end of the tunnel as the new tenants have begun opening. There was a lot of excitement in the community when First Watch and Chicken Salad Chick recently opened. Home Centric also recently opened next to Bealls and saw a lot of shoppers making holiday purchases. The new Publix is now scheduled to open in the first quarter of the new year, but as of this printing, there is no scheduled date available. Original Story printed July 2019. It has been almost a year since the redevelopment of Bloomingdale Square began, and with all the construction underway, everyone is curious about the target dates for new tenants and store openings. The long-vacant Walmart space is currently being converted into a new 48,841-sq.-ft. Publix, a 1,600-sq.-ft. Publix Liquors, as well as a 15,000-sq.-ft. Home Centric, a home goods store owned by Bealls that features a continually changing assortment of home products. The anticipated opening date for the new Publix is tentatively set for Thursday, November 7. The existing Publix will keep
By Brian Bokor
its doors open until the day the new one is ready. “There will be no down time for Publix,” reported Marc Elias, who is the leasing contact agent for Bloomingdale Square, Regency Centers. The old 40,000-sq.-ft. Publix location will be home to a new LA Fitness once the storefront becomes available and build-out is complete (early 2020). It has also been announced that Beef ‘O’Brady’s will open next to Truly Greek. Adjacent to that is a currently available 1,200-sq.-ft. storefront, followed by a 3,000-sq.-ft. Banfield Pet Hospital, then a 2,800-sq.-ft. Pacific Dental Services. Next will be 1,200-sq.-ft. GNC Live Well, and the building will be anchored by a 2,700-sq.-ft. Chicken Salad Chick, a restaurant specializing in fresh, housemade chicken salad. A traffic light has been installed at the entrance/exit on Bell Shoals Rd. For leasing information, contact Elias at 664-4823 or visit the corporate website at www.regencycenters.com.
Page 34
Volume 18, Issue 1
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
Year In Review- Updates On The Top Stories From 2019 Second Time Arounders Adult Marching Band To Perform At Macy’s Parade
By Kate Quesada
The Second Time Arounders, an all-adult marching band, will perform at Riverview High School and the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade this November.
The Second Time Arounders hosted another successful Macy’s Parade appearance with hundreds of band members in attendance. New members are always welcome. Original Story printed September 2019. A group of SouthShore-area residents' dreams are coming true in November. The Second Time Arounders, an all-adult marching band, is performing at the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade after making at stop at Riverview High School to perform an exhibition at the Florida Marching Band Regional Championships. The group, made up of more than 350 musicians, majorettes, dancers, rifles and flag team members ages 18 to 85 from around the Tampa Bay area, only has one requirement; that the members have participated in a marching band previously. “It could have been high school, college, military or a drum corps,” said member and majorette Cathy Kersten. Over the last 37 years, the Second Time Arounders have been marching locally and around the country with typi-
cally five to seven performances a season. The group, which usually practices once a week, was created in St. Petersburg when Director Bill Findeisen thought it would be fun to participate in the parade associated with the Festival of States. “A group of high school and middle school band directors got together and dreamed up the idea that they should form an adult group of music enthusiasts that might want to march again, one more time,” said Kersten. “And so it evolved.” According to Kersten, only eight or nine bands pass the rigorous application process to perform during the Macy’s Parade, and the costs for the trip are high. “We have fundraisers available for band members to participate in to help with their funds,” said Kersten, who has been a member of the group for eight years. “Many members have been working concessions at the Rays and Bucs games and we also hold a Chili Cook-Off and Oktober-Fest as local fundraisers.” For more information, visit www.secondtimearounders.org.
