Riverview/Apollo Beach
7
June 2021
Volume 19,
Issue 6
Ph: 657-2418
SEE AD ON PAGE 50
CELEBRATING 19 YEARS OF PUBLISHING P OSITIVE COMMUNIT Y NEWS
SOUTHSHORE RESIDENTS COMPETE IN THE KEYS 100-MILE RACE By Libby Hopkins The Keys 100 is a 100-mile, point-topoint running race from Key Largo to Key West. Both individuals and teams compete. There is also a 50-mile option from Marathon to Key West and a 50-kilometer race from Big Pine Key to Key West. All races finish at Higgs Beach on the Atlantic Ocean in Key West. The race takes place on the third Saturday in May every year. Teams are staggered over a period of hours with six runners beginning in each wave. In-
Alicia Driggers, Carrie Elwell, Jhanine Banzer, Heather Cole, Jamie Tedder, Stephanie Peterson and Michelle Gibbs are known in the SouthShore community as The Biscuit Babes. This past May, the ladies competed in the Keys 100 Race, a 100-mile, point-to-point running race from Key Largo to Key West.
dividual runners and teams are mixed and groups will leave every three minutes. Staggered starts will result in runners being significantly spread out along the course. “Our team pushed forward for 17 hours to reach the finish line,” Elwell said. “We had six weeks to prepare for this race. We did some local competitions and some crossfit events to prepare as well for the race. We did everything we could in those six weeks to prepare for the race.” The ladies were happy they competed in the Keys 100. “These ladies are some fierce competitors,” Tedder said. “I know with better planning and training we would compete again in the race next year.” To learn more about the Keys 100, visit the race’s website at www.keys100.com.
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Alicia Driggers, Carrie Elwell, Jhanine Banzer, Heather Cole, Jamie Tedder, Stephanie Peterson and Michelle Gibbs are known in the SouthShore community as The Biscuit Babes. “One day, I was at the gym and I was looking at myself, and I thought, ‘I look like a can of biscuits that busted open,’” said Tedder. “So, when we were trying to come up with a name for our team, Heather said, ‘How about Biscuit Babes?’, so we ran with it, literally.” You must be wondering what kind of team The Biscuit Babes are and what their sport of choice is. Well, the ladies are a running team, and they recently competed in the Keys 100 Race. “I ran the race in 2014 with a different team,” Tedder said. “I was telling the ladies about this crazy 100-mile race in the Keys I did and they were like, ‘Let’s do it,’ and I told them we could, but we are crossfitters, not runners per se, but we knew we would figure it out.”
For 57 years the Sun City Center Volunteer Emergency Squad has been responding to resident needs. The Osprey Observer recently made a $500 donation to the squad to continue it’s good work. See a full story about the entirely volunteer-run organization on Page 11.
CHAMBER HOSTS GRADUATION FOR LOCAL MIGRANT STUDENTS
By Libby Hopkins
The SouthShore the experiences Chamber of Comas well, because merce has been a most oftentimes proud host of the they don’t have migrant graduation the opportunity.” ceremony for 14 Phillip Rivera years. This year’s is one of the stuevent took place at dents’ teachers Harborside Suites and he, too, was at Little Harbor. thrilled to see “It was by far the his students get best celebration in to experience the last 14 years,” graduation. “This said the chamber’s The SouthShore Chamber of Commerce has been event is so speexecutive direc- a proud host of the migrant graduation ceremony cial for the stutor, Melanie Davis. for 14 years. This year, as part of their graduation dents and their “This year, as part celebration, the migrant students from Lennard families,” RiveHigh School got to have a sunset boat cruise of their graduation ra said. “These around Little Harbor. celebration, the mistudents have grant students from Lennard High School so many barriers in their lives that make got to have a sunset boat cruise around it difficult for them to get through high Little Harbor.” school, so this event is not only a celebraThe graduation celebration each year tion of their accomplishments, but a celeis very special and important for the stu- bration for their families as well. It is very dents who are in the migrant program be- inspiring for everyone.” cause the majority of these students don’t get to walk across the graduation stage since their families move around a lot to follow the crops. “The students who are part of this program don’t have big families who come to see them graduate,” Davis said. “They don’t have big graduation parties or go out to a big graduation dinner, so we want to make their graduation special and make them feel special, because sometimes they are the first person in their family to graduate high school.” Part of this year’s celebration was focused on the effort the students put forth to graduate, as the recent pandemic made attending school and graduating difficult. “These students and their parents made their education a top priority,” Davis said. “Most students in this program graduate in the top percent of their school.” An important part of this yearly graduation ceremony is giving the migrant students enjoyable experiences. “Since most of these students help their families or have jobs on the weekends, they don’t have RIVERVIEW KEY CLUB.......................PG 3 a lot of time to experience things like other high school students,” Davis said. “We want BLUE STAR MUSEUMS........................PG 7 them to not only feel great about their EYE ON BUSINESS ...................PGS 41-42 achievements, but we also want to enjoy SPORTS ......................................... PGS 48-49
IN THIS ISSUE:
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Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
Volume 19, Issue 6
June 2021
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
CHAMBER VOLUNTEERS PREPARE YMCA CAMP CRISTINA FOR SUMMER
Page 3
RIVERVIEW HIGH SCHOOL KEY CLUB TOP IN FLORIDA
Staff Report
By Amy Schechter
The YMCA Camp and support Cristina, a popular themselves and Riverview summer others.” camp location, is According to looking better this Caetano, YMCA month thanks to Camp Cristina’s some local volunmost popular teers. programs and Members of the activities in2021 Greater Rivclude summer erview Chamber of camp, swim lesCommerce (GRCC) sons, birthday recently joined the parties, famTampa Bay Chamily night out, ber of Commerce youth sports, for a day of paintafter-school ing, staining, buildcare, group exing, pressure washercise, archery, ing and cleaning at horse riding, YMCA Camp Cristina arts and crafts, so that kids can enjoy a covered basthe upcoming sumketball court, mer camp season. a ropes course, Camp Cristina is corporate team a 55-acre outdoor building and center which hosts more. day camps for risCamp Crising first through tina is located 10th-graders. “The directly across Volunteers from the Greater Riverview Chamber of Comnatural world profrom the new merce recently volunteered at the YMCA Camp Cristina vides an almost foolRiverview Pubto prepare the location for summer. proof place to create lic Library on new memories, gain a new vocabulary of Balm Riverview Rd. For more information, experiences and new friends to share them you can visit their website at www.tamwith,” said GRCC Communications Coordi- paymca.org/locations/ymca-camp-cristina nator Jeff Caetano. “Camp Cristina is more or you can reach them by phone at 677than an outdoor experience. It is where 8400. kids can build friendships and self-confiTo learn more about the Greater Riverdence throughout the summer that will last view Chamber of Commerce, located at a lifetime. It also provides a place where 6152 Delancey Station St., Ste. 205 in Rivcampers can feel accepted, trusted and erview, call 234-5944 or visit www.riversupported, which enables them to trust viewchamber.com.
