Riverview/Apollo Beach
7
August 2021
Volume 19,
Issue 8
Ph: 657-2418
CELEBRATING 19 YEARS OF PUBLISHING P OSITIVE COMMUNIT Y NEWS
BOARD AND COUNTY COLLABORATE ON COLLINS EXPANSION TO PRE-K-8TH SCHOOL By Brian Bokor
Osprey Observer 2109 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. Valrico, FL 33596
By Lily Belcher
As red tides have continued and an N-95 mask. The to cause problems for boaters bags can be disposed of and beach goers, Hillsborough in the gray garbage carts County is working to clean that are collected twice a up the dead fish in the waweek or can be brought terways. To assist the cleandirectly to four collection up efforts, the SouthShore locations: South County Chamber of Commerce hostCommunity Collection ed its first volunteer cleanup Center, E.G. Simmons with the Freedom Boat Club Conservation Park, Apolon July 18. lo Beach Nature Preserve Each boat supplied by the or 504 Elsberry Rd. in Freedom Boat Club, Apollo Apollo Beach. Beach Charters and Ladyfish Community members Charters had two volunteers The boats that went out last Sunday over 18 who would like and a captain that cleaned up for first cleanup were chartered by to volunteer can contact the dead fish clusters report- Freedom Boat Club, Apollo Beach Davis at melanie@southed by local residents in the bay Charters and Ladyfish Charters. shorechamberofcomand along mangroves. They plan to continue merce.org for more information about the these efforts as long as red tides impact lo- dates and times of future cleanups. To make cal waterfront businesses that have lost cus- monetary donations, mail a check to the tomers. SouthShore Chamber of Commerce at 201 “The county has said they believe this will W. Shell Point Rd., Ruskin, FL 33570 or call be an ongoing problem for months, so we’ll 645-1366 to make a credit card payment. continue to do it as long as the need is there,” For more about red tides, visit HCFLGov.net/ said SouthShore Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Melanie Davis. Davis explained that some businesses are not only losing customers, but also losing employees who have respiratory issues or cannot work due to the smell and conditions on the water. Fishermen who are tasked with catching live bait for shops are also struggling to work, so the chamber of commerce is hoping that they will spend their time helping resolve the issue so all businesses can resume normal operations. “As a chamber, we can’t tackle red tide,” explained Davis. “We can definitely get out there right away and try to help some businesses.” Since the conditions are not suitable for volunteers with respiratory issues, members of the community can help in different ways. Right now, the SouthShore Chamber of Commerce is in need of black contractor trash bags, large Rubbermaid garbage cans and long-pole pool skimmer nets. Residents can also make monetary donations to fund supply purchases and lunches for the volunBUFFALO SOLDIER ................................PG 7 teers. Hillsborough County has offered guidance GASPARILLA IS BACK .....................PG 10 for locals who want to dispose of dead fish EYE ON BUSINESS...................PGS 25-26 on their property. It advises residents to SPORTS ....................................................PG 47 double-bag carcasses while wearing gloves
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in South County, I asked if expansion at other school sites is currently being explored. “Yes, expansions are frequently constructed; most recent examples are Wimauma Elementary and Spoto The Hillsborough County School Board has submitted plans to add a new High School,” said Dickenson. “This is 20,000-square-foot building at the site of Collins Elementary along with a new 20,000-square-foot gymnasium, converting the school from an elemen- what we are doing tary-only school to a prekindergarten through eighth-grade facility. at Collins and have been doing at many The Hillsborough County School Board has submitted plans to add a new schools. However, the amount of capaci20,000-square-foot building at the site ty that one can add to an existing school of Collins Elementary along with a new site is limited. The school capacity required 20,000-square-foot gymnasium, convert- to serve the already approved residential ing the school from an elementary-only growth in South County will exceed what school to a prekindergarten through eighth- we can add to existing sites. Therefore, we grade facility. The expansion will also in- must be able to build new schools in the clude additions to the music, dining and south to properly serve this area.” According to transportation studies remedia centers as well as new a track and field area and play court area in order to quired for the project, “a signal is not recaccommodate the influx of new students. ommended at this time. The intersection of Plans call for the new school with the track Panther Trace Blvd. and Summerfield Blvd. does not satisfy any of the applicable warand playfields to be open by August 2023. Additionally, the request includes the ad- rants for signalization. The school currently dition of a shared park and recreational fa- utilizes crossing guards during the school cilities, including a new 15,000-square-foot hours that have worked effectively.” The current school has an enrollment of community center along with playground and basketball courts on the northern par- 1,002 elementary students with the proposed expansion allowing up to 1,031 elecel to be open the public. The site is located in Riverview on the mentary students and 535 middle students northeast corner of Panther Trace Blvd. for a total of 1,566. It is expected that both and Summerfield Blvd. The southern parcel schools will operate on the elementary is owned by the school board (Collins Ele- school bell schedule, which is 7:40 a.m. to mentary School), with the currently vacant 1:55 p.m. General access for the school is proposed northern parcel owned by Hillsborough to remain unchanged with teacher parking County. Amber Dickenson, general manager of and bus pickup/drop-off via Panther Trace Growth Management for Hillsborough Blvd. and parent pickup/drop-off via SumCounty Public Schools, explained, “The merfield Blvd.; however, the configuration county property was helpful in this case to will be modified to accommodate the addibuild a track that we would have not had tional traffic. To learn more, visit www.hillsboroughthe area to construct.” With school capacity a pressing issue schools.org.
CHAMBER COORDINATES RED TIDE VOLUNTEER CLEANUP EFFORTS
Purple Heart recipient Walter Dowdy Jr. was recently interviewed for a special documentary on Buffalo Soldiers. The video will be part of the Buffalo Soldier Memorial in Ohio. Dowdy Jr. and his wife, Berta, now live at Aston Gardens in Sun City Center. See the full story on Page 9.
08 31 21 OO2021
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WWW.WOMENSCAREFL.COM
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
Volume 19, Issue 8
August 2021
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
HCSO BICYCLE RESPONSE TEAM WELCOMES FOUR NEW OFFICERS INTO THEIR FAMILY
By Laura Marzullo
Deputy Dan Samec all successfully joined. They prepared for tryouts through additional MTB trail riding, distance road riding, weightlifting and cardio exercise. “I began supplementing with additional cardio that started at 5 miles, and built up to 8-mile daily rides prior to my daily weightlifting routine, and concluded my workouts with added stretching to prevent injury and increase my flexibility,” said Patron. The Bicycle Response Team recently held tryouts in Lithia. Another new member of the team, Bergher, prepared A 20-mile endurance by taking trips to the ride, multiple fire alarm “HCSO Range in Lithia for drills and a 13-mile, mulshooting in the morning ticourse mountain bike with some mountain bike ride—four officers put riding in the afternoon at their athleticism to the Alafia State Park.” test in order to join the Patron has a passion HCSO Bicycle Response for exercise and weightlifting, which they Team in Lithia recently. found through serving five years as a milThe Bicycle Response Team (BRT) reitary police officer in the U.S. Army. After sponds to incidents of civil disobedience they got out of the military, they took the and large-scale special events. This inInternational Police Mountain Course in volves crowd management, natural or June 2020 and instantly fell in love with man-made disasters and/or search and mountain biking. rescue operations. “I wanted to find a specialty team that In addition, “The BRT conducts routine combined my passion for fitness and being bike patrol and bike safety presentations a first responder, so I knew the Bicycle Reby request or based on the operational sponse Team was where I wanted to be,” needs of the agency,” said BRT team leader exclaimed Patron. Master Deputy Chris DePolis. Being able to intertwine your career and The BRT conducts a 12-hour training hobbies is a dream. session once a month and may train any“It means the world to me to be able to where within the confines of Hillsborough service my community in a capacity that County. allows me to do what I love,” said Bergher. Tryouts to join the team were held on For more information on the HCSO BiJune 23. Master Deputy Tim Berg, Deputy cycle Response Team, go to teamhcso.com. Benjamin Bergher, Deputy Alex Patron and
CAC1820162
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HOW HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY’S HEALTHY LIVING PROGRAM IS HELPING ITS RESIDENTS By Pauline Derry On July 10, Hillsborough County’s Healthy Living Program partnered with Feeding Tampa Bay to put on a food pantry drive-through where residents of the county received free groceries at the SouthShore Community Resource Center. The Healthy Living Program is part of the Hillsborough County Health The Healthy Living Program and Feeding Tampa Bay partnered up to Care Plan, which offers put on a drive-through food pantry event at the SouthShore affordable medical care Community Resource Center. to those who cational activities, group exercise cannot afford sessions, nutritional counseling traditional and health screenings. medical insurThe educational classes are ofance. fered in person or virtually and There are vary from learning how to eat community rehealthy to learning about diabesource centers tes prevention. in SouthShore, “My Healthy Living team rocks. Lee Davis and We are so passionate about what we do Plant City, which all alternate in hosting and are always excited to help everyone,” a food pantry event every month in partsaid Paulett Davis, Healthy Living managnership with Feeding Tampa Bay, which er. “It is a privilege to do what we do.” has been supporting the program since its The only criteria to join the program and doors opened in 2018. obtain all the amenities stated above is to The recent food pantry events have been be a resident of Hillsborough County. drive-throughs to accommodate the CDC To get involved in the program, you can guidelines regarding COVID-19, but the upvolunteer with Feeding Tampa Bay to help coming ones will be walk-throughs where at a food pantry event near you. you will be able to get out of your car to For more information on the Healthy Livreceive a box or bag full of groceries. ing Program, visit www.hillsboroughcounEach community resource center is open ty.org and view the calendar, where you to all residents of Hillsborough County and will find upcoming food pantry events, or helps people achieve a healthy lifestyle call the hotline number at 272-5040 and through local, on-site services. Each rechoose option 7. source center offers an exercise room, edu-
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Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
CLEANING COMMUNITY GIVES BACK AND LOCAL BUSINESSES HELP HOPE CHILDREN’S HOME
By Amy Schechter
The only thing other local charities brighter than the can best spend their sparkling floors money serving chilat Hope Children’s dren and families, Home of Tampa are and what may cost the smiles of the lothousands of dollars cal volunteers who to clean floors and came out to donate carpets is easily an their time and reexpense they are sources and the happy to remove. Cleaning Community Gives Back wants to help people they helped. They tackled multichildren and families. On June 29, several ple buildings on the local cleaning busicampus, including a nesses banded togethschool, a children’s day er through their shared care and twelve cottagpassion for helping the es. The Tampa campus community. They were itself covers 55 acres, brought together by so it was no small task. Lisa and Ken Jordan, Dennis of Gecko Floor who head up Cleaning Care serves on the Community Gives Back, board of Cleaning Coma group of dedicated munity Gives Back and professionals who have has been involved for offered free cleaning services to Ronald about five years. This last time at the Hope McDonald Houses and other local charities Children’s Home really touched him: “It is since 2014. so eye opening. I’m a new grandfather and Hope Children’s Home takes in children my granddaughter loves stuffed animals. from infancy to age 18 who, through no In one of the rooms I was cleaning, there fault of their own, need loving people to were four beds, and one bed had all these care for them. It takes no state or fed- stuffed animals lined up. It made me realeral funding and is supported entirely by ize the good thing we are doing for these churches, private individuals, businesses kids. To be able to give our time so they can and organizations. This time, the Jordans focus their resources on helping children is with Accent America Inc., Dennis and Kev- so rewarding. It’s the community that alin Napoli with Gecko Floor Care, Julian and lows us to be successful, so it’s nice to be Kim Hutchins with Tampa Bay Steamers, able to give back.” Brian Crain and Zeb McDavis with Triple C To donate directly to Hope Children’s Systems and with local realtor Scott Corr Home, visit hopechildrenshome.org. To with Coldwell Banker Realty tackled the find out ways your business can become task. The Jordans, along with the entire involved, join Cleaning Community Gives team, believe Hope Children’s Home and Back on Facebook.
Volume 19, Issue 8
COMMUNITY RALLIES TOGETHER FOR HOMELESS OUTREACH EVENT By Kelly Wise Valdes The SouthShore tries, Ruskin United Chamber of ComMethodist Church, merce Homeless IniThe Fish House, tiative committee Fuzzy’s Taco Shop, along with the Tampa Shell Point Pizza and Police Department Bell Shoals Church. and Hillsborough “My favorite part County Sheriff’s Ofwas watching everyfice partnered with one interact,” many other local said Davis. businesses and orga“That was nizations to host the The South County Homeless awesome. PeoSouth County Home- Outreach event helped more ple that were less Outreach event. there truly than 65 homeless people The event took in Southern Hillsborough wanted to help County. place on July 16 at and I feel the Bell Shoals Church in Apollo Beach and was homeless men attended by 65 homeless people to provide and women much-needed services and resources all in felt that.” one location. As part of the collaboration, The Homeless Outreach Committee for the services offered ranged from showers, free SouthShore Chamber initiated this event. Ofhaircuts, food stamps, clothing, flu shots, ten, homeless resources are available withveteran services, substance abuse services, in city limits, but not in the unincorporated housing services, mental health services, em- section of Hillsborough County. During the ployment services and health screenings. event, several people took the opportunity to “We are very excited to bring these re- transition to local shelters. sources to our homeless population—this is “Sometimes the resources these people the first time this type of effort has occurred need are too far to get to—or there are outside of the ‘city’ limits,” said Melanie Da- many hurdles that prevent them from obvis, executive director for the Southshore taining them,” said Davis. “The mobile DMV Chamber of Commerce. “The event was a was there and they were able to issue onhuge success.” the-spot Florida IDs. This was huge for many This heartfelt outreach was coordinated people. Without an ID, you really can’t do by the SouthShore Chamber of Commerce much.” and included more than 100 volunteers as According to Davis, the community would well as 35 organizations offering resources. like to conduct this outreach twice per year Some of the many sponsors and businesses or more. that participated in making the event a suc“The SouthShore business community has cess included Northside Mental Health, Bran- been wanting to do something for this popdon Elks Club, Roots Southern BBQ, Fringe ulation for a while,” said Davis. “They are not Benefits Hair Salon, Bags of Brotherly Love, invisible, and some do want help so that’s Welch Tennis Courts, Street Angels Minis- what we set out to do.”
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
August 2021
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Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
TRIPLE CREEK RADIO CONTROL CLUB HOSTS NATIONAL MODEL AVIATION DAY EVENT
By Lily Belcher
“It’s wonderful for the kids. We’ve got some younger members in our club and they can build their own airplane. It involves science and math. It’s a very creative hobby as well,” explained Hall. The Triple Creek Radio Control Club will also be collecting donations for the The Triple Creek Radio Control Club, led by Club President Keith Hall, is hosting an event for National Model Aviation Day on August 14. The event will provide the community and members of the Triple Creek Radio Control Club a chance to participate in and celebrate the hobby of model aviation for free beginning at 8 a.m. and ending The Triple Creek Radio Control Club celebrates National Model Aviation Day with a model plane event for the community. National Model Aviaaround 1 p.m. tion Day will feature a variety of planes to fly, build and watch. The event will feature model planes of all sizes, from micro Wounded Warrior Foundation. Each year, to giant-scale planes. Guests of all ages it collects donations because of the large will have the opportunity to fly model number of members who are veterans planes on their own or with the assistance from World War II through Vietnam to of the ‘buddy box.’ today. There will be a general donation box The buddy box allows inexperienced as well as people collecting money around pilots to practice flying the model planes the event. without fear of crashing them. An expeHall encourages community members rienced trainer, identified by the yellow to come out to watch, fly or build model vests they will be wearing at the event, airplanes on Saturday, August 14 at 12705 will get the plane in the air and stable Balm Boyette Rd. in Riverview. Guests before pressing a switch on the transmis- can bring their own chairs if they want to sion to allow the new pilot to control the watch trainers and new pilots fly the modplane with their own control. If the new el planes, and drinks will be available for pilot gets into trouble while flying one of purchase during the event. the model planes, the trainer simply has to For more information on the event, let go of the switch to regain control and contact Hall at 928-3861 or visit triplecstraighten the plane out. reekrc.com. To learn more about National Guests will have the chance to build Model Aviation Day, visit modelaircraft. their own model planes as well. org/nmad.
Volume 19, Issue 8
ROAD TO UTILIZE ROUNDABOUT FOR NEW PARK ENTRANCE
By Brian Bokor
figuration will greatly improve the safety and operations.” “Constructing a roundabout will provide better safety and mobility for vehicles and pedestrians traveling through the proposed intersection,” added Gonzalez. “New and updated features will be added in order to provide safer and more efficient navigation. This roundabout has other benefits, such as having minor impacts to utilities and requiring minimal effort to maintain in the future. The Riverview Dr. intersection improvement is in keeping with Vision Zero principles, which seek to design roadways that are safer for all users.” Hillsborough County is planning the construction of a roundabout According to the Insurnear the new 25-acre Riverview/Alafia Conservation Park entrance ance Institute for Highon Riverview Dr. way Safety, roundabouts A road closure between Dean St. and Abare safer as they elimylar Ave. on Riverview Dr. will be required inate most lethal crashes, such as T-bone to perform work for the new 25-acre Riv- and head-on crashes that happen at tradierview/Alafia Conservation Park. The road tional intersections. Speeds are generally will be closed during the construction of a below 25 mph, which minimizes crash seroundabout near the park entrance on Riv- verity and has been shown to reduce injury erview Dr. Once approved, the road closure and fatal crashes by over 90 percent. Slowof Riverview Dr. could begin as early as Sep- er speeds also benefit other users, including tember 2021, with the project expected to pedestrians and bicyclists, as they offer safe take a minimum of 90 days. refuge in the roundabout approach splitter The detour route for westbound traffic on islands, providing shorter crossing distancRiverview Dr. will be Krycul Ave. to U.S. 301 es. Roundabouts safely and efficiently operto BloomingdaleAve. /Progress Blvd. to S. ate the same before, during and after major 78th St. to Riverview Dr., with the reverse storms, so traffic maintenance crews can path suggested for those traveling east- focus their attention on maintaining and rebound. pairing signalized intersections. When asked about the decision to make Additionally, the Hillsborough Board of the intersection a roundabout as opposed to County Commissioners approved two public a traditional signalized intersection, Sandra art projects for this location, with the one Gonzalez., P.E., design manager for Hillsbor- proposed for the center of the roundabout ough County’s Capital Programs Depart- at Riverview Dr. to be a sculpture of Benjament, said, “The county evaluated the pro- min Moody, the founder of Riverview. The posed intersection of Riverview Dr. and the bronze statue will be approximately 7 feet entrance to the new park and determined in height and will sit atop a concrete pedthat reconstructing it in a roundabout con- estal.