Five Decades Filled With Festival Fun At Nativity Novemberfest, Nov 21-24
By Amanda Boston
Novemberfest Strawberry Festival, is a time-honored Novemberfest is the tradition in third largest annual Brandon and a carnival in prime example of Hillsborough County. how the communiMore than just a ty joins together to time-honored tradisupport Nativity tion, Novemberfest is Catholic School. Nativity’s largest Alexis Redig, fundraiser supporting Nativity’s faith and its school and faith media coordinator, formation program. commented on The family-fun Novemberfest’s attracts about social media pres100,000 people each Sharon Evans, Susan Davis and Sherry Stewart selling advanced arm- year and is put on by ence this year. bands for students outside of church its parish volunteers. “It never ceasgarage in 1989. es to amaze me Admission, parkhow much love for Novemberfest ing and entertainment are all free. our surrounding community has. I Crowd favorite Soul Circus Cowboy will see this in the almost 18,000 folperform Friday at 8:30 p.m. The country lowers on our Novemberfest page rock band’s lead singer, Billy McKnight, and the countless posts is an alumnus of Nativity Catholic Novemberfest is tagged in leading School. Also back this year is Classix, up to and during the event.” who will take ‘Center Stage’ on “Novemberfest celebrated its Saturday at 8:30 p.m. 50th anniversary this year,” said Paying homage to Novemberfest’s Cindy Ehringer. “We are so thank50th anniversary, midway rides will ful to our sponsors and volunteers include the Zipper, which recently celeto help make this community event brated 50 years. so successful. We look forward to New this year is ‘Money Mania.’ seeing everyone in November 2020 Instead of only one grand prize cash for the 51st annual Novemberfest.” winner, raffles will be held throughout Original Story printed October the event. The cash prizes are in the 2019. amounts of $2,500, $1,000, $750, $500 Nativity Catholic’s Novemberfest and $250 with the grand prize of will celebrate five decades of festival $5,000 announced on Sunday. fun when it returns from Thursday, www.nativitycatholicchurch.org/nov November 21 to Sunday, November 24. emberfest. Nativity is located at 705 E. Following the Florida State Fair and Brandon Blvd. in Brandon.
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Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
Year In Review- Updates On The Top Stories From 2019 Goodson Farms Strawberry Market Offers Delicious Berries & Treats During Season
By Kathy L. Collins
Goodson Farms and Strawberry Market sells its strawberry pizza by the slice. For a whole strawberry pizza, customers need to call ahead.
Goodson Farms is now open for the 2020 season and is still family owned and operated since 1979. Original Story printed February 2019. Goodson Farms Strawberry Market, located at 12406 County Road 672 E in Balm, is now open for the 2019 Strawberry Season. A recent visit to the farm and market revealed a bustling, attractive, family-friendly market. At Goodson Farms Strawberry Market, you can do your weekly produce shopping and get a delicious treat to eat. There is plenty of outdoor seating available. The prize attraction is, of course, the delicious strawberries. In addition to the quarts and half flats of
delicious, juicy and sweet strawberries which are picked fresh daily, the market offers other farm fresh produce such as potatoes, cauliflower, tomatoes and greens. They also offer different flavored syrups and jarred, pickled items such as okra. Goodson Farms Strawberry Market Manager Jessica Goodson said, “The market is open for business now through March, when the strawberry season ends.” Goodson added, “We are happy to provide a great place for families to come have a shortcake with us.” Goodson Farms was started in 1979 by Don and Janet Goodson. Don passed away in 2003 and Janet in 2011. Since then, their sons, Mike and Ricky, along with Jessica, have owned and operated the family business. Goodson Farms consists of approximately 1,500 acres, which stretches over areas of Southern Hillsborough County and Northern Manatee County. The current market location was opened in 2006. Goodson Farms and Strawberry Market is open Monday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. The market is open only seasonally until Strawberry Season ends in March or early April. Call 634-7790 and like Goodson Farms Strawberry Market on Facebook.
Bell Shoals Baptist Church Introduces New Pastor, Dr. Corey Abney Dr. Corey Abney has been named the new senior pastor at Bell Shoals Baptist Church. Bell Shoals has been without a senior pastor since February 2019, when Dr. Stephen Rummage was called to pastor a church in Oklahoma City after serving in Brandon for nearly 10 years. As senior pastor, Dr. Abney will lead the multi-campus congregation’s vision and strategy and will preach on Sundays at the Brandon campus, located at 2102 Bell Shoals Rd. His first Sunday at the Brandon campus will be December 22. Service times are 9:15 and 11 a.m. Dr. Abney also will lead Christmas Eve services scheduled for 3 and 5 p.m. 44-year-old Dr. Abney is currently the lead pastor of Florence Baptist Church in Northern Kentucky, where he has served since 2012. “I am eager to start serving at Bell Shoals,” Dr. Abney said, following the church’s unanimous affirming of his call on November 24. “This is a church with a rich history in West Central Florida, and I know that God wants to guide our church toward even better days in the future.” At Florence Baptist, Dr. Abney led the church to see a 32 percent increase in worship attendance while increasing its giving by 35 percent and reducing its debt by nearly 50 percent.