“Winning the top club has been our biggest goal since we went to our first District Leadership Conference five years ago. Our club has pushed ourselves to the max of helping out
Riverview High School Key Club members celebrate their accomplishment.
In partnership with local Kiwanis Clubs, Key Clubs seek to inspire the next generation of servant leaders, and it is evident one club has made a positive impact on the local community despite adversity. Out of over 300 clubs in Florida, the Riverview High School Key Club was named the 2021 Florida Club of the Year at the annual District Leadership Conference. Led by faculty sponsors Gina Vandenburg and Mackenzie Clark, its members boasted over 3,000 hours of community service. It is no small feat in a post-pandemic world where in-person events are limited. “These kids knocked it out of the park,” Vandenburg said. “They thought of all kinds of socially distanced service, such as recognizing the efforts of teachers on Instagram, collecting books and writing notes to the children who would receive them, writing letters to homebound seniors, writing encouraging messages to the troops, cleaning local beaches and participating in food and clothing drives with ECHO when able. They never stopped helping others, even if they couldn’t be there in person.” Clark is so proud of their kids.
our community,” she said. There was never any question that this way of life would change, even with the challenges COVID-19 placed on them. She and Vandenburg wanted to recognize two-year Key Club President Jamila Cox as an integral part of their success. “She led our goal of keeping active with online activities and she dug deep from May 2020 to the present to keep the club active,” said Clark. In fact, she was one of the top five club presidents in the entire state. It’s clear she embodies Key Club values in being a student-leader whose care and character are evident in the way Cox seeks to leave her community better than when she found it. The Riverview Key Club’s example goes to show that when life throws you a curveball, you can still hit a home run. Through creativity and an undying passion for service, these students have brought positive change to those around them. For more information on Key Clubs, visit www.keyclub.org. For more information on Riverview High School, located at 11311 Boyette Rd., visit www.hillsboroughschools.org/ riverviewhs.
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Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
Volume 19, Issue 6
THE DOWN SYNDROME ASSOCIATION OF TAMPA BAY HOSTS A FATHER’S DAY EVENT AT CENTER PLACE
MEALS ON WHEELS FOR KIDS EXPANDS TO BRANDON, PROGRESS VILLAGE, PALM RIVER & RIVERVIEW
By Libby Hopkins
Staff Report
The mission of the the Brandon comDown Syndrome Asmunity is by hosting sociation of Tampa monthly events at Bay (DSATB) is to the organization’s educate and advonew home at Cencate for individuals ter Place Fine Arts blessed with a lit& Civic Association tle something extra in Brandon. “Having with purpose, pasCenter Place as our sion and utmost innew home is truly a tegrity. blessing,” Woodard Craig Woodard said. “This allows us is DSATB’s direc- The mission of the Down Syndrome Association of to let the communitor and president. Tampa Bay (DSATB) is to educate and advocate ty know we are here In 2014, Woodard for individuals blessed with a little something for them and we and his wife, Chris- extra with purpose, passion and utmost integrity. want to help.” tine, had their son, DSATB will be hosting a Father’s Day event on DSATB will be Sunday, June 20 from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Craig Jr., who was hosting a Father’s born with Down Day event at Center syndrome. This blessing made Place on Sunday, June 20 from 11 him want to get involved in a.m.-1 p.m. “It’s going to be a readvocating and spreading ally fun event for the family with awareness. arts and crafts,” Woodard said. In January 2018, Wood“Also, this event is open to anyone ard, along with six other who wants to make something for like-minded individuals,detheir father or for someone who cided to start his own organization, the is a father figure in their life. It will be a Down Syndrome Association of Tampa really fun day for everyone.” Bay. “Our early success has been overWoodard and his team have been hostwhelming as the families in the Tampa ing monthly events at Center Place. They Bay area continue to show us their sup- recently held a family movie night at Cenport,” Woodard said. “The birth of Craig ter Place as well as a Mother’s Day arts Jr. has been one of the best things to and craft event. “We are planning on havhappen to my wife and me. Advocacy and ing monthly events at Center Place to weleducation have become my life and I will come families and to have them get to know continue to spread awareness not only in DSATB,” Woodard said. the Tampa Bay area, but also throughout To learn more about DSATB, visit www. the country.” dsatb.org. Center Place Fine Arts & Civic One of the ways Woodard and his team Association is located at 619 Vonderburg at DSATB are spreading awareness in Dr., Ste. B in Brandon.