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Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
August 2021
FRIENDS OF THE LIBRARY SPONSORS RIVERVIEW PUBLIC LIBRARY BOOKSTORE By Lily Belcher On July 19, Riverview out the day, but DelSavPublic Library opened its io asks that the donors in-house bookstore. The email them through the bookstore was a part of library’s Facebook page the old Riverview Library, before bringing larger but expanded with the donations. current 35,000-square“We are very grateful foot Riverview Public Lithe community donates brary on Balm Riverview to us,” said Lisa Bohn, Rd. who is helping out at the The new bookstore is bookstore. located at the front of the The money raised building, to the left when by the bookstore will entering the library. The go towards funding lifour shelves are dedicatbrary programs, such ed to books donated as yoga and kid’s mainly by the comprograms. These munity to be purevents make the chased. The store is library not only a currently using the wealth of inforhonor system for mation, but an enpurchases, so comgaging community munity members buycenter that will ing books are asked foster the love of to leave the correct reading and learnamount of money in- Four shelves at the front of the building are dedi- ing in the youth of cated to books available for purchase. dicated on the sign. Riverview. The cheap prices of the used books alThe bookstore is sponsored by Friends of low avid readers to select their favorite the Library of Tampa-Hillsborough County. titles and keep them on their bookshelves Friends of the Library is an organization without returning them on their due date. that offers memberships and volunteer Paperback books range from 50 cents to opportunities for people looking to get a dollar. Hardback books, children’s books, involved in their community and become CDs and DVDs are also a dollar. an active member of their local library. As Since the Riverview Public Library book- states on its website, it also accept donastore only receives a few books from the tions “to strengthen, support and advocate library itself, Gretchen DelSavio, president for superior free public libraries in Tampa of the volunteer group, asks that readers and Hillsborough County.” bring their old books to the library as a doFor more information on the bookstore nation. Books, CDs, DVDs and even records at the Riverview Public Library, contact can be dropped off to the library through- DelSavio at 892-7595.
Expiration 09/01/2021
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GREATER RIVERVIEW CHAMBER OF COMMERCE HELPS COMMUNITY SUPPORT LOCAL RESTAURANTS WITH TASTE OF GRCC Staff Report During the month ordering delivery. of June, the Greater By transitioning to Riverview Chama virtual event, the ber of Commerce GRCC was able to (GRCC) invited and increase exposure encouraged the and social media community to help engagement for support over 70 lothe participating cal food and bever- During the month of June, the Greater Riverview restaurants. This age establishments Chamber of Commerce (GRCC) invited and encour- year, over 150 peoby participating in aged the community to help support over 70 local ple participated this year’s Taste food and beverage establishments by participating by authoring over of GRCC, proudly in this year’s Taste of GRCC, proudly sponsored by 660 posts, which Suncoast Credit Union. sponsored by Sungenerated almost coast Credit Union. When customers dined 30,000 engagements on the event’s Facein, picked up takeout or ordered delivery book page. and posted a photo of their meal to the The Taste of GRCC has become an exTaste of GRCC Facebook page, they were citing annual event in the Riverview comautomatically entered into gift prize draw- munity and will be returning to support ings. Thanks to the generous donations its food and beverage establishments in from many GRCC investor restaurants, 2022. Community members are encourthe chamber was able to give away over aged to continue participating throughout $3,000 in prizes, including a $700 grand the year by posting on the Facebook page. prize from Topgolf in Tampa. The GRCC would like to thank Suncoast “Supporting our local communities while Credit Union; Brandon Crossroads Bowl; enjoying delicious food is a win-win,” said Culver’s of Riverview - Boyette Rd.; McCart Kendra Wilson, Service Center manager & Tesmer, P.A.; Topgolf; Uncle Louie G - Ice at Suncoast Credit Union. “We appreciate Cream, Italian Ices & Bakery; and Your Pie all who participated in this year’s Taste of for their generous sponsorship. Greater Riverview, making the monthlong Participating food and beverage esevent something to remember.” tablishments must be Greater Riverview Originally designed to be held during Chamber of Commerce investors. If you the chamber’s June Monthly Investor wish to be a part of our 2022 Taste of Luncheon, the Taste of GRCC was reimag- GRCC, please contact Debbie Kirkland, ined last year due to the pandemic. The GRCC director of investor relations, at debGRCC wanted to ensure its food and bev- bie@riverviewchamber.com or 234-5944. erage investors were still recognized like For more information, you can find the they normally would be at the event each Taste of GRCC Facebook group at www. year. It also wanted to engage the entire facebook.com/groups/TasteofGRCC2021 community, whether they felt more com- or you can contact the chamber at taste@ fortable dining in, picking up takeout or riverviewchamber.com with any questions.
Expiration 09/01/2021
Expiration 09/01/2021
Page 8
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
Volume 19, Issue 8
HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY EASES RESPONSE TO COVID-19
By Taylor Wells
Florida waters are home to a diverse population of one of the most feared and misunderstood creatures on the planet: sharks. In fact, Florida has one of the highest concentrations of shark populations in the world. With over 400 known species, sharks have been swimming in our oceans for over 400 million years. Species such as the
great hammerhead, tiger, lemon, bull, spinner, sandbar and bonnethead sharks are common off the coasts of Florida. Sharks are fish that are characterized by their unique skeletons, which are made out of cartilage instead of bone like other fish. This classification of fish are called elasmobranchs and also include rays, skates and sawfish. Sharks are top predators in the ocean and their omnivorous diets can range depending on the species. Sharks use their gills to filter oxygen from the water and some species, like the great white, must continuously swim in order to stay alive. While the great white shark can infrequently be found in Florida waters, they are not a year-round resident
and are typically documented off the eastern coast during winter months. The largest species, the filter-feeding whale shark, which can reach lengths of almost 60 feet, can also be spotted migrating through our deeper waters seasonally as they head to the Caribbean. The survival of sharks is crucial to the health of our ocean’s ecosystem. These apex predators are currently facing multiple threats, which range from marine pollution, habitat degradation and commercial overfishing. It is estimated that over 100 million sharks are killed each year from human activities, with a staggering 70 percent decrease in global shark populations occurring in the last 50 years. Sharks have long been feared as a threat to humans; however, shark-related incidents are extremely rare with under 60 unprovoked attacks reported worldwide in 2020 and an annual global average of under 100 documented incidents. The future of shark conservation is in our hands and their survival is important to the health of our ocean and planet. This indicator species should not be feared, and they need our help to continue roaming freely in the oceans for generations to come. Take the fin-free pledge and spread the word that shark products should never be sold, purchased or consumed. Together, we can protect these incredible and unique animals and ensure a better future for all of us.
Since the start of last year, the world has according to the CDC, Florida’s total numbeen taking many measures to ensure ev- ber of cases was 2,406,794, the number eryone’s safety against COVID-19 and de- of fully vaccinated people was 10,240,997 velop ways to prevent, treat and cure it. As (47.7 percent of the population) and the more people are being vaccinated against highest seven-day moving average of casCOVID-19, cases continue to decrease es was 17,568 on the week of January 2-8. and demand for testing and vaccination In Hillsborough, as of July 16, the total declines and more private providers offer number of cases was 150,433 the numservices, Hillsborough County’s response ber of people vaccinated was 700,729 (54 to the virus is winding down. Because of percent of the population ages 12 and up) that, government departments like the and the highest seven-day moving average Florida Division of Emergency Manage- of cases was 6,398 on the week of Janument and Florida Department of Health decided to cease daily reports for Florida counties on June 3. “Florida has transitioned into the next phase of the COVID-19 re- Hillsborough County’s seven-day total, rate, percentage and percent change sponse. Infections in the last seven days, from January 1 to July 15. (Photo courtesy of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.) and disease control is a core function of the Florida Depart- ary 2-8. ment of Health, and we continue to surveil, Though the weekly and daily case numadapt and respond to COVID-19 to protect bers have gone down drastically and more public health statewide,” stated Weesam people are being vaccinated, as we all conKhoury, communications director at Flor- tinue to deal with the virus, residents and ida Department of Health. “Florida’s case visitors of Hillsborough are still encourpositivity has been below 5 percent for a aged to follow the CDC’s COVID-19 guidemonth, and has continued to decrease over lines and be mindful of the virus. 10 weeks. Almost 85 percent of Florida’s To view weekly data reports for seniors vaccinated. Nearly 90 percent of COVID-19 (updated each Friday), find vacthe population is eligible for the vaccine, cination or testing sites or get any othwhich is widely available statewide.” er information related to the virus, visit In Florida, one of the first two COVID-19 https://floridahealthcovid19.gov/. More cases was reported in Hillsborough County information is also available at hcflgov. on March 1, 2020, which is when COVID-19 net/staysafe and https://covid.cdc.gov/ data began being reported. As of July 18, covid-data-tracker/.
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August 2021
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
RIVERVIEW VETERAN STARTS NEW WOODWORKING BUSINESS
By Debra Garcia
Fine woodwork “At present, I only is hard to come by use social media and these days. Well, word of mouth from not for long. A litfriends and customtle over a year ago, ers. I have a lot of Joe Bogan, a local repeat business and Riverview veteran, recently stood up a started to use his Google review page woodworking skills to help ease any futo benefit the comture customers’ conmunity. This led Bocerns. gan into starting his I also own business called try to Bogan Fine Woodlet it be working. known It all started with that for the end of Bogan’s every enlistment into the board/ U.S. Marine Corps tray I over 15 years ago, Joe Bogan working on a new woodworking piece sell, I have one tree where he learned for his relatively new business, Bogan Fine Wood- planted,” said Bogan. working, which resides in the Riverview area. woodworking techBogan promotes Photo courtesy of Bogan Fine Woodworking. niques. He first his custom-made started making cutting boards, jewelry cutting boards on the Bogan Fine Woodboxes and art for experience and donating working website, Facebook, Instagram, to charities. LinkedIn and Google. On Google, there are “After making a few cutting boards many wonderful reviews on Bogan Fine (about a year ago), I decided to try and Woodworking. sell them … all three boards sold within 24 “Incredible craftsmanship and makes for hours and a demand grew,” said Bogan. gorgeous, one-of-a-kind gifts. Each prodNow, over a year later, Bogan Fine uct is truly unique and is accompanied by a Woodworking is still growing. As of now, handwritten note,” said Jodie Grenier. Bogan is the owner and only helper at Bo“Great board for the house, they also gan Fine Woodworking. Though he wants make great gifts. The wood quality and this to grow slowly over time, he likes be- craftsmanship is top notch. Also love all ing the sole woodworker. the options to personalize the boards,” said “At present, it’s just me … which I like. Rich Sieboldt. I’m able to see every board from start to Visit the Bogan Fine Woodworking webfinish, which enables me to QC and ensure site at https://boganboards.com/, Instaevery product is 100 percent,” said Bogan. gram @boganfinewoodworking, Facebook Bogan is trying his best to reach the @Boganfinewoodworking, LinkedIn at largest audience that he can, though this Joe Bogan and Google reviews for more can be challenging for only one man. information.
Page 9
LOCAL BUFFALO SOLDIER INTERVIEWED FOR NATIONAL MONUMENT ARCHIVE SERIES
By Libby Hopkins
Walter Dowdy Jr., Buffalo Soldiers 91, of Sun City Cenwere African Amerter wanted to be a ican soldiers who doctor, but when mainly served on the his best friends enWestern frontier follisted in the Army lowing the American in 1948, he decidCivil War. ed to join them. “At The African the time, I had just American regifinished high school ments formed in and some buddies 1866, including of mine and I had the 24th and all planned to be 25th Infantries, doctors,” Dowdy became known Walter Dowdy Jr. was recently Jr. said. “When we interviewed for a special docas Buffalo Solheard about being umentary on Buffalo Soldiers. diers. enlisted in the mil- The video will be part of the BufIn 1948, itary, we thought falo Soldier Memorial in Ohio. President Harry we could serve our Dowdy Jr. and his wife, Berta, now live at Aston Truman issued ExGardens in Sun City Center. country and then be ecutive Order 9981, in the reserves.” They enlisted in 1948. eliminating racial segregation in America’s Dowdy Jr. ended up serving in the Ko- armed forces. The last all-Black units were rean War. He received a Purple Heart for disbanded during the 1950s. his service. “When I was serving, I knew Buffalo soldiers had the lowest military I would get hurt, but I also knew that I desertion and court-martial rates of their wouldn’t die,” Dowdy Jr. said. “I carried a time. Many won the Congressional Medal small Bible in my pocket and I knew the of Honor, an award presented in recognigood Lord would protect me. He as always tion of combat valor that goes above and protected me.” beyond the call of duty. “I have had a great Dowdy and his friends are heroes, but life and I’ve had some really good jobs,” they were also characterized as Buffalo Dowdy Jr. said. “I have traveled all over Soldiers. “I didn’t realize I was a Buffalo this world and the only places I haven’t Soldier until 2008,” Dowdy said. “I was liv- been to is Antarctica and Australia. I was ing in Tennessee and I attended a reunion able to accomplish all of this because I live of the 24th Infantry Regiment. At the re- by faith.” union, a friend of mine asked me if I knew In June, a camera crew from Boston inthat in 1950 the Army had put a freeze on terviewed Dowdy Jr. for a video series for Black officers. I left the table, went into the National Parks Charles B. Young Bufthe men’s room and I cried like a baby be- falo Soldies Memorial Monument in Ohio. cause I now knew why I could never be an The video will be an oral history archive officer.” that will be housed at the memorial.
Page 10
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
Volume 19, Issue 8
LOOKING TO GET INVOLVED? JOIN TICKETS ON SALE FOR 2022 BERRY GASPARILLA PARADE EVENTS THE KREWE OF CHARLOTTEByDE Annabelle Caraway Staff Report
Are you ready for witness the Krewe’s fulthe return of the pily-rigged pirate ship—the rates? EventFest and José Gasparilla II—and Ye Mystic Krewe of its accompanying flotilGasparilla (YMKG) la of boats invade the have announced that shore. Shortly after, the advanced-sale, re2022 Gasparilla Parade served tickets for of Pirates, presented by the 2022 Children’s Ye Mystic Krewe of GasGasparilla presented parilla, steps off at 2 p.m. by Chick-fil-A Tampa The focal point of Tampa’s Bay and the Seminole Gasparilla Pirate Fest acHard Rock Gasparilla tivities, the parade boasts Pirate Fest, Invasion approximately 130 colorBrunch and Gasparful floats, bands and José illa Parade of Pirates Gaspar’s swashbuckling went on sale on July pirates. 23. This year’s GasFor a limited time, tickparilla Festivities will et buyers can enjoy earhonor JG200, the ly bird pricing, allowing Tickets are now on sale for 2022 200th anniversary of them to lock in the lowest Gasparilla events. the death of its swashbuckling namesake, rates and ensure the best view of each José Gaspar. passing pirate, parade float and perforThe 2022 Children’s Gasparilla present- mance band. Seating is determined on a ed by Chick-fil-A Tampa Bay, scheduled first-come, first-served basis, and families for Saturday, January 22, 2022, is an who wish to sit together must place their alcohol-free, family event that annually orders together. These highly treasured launches the Gasparilla season in Tampa. seat locations will move quickly, and early The annual event invites pirates of all ages purchase is recommended. to witness a series of expertly designed Additional event announcements will be parade floats, krewes, marching bands, made as details are confirmed. dance units and more in the Children’s GasAll ticket orders are subject to sales tax parilla Parade. The excitement comes to a and a $10 handling charge per order. Shipclose with Children’s Gasparilla ‘Piratech- ping is available at customer request for nic’ Finale, which lights up the sky above an added fee. To purchase Gasparilla InvaBayshore Blvd. beginning at 6:30 p.m. sion Brunch, Gasparilla Parade tickets or The 2022 Gasparilla Invasion Brunch, officially licensed Gasparilla merchandise, scheduled for Saturday, January 29, 2022, please log on to gasparillatreasures.com. has been a Gasparilla tradition since the Guests can also call the Gasparilla Ticket late 1980s. Brunch ticket holders will en- Line at 251-8844 to purchase. A customer joy a bountiful feast and live entertain- service representative is available Monday ment at the Tampa Convention Center and through Friday from 9 a.m.-5 p.m.
tournament in February to raise money to give scholarships for students. The scholarships help with college tuition and any other fees. The Krewe of Charlotte de Berry meets every second Tuesday of the month from September to AuGroup picture of the Krewe of Charlotte de Berry. gust. The requireMost people don’t think of piments are $300 rates as do-gooders, but a group in dues and $100 for of SouthShore residents are a float assessment. proving that’s not true. Along with meetA local krewe, based out ings, the krewe also of SouthShore, is looking for participates in six panew members and continued rades each year. growth. The Krewe of Char“When I first moved lotte de Berry is an all-womenhere, I got involved. run krewe that participates in It’s an all-female krewe. local events and raises money However, it’s not just for charities. a krewe, it is a sisterIt was established in 2000 by a group hood,” said Maggie Wilof women from Ruskin and Apollo Beach. liams, captain of the Krewe of Charlotte Currently, it has 60 members and is con- de Berry. stantly growing. A great way to learn Williams has been involved for six years more is by visiting its website, kreweof- and worked her way through the board charlottedeberry.com. For example, mem- positions to finally become captain. This bers wear female pirate attire that spans is her first year as captain and she is alcenturies of changing fashion, represent- ready ready to accomplish goals and keep ing all ages and ethnicities. improving her krewe. Last month, the group raised $1,800 “It is such a good way to get involved for Thompson Elementary School in order in the community and participate in our to help underprivileged students have a monthly fundraisers,” said Williams. great start to the school year. Visit kreweofcharlottedeberry.com for Besides charity events, members also upcoming events and details on how to volunteer and sponsor an annual golf join.