By Kevin Bumgarner
On November 24, Dr. Corey Abney preached for the Bell Shoals congregation and accepted the position as senior pastor that same evening.
He also has led the church to start two new churches and establish multiple partnerships in Northern Kentucky and Greater Cincinnati. He also launched a second campus for Florence Baptist as part of a revitalization effort. “Our Senior Pastor Search Committee did an excellent job of bringing Corey Abney to us,” said Gary Payne, Bell Shoals’ executive pastor. “We are all looking forward to his leadership.” Dr. Abney and his wife, Christina, have four children. He has a Doctor of Philosophy in Preaching, Old Testament and New Testament from The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary. For more information about Bell Shoals, visit www.bellshoals.com or call the office at 689-4229.
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Volume 18, Issue 1
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
Support Bloomingdale High School’s Running Of The Bulls 5K
By Jane Owen
Make plans to participate in this year’s Bloomingdale High School’s Running of the Bulls 5K on Saturday, January 18, 2020.
Make plans now to get a healthy start to 2020 by registering for Bloomingdale’s annual 5K. The Running of the Bulls 5K will be held on Saturday, January 18, 2020 at Bloomingdale High School. The 5K starts and finishes on the track and utilizes the sidewalks, roads and parking lots on campus. The race, which participants can run or walk, is full of community pride. The Bloomingdale Band Drumline will perform, and student volunteers will cheer for participants. Post-race food includes Chick-fil-A, Panera pastries and bagels and fruit. Participants will receive a shirt and will be entered into a raffle for donated items from sponsors, including race entries into Tampa’s Gasparilla Distance Classic and gift cards to local businesses. Finishers will receive medals. 2019 Race Winner John Carter from Plant City said he is apt to run the race again, “Because I am competitive, I always want to improve on previous race (times), but with the Running of the Bulls
5K, the pre and post-race activities is the main reason I mark my calendar for the event.” Made possible by local business sponsorships such as Gold Sponsor Acropolis Greek Taverna, the race is hosted by the Band Boosters and supports the Bloomingdale band and athletic teams. Registrants can choose an athletic team to support during registration. Bloomingdale Lacrosse Coach Matthew Borowski knows the 5K makes a difference. “These dollars go directly to fund programs to keep high school kids active and busy in a productive way,” he said. Borowski not only ran the race himself, he encouraged his lacrosse team to participate. “We participated because of the incentives that the Band Boosters gave our team. We struggle with fundraising dollars and we do not get much support from the district since we are also a pay-for-play varsity sport, so we try to get every dollar that we can.” “We enjoyed the atmosphere the most. I thought the Band Boosters did a great job at creating an intimate atmosphere utilizing almost every inch of pavement on the school grounds. It was fun to see how they managed to fit 3.1 miles on campus,” Borowski also noted. To register, visit https://fitniche.com/event/running-of-thebulls-5k/.
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Page 37
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
With Arts & Entertainment Editor Kathy L. Collins
Artists, Artisans And Vendors Are Invited To Apply To Participate In The 12th Annual Winthrop Arts Festival And Market Organizers of the 12th Annual Winthrop Arts Festival and Market have issued a call to artists and a call to vendors and sponsors. The 12th Annual Winthrop Arts Festival and Market will be held on Saturday, March 28, 2020 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and on Sunday, March 29, 2020 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The festival will be held in the community of Winthrop located in Riverview. The 12th Annual Winthrop Arts Festival and Market is a juried art show which features artists, artisans and vendors. In addition, there is live Winthrop Arts has issued calls for artists, entertainment throughout the weekartisans, vendors and sponsors for the end, children’s activities and food upcoming 12th Annual Winthrop Arts Festival trucks. The 12th Annual Winthrop Arts and Market. Artists from all over the area particiFestival and Market is a white tent fes- pate in the juried fine art show, including Best of Show winner Greg Jones of Lakeland. tival, which means that everyone, from artists and artisans to vendors, must apply is Sunday, March 15, 2020. utilize an 8’ x 10’ white tent. Premium spaces are available to artists, Applications for fine artists and artiartisans and vendors. sans can be obtained through The 12th Annual Winthrop Arts Zapplication (www.zapplication.org). This