Tampa Bay Netdren and famiwork to End Hunger lies. Routes take (TBNEH), a tri-counabout 60 minty leader in hunger utes to complete. relief, research and At the core program developof this Meals ment, is now deliverOn Wheels proing Meals On Wheels gram is nutrifor Kids Tampa Bay tious food delivered to (MOW4Kids) in the homes of children Brandon, Progress and their families. The Village, Palm Rivprogram provides meals er and Riverview in Tampa Bay Network to End is now deliver- and shelf-stable grocerHillsborough County. ing Meals On Wheels for Kids Tampa Bay in ies, including produce, Brandon, Progress Village, Palm River and MOW4Kids delivers as resources allow. ChilRiverview in Hillsborough County. lunchtime meals to dren may experience an children who depend on school meals and increase in overall nutrition, food security are at home when school is out of session and feelings of social connectedness from or when learning remotely. Deliveries take volunteers stopping by. place out of ECHO in Riverview. Tampa Bay Network to End Hunger is The Network’s innovative MOW4Kids pro- committed to ending hunger in Tampa Bay gram, the first program of its kind, launched by bringing people together to find solutions March 2020. MOW4Kids, was developed to that eliminate barriers, increase access and serve children, 18 years or younger, with knowledge and expand the amount of nutrimeals delivered to their home by volunteers tious food available. TBNEH has over 350 when school is out of session or when learn- members and serves a tri-county area— ing remotely. MOW4Kids is an alternative Hillsborough, Pasco and Pinellas Counties. option for kids that are not able to access It is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit agency and relies meal distribution sites; and/or 2) kids that on its community for support. have difficulty accessing food pantries. The To receive free meals delivered to your program currently serves areas throughout home, visit www.mow4kids.org or call Hillsborough, Pasco and Pinellas Counties. 344-5837. To sign up to volunteer, please Volunteer are needed each week to help visit https://networktoendhunger.org/volpack boxes of food from ECHO in Riverview. unteer/. Volunteers with level 2 background checks The Network is currently accepting doare needed to help deliver Meals On Wheels nations at www.networktoendhunger.org for Kids on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fri- to help support the MOW4Kids program. days starting at 10 a.m. Volunteers drive A donation of just $20 will provide a week their own vehicles to deliver shelf stable of Meals On Wheels for Kids deliveries to boxes of food and cold meal packs to chil- children in need.
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
June 2021
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WATER PUMP STATION WILL INCREASE WATER PRESSURE IN SOUTHSHORE By Brad Stager
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A rendition of the booster pump station that is under construction in the Riverview area.
A construction project intended to improve water service in Southern Hillsborough County is underway. That’s good news for residents and businesses who are experiencing low water pressure when turning on their taps. Known as the South County Potable Water Booster Pump Station, the main feature of the project is a 12,500-squarefoot facility that will increase drinking water pressure for the growing number of homes and businesses in the south central distribution system that serves the area. It will also provide support to fire safety systems. With development of previously remote areas of the county, many new customers are also a longer distance from the Lithia Water Treatment Plant that is their source of drinking water. The increase in customers and the expanded service area are cited by county officials as reasons for the current low water pressure problems. The booster pump station is being constructed in the Riverview area on property located at 13003 Gordon Rd., south of the Lithia Water Treatment Plant. According to Hillsborough County officials, if the pump station is not built, the problem of unreliable water pressure will become worse and affect a greater
number of customers as increased strain is put on the existing distribution system. Besides constructing a concrete block building to house the booster pumps, a pipeline connecting the station to the existing drinking water pipeline running along Big Bend Rd. will be installed and a 6-foot privacy fence and trees will surround the property line. Since this station supports the drinking water system, no odors are expected to be generated by it. Construction work is expected to be done primarily between the hours of 7 a.m. and 5:30 p.m., with occasional nighttime and weekend work possible. The county said that there will be temporary road closures on Gordon Rd. in the site vicinity, with detours and lane closures at various times possible as well, but access to local properties will be maintained. No water service interruptions are anticipated. Completion of the project is scheduled for summer of 2022 and, according to Project Manager Brad Warholak, the benefit to residents will then be apparent. “They should experience reliable water service,” he said. You can learn more about this project by visiting online at HCFLGov.net, sending an email to info@southcountypumpstation.com or by calling 278-7877.
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Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
NEW 25-ACRE ALAFIA RIVER PARK COMING TO RIVERVIEW
By Michelle Caceres
Volume 19, Issue 6
Community Food Pantry 2nd & 4th Thursday monthly or by appointment
Church Services 10am Sunday Youth Church School 12:30pm Sunday (Teens) 5920 Robert Tolle Drive 2pm Sunday (Youth) Riverview, 33578 7pm Tuesday (Prayer) 813-337-7457
Construction has started on the 25-acre Alafia River Park in Riverview.
Riverview residents will soon have a new place to explore. A new park is being built adjacent to the Alafia River. Not surprising, since the waterway meanders for 25 miles, beginning east of County Rd. 39 in Lithia and runs through Riverview and Gibsonton before emptying into Hillsborough Bay. Once completed, the 25-acre Alafia River Park, located off Riverview Dr. in Riverview, will include a 1-mile paved walking trail, plenty of greenspace, restrooms, three picnic pavilions and an observation tower overlooking the river. The pasture area where the walking trail is planned will be restored to native habitat to support the gopher tortoise population and the remaining landscape will incorporate native species such as longleaf pine, pignut hickory and live oaks for shade. Another feature of the park is a Native American statue by renowned artist Daniel Horsechief and endorsed by experts from the Seminole Tribe of Florida’s AhTah-Thi-Ki Museum. The work is being funded through the Public Art Program.
The project, which has been in the works for six years, is estimated to cost approximately $6.2 million ($1.8 million on the park, $1 million and $3.4 million for the land purchase). Another $1 million is being spent to change the sharp hairpin turn at the entrance of the park on Riverview Dr. into a roundabout. Division Manager at Hillsborough County’s Conservation & Environmental Lands Management Ross Dickerson said Riverview’s dense suburban development demanded a place for people to enjoy nature. “This park will be a place for families to gather and have an outdoor experience,” he said. “People will be exercising on the trail, birthday parties and family picnics will happen in the pavilions and children will learn about why our habitat is so important thanks to signage on the path.” The park and roundabout are expected to be completed by the end of this year or early 2022. For more information about Alafia River Park, visit www.hillsboroughcounty.org\ conservation.