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August 2021
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
Page 11
DR. ANTHONY PIZZO NAMED EDUCATION FOUNDATION’S 2021 MENTOR OF THE YEAR
VFW POST 8108 HOSTS COMMUNITY CAR WASH TO HELP LOCAL VETERANS
It takes a speCaliph mencial person to tioned how Dr. Pizdedicate one’s life zo inspired him to towards developbecome a better ing a bond with version of himself. someone while “Pizzo is an exportraying specifcellent role modic qualities such el,” Caliph said. as commitment “I hope that one and caring for the day I can inspire well-being of that someone to do individual. These something great certain characas Pizzo has done teristics describe for me.” Dr. Anthony Pizzo, Dr. Pizzo got who won Hillsborinvolved with beough Education coming a mentor Foundation’s 2021 at the Hillsborough Mentor of the Education FoundaYear. tion through the Through Hillrecommendation sborough Edu- Dr. Anthony Pizzo, Hillsborough Education Founda- of his childhood cation Founda- tion’s 2021 Mentor of the Year, and his mentee, Caliph. friend. He considers tion’s Take Stock in Children program, it being a good listener as the key to a qualprovides a mentor devoted to supporting ity mentor. He stated that mentoring Caa student’s future and academic success liph has given him a new appreciation and and much more. The mentors there also insight into a much younger generation, serve as trustworthy role models, giving which differed from his own. emotional support and guidance in each “I hold pride in knowing that my menstudent’s life. For the past five years, Dr. tor won the Hillsborough Education FounPizzo was paired up with Caliph, who dation’s 2021 Mentor of the Year,” Caliph graduated from East Bay High School’s said. “Not only is Pizzo my mentor, but class of 2021. Dr. Pizzo began mentoring also my friend,” he added. Caliph when he was in the eighth grade This upcoming school year, Hillsborough and remained by his side even through Education Foundation is looking for mensome of the challenges that Caliph once tors. People who are interested in giving faced but overcame. the gift of their time and volunteering to “Navigating these obstacles as a team mentor can visit educationfoundation. has formed a bond between us and hope- com/mentor-a-student to sign up. fully has given him a model to find sucFor more information, visit https://educess in the future,” Dr. Pizzo said. cationfoundation.com.
ing a car wash fundraiser and poppy sale on Saturday, August 14. “We love doing this event because it helps us raise money to help our local veterans,” said VFW Post 8108 Auxiliary President Angela Lindsey. The car wash hours are 11 a.m.5 p.m., and it will VFW Post 8108 in Riverview will be hosting a car wash take place in the fundraiser and poppy sale on Saturday, August 14. The car parking lot of the wash hours are 11 a.m.-5 p.m., and it will take place in the VFW, located at parking lot of the VFW located at 7504 Riverview Dr. in 7504 Riverview Riverview. All donations will go to the VFW Relief Fund, Dr. in Riverview. “All donations will whose sole purpose is to help other veterans in need. go to the VFW Relief Fund, whose The red poppy, or remembrance poppy, sole purpose is to help other veterans has been a symbol of lives lost to war since in need,” Lindsey said. “Come see our post World War I and it plays a big part in the members get wet while taking care of your history of Memorial Day. car.” Sales of red poppies benefit veterans’ asVFW Post 8108 was founded in 1995 by a sociations and fund many charities and vet- small group of veterans using a pickup truck eran causes. The poppy is worn in many of as their post. It has grown from the back of a the countries that were allies during World pickup to a small room in which all post funcWar I, including Great Britain, France, Bel- tions, both fun and business, are conducted. gium, Australia, New Zealand, Canada and As the membership expanded, the post exthe United States. In most of those other panded as well to include a full meeting hall, countries, the poppy is worn on and leading a full-sized restaurant kitchen and a full-serup to Veterans Day. vice bar. “We are called the ‘River Rats’ as The poppy as a symbol of war casualties we are located along the Alafia River and we started with a poem. In the spring of 1915, are proud to stake the claim of the friendliest a Canadian artillery unit brigade surgeon post in Florida,” Lindsey said. “We have many named Lieutenant Colonel John McCrae saw different vintages of veterans, from the Kobright red poppies blooming on the war-torn rean Conflict to the wars in Afghanistan and fields where so many soldiers had lost their Iraq. Men and women alike, we are all veterlives, and he was moved to write “In Flan- ans and proud to serve and help each other.” ders Fields.” For more information, visit its Facebook VFW Post 8108 in Riverview will be host- page at www.facebook.com/VFWFL8108.
By Tatiana Ortiz
By Libby Hopkins
Page 12
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
Volume 19, Issue 8
FIVE LOCAL TEENS RECEIVE SCHOLARSHIPS FROM GENTLEMEN’S QUEST OF TAMPA
By Lily Belcher
Darius Frazier Jr. experienced culture shock in high school, but still found success at Lennard High School.
Jalen Morris earned a scholarship for his improvement in attitude and work ethic.
Gentlemen’s Quest of Tampa, a local nonprofit organization, provides year-round support and membership to the teenagers the community through programs, such as STEM and career exploration camps. In addition to these programs, Gentlemen’s Quest offers scholarships, which were given to 12 college-bound members that shared their high school ‘turnaround’ stories, five of whom are local teens. Lennard High School graduate Darius Frazier Jr. received a scholarship from Gentlemen’s Quest after sharing his story of the culture shock of transferring from attending private elementary and middle schools his entire life to a large public high school. Frazier Jr. graduated high school with a 7.8 GPA and an associate’s degree, in addition to being on Lennard’s wrestling team. He will enter his junior year at Florida State University in the fall. Jalen Morris, an East Bay High
Axle Nunez-Perez moved to the U.S. from Puerto Rico to pursue an education.
School graduate, earned a scholarship for the improvement he has shown in both his attitude and work ethic. “Jalen is one of those kids that everyone is going to love because he has one of those personalities that is going to make everyone smile,” said Tavis Myrick. Myrick explained that Morris was able to make this 180-degree turnaround as a year-round member of Gentlemen’s Quest and served as their student body president. Future University of Central Florida graduate Axle Nunez-Perez was granted a scholarship to help him throughout college as he pursues a career in kinesiology. Nunez-Perez has only lived in the U.S. for two years since he left his family in Puerto Rico to gain a quality education at Lennard High School. He explained that he struggled in high school not only because he had moved to a new country, but that he moved in with his father, who he had
Jaylen Wharton overcame struggles with anger through basketball and his participation in Gentlemen’s Quest.
not had a relationship with prior to the move. Jaylen Wharton received a scholarship from Gentlemen’s Quest in addition to the full-ride scholarship he earned to go to the Air Force Academy. The Durant High School graduate is planning to continue to play basketball overseas and is hoping to major in counseling after overcoming his own personal struggles with “anger, bitterness [and] tension” after traumatic experiences, explained Myrick.
Jose Sandoval hopes to provide sustainable products to all families after his own experiences.
Jose Sandoval also earned a scholarship, which he plans to use at the University of South Florida while he majors in environmental engineering. Sandoval has six siblings, and their father was the sole provider. The Plant City High School graduate wants to provide sustainable products for low-income communities after his own experience working in the fields. For more information on Gentlemen’s Quest of Tampa, visit https:// gqtampa.com/.
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Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
August 2021
Page 13
THREE LOCAL STUDENTS REWARDED FOR BUSINESS MODEL TO HELP THE ELDERLY
By Lily Belcher
home to the retired elderly in Ruskin and furnished with senior-compatible features, such as a shower with a bench, higher toilet and carpet. The home would also include solar panels, which are low-maintenance and cost-effective, and an Joshua Edwards, Ronnie Plummer Jr. and Earl Knighton IV present their easy-to-use water filtration system. digital design for senior-compatible living. The panel of judgGentleman’s Quest of Tampa, a local nones, composed of school board members, the profit organization that helps low-income vice president of advocacy for the Tampa students prepare for college, hosted its third Chamber of Commerce and the CEO of the annual STEM, three-week, in-person sumCDC of Tampa, awarded nearly $500 to mer camp that allowed their 15 students to each of the boys. design a solution to a problem in their comKnighton IV was complimented by the munity. This summer’s camp focused on arpanel for his presentation. Although Knighchitecture, industrial planning and blueprint ton IV expressed his interest in pursuing a design. Students were asked to develop a STEM career, the judges believe he would blueprint design, 3D model and presentation make a great salesman. for their friends, family and community. “All of the feedback that was consistent Three high school students—rising junior among them was that he should go into Earl Knighton IV from Durant High School, sales because everyone felt like they were rising freshman Joshua Edwards from Land completely sold,” said Myrick. O’ Lakes Christian School and rising junior Plummer Jr., who returned for his second Ronnie Plummer Jr. from Lennard High year in the camp, had previously won an School—created ‘The Three Kings CompaOSHA certification and NCCER certification ny.’ Their hypothetical company would build for his plumbing, electrical and carpentry attractive and convenient properties for the skills. He is undecided about what he will elderly. major in, but Gentleman’s Quest gave him “[Their] duty is to create the dream the the opportunity to explore and learn about customer always wanted, 100 percent guardifferent career options that may interest anteed,” said Executive Director of Gentlehim. man’s Quest Tavis Myrick. For more information on Gentleman’s The Three Kings Company would be Quest of Tampa, visit gqtampa.com.
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Page 14
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
MEET COUNTY’S NEW TAX COLLECTOR NANCY MILLAN By Kathy L Collins Nancy Millan is iting www.hillstax.org. the tax collector for Whenever you interHillsborough County. act with the tax collecMillan was elected tor’s office, make sure in 2020 after having to have the correct docworked in the office uments. For instance, for 30 years. Here for a driver license, the are some things you Federal government’s should know about REAL ID requires a list Millan and her office. of documents including In simple terms, birth certificates, social the tax collector is resecurity card, marriage sponsible for collectlicense, if applicable, and ing and distributing two proofs of residency, local property, tansomething that shows gible, business, and your residence in the tourist development county, like an electric taxes. In addition, bill or another statethey process vehicle ment. Nancy Millan is honored to have been and boat titles, renew “Since taking office in elected this past year. motor vehicle, vessel; and mobile home January of this year, we have been in panregistrations; road testing, and driver li- demic mode. Our offices were closed for a cense issuance. few months. While the pandemic brought Millan explained, “We are the welcome about many challenges, it also lent itself mat when you move to Hillsborough Coun- to many opportunities to streamline proty. Every person must come to our office cesses and improve our online services. to get a driver license or register their ve- My goal is to continue to improve and hicle. If you own a business or real estate enhance the online user experience,” said you pay your taxes through our offices. Millan. The fees we collect are distributed to fund “One of my missions as the tax collector vital services at local and state levels like is to help educate and inform new resischools, libraries and fire. So, we are an dents. We also want to help those who integral part of the community.” come here from another country with Millan added, “We know your time is language barriers. There are many misvaluable; that is why many of our services conceptions about what documents are are available online or at kiosks located needed. We will partner with the various throughout the county.” There are a few organizations to provide them with the exceptions that require an in-person visit. proper training to make it even easier for These include getting your driver license them.” for the first time and getting or renewing Millan and her staff are here to help. your REAL ID. If you do have to go to the For more information, please visit www. office, remember to save your spot by vis- hillstax.org.
Volume 19, Issue 8
LIFE’S TREASURES THRIFT STORE IN BRANDON HOSTED A PINNING CEREMONY FOR VETERANS AND FIRST RESPONDERS By Tatiana Ortiz Life’s Treasures Thrift Store held a spe- responders and military veterans, which cial pinning ceremony in commemoration includes honor pinning, American flag preof Independence Day weekend on July 3 sentation and much more. as part of the Chapters Health Valor proFlorida is the third-largest military vetgram to honor veterans and first respond- eran population in the nation, consisting of ers. Chapters Health dedicated and highly Foundation funds and skilled first respondoperates the program. ers. Chapters Health At the Brandon locaFoundation supports tion, 12 veterans and the work of Chapters first responders were Health System and recognized. Each vetserves Hillsborough, eran and first respondPasco, Polk along er received a pin, a with other counties certificate as well as a too. stitched star. In Hillsborough Adam Stanfield, the County, Chapters vice president of develHealth Foundation opment and executive supports LifePath director of Chapters Hospice. Life’s TreaHealth Foundation, sures Thrift Store explained how the pinManager Cherly Ann ning ceremonies came Haley at the Brandon into fruition. location stated that, “The Valor pinnings Navy veteran Perry W. Norris received his as a local storefront, were a fundamental pin from uniformed, retired Air Force Lt. Col. it makes daily conpart of prior program- Lee Alexander at Life’s Treasures Thrift Store tact with veterans, in Brandon. ming to which the first responders and Photo courtesy of Chapters Health System. active military. This Foundation is seeking to expand throughout its service commu- would be how her business got involved nity,” Stanfield said. “This will be a natural with the pinning ceremony. effort as the stores run through the com“Overall, being able to talk with the mitments of more than 400 volunteers, people who received their pins and seeing with many being veterans,” he added. their appreciation felt inspiring as well as Chapters Health System honors first humbling all at the same time,” Haley said. responders and military veterans with a For more information, visit www.chaphigh quality of life until their last breath. tershealth.org. Those interested in volunIt also provides hospice care, grief services teer opportunities at either Life’s Treasures and home care to the veterans and their or with the Valor program can contact families. The design of this program aims Anne Ferrell at ferrella@chaptershealth. to meet the special needs unique to first org or call 461-5279.
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
August 2021
A LIFE SCOUT IN VALRICO HELPS WARREN HOPE DAWSON ELEMENTARY SCHOOL ADD TO ITS PLAYGROUND By Makenzie Atkins school a GaGa Ball Pit. As a lover of the game himself, he knew this would be a perfect addition to the playground. “I built a GaGa Ball Pit rather than other options due to the fact that once Volunteers work with Boy Scout Xavier Muller on an Eagle Scout project at Warren my friends Hope Dawson Elementary. and I played For over 100 years, boys have been it, we were hooked,” said Muller. helping their communities through Eagle Once completing about 575 hours of Scout projects. Xavier Muller, a Life Scout paperwork, planning and fundraising, he with Troop 109 in Valrico, spent months was able to assemble the GaGa Ball Pit. planning and building a new piece of play- He spent two days building at the school ground equipment for Warren Hope Daw- on July 11 and July 17. Muller raised over son Elementary School in order to com- $1,000 in one month to complete this plete his Eagle Scout project. project, primarily through a GoFundMe An Eagle Scout project is done in order page that he and his mom created in June. to test a Scout’s leadership. The Scout A GaGa Ball Pit is a hexagon or octamust understand and apply logistics and gon-shaped wall that kids can use for a interpersonal skill while helping a nonprof- fun game. Muller explained that the playit organization. In this case, Warren Hope ers stand inside and throw a ball towards Dawson Elementary School was the non- other players’ legs; when you hit someone, profit in need. Muller was brainstorming they are out. This continues until one perfor an Eagle Scout project when a troop son is left standing and crowned the winleader who works at the school men- ner. With a new school year just around tioned to him that it was looking to add the corner, the students are looking forplayground equipment. The school that ward to having a new game to play during opened back in 2017 was in need of some- recess. thing new as it was lacking compared to For more information, please contact the population of the school. Derrick McLaughlin, Warren Hope DawMuller first began this endeavor in De- son Elementary School’s principal, at dercember of 2020 by deciding to build the rick.mclaughlin@sdhc.k12.fl.us.
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TAMPA PARKS RECEIVE RECOGNITION FROM USA TODAY READERS’ CHOICE AWARDS WITH FIVE TOP-TEN HONORS Staff Report
on weekends through SepAfter weeks of public tember 6. voting, Tampa’s premier Visit again and again theme parks have been with a Busch Gardens Fun recognized among the Card, where guests can best in the country in USA Busch Gardens was recently recog- pay for a day and play all TODAY’s 10Best Readers’ nized among the best in the country Choice Travel Awards. As in USA TODAY’s 10Best Readers’ year. For the price of a single-day ticket to Buschosen by the nation’s Choice Travel Awards. ch Gardens, the Fun Card readers, Busch Gardens Tampa Bay and Adventure Island have allows access throughout the year, so placed in the country’s 10 best lists for guests can visit again and again and the following categories: Best Amuse- experience great events like Summer ment Park (number six), Best Outdoor Nights, Bier Fest, Christmas Town and Water Park (number eight), Best Roller more. For the best value and benefits, Coaster (Montu—number seven) and guests can upgrade to a Bronze, Silver, Best Amusement Park Restaurant (Zam- Gold or Platinum Annual Pass to enjoy the perks they want most throughout bia Smokehouse—number three). The parks were nominated for the 2021. Annual Pass Members receive 12 awards by a panel of relevant experts, months of visits with the best benefits including editors from USA TODAY, ed- ever, including free parking, up to six itors from 10best.com and theme park free guest tickets and up to 50 percent connoisseurs. For Busch Gardens and savings on merchandise, Quick Queue Adventure Island, the five 2021 awards and more. Annual Pass Members and Fun are the most the parks have ever re- Card holders also get special discounts ceived in a single year from the annual for the best deals on Howl-O-Scream, starting at $24.99 for a limited time. competition. Guests can visit www.buschgardenGuests can enjoy Summer Nights at stampa.com for more information and Busch Gardens Tampa Bay through Monreservations—and to purchase tickets, day, September 6. Roller coaster fans Fun Cards or Annual Passes. Fans can can take on their favorite thrill rides in stay up to date with park events, attracthe dark, enjoy electrifying entertainment, bite into seasonal eats and see the tions and more by following Busch Garpark’s biggest and brightest fireworks dens Tampa Bay on Facebook, Twitter show, ‘Spark! A Nighttime Spectacular,’ and Instagram.