Festival and Market features a wide variis a free service for artists and artisans ety of mediums. This includes painting, who can register and then submit their photography, jewelry making, sculpture, applications along with photographs of glass, ceramics, fabrics/textiles, wood, their booth and art. The cost to apply is digital art and more. There is over $5,000 $25. If accepted into the show, the fee is in awards available. This includes two $125, which is non-refundable. This fee awards for Emerging Artists. This is secures the spot in the show. There are defined as an artist or artisan who is in eight premium spaces available on a firstthe early stages of their art career and come, first-served basis. The cost for the has not yet established a reputation. The premium space is $250. The deadline to
artist or artisan can be of any age and use any medium. Bryant Martinez, local artist and lead art instructor for Winthrop Arts, said, “The annual arts festival is always a highlight for me. It is a great opportunity for local artists, as well as many from out of the area, to showcase their art at a festival that truly cares about the arts.” The 12th Annual Winthrop Arts Festival and Market is judged by three highly qualified judges. In addition to artists and artisans, the 12th Annual Winthrop Arts Festival and Market features vendors of all kind. Organizers are selective about the vendors that are approved for the festival, but there are always a wide variety of vendors on hand. They offer all kinds of items, including candles, books, pillows and clothing. The vendor application can be obtained by visiting www.winthroparts.org, email info@winthroparts.org or call 7585161 and request a copy. The cost to participate as a vendor is $25 for the application fee and $150 if accepted into the festival. The fees are non-refundable and secure your spot in the festival. As Winthrop Arts is 501(c)(3) nonprofit, sponsors are needed to help fund
the art festival as well as the many programs offered. Sponsorships in a wide variety of levels are available. Sponsors are recognized for each level of giving. For more information on sponsorships, please call Kathy at 758-5161 or email kathy@winthroparts.org. In addition to the annual arts festival, Winthrop Arts offers art classes to children (ages 5 and up), teens (sixth grade and above) and adult (15 years or older). The mediums for children include drawing, painting, ceramics, fabrics and creative storytelling. For adults, there are both a ceramics class and a painting class. For teens, there is a drawing/painting class. In addition, Winthrop Ars offers the Mobile Art Factory. This is a grant-funded and community supported outreach program that provides free art classes to underserved children living in Hillsborough County. Currently, three instructors travel to Wimauma and provide free arts instruction to children at Hispanic Services Council and Wimauma Elementary School. The Winthrop Arts Mobile Art Factory is funded by generous grants from Suncoast Credit Union, Wells Fargo, the Arts Council of Hillsborough County and the Interfaith Social Action Council of Sun City Center. For more information on Winthrop Arts, please visit www.winthroparts.org.
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Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
Volume 18, Issue 1
Eagles Have Won Graves Invitational In 14 Times Including Three In A Row
By Steve Lee
There is a mutual respect between Riverview fin11-6 in the The other four winners for Brandon Brandon High Wrestling Coach Russ ished as the 132-pound were: Jose Berdecia, 21-5 over Cozart and his predecessor, Jim Graves. runner-up for match before Riverview’s Jacob Edwards at 113; Darrell That’s why Cozart initiated a tournament a second being pinned Tabor, 9-2 against Plant City’s Ian in his mentor’s honor. Brandon won the straight seaby Plant McGary at 120; Roy Kruppa, 16-10 deciGraves Invitational in December for a son. The City’s Brent sion over Riverview’s Josiah Fregoso at third straight season and 14th time in its Sharks got Ruedeman in 152; and Frank Diaz edged Riverview’s 18-year history. two wins from the final Oskar Hernandez 1-0 at 160. Looking on proudly while the Eagles their seven minute. Riverview’s two wins were pins— celebrated was Graves—now 75 and finalists. Only “That Nikolas Hernandez in 3:10 over Plant retired as a Brandon physical education Brandon, with was the best City’s Jason Szwejkowski at 126 and teacher for the past 19—who notched the Carmelo Edwards against Brandon’s first 74 victoDaniel Geronimo in 3:40 ries in a nationBrandon celebrates its third straight win in the at 138. Graves Inviational and 14th in 18 tries. al record 459 Other finalists for the wins for 11 finalists and eight moment of my Sharks included Philippe Brandon. wins, fared better. wrestling career,” Langelier, who lost the 220 “I have one Second-year said Ruedeman, a match to Plant City’s