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Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
June 2021
TAMPA BAY HISTORY CENTER OFFERS FREE ADMISSION TO MILITARY PERSONNEL AND THEIR FAMILIES THIS SUMMER By Kathy L. Collins The Tampa History CenBay History ter’s galleries, Center is a from MacDill proud particAir Force ipant in the Base to Teddy Blue Star MuRoosevelt and seums prothe Rough gram. As a Riders in the part of this 1890s, or the The Tampa Bay History Center will offer free admission to program, the Women’s Air Tampa Bay military personnel and their families this summer thanks to Corps during its participation in the Blue Star Museum program. The free History Center WWII. We admission is good now through Labor Day. is offering free always want admission to the nation’s active duty mil- to support our military families, to provide itary personnel, including National Guard, an opportunity to spend a day at the museReserve and their families, now through um, and we hope they’ll see some of their Labor Day on Monday, September 6. own stories reflected in our exhibits.” Blue Star Museums is a collaboration The Tampa Bay History Center is locatamong the National Endowment for the ed along Tampa’s beautiful Riverwalk at Arts, Blue Star Families, the Department of 801 Water St. The museum includes three Defense and thousands of museums across floors of permanent and temporary exhithe U.S. bition space focusing on 12,000 years of Families are asked to register in advance Florida’s history and culture. by calling the Tampa Bay History Center The Tampa Bay History Center is a Smithat 228-0097 and speaking with a visitor sonian Affiliate museum and is accredited by service associate to reserve tickets. Identi- the American Alliance of Museums. The Histofication is required upon entry. Free admis- ry Center includes the Touchton Map Library sion is available to military ID holders and and Florida Center for Cartographic Educaup to five family members. tion and the Witt Research Center. It is also The military ID holder can be either an home to the Columbia Cafe. As one of Tampa’s active duty service member or other de- premier cultural venues, the Tampa Bay Histopendent family member with the appropri- ry Center’s hands-on, interactive exhibits and ate ID card. The active duty member does theaters provide an entertaining and educanot have to be present for family members tional experience for visitors of all ages. to use the program; just bring your DD Admission to the Tampa Bay History CenForm 1173 ID Card or DD Form 1173-1 ID ter also includes the exhibit Tusks to Tails: A Card for active duty military family mem- Fossil History of Florida, which is on view now bers. through January 11, 2022. Manny Leto, director of marketing and For more information, visit www.tampabacommunications for the Tampa Bay History yhistorycenter.org. For more information on Center, said, “The Bay area’s military histo- Blue Star Families, visit www.bluestarfam. ry is a big part of the story we tell in the org.
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Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
Volume 19, Issue 6
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solitary animals are preyed on by great horned owls and bobcats and face additional threats from people and dogs. Though infamous for their emission of
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June 2021
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
A HALF-PENNY MAKES A BIG DIFFERENCE FOR SCHOOLS By Michelle Caceres Some citizens view High’s AC overwant to eliminate haul; Summerfield the penny from cirElementary’s floorculation, saving the ing replacement; government close to East Bay High’s out$85 million annually, door court, phone but pennies become system and public dollars, and dollars address system recan become millions. In November 2018, voters in Hillsborough County passed the half-penny sales tax Education Referendum, which was expected The Citizen Oversight Committee has been to raise millions of responsible for reviewing all spending related dollars to improve to the more than $260 million raised by the placement; and Eihalf-penny sales tax increase. facilities and other senhower Middle’s capital projects, from replacing air con- AC replacement and interior paint job. ditioning units to new roofs to repaving In the future, funds will be used for parking lots. new door frames and hardware, painting, To date, the District has received more a wheelchair lift and outdoor court rethan $260 million. That’s a lot of half-pen- placement at Riverview Elementary; ADA nies. improvements and painting at Rodgers “The Education Referendum has been a Middle; repaving of the athletic track, fire vital resource these past two years, giving evacuation improvements and a public adour district the ability to create the right dress system at Riverview High; and parklearning environment for all students,” said ing lot repaving at Gibsonton Elementary. Hillsborough County Public Schools SuperIn all, the District expects to complete intendent Addison Davis. more than 1,700 projects in the next deThe independent Citizen Oversight Com- cade, including more than 2,000 AC units mittee, made up of members from a wide and more than 60 aging roofs, and spend range of political, geographic, ethnic and $23 million in upgrading safety and securiprofessional backgrounds, was formed to ty systems and providing state-of-the-art review all spending related to the $121- equipment and facilities designed to create $131 million a year generated by the sales a safe environment for learners. tax. For more information about the school The District has spent $240,146,730.64 projects funded by the half-penny sales so far on projects throughout the District. tax, visit https://www.sdhc.k12.fl.us/ In our area, the sales tax funded Apollo doc/2380/investing-in-students/resourcBeach Elementary’s K-3 playground; River- es/cocprojectupdates/.
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RIVERVIEW WOMAN’S CLUB ANNOUNCES 2021 SCHOLARSHIP WINNERS Staff Report
versity along with FSU and the UT. “These are all hardworking, highly deserving students. Once their studies are complete, we hope they return to Riverview to continue to be part of and contribute to our community,” said Heather Michael, president of the The Riverview Woman’s Club recently awarded five $1,000 scholar- Riverview Woman’s Club. ships to local high school seniors. One additional $1,000 award, the Education is Jamila Cox’s Larry Brooks Scholarship, went to a sixth recipient. passion; this Riverview High School (RHS) scholarship reThe Riverview Woman’s Club (RWC) recently awarded five $1,000 scholarships cipient wants to be a teacher. Ranked fourth to local high school seniors. One additional in her class at RHS with a 6.84 weighted $1,000 award, the Larry Brooks Scholarship, GPA, she will major in education and psycholwent to a sixth recipient. The RWC also part- ogy and has been accepted to UCF and FSU. Andrea Portillo-Sorto is RHS’ 2021 salutanered with the Greater Riverview Chamber of Commerce to select the GRCC’s recipients torian. She is ranked second in her class with of the Dr. Earl Lennard Scholarship, held in an unweighted GPA of 3.95 and a weighted GPA of 7.75. Portillo-Sorto has also logged an memory of the late prominent educator. To be eligible for an RWC scholarship, impressive 554 volunteer hours with local applicants must reside in Riverview or the organizations. She plans to major in health surrounding area or be the child of an active sciences and has been accepted to the UniRWC member. Students applying must be a versity of South Florida, UCF and UF. A future nurse is the final RSH scholar2021 high school graduate and be accepted into a two or four-year college or trade ship recipient. A varsity athlete in soccer and school in Florida. Two graduating seniors cross country, Cambree Sargable will attend were chosen for the scholarships from East Hillsborough Community College with the Bay High School, three from Riverview High end goal to become a nurse practitioner. She ranks eighth in her RHS graduating class School and one from Spoto High School. Asia Rackard of East Bay High School is with a 4.0 weighted GPA, meaning she has ranked first in her class and has an unweight- never earned less than an A in any class. Finally, a graduating senior at Spoto High ed GPA of 3.627. With plans to major in marketing, Rackard has been accepted into the School, Asia Nobles is its 2021 valedictorian. University of Florida (UF) and Florida State She earned a record-breaking 9.04 weighted GPA—the highest in the school’s history. University (FSU). The study of hurricanes is what fascinates Nobles has been accepted to UCF and will Emily Ann Pesquera, also of East Bay High major in psychology and health sciences. Visit www.riverviewwomansclub.org for School. She plans to major in meteorology and has been accepted into Penn State Uni- more information.