Page 16
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
BASS PRO SHOPS DONATES FISHING EQUIPMENT TO LOCAL NONPROFIT ORGANIZATION
By Pauline Derry
Tampa’s Bass a Kid Fishing, Inc., Pro Shops recently and his team change donated over 600 the lives of fatherfishing combos, rods less and foster kids and reels to local by mentoring them nonprofit organiand taking them on zation Take a Kid fishing trips where Fishing, Inc. as part they learn the imof its annual Gone portance of life skills Fishing National Doand, most importantnation Day that took ly, are shown that place on June 10. someone cares about This year, over them. 40,000 refurbished “Their donation rods and reels were enables me to bless donated to nonless fortunate kids profit organizations in the community. A across the country. lot of the kids live in The gently used foster care and are fishing equipment unable to afford the was brought in by equipment to fish. I customers in return William Dunn, founder and CEO of Take a Kid give away eight to for discounts on new Fishing, Inc., takes underprivileged kids on fishing 10 rods at a time, so excursions. gear. donations like this “We’re thrilled help us keep going,” to be such an imDunn said. “This is portant part of their second year introducing kids donating to us and it and their families has helped tremenin our communidously.” ty to the fun of William and his fishing. They’re team are always choosing to put accepting PayPal down the phones donations on their and video games website along with and spend quality time in the outdoors new company sponsors to fund fishing making wonderful family memories,” said trips to help their cause. Jarron Ritchie, Bass Pro Shops Tampa genFor more information on how to get ineral manager. volved or to donate, visit www.takffl.com William Dunn, founder and CEO of Take or contact Dunn at 863-944-5641.
Volume 19, Issue 8
ONE DAY TRIP:
ANNA MARIA ISLAND
By Anika Shah
According to the chamber’s press release, “Anna Maria Island is a place where ‘Old Florida’ charm can still be found, flip flops are a way of life and the speed limit never exceeds 35 mph.” Indeed, Anna Maria is ranked number one by Newsweek as the most popular beach town in the U.S. and its Coquina Beach is regularly listed among the top five in Florida. One reason the island is so highly regarded is because there is a strict rule prohibiting chain restaurants and big buildings. Instead, the beach cottages and laid-back vibes An overhead view of Anna Maria Island. are emphasized. Anna Maria Anna Maria Island’s (AMI) Chamber of has a similar atmosphere to Key West, yet Commerce is introducing an all-new passis closer and less crowded. port program. The program is a coordiAnna Maria makes a doable day trip, nated series of stops to help visitors enjoy with the drive taking just under one hour all the island has to offer. and 30 minutes with traffic. According Passport holders get their book stamped to TripAdvisor, visitors cite Bean Point, after visiting any of participating estabthe beautiful intersection of the Gulf of lishments. The businesses included in the Mexico and blue waterways, as the best program cover accommodations, attracattraction. Going to eat at the Rod and tions, cafes, delis, restaurants, shopping, Reel Pier, watching the sunset on the marinas, water adventures and more. beach, biking the 7-mile island, visiting The four municipalities with passport the historical museum and green village, locations are the City of Anna Maria, chartering a dolphin tour, shopping on City of Holmes Beach, Cortez Historical Pine Ave., taking pictures at the old jail Commercial Fishing Village and City of and strolling Bayfront Park are must-dos. Bradenton Beach. When visitors have Finding parking outside main attractions stopped at five locations from each of the can be difficult, so traversing the island four municipalities, for a total of 20, they via the free trolley is recommended. will receive a free island explorer T-shirt. For more information visit, annamariA total of 60 locations are available, makaislandchamber.org. ing for countless things to do.
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Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
WESTFIELD BRANDON ANNOUNCES NEW RETAILERS Staff Report There is something for everyone at Westfield Brandon, especially with the newly announced slate of retail and dining offerings arriving at the shopping center. Adding to the destination’s lineup of popular and convenient shops and grab-and-go dining will be: • FYE, a leading retailer of entertainment and pop culture merchandise. • Charlotte Russe; opening this summer near Books-A-Million, offering the latest clothing, footwear and accessories trends. • The Pampered Peach, a wax bar that has created a process using speed waxing techniques in combination with a proprietary blend of wax that leaves skin feeling super smooth in less than a few minutes. • DAZ Hijab; started by three sisters, DAZ Hijab offers a variety of hijabs, clothing and accessories for every occasion. DAZ Hijab will open this summer near Apple. • Avis Rent a Car, now open near the east entrance. Avis offers a full-service car rental agency available at the mall. • Adore Cosmetics, which offers innovations in organic skin care products that are mostly powered by stem cells from plants. • Swaidan; with new urban styles, a great selection of jeans, t-shirts, hoodies, hats, belts and accessories, Swaidan has fashionable clothing for all ages. • Mintwist, a transformational juice bar offering tasty combinations of fruits and vegetables in South America. Mintwist juices, waters, smoothies and shots are made with high-quality ingredients at very affordable prices to ensure that everyone can
enjoy. • Luxx Vanity, offering luxury vanities to complete your space. Find everything from luxurious floor mirrors to vanity stations with plenty of storage. • Dream Diamonds; specializing in custom jewelry and luxury watches, Dream Diamonds offers the lowest prices in town for 10-karat, 14-karat and 18-karat gold jewelry. • And lastly, Re-Bath, the nation’s largest complete bathroom remodeling company, opened its showroom in Westfield Brandon this April near Macy’s. If your bathrooms are outdated and can use an upgrade, ReBath can help. “We are thrilled to welcome 11 diverse retail options at Westfield Brandon. The addition of so many national, regional and local favorites demonstrates how Westfield Brandon is a premier shopping center that offers brands and experiences our customers crave,” said Dawn Arvidson, marketing director at Westfield. Westfield Brandon is conveniently located eight miles east of downtown Tampa at the convergence of three major highways. Serving one of the fastest-growing suburban communities on the Florida Gulf Coast, this property showcases a wide variety of popular retailers and restaurants, including a new P.F. Chang’s China Bistro, Michael Kors, Apple, Sephora, MAC, Fossil, Oakley, Bahama Breeze Island Grille and The Cheesecake Factory. For more info along with openings and new arrivals, please visit www.westfield. com/brandon.
Page 17
GIRL SCOUTS COLLECT SOCKS AND UNDERWEAR TO SUPPORT CHILDREN IN NEED By Makenzie Atkins details had been worked out, the girls found different organizations that would host their drive. The troop had donation boxes at Lithia Springs Elementary, Alafia Elementary, Campo Y and more. They even have an Amazon Wish List that is still able to accept donations. Hope for Her is an organization in Brandon that helps women and children struggling with crisis and trauma find the support they need. The The Girl Scouts celebrate the positive impact that organization assists with Hope for Her creates in the community by collecting things like childcare, emdonations. ployment, food, clothing Ever wonder what our local Girl Scouts and so much more. Hope are up to? Turns out they are doing good for Her was started by Cheryl Hickman, a all around the community to earn badges woman who went through a similar expeand support those in need. Girl Scout Troop rience to the women she helps today. After 33017 recently collected socks and under- experiencing her own crisis and trauma, she wear to donate to Hope for Her in order to knew she wanted to help other women and receive their next badge by setting up at dif- children who need it. The sock and underferent locations. wear drive done by the Girl Scouts had a big These Junior Girl Scouts were seeking impact on the community and the organizaout the Bronze Award, the highest honor a tion couldn’t have been more thankful. Girl Scout this age can receive. The award “The girls project benefits 250 children inconsists of a minimum 20 hours of the girls deed. Some of these children, ages 4 to 12, exploring the community and then choosing, come from homeless families right here in planning and completing a project that will East Hillsborough County. I love the fact that support a local issue. While planning the the girls chose to do a project that directly project for the award, the girls realized how impacts their peers locally,” said Hickman. many kids their age are on the verge of being Hope for Her was so impressed by the homeless or are homeless in the community. work this Girl Scout troop did that it even inEach girl submitted an idea and met sever- vited them back for its back-to-school event al times to discuss until they decided to focus on Friday, August 6. At this event, the girls on helping the homeless. After they landed will be able to hand out the socks and unon their topic, the leaders reached out to dif- derwear they collected along with items like ferent churches and organizations for specif- school supplies, backpacks and toiletries. ic projects they could work on. Two of the Contact Jennifer Dionne at jenndionne@ churches they reached out to recommended gmail.com or read more about Hope for Her they work with Hope for Her. Once all the at https://www.hopeforherfl.org.
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Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
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Volume 19, Issue 8
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
August 2021
Page 19
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Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
TAMPA BAY WATER WANTS PUBLIC INPUT FOR NEW PROJECT By Brad Stager Each day, Tampa The project’s Bay Water provides goal is to increase drinking water to capacity of the more than 2.5 milregion’s aquifer to lion customers in the support demand Tampa Bay area. The by reducing saltregion’s growing popwater intrusion ulation is creating a into it. need for the utility This increase of to plan for a chang- Tampa Bay Water provides drinking water to more capacity in distribing future, in which than 2.5 million regional customers each day and is utable water would planning for future growth. it said at least an be achieved by conadditional 10 million structing a series gallons of water a day will be of recharge wells that inject reneeded by 2028 to support anclaimed water underground that ticipated growth. can serve as a barrier between In order to ensure water the encroaching saltwater from needs can be met, Tampa Bay the west and the aquifer’s fresh Water is requesting public inwater supply inland. put on a proposed project that is intended The injection sites would be along Southto help maintain a reliable water supply, ern Hillsborough County’s coastline, in especially in Southern Hillsborough County, brackish areas of the aquifer. where a large amount of development is ocWater treatment facilities will be built on curring. Hillsborough County-owned land near the According to Brandon Moore, public com- intersection of Balm and Balm Riverview munications manager of Tampa Bay Water, Rds. involving the public is an essential part of The volume of freshwater available for the work the utility performs. Residents can distribution to customers will increase and learn details about the project by visiting no reclaimed water will intrude into the Tampa Bay Water’s website and reviewing wellfield according to Tampa Bay Water, the information presented there, including which said the project will increase water a video. Feedback about the project can be distribution capacity by 7.5 million gallons provided via an online survey. per day, and possibly even more. “Your voice counts,” said Moore. “The There will also be a virtual public meeting 15 minutes you spend watching the vid- on the project hosted by Tampa Bay Water eo and answering the survey provides us on Tuesday, August 24 beginning at 6:30 valuable feedback we can share with the p.m. The meeting requires preregistration project team and will inform our board as at tampabaywater.org, where you can also they make their decisions on the next water review the video and other project materiprojects.” als as well as provide feedback.
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Volume 19, Issue 8
BACK TO SCHOOL SAFETY WITH SUPERINTENDENT DAVIS
By Superintendent Addison Davis
It is with great enthusiasm that we welcome back our students, teachers, staff and families to what will be a phenomenal 2021-22 school year. Returning students to a more familiar routine will be paramount to their academic success and overall social and emotional wellness. Our families will re-engage through face-to-face learning, or by joining thousands of families who have chosen Hillsborough Virtual K-12. Our first priority remains health and safety as students and staff return to campuses. We will continue to practice social distancing per CDC guidance for schools where possible; each school will have ample PPE available for use, including sanitation stations in all classrooms, face coverings for those who want one and directional signage in hallways for controlled movement. Each school will continue to have a COVID-19 lead—a staff member designated to guide our protocols in partnership with Department of Health - Hillsborough (DOH-H), including contact tracing and quarantines. In line with CDC guidelines, fully vaccinated individuals with no COVID-19 symptoms will not be required to quarantine. Individuals who have tested positive for COVID-19 within the past 90 days and remain symptom free will also be excluded from quarantine. Our schools will once again benefit from some of our most valuable partners—school volunteers. These irreplace-
able resources provide crucial contributions, including individual academic supports for kids, distributing student incentives, gathering of school supplies and direct support to teachers. We do encourage our visitors to schedule appointments through school leadership prior to visiting campus. Based on COVID-19 trends across the community and combined with recommendations from local health officials, HCPS (Hillsborough County Public Schools) has planned for full student programming this school year. Our safety protocols will not vanish during extracurricular/athletic contests, as we will continue to recommend the use of face coverings and social distancing while in attendance regardless of the venue. Reopening schools is critical in our efforts to narrow the achievement gap for students, as well as accelerate learning gains that may have slowed during the most unorthodox school year on record. We will continue to work with the DOH-H and Tampa General Hospital/USF Health as we monitor conditions across our community so that we respond in a smart and measured way as necessary. We have also created a reopening plan with more information. Go to www.hillsboroughschools.org for details. We want to thank everyone that has contributed to the work of protecting and educating our students over these past 16 months.
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
August 2021
RHODINE ROAD/BALM RIVERVIEW ROAD INTERSECTION UPDATE
By Michelle Caceres
The long-awaited tranmer, but there have been sition of the Rhodine Rd./ some unavoidable conBalm Riverview Rd. interstruction delays. Saying section from the flashing, that, I have been working four-way stop beacon to a closely with county staff fully integrated signalized on this signal and I’m traffic light is moving forhappy to tell you it will be ward with county officials coming in two phases— in the process of reviewing the first phase, which you public input for the project should see begin shortly, that has been uploaded to will be the signalization the Hillsborough County project, with the poles Engagement Hub website and lights being installed. at www.publicinput.com/ The second phase will be hcengage. coming next year, and The project will consist you’ll see some turn lane of two phases; the first to enhancements being built install the traffic signal, to provide some additionThe long-awaited transition of the with the second to widen Rhodine Rd./Balm Riverview Rd. inter- al relief. This has been a the intersection and add section from the flashing, four-way stop long-awaited project in dedicated left and right- beacon to a fully integrated signalized my district and I’m sure traffic light is moving forward. turn lanes in all four direcno one is more excited tions. Sidewalks will be added or replaced to than the residents of Riverview and South improve pedestrian connectivity through the County.” corridor with a retention pond incorporated The $6 million project is funded by the on the northwest corner of the intersection county with work expected to begin shortly, to improve drainage. All enhancements being starting with TECO relocating several of its made to the intersection will ensure motor- transmission poles and continuing through ist, cyclist and pedestrian safety by incorpo- completion in the spring of 2023. rating Vision Zero principles. When asked if a roundabout was considComments posted on the engagement ered at the Rhodine Rd. and Balm Riverview hub website overwhelmingly favored the up- Rd. intersection, Sandra Gonzalez. P.E., degrade to a fully functional light, with many sign manager for Hillsborough County’s Capwondering why it had not yet happened. ital Programs Department, replied that there “There is some traffic congestion relief on are several factors considered when making the horizon,” said County Commissioner Sta- these decisions, including, but not limited to, cy White. “The most requested traffic signal “existing traffic flow, projected traffic flow in my district should be installed and turned for the next 20-30 years, crashes at the inon at the intersection of Balm Riverview and tersection and right-of-way availability. Rhodine Rds. in the next couple of months.” The Hillsborough County Engagement Hub White added, “Originally, it was supposed represents the online home for outreach and to be complete by the beginning of this sum- offers survey results from past surveys.
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Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
Volume 19, Issue 8
PROJECTION: SHORT FILM GFWC BRANDON JUNIOR WOMAN’S CLUB PLANS BOWLING FOR A CAUSE ACCEPTED INTO FILM FESTIVALS By Ariana Pedraza The GFWC that enjoy helping Brandon Junior others. I’ve been in Woman’s Club has the club for over 10 been positively years, and we supcontributing to port a lot of different our community nonprofits and small since 1955, when businesses in the it aided in buildcommunity.” ing the cabinets Throughout the for the Brandon summer, the club Civic Center. Now, has adopted a ‘Wild 66 years later, it Things’ theme for is still doing evtheir events and erything it can Members of the GFWC Brandon Junior Woman’s Club fundraisers includholding blankets with Project Linus Tampa Bay. to help causes in ing Wild Things virour community. tual bingo, bunco In recent and the upcoming years, it has bowling event on donated art Sunday, August 29. supplies and inThe event will take struments to place from 2-4 p.m. schools, made at Brandon Crossteacher appreciroads Bowl. Funds ation care packwill go towards the ages, put on fun GFWC Brandon Judays in adult nior Woman’s Club’s group homes mission to particiand thrown pate in and organize annual Christother service events mas parties for in our community. students at a Patrons using the GFWC Brandon Junior Woman’s The event is open to Club’s Little Free Library. local school. At anyone who would these parties, the students received shoes, like to attend. clothing and toys. The club also sponsors Kathy Mammenga, also a chair of finance a dog kennel through the local kennel club for the club, said, “We just want people to and in the height of the pandemic it made come out and join us and have a fun time over 1,500 masks, which were put in care while raising money for the community.” packages with cards and snacks for first The entrance fee is $12 per bowler, responders and a local pediatric ER unit. In which includes two hours of bowling, the past, it has also provided scholarship snacks, shoes and drinks. You can also to high school seniors. sponsor areas of the event for $50. For Jeanette Kjosa, a chair of finance for the more information on the event and how club, explained, “We are a group of ladies you can help, visit gfwcbrandonjuniors.org.