Antony state champiRiverview Coach Ryan senior who had Talmage. onship here that Hall, a former two-time never wrestled in a Riverview At the conclusion of the se the fina nt seven wres I’m very proud state champion at tournament final or competition, Graves and ls in the tle Graves rs to Cozart presented outstanding d un po of,” Graves said Bloomingdale, noted In 0come out on top 17 v e it th ational. who won Onid Olavarria, to earn an outstanding of the 1977 title, that his team’s finish against a Brandon wrestler. wrestler trophies to Olavarria n do an weight class one of four Br n. s wa y, the first state was bittersweet. The ph The Eagles did, however, rack up and Lakeland’s Willie Lampkin, tro r pi wrestle his match by a crown for any Sharks lost 14 wrestlers to win four pins: Tyson Lane against teammate who in the 285 final pinned Plant City’s Hillsborough wrestlers from last year’s team to graduaBlaine Jones at 106; Jonathon Geronimo Aiden Leary in 1:15. County wrestling team. “I’m just as proud tion. at 145 over Foundation Christian For his part, Graves plans to be of my one as [Cozart] is of his 27.” “We never ever like second place, Academy’s Kaylee Clark, the lone female around for many more Graves Cozart added, “Jim Graves is the one but we did do well for a young team,” Hall finalist in the meet; Onid Olavarria against Invitationals, saying with a hearty laugh, who brought wrestling to this area and he said. Plant City’s Justin Williams at 170; and at “Thank God it’s not a memorial [tourney].” always helps me out.” In the most significant upset of the 195 Ryan Voor pinned Riverview’s Josh As for this year’s Graves meet, tourney, Brandon’s DeShaun Newton led Francavilla in just 22 seconds.
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January 2020
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Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
Photos courtesy of Nancy Nahas
Ostingers Baseball Academy Holds College Signing Ceremony For 12 Players The Ostingers Baseball Academy (OBA), located in Lithia, recognized 12 area high school seniors who have signed to play college baseball at their banquet on November 18. Brooks DeBartolo’s Ryan Bradarich (Nova Southeastern University), Armwood’s Tyler Castelli (Embry-Riddle University), Newsome’s Zach DeVito (Tulane University), Armwood’s Trevor Finan (Army), Durant’s Ahmad Fitts (Florida Southern The Ostingers Baseball Academy had 12 players sign on for college baseball at their banquet. College), Wesley Forest University) all OBA founder and Chapel’s Ethan Jones signed. instructor Jim Osting is (University of West Catcher Tyler proud of his players, but Virginia), Riverview’s Castelli parlayed a will miss coaching them. Macallister Jorgensen tremendous junior sea“It’s slightly surreal just (University of Tampa), son at Armwood where knowing that the guys are Wharton’s Grady he hit .403 with four at the end of what OBA Maguire (Florida home runs and 21 does,” he said. “It’s a bitterSouthern College), RBIs into an offer from sweet day, but it’s a happy Riverview’s Tyler Misla Embry-Riddle day for me knowing that (College of Central University. “This is the guys have worked their tails off to get Florida), Newsome’s what you dream of,” to where they are. Today’s just a great Cole Stallings (Stetson the left) om said Castelli. “It’s what I day for the program and it’s a great day (fr es at m am University), Seffner OBA te ett re, Tommy Turk at ui ag wanted to do, and it for the kids and their families.” M dy ra G Christian’s Tommy Turkett ll all play d Ahmad Fitts willege together. makes me feel very an According to the website, OBA offers (Florida Southern Co Florida Southern happy that I can continindividual lessons, team facility College) and ue my career.” rentals/lessons and high-yield camps Bloomingdale’s Brock Wilken (Wake
Expiration: 1.31.2020
Expiration: 1.31.2020
year-round. The OBA facility offers both indoor and outdoor cages, an outdoor infield and pitching mounds for bullpen work. Players should expect a balance of instruction on topics ranging from pitching, stretching, throwing, hitting, fielding mechanics, mental aspects of the game as well as preventative injury training. Beyond individual lessons, OBA frequently offers player position workshops with visiting professional players, conditioning/strengthening programs for crosstraining and elite travel ball teams for those players ready for a more advanced level of competition. “The biggest thing that I’m going to miss about these guys is just how they compete,” said Osting. “It didn’t matter who we played, it didn’t matter what time of the day it was, didn’t matter what day of the week it was, they went out and just competed all the time.” For more information, visit the website at www.OstingBaseball.com.
Expiration: 1.31.2020
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Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
Volume 18, Issue 1