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Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
Volume 19, Issue 6
RIVERVIEW REPUBLICAN CLUB INAUGURAL MEETING
GRCC REWARDS RESIDENTS FOR EATING OUT AT ANNUAL EVENT
came to the inaugural meeting, which he called “Amazing.” On May 25, members heard from two candidates who are new to the political arena. Having never held office and both hoping to create positive changes, Joshua Wostal is running for the District 7 Board of The founding members of the Riverview Republican Club. County Commissioners and Alysha ‘Aly Marie’ Legge is running for the Do you want to be a part of change? Do District 6 School Board. you have a passion for conservative values? Legge, an Army veteran, believes poliIf so, the Riverview Republican Club wants tics have taken too much of a hold on the you to be a founding member. current board, and in order to make sure Jeff Lukens, a longtime activist for the all students can succeed, the parents and Republican Party and past president of the teachers need a louder voice. AdditionalAlafia Republican Club, realized the need ly, she wants to ensure transparency and our growing community has for an organi- sound financial practices are pillars on zation to bring conservatives together for which the board stands going forward. engagement and education. Similarly, Wostal believes that for too “We have a lot of excitement with a lot long the current county commissioners of people, especially younger people,” said have played identity politics, all on the Lukens. “They want to get engaged and do community’s dime. A fiscal conservative, things to create change. Many are frustrat- he believes less government is more. As he ed with how the elections turned out last defended the nation in Operation Enduring year, and they want to get involved, but Freedom, he still has a passion to defend they don’t know how.” liberty at home. Members left the meeting He hopes the Riverview Republican Club eager to spread the word and get to work. will help people familiarize themselves with All Republicans are welcome to attend. local candidates and office holders so they In June, members will hear from Michael can be a part of walking precincts, register- Owen, candidate for Hillsborough Couning voters and manning community events. ty Commission District Seat 4, and Mike Lukens added, “We have to do things as Beltran, current Florida representative for a group if we’re going to be effective. We District 57. want to mobilize people in a productive The Riverview Republican Club meets way and take people who are brand-new to on the last Tuesday of each month in the political action and prepare them to effect meeting room of Alley Kat’s Pub & Grill, lochange in the community.” cated at 10221 Big Bend Rd. in Riverview. Each meeting will offer unique, inter- Social time begins at 6 p.m. and the meetactive sessions with local candidates and ings runs from 6:30-8:30 p.m. For more current public servants. And people are information, visit Facebook at https:// showing up. From only a handful of peo- www.facebook.com/Riverview-Republiple Lukens shared his idea with, 40 people cans-102279878702629/.
prizes (minimum value of $25), community members must post a picture of their purchase on the Taste or GRCC Facebook group page and tag the selected re s t a u ra n t ( s ) . The GRCC also has an email available for The annual Taste of GRCC is taking place this month with more than 60 local establishments participating. submissions (taste@riverResidents can be rewarded for eating viewchamber.com) for those who do not out this month thanks to the Greater Rivhave a Facebook. erview Chamber of Commerce (GRCC). “We encourage community members to The GRCC rolled out the 2021 Taste invite their friends, family and colleagues of GRCC event presented by Suncoast to participate in the 2021 Taste of GRCC Credit Union on June 1, encouraging resand use our hashtag, #TasteOfGRCC,” idents to support local GRCC restaurants said Caetano. through dining in, getting takeout or orParticipants can win prizes on Win It dering delivery through the end of the Wednesdays; the other prize winners will month. be posted on the Taste of GRCC Facebook “In this initiative, our goal is to ingroup by Friday, July 2. There are no limcrease community exposure and social its to the number of entries, but only one media engagement for our local food prize will be awarded to each winner. and beverage establishments,” said Jeff Further details can be found at www. Caetano, communications coordinator. facebook.com/groups/tasteofgrcc2021 “In this event, participants are supportor www.riverviewchamber.com. Particiing local, having fun, getting out of their pating food and beverage establishments comfort zone to try new restaurants and must be Greater Riverview Chamber of winning prizes.” Commerce investors. If you own a food Community members can win a wide and beverage establishment and you range of prizes by simply visiting the wish to become a part of the 2021 Taste more than 60 participating restaurants. of GRCC, please contact Debbie KirkThe list of restaurants, as well as the land, GRCC director of investor relations, wide range of prizes, can be found on the at debbie@riverviewchamber.com or Taste of GRCC Facebook group. Food can 234-5944. The GRCC is located at 6152 be eaten in the restaurant, picked up or Delancey Station St., Ste. 205 in Riverdelivered to be eligible. view. For a chance to win one of the dozens of
By Amy Schechter
Staff Report
June 2021
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
Page 11
By Hayley Fedor
SHRINERS OF SUN CITY CENTER LOOK TO THE COMMUNITY FOR NEW MEMBERS By Libby Hopkins
When it and help them, comes to medwhether you ical professionare simply pickals, the voluning them up teers on the after a fall or Sun City Centaking them to ter Emergenthe hospital becy Squad are cause they have one of a kind, a broken hip, or exhibiting selfwhether you’re lessness and doing CPR on reliability along a patient who’s with first-class just had a heart support and The average age of the volunteers on the Sun City Center attack,” said care while fol- Emergency Squad is 72 years old; they’re still devoted to Watt. serving the community. lowing the motThe generous to “Neighbors helping neighbors.” donations of individuals in the community Established in 1964, the Sun City Cen- fund and support the efforts of the Squad. ter Emergency Squad has helped those This last year, during the pandemic, the in need since before many of the major Squad remained open and ready to prohospitals in the area, like South Bay and vide medical assistance to the community Brandon Regional, were even built. As an at any time. organization focused first and foremost “When the governor’s executive order on providing the highest quality of patient allowing EMTs to give the vaccine was care to the individuals in Sun City Center, signed, the Squad trained our EMT volunthe Squad proudly offers aid to those in teers and gave about 300 vaccines in the need, free of charge. community,” said Watt. “We are probably the last all-volunteer, In addition, last year, the Squad won all-free basic life support ambulance ser- the 2020 Volunteer EMS Service of the vice in Florida,” said Robin Watt, the Sun Year award as recognition of its commitCity Center Emergency Squad’s assistant ment to the community. chief of public relations and one of the Currently, the team is looking for more registered EMTs on the Squad. volunteers to work in patient contact Throughout the year, the number of vol- roles. unteers on the Squad ranges from around The Squad’s main station is located at 300 to 400, none of which ever receive a 720 Ray Watson Dr. in Sun City Center paycheck. The team consists of support- and is available to provide basic life suping roles like dispatchers as well as field port emergency medical services 24/7. roles like EMTs. For more information on the Sun City “What you’re doing is on someone’s Center Emergency Squad and how to get worst day; you are there to support them involved or give back, visit sccems.com.