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By Marie Gilmore
one,” explained Guidas. “Watching the completed short, it hasn’t varied too much from the concept. That in itself is a win. We were so lucky to have the support and time of all of the Tampa cast and crew.” The film storyline follows The cast and crew of the short film Projection shootMartin, an ining scenes at Riverview’s Oops A Daisy flower shop. mate, who has It was during the fall off 2020, still witha vision about in the mask-wearing days of COVID-19 a teen, Aidan, who is in mortal danger when friends Jereme Guidas, a profession- from his abusive stepfather, Paul. Unable al photographer from Pittsburgh and Rus- to physically intervene, Martin solicits an sell Thomas, a TV producer in Tampa, put acquaintance from his past, Jade, to save out a local, Tampa-based casting call for a Aidan as Paul nearly kills him. proof-of-concept short film. The film was shot around the Tampa The pair, both with extensive background Bay, St. Petersburg and Riverview areas in video, film production and screenplay over two days in October. writing, wanted to see if they could put toAn important part of the film, where gether a film, following distancing guide- Jade takes the call from Martin in jail, was lines and using their vast experience in the filmed locally at Oops A Daisy florist in industry to do it on a deadline for the Film Riverview. Owners Laura and Roger Nation Riot Make Film Challenge. were happy to open their doors to a local Currently, the movie has been accepted movie production and were proud to be a into the Barry Gaines GAINESCON Fes- part of the filming. tival, the action, sci-fi and horror festival Osprey Observer Managing Editor Marie and the Art is Alive Film Festival and they Gilmore also jumped in to help with public are awaiting word on the Tampa Bay Un- relations and location scouting. derground Film Festival. “This was a fun film to get involved with The casting call found the actors for and the cast and crew were professional the short film, Projection, a supernatural and I can’t wait to see how we do at film thriller short film. This is a passion project/ festivals.” proof of concept for a longer format proFor more on Projection, visit https:// duction according to Thomas. www.facebook.com/ProjectionShort“Things really fell together for us on this FilmTampa.
August 2021
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Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
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Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
Volume 19, Issue 8
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$5 OFF $50 PURCHASE PG 27 Bryan Hindman Electric Breaks Ground On New Location In Riverview The mission of Bryan Hindman Electric is to lead the electrical service industry in providing homeowners, business owners and property managers with exceptional work. The team achieves this by working with contractors, realtors, HOAs and others, but its passion is working directly with homeowners. The Bryan Hindman Electric team is made up of family, friends and team members who are training with them. It is able to create a smooth customer experience from the first phone call to your final walk-through. All electrical services are offered, including new installations, remodels and additions, repairs, upgrades, docks, exterior lighting, surge protectors and more. To better achieve this, it has recently broken ground on a brand-new location on Carr Rd. in Riverview. Additional information can be found on its website at www.bryanhindmanelectric.com, by following on Facebook @BryanHindmanElectricLLC or by calling 672-4048. Adogable Pets Services Inc. Offers Mobile Grooming Services Adogable Pets Services Inc. is a full-service pet store that is dedicated to taking care of your pet with love, care and compassion. It offers dog and cat food, supplies and grooming facilities, including teeth cleaning. Mobile grooming services are also available to those who are unable to come to the office, and it
is perfect for owners with multiple pets and those pets who are anxious around other animals. Adogable Pets Services is located at 4884 Sun City Center Blvd. in Sun City Center and is open from Tuesday-Saturday, 8 a.m.-5 p.m., and can be contacted by calling 419-4972. Register Now For Fall Season Of N Zone Sports N Zone Sports Southshore, the ultimate in noncontact youth sports, has opened registration for the fall season, which begins on Saturday, September 18. Children between the ages of 3-15 can register for junior programs, flag football and soccer. For more information, call 677-6826 or visit southshore@nzonesports.com or nzonesports.com/southshore/about. Cherry Blow Dry Bar To Open In Brandon Cherry Blow Dry Bar, one of the fastest-growing blow-dry bar franchises in the country, is set to open its first location in the Brandon area in July. The new
salon, located at 935 Bloomingdale Ave. in Brandon, will offer a unique membership program starting as low as $39 for a monthly blowout. To stay up to date, visit www.facebook. com/cherryblowdrybarbrandonfl or visit www.cherryblowdrybar.com. Rasmussen University Opens Upgraded Campus In Brandon Rasmussen University, a regionally accredited private university, announced the relocation and opening of its brandnew Tampa/Brandon campus. Classes at the new campus, located at 330 Brandon Town Center Dr. in Brandon, began in July. “The Rasmussen University Tampa/ Brandon campus has grown to one of the largest Rasmussen campuses, creating a need for more classroom space, nursing and health science labs, simulation equipment as well as faculty and staff space,” said Jamie Sperling, campus director. Visit on Facebook @RasmussenTampaBrandon, Twitter @Rasmussen or Instagram @RasmussenUniversity.
The Way 2 Dance Opens New Location In Riverview The Way 2 Dance recently held the grand opening of its new location in Riverview. “The main focus of The Way 2 Dance is not only educating the community in dance but providing a safe, creative and fun environment for students of all ages for social or competitive dancing,” said Owner Tatiana Frost. The Way 2 Dance first opened its doors in 2009 and has since been continuously bringing high-level ballroom, salsa and swing dance instruction to the Brandon and Tampa area. The studio has a fun, comfortable vibe that appeals to beginners as well as more experienced dancers. The Way 2 Dance is located at 6520 U.S. 301 S., Unit 102 in Riverview, across from Fred’s Market. For more information, visit theway2dance.com or call 966-4788. Person To Person Clinical Services Opens In Apollo Beach Person To Person Clinical Services recently celebrated its grand opening at 5946 Frond Way in Apollo Beach. As family nurse practitioners, they spend time building a trusting relationship with you in which you are encouraged to participate and ask questions to explore your health care options. Visit http://p2pclinical.com/ or call 9288538.
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Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
BUSINESS COLUMN CONTINUED... Yard Guards On Doody Celebrates 18 Years In Business Cheresee Rehart, a Boyette Springs resident, started Yard Guards on Doody in 2003, and she is very happy to be celebrating its 18-year anniversary. Yard Guards on Doody comes to residential yards, places of business, dog waste stations, commercial properties and most anywhere else with dog waste that needs to be removed. It offers regular weekly, twice-weekly and biweekly services as well as a one time service. Mention this article and receive a $10 Poopon to use on services. For more information, visit www. ruff-job.com or call 657-9797. Majesty Title Services Opens New Office In Riverview Majesty Title Services recently celebrated the grand opening of its newest office in Riverview at 13143 U.S. 301 S. It is a full-service title agency, providing its clients with service and protection on their real estate transactions. Its expertise and leadership are what differentiate it from the competition. Majesty Title loves to give back and that is demonstrated by over $100,000 in donations throughout the last 5 years; it is a national firm with a local focus. For more information, visit majestytitle.com or reach it by phone at 342-0134. Bodywork By Zanna Partners With Motion Chirotherapy Zanna Wright of Bodywork by Zanna is a licensed massage therapist and chiropractic assistant specializing in orthopedic and sports massage techniques, and she has partnered with Motion Chirotherapy. Her passion lies in providing a comforting and empowering experience that goes beyond a traditional massage. She takes pride in providing her clients with information and tools they can take home with them to build long-lasting function and freedom in their body. Common complaints she treats include muscle strains, back
and neck pain, overall stiffness, stress and anxiety. Find Wright at Motion Chirotherapy, located at 16765 Fishhawk Blvd. in Lithia. She is available on Tuesdays, Fridays and weekends upon request. Reach her by phone at 541-292-1453 or email zanna.wright@outlook.com. Fishhawk Modern Dentistry Announces Reopening Fishhawk Modern Dentistry is reopening its doors to provide comprehensive oral health care for adult and pediatric patients on Monday, August 2. With clinical leadership from Amir Ghazavi, DDS, the dental practice provides modern dentistry with proven technology. Patients are offered a wide range of specialty services under one roof, including endodontics, oral and maxillofacial surgery, orthodontics, periodontics, hygiene and teledentistry. Fishhawk Modern Dentistry is located at 16509 Fishhawk Blvd. in Lithia. For more information or to schedule an appointment, visit www.fishhawkmoderndentistry. com or call 563-8108. Sign Gypsies Will Help You Celebrate All Occasions Sign Gypsies is a premier yard greeting company. It specializes in yard greetings that make any day a celebration anniversaries, birthdays, graduations, birth announcements are just some of the celebrations they can decorate for. They offer 3 customized greeting packages and are happy to discuss your needs with you to make the greeting special. For additional information visit its website at www.signgypsiesriverview. com or call 530-9618. Follow on Facebook @Sign Gypsies Riverview.
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Volume 19, Issue 8
REGENT AND SATIN & LACE HOST WEDDING DRESSES GIVEAWAY TO ESSENTIAL STAFF
By Lily Belcher
gaged coronavirus first responders. The future brides can be nominated by their coworkers, families or community members who know of a bride at Brandon Regional Hospital looking for their dream dress. “We were trying to decide who would be deserving during all of this and we felt that health care workers, who had been at the hospital dealing with a lot of loss Satin & Lace Bridal Boutique donated 25 wedding dresses to The and taking care of people, Regent. [would be the best candidates for the wedding The Regent, a wedding venue in Riverdress giveaway],” said Keil. view, is now accepting nominations for Nominations for the giveaway can be its wedding dress giveaway for Brandon emailed to Keil with 500 words or less Regional Hospital health care workers on what makes their nominee special and until Wednesday, September 1. Shannon why they deserve a wedding dress from Keil, the executive director of The Regent, The Regent. The recipients of the dresses originally planned a wedding dress scavwill be selected by a group of unbiased enger hunt before the coronavirus hit and was forced to revise her plans to donate community members who are outside of 25 wedding dresses to local brides. This The Regent, Satin & Lace Bridal Boutique revision produced the wedding dress give- and Brandon Regional Hospital, meaning away to health care workers, who have the selections will be based on the nomdedicated their time and skills in helping inations alone. Winners for the giveaway will be selectpatients during the coronavirus. ed in the middle of September and attend “Getting married is a dream event for an event to pick their perfect dress. Keil everyone,” said President of MEFMedia hopes these dresses will go to deserving Maureen Famiano. “Picking that perfect first responders to express the communidress can be daunting and expensive.” ty’s appreciation for them and share hope The 25 wedding dresses, ranging from with the future brides. $600-$1,200 each, were donated to The For more information on The Regent’s Regent by Satin & Lace Bridal Boutique wedding dress giveaway, contact Keil at in Riverview. The Regent’s wedding dress 571-2494. To submit a nomination, email giveaway will alleviate the stress that may Keil at skeil@theregentfl.com. come with finding a wedding dress for en-
August 2021
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Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
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Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
Volume 19, Issue 8
FAMILY AND FRIENDS WORK TOGETHER TO SUPPORT RONALD MCDONALD HOUSE
By Ariana Pedraza
A group of local ing the happiness residents took time and joy just cookies this summer to help could bring,” Molly those less fortunate. reminisced. “I really The Ronald Mcenjoyed being able to Donald House give back.” (RMDH) was foundShe continued all ed in 1974 with the the way up through mission to create, college, and now has find and support three kids of her own programs that diwhom she wants to rectly improve the get involved in comhealth and well-be- FishHawk resident Molly Zurlage recruited her munity service. Her ing of children and family and friends to make care packages for the experience with the Ronald McDonald House last month. their families. Since RMDH led her to call then, the group has the organization to assisted millions of see what they could families around the do, but they were world with pediatnot allowed to enter ric medical expenstheir buildings. Dees like housing and termined to help in food, but none of it any way they could, would be possible the Zurlages found without donations that they could make and volunteers. care packages from Due to the panhome and deliver demic, the Ronald them. These care McDonald House packages will include closed its doors to snacks and hygiene volunteers in efforts products and the to keep their resigoal is to make 150 dents safe. Because of each. Hoping to the organization meet this goal, Molly houses pediatric enlisted the help of patients and their friends, asking for dofamilies, volunteers nations and inviting have not yet been them to make them allowed to help onwith her and her site. However, this children, who attend did not stop a famBevis Elementary ily of FishHawk resand Randall Middle idents from doing Schools. what they could. Grayson, her Molly Zurlage, a FishHawk resident, be- 11-year-old son, explained, “I am excited to gan volunteering at the RMDH as a child do it and I hope we meet our goal. Hopewith her grandmother. At the House, she fully, we can make the residents smile.” would make chocolate chip cookies, and To help the RMDH, please visit https:// sometimes even the residents would join in www.rmhc.org/get-involved. There you to have fun and help. will find a donation button and other ways “I remember feeling really good see- you can get involved.
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August 2021
Page 29
GFWC BRANDON JUNIOR WOMAN’S CLUB IN NEED OF LOCAL SUPPORT
By Annabelle Caraway
Brandon is home “This meant a lot to multiple historito us. To make this cal sites, including happen, we did the GFWC BranZoom meetings don Junior Womand tons of coman’s Clubhouse. munity service; This historical also, a smaller building is on the scale of the annual registry and was children’s holiday built by the GFWC party and brought Brandon Junior police and fire deWoman’s Club in partment food. the 1920s when it Having businesses became the area’s to donate supplies first library and or workers to help health clinic. This with clubhouse year, the building would be greatand the group that ly appreciated to Winners of the Emmy at the Florida Spring runs it are looking help us get back to Convention. for help. running fully,” said The GFWC BranDonna Griffin, past don Junior Wompresident and curan’s Club is highly rent treasurer for active within its the GFWC Brancommunity, holddon Junior Woming events and an’s Club. supporting other services, including parThe clubhouse is looking for business ticipating in Super Saturday with Hori- volunteers and an Eagle Scout seeking zons House, awarding scholarships to lo- to earn an award. Business volunteers cal girls and holding a Christmas drive for are needed to help increase rentals of the underprivileged children. It also supports clubhouse. It holds up to 50 people and drives run by ECHO and Feeding Tampa has great rates. By renting the clubhouse, Bay. it can continue spreading history and This past year, COVID-19 hit clubhouse keep its spot on the registry. rentals hard and activities are just startAlso, the clubhouse needs restoration ing to pick back up. The pandemic caused on the outside. This includes cleaning the an influx of use of the savings account as backyard, power washing the sides, stainwell. However, even with COVID-19, the ing tiles, painting the eaves and, overall, GFWC Brandon Junior Woman’s Club won needs more love. If anyone is interested, an Emmy, the highest achievement award, please contact Eva at 300-4091 or email at the Florida Spring Convention. the club at bjwc.fl@gmail.com.
By Brian Bokor, Founder www.facebook.com/bokorscorner Welcome to your August update of new projects in the greater Brandon/Riverview area. Please check respective Facebook pages or web sites for the most recent information. In Brandon, contractors have been repurposing the closed Sweet Tomatoes restaurant on SR 60 west of Falkenburg Rd. into Sushi Yama, featuring Japanese and Asian cuisine, as well as converting the old Toys “R” Us building in the Westfield Brandon mall area into the new Tampa/Brandon campus of Rasmussen University, specializing in nursing education but also offering degrees in business, design, education, health sciences and justice studies. ModWash car wash submitted plans for a store on Falkenburg Rd. just south of Palm River Rd., adjacent to the 7-Eleven on the east side. Brandon Medical South, a 40,000 sq. ft. medical facility will be built on Kings Ave. between Oakfield Dr. and Lumsden Ave. The southeast corner of SR 60 and Miller Rd. will see the existing Hungry Howie’s and barber shop demolished, making room for a new Hungry Howie’s without seating, and reduced to 1,320 sq. ft., along with a proposed 2,600 sq. ft. Andy Frozen Custard added, with both appearing to offer drive-through service. In Riverview, the Hillsborough County School Board has recently submitted plans to add 594 seats to Collins Elementary along with a new 20,000 sq. ft. gymnasium and additions to the music, dining
and media center and convert the school from an elementary school to prekindergarten through eighth grade. Additionally, the request includes the addition of shared park and recreational facilities as well as a 15,000 sq. ft. community center that includes a playground with basketball courts on the northern parcel to be shared with the public. KB Homes will be building 176 single family homes south of Symmes Rd. at the Riverview Flower Farm location between Fern Hill Dr. and U.S. 301. The Shops at Waterset Crossing will reside on the west side of Waterset Blvd. south of Big Bend Rd. The plaza has a “lease pending with a national grocer” as the anchor store with outparcels available for retail and restaurant opportunities. This shopping center will essentially be sandwiched between 293 D.R. Horton Townhomes on the east side of Waterset Blvd. and 343 apartments to the west of the project. The Belmont area keeps exploding with the announcement of the Sumner Crossing shopping plaza on the northeast corner with CVS, Starbucks, Lockhart Storage and Camel Car Wash planned for the 15acre site, with additional outparcels available. Directly across U.S. 301 on the northwest corner, the Strathmore Real Estate Group is marketing 4-plus acres of commercial land “capable of supporting enhanced drive-through capability for quick serve restaurants or a state-of-the-art convenience store with fueling stations,” as well as other potential opportunities.