The Sun City and especially chilCenter Shrine Club dren,” Drobnis said. wants all Shriners, “Annually, they proregardless of temvide a function for ple affiliation, in the first-graders with a Greater Sun City luncheon, entertainCenter area to know ment and the opporthey are welcome to tunity to meet Santa join in the club’s fun Claus and receive and fellowship. “You gifts from him. Withdo not have to live in the past few years, in Sun City Center the public has been to be a member,” invited to witness said club member The Sun City Center Shrine Club this event. One of my Steve Drobnis. “The wants all Shriners, regardless of personal endeavors temple affiliation, in the Greater Sun City Center club is chartered area to know they are welcome to join in the club’s both up north and in with Egypt Temple Florida has been to fun and fellowship. of Tampa with many provide material to of our Nobles from temples throughout the young children on fire safety with the asworld.” sistance and material from the Shriners.” Shriners are a group of individuals who The club meets on the second Wednesput children first. They provide care within day of the month for a 12 Noon luncheon their 22 hospitals for burned and crippled with the club’s Ladies and includes enterchildren in North America, including Mexi- tainment or guest speakers. “The club’s co and Canada. Additionally, they now are Hospitality Committee coordinates three able to provide care via telemedicine to to four major social activities a year for the children in 180 countries. No child is ever Nobility, our Ladies and widows,” Drobnis refused care because of their family’s in- said. “Past adventures included bus trips to ability to pay. “I have been a Freemasonic The Straz for dinner and a show, a Tammember for almost 47 years and you must pa Bay riverboat dinner cruise, dinner and be a Mason to be a Shriner,” Drobnis said. show at the Columbia Restaurant, a bus “I have been in the Shrine for almost 32 trip to the Shriners Hospital in Tampa for years and a member of the Fire Brigade in a tour and Egypt Temple social events. Our Massachusetts for 31 years. It has provid- Nobles’ Night Out Committee coordinates ed me with great camaraderie, friendship dinners at regional restaurants the last as well enjoyment for my wife and myself.” Thursday of the month for Nobles and their The Sun City Center Shrine Club has male guests with our Ladies joining in evbeen in existence since January 9, 1963 ery third month.” and it provides services to the Sun City To find out more about the Sun City CenCenter community and surrounding areas. ter Shrine Club, visit www.sccshrineclub. “They gain great pleasure by helping others com or call 812-7170.
SUN CITY CENTER EMERGENCY SQUAD FAITHFULLY SERVES THE COMMUNITY FOR 57 YEARS AND COUNTING
EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES AVAILABLE
06/01/2021
Page 12
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
Volume 19, Issue 6
CONGRATULATIONS TO AREA HIGH SCHOOL
VALEDICTORIANS & SALUTATORIANS
Staff Report
Valedictorian Logan Cunningham Bell Creek Academy GPA 6.56 Plans to attend UCF
Salutatorian Alvin Wu Bell Creek Academy GPA 6.50 Plans to attend University of Florida
“Education is the most powerful weapon you can use to change the world,” – Nelson Mandela. Congratulations are in order for this year’s area valedictorians and salutatorians from our local high schools. These students have put in the hard work, the dedication and shown the drive to be the best of the best of their high school graduating classes. The 2020-21 school year, with its masks, social distancing and other adaptions, has been filled with challenges that make this accomplishment even more impressive. We wish these students the absolute best of luck in their college careers and in their future, and we know that they will never forget graduating during a worldwide coronavirus pandemic. Unlike the Class of 2020, this year’s graduates will have a traditional ceremony at the Florida State Fairgrounds to mark the end of their high school career, although the number of tickets per graduate is limited. Visit www.sdhc.k12.fl.us/ for information on dates and times. Please join us in congratulating all of the Hillsborough County seniors and those who are the top of their class! Well done!
Valedictorian Asia Rackard East Bay High School GPA 7.63 Plans to attend Florida State University
Salutatorian Randi Davis East Bay High School GPA 7.63 Plans to attend University of Florida
Valedictorian Makenzie Burke Lennard High School GPA 6.86 Plans to attend Florida Atlantic University
Salutatorian Melissa Felix Lennard High School GPA 6.85 Plans to attend University of South Florida
Valedictorian Caitlin Brennan Collegiate Academy Lennard High School GPA 7.51 Plans to attend University of Florida
Salutatorian Madhav Sagi Collegiate Academy Lennard High School GPA 7.49 Plans to attend University of Florida
Valedictorian Kiersten Doll Riverview High School GPA 8.59 College Plans Not Available
Salutatorian Andrea Portillo-Soto Riverview High School GPA 7.79 College Plans Not Available
June 2021
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
LOCAL HIGH SCHOOL STUDENT RECEIVES YOUTH EXCELLENCE AND ACHIEVEMENT AWARD
By Kathy L. Collins
The 2021 Youth ExShanya is an honor cellence and Achievestudent with a 5.38 ment Awards (YEA! GPA and is a youth Awards) were given fire cadet with Hillsto six outstanding borough County Fire students on May 5 at Rescue. She plans to the beginning of the attend Florida Atregular Hillsborough lantic University in County Board of the fall and wants County Commissionto become a Fire ers meeting. Locally, Fighter after colShanya Luke, a selege. Shanya is also nior at Lennard High working on a veterSchool in Ruskin, re- Shanya Luke, a senior at Lennard High School in inary assistant cerceived the Award for Ruskin, is the winner of this year’s Youth Excel- tification through lence and Achievement Awards in the category of Leadership. the FFA program Leadership. Shanya was nomat Lennard High inated by her coach School. She plans to and mentor, Aiyani Gibbons. earn a degree in veterinary In her nomination form, Gibscience and has the goal of bons stated, “When I met working both careers. Shanya as a freshman, I was Shanya received not only immediately impressed by the recognition, but also a her maturity and confidence. medal and a $100 Amazon Shanya is known throughout Gift Card. Her mother said, the school for her athletic “This award will help her achievements in track and with any additional items field, as well as for being she needs for college.” a studious student.” Gibbons added, “It is The YEA! Awards categories include Sucan honor to nominate Shanya as she is an cess Despite Difficult Odds—overcoming outstanding student with so much to offer. personal difficulty to attain success and Our school was very lucky to have her as a make a positive impact on others; Leadstudent.” ership—demonstrating a positive impact Shanya’s mother, Shaunette Luke said, on others in an ongoing endeavor such as “Shanya was honored to have been recog- sports, academics or the arts; and Volunnized for her hard work and dedication.” teer or Community Service—allocating disShe added, “Shanya is an amazing student cretionary time to help others or completathlete. She is focused on her future and ing a project that improves the community. does whatever it takes to make sure that For more information on the YEA! she has all the resources she needs in or- Awards, please visit www.HCFLGov.net/ der to succeed.” YEA.
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HURRICANE VOLLEYBALL ACADEMY OFFERS SUMMER CLINICS AND MORE By Kate Quesada
Hurricane Volleyball Academy has travel and local volleyball teams for ages 10-18 for both girls and boys, and this summer it is offering positional trainings, summer camps, free open gyms and, for the first time, college camps for boys and girls, both at the beach and indoors.
Do you have a volleyball player looking for something fun to do over the summer or a home club in the fall? Then look no further than Hurricane Volleyball Academy, based out of Central Baptist Church in Brandon. Owned by Brian and Victoria Adams, the family-run volleyball club offers growth for players between the ages of 9 and 18 at any level. With more than 25 years of combined teaching and coaching experience, Hurricane Volleyball Academy is going into its sixth season for girls and third for boys. The academy has travel and local volleyball teams for ages 1018 for both girls and boys, and this summer it is offering positional trainings, summer camps, free open gyms and, for the first time, college camps for boys and girls, both at the beach and indoors. Brian and Victoria, who met on their first day of preplanning teaching at Eisenhower Middle School, work hard to make Hurricane Volleyball Academy stand out among other local volleyball clubs. “There is no lack of volleyball clubs in the area; what makes us different is our experience with teaching and encouraging youth and our record of achieving college scholarship opportunities for high-level athletes,” said Victoria. “Having been in the education field and athletes for so long, we know how to build not just the skills of the sport but the vital life lessons that only sports can expose you to.” The academy’s coaching staff also includes a sports trainer, nutritionalist and sports psychologist that help players un-
derstand what they go through as young athletes and how to achieve their goals. “We believe in teaching and coaching the person, not just the sport,” said Victoria. Recruitment is also offered for college bound players. “Brian’s previous work experience with the National Scouting Report has honed his skills at identifying what players need to make it to the next level in the sport,” explained Victoria. “We have a consistent track record of getting our players recruited to play at the college level. In our first four seasons, we had 84 percent of our 18-year-old players offered a scholarship, and 13 out of the 38 (around 33.3 percent) went on to play in college their freshman year.” Hurricane Volleyball Academy’s main practice facility is located out of Central Baptist Church at 402 E. Windhorst Rd. in Brandon and can be reached at 220-0905. To learn more, email Hurricanevolleyballacademy@gmail.com or search on Facebook and Instagram for ‘hurricanevolleyballacademy.’
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Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
Volume 19, Issue 6
RIVERVIEW CHAMBER HORSES AROUND FOR A GOOD CAUSE Staff Report
to-the-Pin, sponsored by HiTech Last month, the Greater RivAutomotive – Bryan Hindman, erview Chamber of Commerce Bryan Hindman Electric; Putting (GRCC) hosted the annual golf Contest, sponsored by Charitournament at Summerfield ty Clothing Pickup – Brandon Crossings Golf Club in RiverChaves, Brandon Medical Cenview. Since the tournament ter; A Night at the Races, sponlanded on the same day as the sored by Gecko Floor Care – Bill Kentucky Derby, this year’s Kirkland; Golf Ball Launcher, theme was ‘Horsing Around the sponsored by James J. PulkowCourse.’ ski, CPA, P.A.; and the Hole-inVendors set up near the PutOne Contest, sponsored by The ting Contest, including Brooks Meridian at Brandon. The 2021 & Brooks Law Firm, Charity Clothing Pickup, Edward Jones The Greater Riverview Chamber of Commerce hosted the annual golf tournament at Summerfield Crossings Golf Club first-place team was All Season in Riverview last month. Photos Courtesy of the Greater Riverview Chamber of Commerce. Electric Corp. - Gabriel Mbulo, Gecko Floor “Many thanks to all those who Care, Hawthorne Village Retireand money to make sponsors First made the tournament a success, and in ment Community, HiTech Automotive, this happen. About Citrus Bank and particular our committee led by ChrisImage360 - Tampa/Ybor City, New Vi$2,500 worth of Riverview Morttian Beiter from Preservation 1st Finantality Centers, Preservation 1st Financial ball drop numbers gage for keeping cial Group, LLC and Co-Chair Bill Andrew Group, Southshore Insurance Profeswere sold this year. Beanie Tichy with us hydrated during the tournament. A from Tessera of Brandon,” said Caetano. sionals, Sport Clips and The Meridian at Beanie’s Bar Sports Grill was the ecstat- huge thank you to Jason Blanchard and “Our top sponsors for the day included Brandon. Providing food and beverages ic winner of the Closest-to-the-Pin game the Summerfield Crossings Golf Club for The Bridges Retirement Community; to the attendees were Chick-fil-A Rivbut was not present at the time of the their hospitality and for welcoming us Owen & Dunivan, PLLC; Preservation 1st erview, Datz Restaurant Group, Papa ball drop, which means he walked away again for the 27th Annual Golf TournaFinancial Group, LLC; Southshore InsurJohn’s - Riverview, Rosemary Grill, The with $1,239, 50 percent of the pot. ment,” said Jeff Caetano, communicaance Professionals, LLC; Tampa-HillsborSpot at FishHawk and Your Pie. Immediately following the Bryan Hind- tions coordinator at the GRCC. ough County Expressway Authority and Before the shotgun start, guests were man Electric Ball Drop, the Marine Corps This year’s winners included: ClosestTessera of Brandon.” able to purchase raffle tickets and game League performed “Taps” and presented to-the-Pin, sponsored by A+ Hearing For all the photos and the many fun enhancements. The raffle prizes conan official 21-gun salute to signal the Center, Inc. – Mike Bush; Closest-to-theevents listed on the Community Calentained dozens of baskets and other items beginning of the tournament. The Hills- Pin, sponsored by Acropolis Restaurant dar, check out www.riverviewchamber. donated by the generous investors