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Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
Yoga Classes, Granny’s Attic Sale, Bath Bombs & More... Compiled by Jenny Bennett jbennett@ospreyobserver.com Granny’s Attic Sale At St. Andrew’s UMC St. Andrew’s United Methodist Church, located at 3315 S. Bryan Rd. in Brandon, is hosting its Granny’s Attic Summer Sale on Saturday, August 28 from 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Come out and take a look at its gently used merchandise, including books, games, kitchen items, home decor, accessories and more. It is also seeking vendors for its Fall Craft Fair on Saturday, October 30. For more information, call the church office at 6896849, email info@saumc.net or visit www. saumc.net. B Street Market Place Is Looking For Vendors B Street Market Place will be starting in
October and running through April, skipping January, and it is looking for vendors for the events. The markets will be held at Keller Williams Realty, located at 2350 E. SR 60 in Valrico, on the first Saturday of the month from 9 a.m.2 p.m. Registration fee is $40 per market or if you register for all six markets in advance the rate is reduced to $35. Please reach out to the Brownlee Group at 413-4229 for more information. Local Student Receives National Honor The National Society of High School Scholars (NSHSS) recently announced that Nabiha Warsi from Riverview has been selected to become a member of the esteemed organization. The society recognizes top scholars who have demonstrated outstanding leadership, scholarship and community commitment. GFWC Brandon Junior Woman’s Club Upcoming Events The GFWC Brandon Junior Woman’s Club is holding its general meetings in the
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Whether you’re a pro, a duffer or you just want to have some fun, join us! Lynne: (813) 634-5111 • Lynne@SouthHillsChamber.com 1651 Sun City Center Plaza
clubhouse located at 129 N. Moon Ave. in Brandon on Thursday, August 5 and Thursday, September 2 at 7 p.m. Wild Thing Bowling is taking place on Sunday, August 29 from 2-4 p.m. Tickets are $12 and sponsorship of the event is available for $50. Tickets and more information are available at www.gfwcbrandonjuniors.org. Make Your Own Bath Bomb At Center Place Center Place’s yoga mother and daughter duo from Well Rooted Wellness will be teaching guests how to create their own bath bombs. The class will take place on Thursday, September 16 from 6-9 p.m. at Center Place Fine Arts & Civic Association, located at 619 Vonderburg Dr. in Brandon. The cost for the class is $40 and includes wine, food and supplies for making bath bombs. To register for the class, call Center Place on 685-8888. Dementia And Alzheimer’s Support Groups Now Meeting Care partners of those with any type of memory loss, whether family, friends or professionals, need to be equipped with the knowledge to best support their loved ones. A great way to learn and share are the new hybrid Alzheimer’s Association support groups, which are now being held via Zoom and
Volume 19, Issue 8 in person at Tessera of Brandon. One is an evening group and the other is midday. The evening group meets on the fourth Tuesday of each month at 6:30 p.m. (Zoom meeting number: 897 6781 0479; password: evening). The midday meeting is on the fourth Wednesday of each month at 2 p.m. (Zoom meeting number: 869 4044 7508; password: support). Tessera of Brandon is located at 1320 Oakfield Dr. Call 607-6880 for more information. Chill Cawfee Hosts Wellness Luncheons Chill Cawfee will be presenting monthly Wellness Luncheons with Dr. Kelly King at Releaf MD. The luncheons will answer questions about CBD medical marijuana, ailments that qualify, products that are available at dispensaries and the processing of state information. Dates for upcoming luncheons are Saturday, September 18 and Saturday, October 16. The luncheons will take place from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. at Chill Cawfee, located at 3407 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. in Valrico. The luncheon charge is $5, which will include pizza from Rosati’s, and space is limited. For more information and a list of instore events, visit www.chillcawfee.com or follow its Facebook page @chillcawfee.
August 2021
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
ARMATURE WORKS HOSTS SECOND SUNDAY ART WALK AND VENDOR FAIR By Lily Belcher On the second Sunday “Space is limited, and of each month, Armature vendors will be selected Works is hosting an Art based on their contribuWalk and Vendor Fair to tion to the diversity of feature local visual and the event as a whole,” acartisanal artists. The yearcording to the Armature round event takes place in Works website. the Courtyard and WestThe application to ern Walkway and gives showcase one’s works is locals the opportunity to free, but, once selected, support fellow community vendors must pay to remembers in their efforts serve their space. For a to showcase their origi6-foot space, vendors are nal and creative pieces. asked to pay $95, and for The fair, organized by Art a 10-foot space, vendors Curator Stella Gallerie, is must pay $135. The spacopen to the public for free es are not reserved until from 11 a.m.-3 p.m. once a the final payment is made month. and artists must carry “The event will feature a their own liability insurrotating cast of artisanal ance and bring their own artists and makers selling setup, including tents and handmade goods, jeweltables. ry, art, woodwork, gifts The Second Sunday plus so much more in the Art Walk and Vendor Fair Gathering space at Armatypically sees 40 differture Works,” according to ent vendors who take the the Facebook page for the opportunity to showcase event. their art, jewelry and Local and regional artother works. Guests are On the second Sunday of each ists are welcome to subinvited to visit the restaumit an application to par- month, Armature Works is hosting rants at Armature Works an Art Walk and Vendor Fair to featicipate in the fair. Vendors ture local visual and artisanal artists. to grab a bite to eat after who are willing to commit visiting the Art Walk. to a three-month time period are selected The Art Walk and Vendor Fair is located on a quarterly basis. If selected, they will at 1910 N. Ola Ave. in Tampa, across from be notified approximately three weeks pri- Ulele Restaurant and Brewery. or and may be rotated out each quarter to For more information or general inensure a diversity of works are showcased. quiries, email secondsunday@armatureThe Art Walk will not include or be open to works.com. For questions regarding an apfood trucks and vendors. plication, email victor@stellagallerie.com.
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RETIRED USAF VETERANS CREATE FOAM-FILLED FUN
By Annabelle Caraway
The best part is that the party can come to you and doesn’t need a specific location. The foam is created from a special foam gel and water. To disperse the fun at parties, a 6-foot-tall cannon blows the foam in a 40x40-foot area. While playing in the foam, the Foam Factory plays music to keep the party going. “The foam isn’t just white. We have blue and red that is almost pink, so we can do Stephen Herron, Shane Stults, Brian Porter and Brenda Porter, the gender reveal parties. We also have glow foam for evening owners of Foam Factory. Milestones, accomplishments and more are all causes for celebration. When thinking about a party, the usual comes to mind, balloons, cake and maybe a bouncy house. The Foam Factory is a perfect addition to a celebration list. Brian Porter and Shane Stults have been best friends for 15 years, including serving in the United States Air Force together. Porter and his wife, Brenda, used to own a gymnastics company years ago and enjoyed seeing the happiness they brought to children. The Foam Factory currently has three franchises in FishHawk, Orlando and South Carolina. “We wanted something new that people would be looking for; something new instead of bouncy houses for children’s parties and birthday parties in general. We saw it on the internet and not many people were doing foam parties, so we started doing homework and Shane said he wanted to do it,” said Porter.
parties with strobe lights to add effect,” said Porter. The Foam Factory is all about bringing smiles and laughter to people through its unique party feature. As a recently opened business, it is hoping to increase its clients and continue being a part of your celebration. For more information, you can visit its website at www.floridafoamfactory.com or www.facebook.com/floridafoamfactory for its Facebook page.
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Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
MEET ME IN THE STREETS MINISTRY COLLECTS SCHOOL SUPPLIES
By Anika Shah
A weekly community dinner on Tuesday night at the Ruskin Winn-Dixie parking lot.
Thanks to a local nonprofit group, some local kids will be more ready for going back to school. Meet Me in the Streets Ministry is holding a school supply drive to benefit kids in need. The group partnered with Arise Church at SouthShore and collect donations at the Winn-Dixie parking lot in Ruskin by Saint Anne Catholic Church on Tuesday nights between 6 and 7 p.m. Christine Lynn Hicks, co-founder of Meet Me in the Streets Ministry, said that the drive is more than just an event: “The fundraiser provides for children of the community, allowing children to start the school year with everything they need. It also brings us together as a community knowing that we take care of each other and those that can provide have the opportunity to help … this additional expense can be hard on their families.” Christine and David Hicks have hosted drives for Ruskin Elementary students and teachers in the past and plan to continue next year. Speaking on the impact of drive, Christine stated, “We expect to provide 100 children with a book bag filled with
supplies and additional items for the classroom.” Tuesday nights are also the time of the ministry’s weekly meals. Christine explained how she and her husband began the nonprofit: “We started five years ago buying five pizzas and serving them in the Winn-Dixie parking lot in Ruskin. We now serve a hot meal at two locations every Tuesday and provide for over 100 guests. We send a menu out weekly, and all the volunteers pick an item to prepare and bring to the feeding. It is a community effort.” Last year, the ministry collected over 900 gifts and some of the other events it participated in include holding coat, toy and food drives. This year, it is planning to partner with another nonprofit to collect pop-top ravioli, single-serve tubs of mac and cheese and fruits cups for a backpack food program that provides food for the weekends. To support, please visit the Meet Me in the Streets Ministry Facebook page at www.facebook.com/meetmeinthestreetministry/. It is always accepting donations and supplies.
Volume 19, Issue 8
August 2021
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
1ST LEAP WORKFORCE CONSULTING HELPS PROFESSIONALS BUILD CAREER CONFIDENCEBy Tatiana Ortiz As a multitalented gies to set clients apart in workforce development the ever-changing market professional with more and it consults clients on than 10 years of excareer path clarity. In adperience in all phases dition, it assists employers of career development with strategies to help with and more, Latoya Cave, recruitment, retention and owner of 1ST Leap hiring processes to advance Workforce Consulting, the employment success turned her hidden talrate through well-written ent into an opportunity job descriptions and much that helps job hunters more. reach their career goals Cave mentioned how indiprofessionally. viduals can benefit from the Prior to launching services that her business 1ST Leap Workforce provides. Consulting in 2017, “As a professional in the Cave served in the miliindustry, the most signiftary until 2012. She also icant benefit of my serworked in a corporate vice is offering my clients environment. Through high-quality writing and cathe encouragement of reer consulting, which saves her husband, Cave bethem valuable time during came a certified profes- Latoya Cave, certified professional their job search,” Cave said. resume writer (CPRW) and owner of sional writing resume “Our resume writing ser1ST Leap Workforce Consulting. (CPWR) and opened 1ST vices accentuate career Leap Workforce Consulting. With it being positives with a keen focus on their expelocated here in Riverview, it does provide riences, accomplishments and skills,” she local and virtual resume as well as career added. consulting services to clients spanning all Overall, Cave said that whether its an 50 states and Canada. online or a physical meet-up, representaCave shared what makes 1ST Leap tives are there to assist clients’ professionWorkforce Consulting unique. al growth with confidence and assurance “We genuinely pride ourselves on being that they are not alone in the career strugcommunity business based on trust and re- gles they face. lationships,” Cave said. For more information, visit www.1stleap1ST Leap Workforce Consulting assists workforce.com. To book a 15-minute mid to high-level career professionals with one-on-consultation, go to https://calendbuilding career confidence and success in ly.com/firstleapwc/resume-consultation. their career journeys. It offers professional The business is open Monday through resume writing services, provides strate- Thursday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.
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PEREZ MAKES DIRECTORIAL DEBUT WITH BLACK SAI MOVIE
By Libby Hopkins
By day, Derrick Perez young creatives. I am wellof Lithia is a certified versed in screenwriting, Guardian ad Litem for the shooting video and graph13th Judicial Circuit and ic design and can manage works with more than 17 any project, big or small.” children in care. He also This film brings awareworks as a family coach ness to human traffickwith Finally Home Adoping and tackles the issue tion Agency and has done of overcoming trauma. contract work with the “What I like most about Sylvia Thomas Center as this film is the team of well as Child Proindividuals behind tective Services and Lithia resident Derrick Perez made his directorial it. We are a massive Safe At Home PAS- debut on July 14 at Xscape Theatres Riverview 14 group of minority CO. By evening and filmmakers in the with the release of his new film, Black Sai. weekends, dependarea coming togething on production scheduler to make opportunities ing, he is a film director, profor ourselves to grow ducer, writer and actor. and tell bigger stories. Perez made his directoMy hope for this film is to rial debut on July 14 at Xslaunch my new universe cape Theatres Riverview 14 that I am building as well with the release of his new as build a fanbase in the film, Black Sai. “As a young community and bring Tampa native, I have made more film and television filmmaking my passion; that opportunities to the Tamstarted with my younger pa Bay area,” said Perez. self watching the ‘behind Perez’s film brings the scenes’ content of my faawareness to human vorite films,” Perez said. “At trafficking and tackles the age of 23, I already have the issue of overcoming over a decade of experience shooting mul- trauma. “What I like most about this film tiple commercials, documentaries, features is the team of individuals behind it,” Perez and short films.” said. “We are a massive group of minority Black Sai is about a very young Marissa filmmakers in the area coming together to Vasquez, who is tragically orphaned when make opportunities for ourselves to grow two men break into her home and gun and tell bigger stories. My hopes for this down her family. She is immediately filled film is to launch my new universe that I am with feelings of revenge and questions. “I building as well as build a fan base in the hope to make a difference through my sto- community and bring more film and televirytelling and other creative works,” Perez sion opportunities to the Tampa Bay Area.” said. “I even founded my high school’s first If you’d like to learn more about Perez’s film club, which has already inspired other film, Black Sai, visit www.gotchafilms.com.
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Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
DAVENPORT’S DAILY DELIGHTS PARTNERS WITH LASAGNA LOVE PROGRAM TO DELIVER MEALS
BROADWAY MAKES A RETURN TO TAMPA THIS OCTOBER
By Kathy L. Collins
By Ariana Pedraza The goal of this program is to feed as many families as possible. The Lasagna Love program is run on the work of volunteers and donations. Davenport’s Daily Delights loves to be involved and during the pandemic it had its own campaign. It prepared food and delivered the food to people who needed it, with a focus on health care workers and local hospitals. When asked why she chose to have her company participate in the Lasagna Love program and others like it, Davenport explained, “Hunger is a big issue in America and should not be. We can all do our part to help those in need.” Lasagna Love is run off of donations, so any contributions are greatly appreciated in During the last week in keeping LaJune, Peggy Davenport of sagna Love Davenport’s Daily Delights running. If teamed up with teenagers you would to make lasagna to deliver to like to make families in need. a donation Davenport’s company towards lessmakes fresh homemade meals to deliver to paying Peggy Davenport and her team making lasagna ening hunger across customers across Tampa Bay to deliver to families in need. Tampa Bay every weeknight. It partnered with Lasagna Love, which is an orga- with these layers of warm love, please www.davenportsdailydelights.com nization that began making lasagna across visit the country during the pandemic for fam- and click on the designated Lasagna Love ilies in need. Davenport’s Daily Delights Donations button in the ‘Donations’ secpartnered with it for a Lasagna Love Day tion. The organization is also largely kept once a month, where they work with Mid- alive by volunteers. If there are any middle dle and high school students to help make and high school students who are in need and deliver the food in bulk. The teenagers of Bright Futures service hours, contact get Florida Bright Futures service hours Davenport at davenportsdailydelights@ from working alongside Davenport to gmail.com. She will talk to you and get you scheduled to make food for a great cause. make the meals.
Volume 19, Issue 8
Broadway shows are coming back at the Straz Center in Tampa this October. You can see a variety of shows and musicals, including The Prom, which will be in Tampa next year in February.
After a long period of being closed or only holding small locally produced shows due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the David A. Straz, Jr. Center for the Performing Arts (The Straz Center) has announced their upcoming Broadway season. Performances of Broadway shows will begin in October. Attendees should check with The Straz Center regarding on site restrictions and ticket pricing. Judy Lisi is the president and CEO of the Straz Center, a nonprofit arts organization. Lisi said, “It has been a long intermission, but we are excited for the return of touring Broadway to Tampa. We have put together a remarkable season that includes a couple of welcome surprises along with a few shows that were postponed from early 2020 due to the pandemic and a number of shows originally announced for the 2020-21 slate.” Lisi added, “It is a season of blockbusters, audience favorites, award winners and classics. This lineup truly is the best of Broadway.” The Straz Center will begin with the
musical comedy Tootsie from Tuesday, October 26 through Sunday, October 31. Tootsie is based on the 1982 American comedy film of the same name. The award-winning Andrew Lloyd Webber’s musical, Cats, will hit the stage Tuesday, December 7 through Sunday, December 12. Then, bring in the new year with a jukebox musical, Summer: The Donna Summer Musical. This will be in Tampa from Tuesday, January 1, 2022 through Sunday, January 16, 2022. Winner of six Tony Awards, including Winner for Best Musical, Dear Evan Hansen, will come to Tampa from Tuesday, February 1, 2022 through Sunday, February 6, 2022. Dear Evan Hansen is also a 2018 GRAMMY Award winner for Best Musical Theatre Album. The Straz Center will offer the musical The Prom from Tuesday, February 15, 2022 through Sunday, February 20, 2022. Next, the Disney hit Frozen will be in Tampa from Wednesday, March 23, 2022 through Sunday, April 3, 2022. My Fair Lady closes out the 2021-22 season when it comes to Tampa from Tuesday, April 26, 2022 through Sunday, May 1, 2022. The Straz Center is located at 1010 N. Macinnes Pl. in downtown Tampa. To get more information on Broadway shows, times, tickets and availability, please visit www.strazcenter.org or call 229-7827.
August 2021
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
STATE REPRESENTATIVE ANDREW LEARNED HOLDS FIRST LIVE TOWN HALL MEETING By Kathy L. Collins lative Session. The bills included HB 429, the Purple Star Campuses Act; HB 1399, an act relating to aquaculture records; and HB 1097, the Health Care Licensure Act. Learned fielded questions on a wide range of topics, including gambling, traffic infrastructure, school spending, the health of Tampa Bay and the prison sysState Representative Andrew Learned held his first live town tem. Learned said, “It was great hall meeting on June 30 at Your Pie Brandon. Learned invites to see so many people across everyone who lives in the area to attend and participate in his monthly town hall meetings. partisan divides come together to talk about what we have acState Representative Andrew Learned, who represents District 59 in the Florida complished and the work still ahead for House of Representatives, held his first this legislative term. From delivering tens in-person town hall meeting on June 30 of millions of dollars for new traffic infraat Your Pie Brandon, located at 125 E. structure, to military-friendly schools and Bloomingdale Ave. in Brandon. District a COVID recovery led by vaccines in arms 59 covers a large area, including parts of and dollars in pockets, we are on a much Brandon, Valrico, Riverview and Gibson- better course than we were when I first took office.” ton. Learned plans to hold monthly town Residents who could not attend in person were able to submit questions online hall meetings on the last Thursday of each and attend virtually on either Zoom or month from 6-7 p.m. He will select placthrough Facebook Live. Learned answered es and venues from around the district. questions submitted online and from those Learned said, “We wanted to highlight Your Pie Pizza on Bloomingdale because in attendance. This was his first year in the Florida they have struggled due to some of our House of Representatives. Learned spon- ongoing traffic improvements. A small way sored three bills that passed and co-spon- we can help a great locally owned restausored 15 bills that also passed. Learned rant through a challenging time as we said, “This achievement made me one build back better.” You can subscribe at andrewlearned.com of the most productive members of the for updates and follow on all social media House.” Learned gave an overview of the bills channels for future town hall opportunities he sponsored that passed this past Legis- happening monthly around the district.
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REGISTER TODAY FOR FALL ART CLASSES WITH WINTHROP ARTS By Kathy L. Collins If you, your child exa on Mondays or teen are interfrom 3-4:30 p.m. ested in learning to will feature fine create fine art and artisan crafts for artisan-style piecchildren 5 and up. es, you can register Re g i s t ra t i o n for art classes with for all of the Winthrop Arts. classes is availClasses are held able at www.winat the Art Factothroparts.org. A ry, located 11267 registration fee of Winthrop Main $35 per family is St. in Riverview. required. Classes Winthrop Arts ofare $15 each with fers art classes for Children, teens and adults are treated like fellow artists a minimum of children 5 years when they take art classes with Winthrop Arts. Classes four weeks. The old and up, teens are held in the arts education studio called the Art Fac- exception to the (in sixth grade and tory, located at 11267 Winthrop Main St. in Riverview. price and number above) and adults (Ceramics on Monday of classes applies to the Saturday painting evenings). Classes begin on Tuesday, August classes and basket weaving. All students for 10. all classes must preregister. There are no The hours and classes vary each day, but drop-in classes unless otherwise advertised. generally classes are held during the hours Children, teens and adults can let their of 3 to 7:30 p.m., Monday through Friday. creative side shine. No experience is necesSpecialty classes highlighting painting will sary and all materials are provided. be held on select Saturdays throughout the Bryant Martinez, lead art instructor for year beginning in September. Winthrop Arts, said, “We have expanded Winthrop Arts began offering Basket the types of classes that we offer over the Weaving classes with Peggy McCarson years. However, the mission of Winthrop this past year. These classes will continue Arts has never changed. We want everyone throughout the year on select Thursday to feel free to come and take classes and evenings, and through them, students learn learn to create art with us. We are truly artto handcraft woven baskets. ists creating art with other artists.” New classes that have been added for Students are encouraged to enter area this coming year includes Comics, Anime art shows, including the annual Winthrop and Graphics with Mariel on Wednesdays Arts Children’s Art Show, the Hillsborough from 5-6:30 p.m. This class is set up in County Fair Fine Arts Show and the Florida four-week sessions and is good for students Strawberry Festival Fine Art Show. 7 years and older. There will also be a CeFor more information and to register for ramics class with Marta on Thursdays from classes, please visit www.winthroparts.org. 6-7:30 p.m. This Ceramics class is designed If you have questions, please contact Kathy for students of any age over 5. Art with Al- at 758-5161 or kathy@winthroparts.org.
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Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
Volume 19, Issue 8
THE FLORIDA ORCHESTRA TO OPEN THE FALL SEASON WITH BEETHOVEN’S FIFTH AND VIVALDI’S THE FOUR SEASONS SENIOR CONNECTION CENTER ANNOUNCES 2020/21 SALT & PEPPER AWARD WINNERS
By Kathy L. Collins
Senior ConnecCenter Emertion Center, the gency Squad area’s aging and has been providdisability resource ing services to center, held its Anthe residents of nual Rise & Shine the area for 57 Award Ceremony years. The squad on May 25. The has over 400 event was held Mike Bardell and Diane Simon, both residents of Sun City volunteers who virtually this year Center, received Salt & Pepper Awards at Senior Connec- provide a varition Center’s Annual Rise & Shine Award Ceremony. and more than 250 ety of services people participated from home or work. for free. These include ambulance transPatty Suarez, Senior Connection Center port, a wheelchair van service and lending vice president, said, “We had to cancel last equipment such as wheelchairs. year’s event, so it was especially important Bardell said, “I was flattered to win to have a ceremony this year.” Suarez add- and was kind of surprised. I do not have a ed, “Even though we held it virtually, it was God-given talent. I was given this award as still exciting to recognize the award winners a result of the willingness and sacrifice of and share the heartwarming stories of the those volunteers who work for the squad. impact they have on their communities.” This was especially so during the COVID-19 The Rise & Shine Awards Ceremony is pandemic. They continued to work despite an opportunity to recognize outstanding the risk to their health.” achievements of local seniors by giving Bardell added, “This award is a result them Salt & Pepper Awards and to share of all those who work for the squad. I am the work Senior Connection is doing. It is thrilled to get the recognition for the squad also a way to pay tribute to the late Hon- because they do so much.” orable Claude Pepper, who represented Diane Simon, another resident of Sun City Florida in Congress and was instrumental in Center, also received an award for Arts and developing the Medicare program. Entertainment for sharing her artistic talAwards are given in categories of Philan- ent as a painter to benefit charity and inthropy, Community Service and Volunteer- spiring others through her teaching. ism, Arts and Entertainment and Health Senior Connection Center is a private and Wellness. nonprofit whose mission is help older adults Locally, Mike Bardell, a resident of Sun and persons who have disabilities live with City Center and the chief of the Sun City independence and dignity. For more inforCenter Emergency Squad, was awarded the mation, please visit www.seniorconnectionHealth and Wellness Award. The Sun City center.org.
By Kathy L.Collins
The Florida OrUnlike many chestra has another major ornounced a full chestras across schedule of epic the country, symphonies and beThe Florida loved concertos feaOrchestra has turing world-class played throughsoloists. The season out the panexpands to venues demic while across Tampa Bay in following CDC the fall, including the guidelines for Straz Center for the safety at the Performing Arts in Mahaffey TheTampa. ater. Now, the This September, Michael Francis, The Florida Orchestra’s music director, state’s largest Music Director Mi- will welcome back full audiences as the 2021-22 season p r o f e s s i o n a l chael Francis will opens this September. Francis is in his seventh season orchestra is welcome back full as the music director and has led the orchestra through poised to return difficult times during the pandemic. audiences with two at full power powerhouse works in one concert featur- with traditional length concerts for big auing Beethoven’s Fifth Symphony and Vival- diences in the fall. di’s The Four Seasons. The Tampa Bay MasThe Florida Orchestra’s 54th season will terworks Series will begin on the weekend bring internationally renowned soloists to of Friday-Sunday, September 24-26. Tampa, including classical guitar superstar “As we emerge from this crisis, Bee- Milos. The season will feature popular conthoven’s Fifth Symphony is really the only certs that range from the music of Star piece that could open the season, because Wars to the cinematic America’s Wonders it so perfectly embodies our journey from and the cutting-edge FLY Dance Company. darkness to light. This is a time of rejuveIn addition to the Masterworks Series, nation, and what better than Vivaldi’s Four The Florida Orchestra offers the Raymond Seasons to take us out of winter and into James Pop Series, the Light Symphonic the new spring of life?” said Francis. Morning Coffee Series and Community “I am so proud of how The Florida Or- Concerts. chestra has kept concerts going. Our comSeason tickets for the 2021-22 season munity has never needed live music more are offered as varying packages. Premium than now. I cannot wait to bring back the curated packages are the best value. You glorious power of a symphony at full force. can also compose your own series. For Experiencing such extraordinary music more information, please call The Florida together makes us stronger as we move Orchestra Ticket Center at 727-892-3337 forward with optimism and hope,” added or 800-662-7286 Monday through Friday Francis. from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
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Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
August 2021
CONGREGATION BETH SHALOM WELCOMES RABBI LEFKOWITZ AND HOSTS OPEN HOUSE Staff Report Some exciting The event will inthings are happening clude a complimentary at Congregation Beth lunch, music, games, Shalom of Brandon. and more. The group recently “This will also be a announced that Rabbi wonderful opportunity Robert Lefkowitz reto acquaint yourself cently joined the Conwith our dynamic and gregational Family as varied educational and the new Senior Rabbi. spiritual programming The public is invited which is designed to to meet with Rabbi address the wants and Lefkowitz at an Open needs of the wide deHouse on Sunday, Aumographic that is repgust 8 from 11 a.m.-3 resentative of our famp.m. ily,” said Koch. “And, is For almost 30 years our custom, this will Rabbi Lefkowitz has be the time to learn been the Senior Rabbi about the Religious Rabbi Robert Lefkowitz recently joined Congregation Beth Shalom as the new at Congregation Beth school. Our Religious Senior Rabbi. Emeth in Orlando School classes are deFlorida. signed to meet the educational needs of “Rabbi Lefkowitz brings a wealth of children Kindergarten through Confirmaexperience to our congregation and is tion. We are continuing our cutting-edge already planning new and innovative pro- Religious School curriculum which has grams that will revitalize our congrega- been specifically developed for Congregation,” said the Congregation’s Toby Koch. tion Beth Shalom. During the Open House, Rabbi Lefkowitz received his Rabbinical you will have an opportunity enroll your ordination in 1994. He has been associat- children in classes.” ed with Congregation Beth Emeth since The public is also welcome to join Conhis ordination. Prior to that he received a gregation Beth Shalom for in-person serMaster of Arts degree from Teachers Col- vices which start at 7:30 p.m. every Friday lege of Columbia University. He received evening. The services are also streamed his bachelor’s degree from Bernard M. Ba- the service on FaceBook at www.faceruch City College of New York. book.com/BethShalomBrandon. Anyone interested in meeting Rabbi For additional information, please conLefkowitz is invited to the Congregation tact the temple office at 681-6547 or Beth Shalom of Brandon Open House on visit https://bethshalom-brandon.org or Sunday August 8, 2021, from 11:00 a.m. send an email to Steve Billor, President of until 3:00 p.m. at 706 Bryan Rd. in Bran- the Congregation Beth Shalom Board of don. Directors at cbs-brandon@outlook.com.
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NEW LAW WILL REQUIRE CPR AND BASIC FIRST AID TRAINING FOR HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS
By Lily Belcher
On July 1, a new law to make sure it definitetook effect that will imly is stated on there and plement CPR training includes the bill numfor students in middle ber,” explained Superschool and high school. visor for K-12 Physical Committee SubstiEducation Ashlee Captute/House Bill 157 pucci. “We will continue was first filed with the with yearly trainings so House on January 4 that our teachers are and was voted on unanequipped to provide any imously by the Florida updated information House and Senate on and materials.” April 26. The legislation, In order to ensure the which was signed into a CPR and first aid trainlaw by Governor Ron ing is taught correctly, DeSantis on June 21, the Hillsborough County will encourage schools Schools District is workto provide CPR and baing with the American Leslie Wheeler’s class at Nelson Elementary sic first aid training for Heart Association, ColSchool practices CPR. their sixth and eighth let Bobs with BayCare’s graders and require the training for ninth Heart Healthy Curriculum, and Joel Strom and 11th graders. and Charles Sand from STEMI. However, Hillsborough County Schools Strom, who runs the STEMI meetings, is will not see too drastic of a change, as responsible for relaying information about hands-only CPR, heat acclimation tips, and recent heart events and how Hillsborough caring for basic injuries are already taught County Schools are responding and preparto some elementary and middle school stu- ing for similar events if they should occur. dents and all high school students through “American Heart Association donates Health Opportunities through Physical Edu- mannequins and is a huge partner with us cation (HOPE) classes. to help with educating our students each The enforcement of CPR training has year,” added Cappucci. “Eric Stommes from saved lives before. Since many high school the American Heart Association is our disteachers and coaches have been trained in trict support and works with us to ensure CPR, Plant City High School coach Carrie students are educated on a healthy heart.” Mahon was able to perform CPR on stuThe CPR training will be included in the dent Charlie Curtis, who fell into cardiac 2021-2022 school curriculum and open to arrest while running laps in 2014. Curtis’ any students, not just the specified grade story, among others, furthered the push to levels. require CPR training in classrooms. For more information, contact Media “With the new bill that passed, we are Outreach Department Manager Erin Maloworking on updating all our pacing guides ney at erin.maloney@hcps.net.
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Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
HERZING UNIVERSITY OPENS TAMPA CAMPUS WITH NURSING & HEALTHCARE DEGREES & MORE
By Amy Schechter
Herzing University, a not-for-profit, accredited institution which offers in-person and online options for a variety of nursing, health care, business, legal studies, & more is now open.
For over 50 years, Herzing University’s mission has been to empower students for success in work, learning and engagement in our communities and global society. Now, with 11 campuses in seven different states, Herzing is a not-for-profit, accredited institution which offers in-person and online options for a variety of nursing, health care, business, legal studies, public safety and technology programs. In response to the nation’s shortage of nurses, Herzing is proud to announce the opening of its new Tampa campus. Jeff Cross, regional president, is so excited for current and prospective students. “There are jobs out here. We need more nurses, and we’re filling that need. At Herzing, students have access to innovative nursing simulation labs with high-fidelity mannequins,” said Cross. “They get to work on real-life scenarios guided by faculty members, so when they enter the field, they are more prepared. Our board exam pass rates exceeded national and state averages in 2020.” Herzing has graduated over 6,000 nurses
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nationally, 1,000 from the Orlando campus alone. This demonstrates the quality education students receive when they study at Herzing. Herzing offers a variety of programs, including certificates, diplomas, associate degrees, bachelor’s degrees and master’s degrees. Most general education courses are offered online and academic counselors are
available to help tailor programs that meet your schedule with day, night, and weekend classes. You can expect the faculty and staff at Herzing to work with you every step of your educational journey to personalize your experience. Whether you need academic guidance, time management strategies, disability accommodations or access to university resources, your student advisor will be there to help address any academic or personal issues that can impact your studies. Additionally, career services and financial aid are available. Reach out to Herzing’s professional team to explore options best for you. For more information, visit www.herzing. edu or call 285-5281. Herzing University is located at 3632 Queen Palm Dr. in Tampa.
Volume 19, Issue 8
BRANDON TOWNHOME PROJECT TO FEATURE BUILD-TO-RENT PRODUCT
By Brian Bokor
viding private yards, another unique feature distancing this product from your typical apartment complex. Professional property management and exterior maintenance are included without burdening residents with additional HOA and/or CDD fees. Recently, a $71.5M loan was secured for the purpose of developing 360 The Brandon built-to-rent townhome units in the new Brandon Town Center project. Town Center projPeople outside of the real estate world ect—not to be may not be familiar with the concept of confused with Westfield Brandon, the large ‘build-to-rent’ housing, yet it is a rapidly shopping mall nearby, which previously growing movement highlighting some im- shared the same name—will be a 660-unit portant emerging trends in today’s hous- townhome-style project located north of ing demand. Recently, a $71.5M loan was Brandon Pkwy. between Providence Rd./ secured for the purpose of developing 360 Lakewood Dr. and Pauls Rd. The developbuilt-to-rent townhome units in the new ment will include 75,000 square feet of Brandon Town Center project. commercial space along with a dog park, Build-to-rent (BTR), as the name implies, is fire pits, walking trails, swimming pool and a type of housing where the developer builds fitness center. The initial phase of construcall products specifically as rental units. One tion will be the aforementioned 360 townof the fast-growing developers in this niche homes with phases two and three to follow. markets their brand as “Rents Like an Apart- In mixed-use projects such as these, residenment. Lives Like a Home.” tial areas will typically be constructed before What makes units in these communities commercial uses are developed. different from typical apartment complexEstimates from the U.S. Census Bureau es are upgraded features such as soft-close show 65 percent of Americans under the cabinetry in kitchen and baths, including age of 35 currently rent, with research quartz or granite countertops, stainless showing they are looking for more desirable steel appliances, hardwood flooring, in-unit rental options along with longing for a true washer and dryers along with architectural sense of community. Build-to-rent neighborupgrades like coffered or vaulted ceilings. hoods offer luxury, quality, privacy and conThese lushly landscaped single-fami- venience, allowing the kind of live-work-play ly rental communities offer one, two and lifestyle desired while remaining free from three-bedroom-attached townhome units the long-term financial obligations that acand/or detached single-family homes pro- company single-family home ownership.
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
August 2021
Page 39
ST. STEPHEN CATHOLIC CHURCH WELCOMES FATHER ISRAEL HERNANDEZ
SOUTH BAY GENEALOGICAL SOCIETY RESUMES IN-PERSON MEETINGS By Kelly Wise Valdes genealogy, including methods, research techniques, where to find information, how to organize your data and how to use genealogical computer programs. “My favorite part of this club is learning The South Bay Genealogical Society is celebrating 30 years of genealogy new methods of researching my family research. The club is resuming in-person meetings in September. tree and history,” said The South Bay Genealogical Society Simmons. “There is also a social aspect (SBGS) has announced a return to in-perto the society—we get to talk, exchange son meetings beginning on Tuesday, Sepexperiences and meet new people. It is tember 21. The 12 Noon luncheon will take a real mind-expanding experience, along place at the Sun City United Methodist with being a lot of fun. I am excited to get Church in Sun City Center. our group back together and to encourage The SBGS was started in 1991 and has others to come out and learn more about grown to more than 140 members. Many family history.” noted genealogists have made presentaIf you would like to join the September tions at these meetings over the past 30 through May luncheons, send a check for years. the yearly membership fee of $25 per The guest speaker will be Carol Weidlich, family. Each luncheon costs $15 per perwho will be explaining how wikis can be son. Mail checks to South Bay Genealogical used for genealogical research. Weidlich Society, P.O. Box 5202, Sun City Center, FL has been a staple in the genealogy field for 33571. If you have any questions about the more than 20 years and brings a wealth of membership or meetings, call 643-4649 information and knowledge. or email southbaygs@gmail.com. You can The meeting takes place every third also follow it on Facebook at www.faceTuesday from September through book.com/groups/567612300073587/ May. The meetings begin at 10:30 a.m. or visit website https://sites.rootsweb. with a round table discussion which gives com/~flsbgs/. everyone a chance to discuss their searchThe SBGS publishes a monthly e-newses and exchange ideas. Lunch is served at letter, LINKS, which includes news of the 12 Noon and the guest speaker begins at society and of tips and tricks. Sun City 1 p.m., which typically lasts for one hour. United Methodist Church is located at According to current SBGS President 1210 Del Webb Blvd. W. in Sun City Center William ‘Doc’ Simmons, the topics always in the Life Enrichment Center auditorium vary, but they all deal with history and behind the church.
By Kelly Wise Valdes
Last month, tion Catholic Father Israel Church in ‘Izzy’ Hernandez Tampa for my was appointed diaconate sumto serve the pamer,” he said. rishioners at St. Hernandez Stephen Catholic has a heart Church in Riverto serve and view. In a short couldn’t be amount of time, happier with Hernandez has his assignment settled in and has Father Israel ‘Izzy’ Hernandez (pictured with his family) is to serve at St. been actively get- happy to be assigned to and serving the congregation of St. Stephen. “I am Stephen Catholic Church in Riverview. ting to know the so glad that I congregation. ended up at St. Stephen Catholic Church. I Hernandez’s parents were originally from had asked for a parish that had young famPuerto Rico; however, Hernandez was born ilies because I love serving the youth,” said and raised in Lutz. His home parish is Our Hernandez. “I loved youth ministry when I Lady of the Rosary Catholic Church in Land was in high school and ultimately decided O’ Lakes, where he received all his sacra- to give back by serving the youth ministry ments of initiation and where his vocation at my home parish. Ministering to the youth was nourished and enriched. challenged me to be better and to do better. After high school, Hernandez graduated I also asked for a parish which would allow from the University of South Florida in Tam- me to walk with those couples seeking the pa. While entering his final year of college, sacrament of marriage. This seemed like an he began to consider joining the priesthood. opportunity to learn more during my first “Part of this process meant going to a St. assignment.” Andrew’s dinner where I met Bishop Lynch, Hernandez is looking forward to walking our shepherd at the time,” said Hernandez. with couples preparing for marriage and “Here I heard his vocation story, the vocation assisting them in developing a fuller understory of my pastor who recently retired, Fr. standing of what marriage in the Catholic Ron Aubin, and that of another priest. This Church, in God’s eyes, looks like. led me to visiting the seminary not too long “Pope Francis, in his 2016 apostolic exhorafterwards and then beginning the applica- tation, expressed, ‘The sacrament of martion process for the Diocese of St. Peters- riage is not a social convention or an empty burg.” ritual or merely the outward sign of a comSeminary life was transforming and mitment. The sacrament is a gift given for eye-opening for Hernandez. “I learned a lot the sanctification of the spouses, since their from my summer assignments, which were: mutual belonging is a real representation, Institute for Priestly Formation; St. Michael through the sacramental sign, of the same the Archangel in Hudson, FL; Spanish Emer- relationship between Christ and the Church.’” gent Program in Guatemala; St. Joseph’s St. Stephen is located at 10118 St. Stein Tampa; Clinical Pastoral Education pro- phen Cir. in Riverview. Visit www.ststephengram at Tampa General; and then Incarna- catholic.org or call 689-4900.
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Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
ADOPT A HILLSBOROUGH TEACHER PAIRS NEEDS WITH GENEROUS COMMUNITY
By Anika Shah
Adopt a HillsborEducators post their ough Teacher is a Amazon Wish List of Facebook group that supplies under their helps teachers fulfill school thread and their school supply residents buy them. wish lists for the The Amazon pages year. It all started update in real time so last year when forcommunity members mer teachers Brooke will know what has Elkins and Lorra already been bought Gillman noticed the and what is still needsuccess of the Adopt ed. a Senior Facebook Starting since July page, which allowed 17, threads are live, residents to connect with all of the elewith and buy care mentary, middle, high School supplies received through Adopt a Hillsborough Teacher. packages for high and charter schools beschool seniors who ing posted in the days didn’t have a graduation. following. They will stay onElkins got to thinking that line for the duration of the the same could be done for school year. teachers, “who, especially With over 250 schools in during COVID, were needthe district, the 100 dollars ing support in the classin flex spending that teachers room more than ever,” she receive is often not enough. said. Instead, “teachers are pourWhat started as a whim ing hundreds and hundreds stayed up for the entire of dollars of personal money school year and blossomed into a thriving into their classrooms every year.” community of over 13,000 members. It For Elkins, “The more help we are giving touched nearly every school in Hillsborough, our teachers, the better it is for them, and which is quite a feat considering it is the ultimately it’s better for the kids,” she said. 27th biggest county in the United States. While some teachers’ whole lists have been The growing popularity of the page influ- cleared, others, especially Title 1 schools, enced Pasco and Pinellas Counties to start struggle with getting enough supplies. one. On how people can help, Elkins said, “Join, Originally a hub of posts by teachers, El- adopt and share the page.” kins has streamlined the page to be orgaFor more information and to support, visit nized alphabetically into threads of schools. ‘Adopt a Hillsborough Teacher’ on Facebook.
Volume 19, Issue 8
FRIENDS OF ALAFIA RECEIVES $13K GRANT FROM MOSAIC COMPANY
Staff Report
A local business is eastern Hillsborough Counmaking an impact on a ty). The park’s 7,714 acres park in Lithia thanks to a were donated to the state generous donation. in 1996 by Cytec Indus“Friends of Alafia, tries. The former phosphate Inc. is pleased to anmine was called Lonesome nounce that we have Mine, named after the been awarded a $13,000 nearby community of Fort grant from Mosaic, Lonesome, a site which was which we have used Friends of Alafia, Inc. was recently a frontier outpost of the awarded a $13,000 grant from Mosaic, to buy another Scag which was used to buy another Scag U.S. Army during the Third commercial mower (a Seminole War. The mine commercial mower. Turf Tiger II, 72” deck altered the landscape and model),” said Friends of created new landforms, such Alafia President LeRoy as several small lakes and Dennison. “We have some steep grades, popular with 40-50 acres of grass that mountain bikers who enjoy needs to be mowed with challenging trails, as well a mower, not a brush hog beas equestrians and hikers. A hind a tractor. This grant enforest bordering the South sures that we have two new Prong of the Alafia River was mowers that should remain in protected from mining. This service for years to come.” prong of the river is a blackwater stream Friends of Alafia is a 501(c)(3) nonprof- that flows through the park. The stream, it, Citizen Support Organization governed bordered by red maple, swamp tupelo and by Section 258.015, Florida Statutes, water hickory trees, is ideal for canoeing, established to protect, preserve and sup- kayaking and fishing. The campground feaport Alafia River State Park in providing tures some equestrian sites for keeping resource-based recreational opportunities horses on-site, plus it has a barn and padto the public. docks. To learn more, visit www.floridasThe Friends of Alafia raises funds and tateparks.org/alafia. provides volunteer services to improve paThe Mosaic Company is one of the trons’ enjoyment of the park. world’s leading producers and marketers “In particular, we look out for the needs of concentrated phosphate and potash of mountain bikers, equestrians and hik- crop nutrients. Mosaic is a single-source ers/runners using the park by supporting provider of phosphate and potash fertilconstruction and maintenance of the miles izers and feed ingredients for the global of trails within the park,” said Dennison. agriculture industry. More information on Alafia River State Park is located at the company is available at https://www. 14326 S. County Rd. 39 in Lithia (South- mosaicco.com.
August 2021
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
Page 41
PHOTOS COURTESY OF EAST BAY YOUTH ATHLETICS
EAST BAY YOUTH ATHLETICS 13U BASEBALL TEAM WINS STATE TITLE The East Bay Youth Athletics against the boys. 13U baseball team won the FloriCook remarks that da State Babe Ruth Championship she is one of the and will represent the area in the best athletes that Southeast Region Tournament in he’s ever coached. Jackson, Tennessee, with a chance He laughed that to move on to the World Series. she threw out a kid They will compete in a seven-team from the outfield double elimination bracket. at the plate and “I was very excited to win with the same boy gave my team. We put in a lot of work her the ball after at practice and it showed in our the game with his game play,” said second baseman Snapchat written Erik Farmer. “I will remember on there. spending time with my team the Cook expects a most. It’s not always about the lot of his player to destination, but more the journey make their high The East Bay Youth Athletics 13U baseball team won the Florida State Babe There was a total of 12 kids on the team, for us.” school squads next Ruth Championship. 11 boys and one girl. Riverview resident and Head year. Most of the them to learn humility, teamwork, how to and Sydney Elizondo. Coach Kevin Cook, who has been players will attend Cook is impressed with his team’s East Bay High School and Riverview High on the East Bay Youth Athletics board win and how to lose. One thing about our for seven years and has coached for three team is that the kids love each other. We scrappiness and mental toughness. He School, but some will attend Lennard years, grew up playing at Vance Vogel don’t have the biggest kids or the stron- remembers the semifinal game fondly be- High School and Sumner High School. EliPark. His two kids now play on the same gest kids, but we have the best kids, and cause they were down 5-2 in the seventh zondo plans on trying out for the East Bay fields that their father once did. He has there’s nothing they can’t do when they inning, down to their final at-bat and they baseball team. rose to the occasion, scoring eight runs spent most of his childhood and adult life play together.” “I’ll miss the little memories and miss There was a total of 12 kids on the with two outs, winning 10-6. at this park, so naturally it holds a special hanging out with my friends. I’m not team, 11 boys and one girl: Cameron Cook, “When our backs are against the wall, really looking into the future because I place in his heart. “It’s a fun way to help kids learn life Billy Miller, Erik Farmer, Victor Da Silva, we come together,” said Cook. “It’s hard want to live in the moment and have good lessons,” said Cook. “During the course Driston Marino, Jordan Shultz, Chase Da- to beat somebody that won’t quit. When times with my friends,” said Elizondo. “It of a game, a lot can happen—the fail- vidson, J.J. Groover, Sebastian Rodriguez, you don’t quit, anything is possible.” felt great to win states and I’m excited to Left fielder Elizondo held her own see what will happen at regionals.” ures, the successes. It’s a great place for Diego Morales-Ortiz, Jaakob Geyfman
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Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
HOT JAZZ AND COOL COMEDY COMING TO FIREHOUSE CULTURAL CENTER IN RUSKIN During this hot Florida child, so moments of standsummer, you can enjoy ing still were few and far some cool entertainment between. Wallace’s comedy at the Firehouse Center is based on his open book Stage at the Firehouse Cullife. His comedy covers evtural Center in Ruskin. The erything from tragedies to Firehouse Cultural Center comedic poetry. Wallace will is a local non-profit arts orkeep the audience enterganization located at 101 tained. 1st Ave. NE. in Ruskin. The show begins at 7:30 During the month of Aup.m. Tickets must gust, you can catch two be purchased in adgreat acts. One features vance. music, while the other fea- The Firehouse Beth Ann Stein, Cultural Center tures comedy. the marketing and in Ruskin presents fantastic On Saturday, August 14, programming coordinator local acts on its Firehouse La Lucha will present Hot for the Firehouse Cultural Center Stage throughout the Jazz. La Lucha is a Tam- year. During August, you can Center, said, “The Firehouse pa Bay based trio of best see local musicians La Lucha Cultural Center relaunched friends from three differwhat was once called the perform some Hot Jazz. ent parts of the world, inFirehouse Pub to the Firecluding Colombia, Mexico and the United house Center Stage. This is because all of States. Its members are Alejandro Arenas our live theater events are ‘Center Stage’ on the bass, John O’Leary on the piano and whether it is music, theater or comedy.” Mark Feinman on the drums. Their reperStein added, “We are still taking resertoire is a diverse mixture of Latin-inspired vations only at this time and have limited rhythms with jazz standards, twisted ar- availability to ensure a safe and healthy enrangements of pop songs and original com- vironment. Hopefully in the near future, we positions. will be open for larger seating capacity.” The show begins at 7:30 p.m. Tickets Tickets to either show are $23 for memmust be purchased in advance. bers and $28 for future members. You can Come back on Saturday, August 21 for get tickets online at www.firehouseculturComedy Night featuring Nathan Wallace. alcenter.org or by calling 645-7651. TickBorn and raised in Louisville, Kentucky, ets are nonrefundable. It is recommended Wallace grew up on one of life’s greatest that you get to the Firehouse Cultural Cenfoods—Pop Tarts. Wallace was an intense ter 30 minutes before the show.
Volume 19, Issue 8
NEW EXHIBIT EXPLORES FLORIDA HISTORY FROM OUTPOST TERRITORY TO STATE A new map exhibit called Touchton Map Library. “The From Outpost to Statehood: events that unfolded during The Florida Territory is open that time—the Second at the Tampa Bay History Seminole War in particuCenter in downtown Tampa. lar—foreshadowed many The exhibit explores Florida’s important national events growth from a frontier outthat followed, including the post to the 27th U.S. state. Civil War, westward expanThe exhibit is open now sion and the Indian Wars,” through March 6, 2022. added Kite-Powell. Two hundred years ago, The exhibit includes the during the summer of 1821, first globe to show the new Florida became a U.S. terboundaries outlined in the Floridians and history buffs alike ritory. Then, 24 years later, Adams-Onis Treaty, which will enjoy exploring the new it officially became a state. map exhibit at the Tampa Bay officially ceded Florida to The intervening years are History Center. From Outpost to the U.S. from Spain. It also highlighted in the new map Statehood: The Florida Territory includes the only known exhibit. It is now open in explores Florida’s growth from a copy of an 1838 map of Fort the Tampa Bay History Cen- frontier outpost to the 27th U.S. Brooke during the height of state. ter’s Touchton Map Library. the Second Seminole War, The exhibit showcases Florida’s path from the longest and most expensive of the Unita frontier outpost to the 27th state in the ed States Indian Wars. Union through a series of maps from the The Tampa Bay History Center includes J. Thomas and Lavinia Lee Witt Touchton three floors of permanent and temporary Collection. exhibition space focusing on 12,000 years From Outpost to Statehood explores a of Florida’s history and culture. It is a Smithnumber of themes, including the expansion sonian Affiliate museum and is accredited of slavery, dislocation of American Indians by the American Alliance of Museums. The and the overall expansion of the nation. The Tampa Bay History Center is home to the maps are from an era that dramatically im- Columbia Cafe. The Tampa Bay History pacted the future of not just the state of Center’s hands-on, interactive exhibits and Florida, but the nation as a whole. theaters provide an entertaining and edu“While this period is not really covered in cational experience for visitors of all ages. textbooks, many of the events that occurred The Tampa Bay History Center is located in Florida during the Territorial years shaped at 801 Water St. in downtown Tampa. For American history in the 19th century,” ex- more information, visit tampabayhistoryplained Rodney Kite-Powell, director of the center.org or call 228-0097.
8/31/2021
8/31/2021
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Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
August 2021
RETIRED MARINE & PLATELET DONOR HOSTS COMMUNITY ONEBLOOD DRIVES By Pauline Derry
The Big Red Bus can be seen throughout the FishHawk community for easy access to donating.
After serving his country, retired Marine John-Michael Elms is continuing to do good by donating blood and platelets through the blood donation center OneBlood. OneBlood is a nonprofit community asset responsible for providing safe, available and affordable blood to more than 200 hospital partners and their patients. Since childhood, Elms has been around those who donate regularly, such as his dad, a first responder. Growing up seeing his dad help his community along with being a Boy Scout and a lifeguard inspired him to start donating at the young age of 16. Now, retired from the Marines, Elms, a FishHawk resident, is donating to cope with his experiences from the war. “Any day you save a life is better than a day you don’t,” he said, referring to the statistic that one pint of blood can save up to three lives. Elms keeps a regular appointment to go in to the OneBlood donation center to donate a
‘triple’ every two weeks, meaning he is able to donate three times the number of platelets than the normal person. This process takes a little longer than a regular Big Red Bus donation but can help when people are in need. Elms goes a step further than just donating, however; he also hosts blood drives in the FishHawk area. Places like the Starling Club and Bevis Elementary have each been a host to these drives in the past. The next drive he is putting on is on Saturday, August 28 at the Osprey Club Community Center from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. “It’s not terribly painful. It’s a small needlestick. You get free cookies, juice, a T-shirt and sometimes even a gift card,” Elms said. Places nearby such as Moffitt Cancer Center, St. Joseph’s Hospital and Tampa General are always in need of platelets and blood. Because of this, Elms encourages all people who are in the area and eligible to donate. The blood products are used for a wide range of illnesses, such as sickle cell disease and hemophilia, and helps COVID-19, cancer and trauma patients. Blood is made up of four main components. Red blood cells, platelets, plasma and white blood cells. Each whole blood donation has the potential to save up to three lives. Not only does donating help people locally, but worldwide as well. OneBlood is certified to send its blood out of the United States to countries that need blood because of natural disasters. For more information on how and where to donate along with how to host a drive yourself, visit www.oneblood.org.
EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES AVAILABLE
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Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
Volume 19, Issue 8