and borough County Sheriff’s Mounted Posse of Riverview – Steve Harrity; Closestcom. friends of the Greater Riverview Chamalso joined the Marine Corps League in ber of Commerce. A continuously big hit the opening ceremony celebration. The is the Wagon of Cheer that was filled 32 teams enthusiastically departed the with over 25 bottles of liquor. GRCC clubhouse for the start of the games. ambassadors and board members conThere were teams who were serious tributed top-shelf liquors to create this CELEBRATE about winning the tournament and othbar stocking paradise that raised over YOUR ers who just wanted to have fun with $2,700 for the chamber. GRADUATE! their friends. All teams had the chance Annually noted as the most anticipated to use mulligans and string to enhance moment of the day was the Bryan Hindtheir chances of winning. We Deliver 813.417.3573 man Electric Ball Drop. Bryan and Heath“A grateful thanks to our beverage to You Inflatedexpressions.com er Hindman graciously donate their time
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
June 2021
Page 15
WOODIE’S WASH SHACK COMES TO LOCAL AREAS THROUGHOUT HILLSBOROUGH By Brian Bokor Based out of just a car wash. Tampa, Woodie’s “We are all about Wash Shack is a the community,” distinctly differhe said. “We want ent express car to get involved wash inspired at every level, by the classic down to cleaning woodie car and the streets. We surf culture of just launched the the 1960s. The Woodie’s Sparkling goal is to provide Clean Crew, who every customer perform neighborwith the best hood cleanups in car wash exour communities.” perience in the Woodie’s supWoodie’s Wash Shack is opening business. All ports a variety of locations throughout Hillsborough Woodie’s are community initiaCounty. equipped with tives focused on free vacuums, have on-site crew members kids, conservation and people seeking opand offer an unlimited monthly wash club portunity. It supports programs like Projprogram. Woodie’s is proud to be a local, ect Uplift, Surfers for Autism and Take family-owned business that is growing Stock in Children. Fundraising opportunifast. ties are also available for groups to raise Throughout Southeast Hillsborough, money for their organizations. you’ve probably seen signs announcing a Crew members working at Woodie’s new Woodie’s Wash Shack coming to your have access to workshops focused on neighborhood. More locations means more building character, developing personal reconvenience for members. These sites sponsibility and creating career goals. They were chosen for their proximity to shop- are learning professional skills designed to ping, restaurants and neighborhoods. Each carry them into the future. new location provides up to 10 jobs. Woodie’s offers a ‘Lifesaver’ program When asked about the newest location for first responders, health care workers, on FishHawk Blvd, Brandon Gary, director law enforcement and military personnel as of Operations, replied, “We’ve been work- well as a ‘Family Plan’ for households with ing to get one in FishHawk since I moved more than one vehicle. here. We finally have two in the works, Woodie’s currently has locations in plus the ones in Gibsonton and Sun City, South Tampa and Pinellas Park, with Sun and more … eight in the Tampa Bay area by City, Lutz and Gibsonton locations to open end of 2021, and 15 more in 2022.” soon. Visit woodieswash.com or call 888Gary stressed that they are more than 887-WAVE (9283) for more information.
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Page 16
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
LOCAL MORTGAGE LOAN OFFICER TURNED A PASSION INTO A SUCCESSFUL CAREER
By Tatiana Ortiz
Lithia resident ChanSuncoast Credit da Nelson always had a Union is the largest passion to help others. credit union in the In her role as a mortstate of Florida. In gage loan officer for 1934, a few local edSuncoast Credit Union, ucators founded the she gets the opportuHillsborough County nity to help someone Teachers Credit Union, each day obtain the which helped meet American Dream by the financial needs of making it a reality for local teachers. In the them. With more than 1950s, its membership five years of working at expanded to nine addiSuncoast Credit Union, tional counties. This led Nelson is committed to the membership beto providing individuing opened to all school als with service that employees. In 1978, it exceeds their expectaconverted to a federal tions. charter and the name Prior to that point, changed to Suncoast she had to place her Schools Federal Credit career on hold in the Union. financial industry for In 2013, it then six years to be a stay- Chanda Nelson, mortgage loan officer at converted to a state at-home mom with charter, with its name Suncoast Credit Union. her two sons. Nelson changed to Suncoast eventually got back into it once her sons Credit Union. Currently, membership is reached a certain age. Nelson continues now open to anyone who works, lives, to utilize her expertise and knowledge to attends schools or worships in the counassist individuals with various available ties that it serves, along with immediate financing options. family members too. Nelson shared how people can benefit “All in all, if you are in need of obtainfrom her services. ing a mortgage or just have general ques“I have built my reputation on pro- tions about any of the mortgage loan opviding outstanding service to all of my tions that we have available, please feel clients, whether it be for a first-time free to contact me,” Nelson said. homebuyer or interested in refinancing For more information, visit https:// a home, you can always count on me to homeloans.suncoastcreditunion.com/ look out for your best interests,” Nelson ChandaNelson. Contact Nelson at 499said. 3971 or 1-800-999-5887, ext. #86692.
Volume 19, Issue 6
LOCAL CLOTHING COMPANY AIMS TO EMBRACE DIVERSITY By Libby Hopkins ShapeShifter Fish and the kickoff of its commuFriends is a new sun-pronity program, appropritective activewear comately called Project FIN pany created to inspire (Friends In Need), to profriendships, support divide sun-protective shirts versity and motivate you for the homeless in Tampa to get outside. Bay, who have an extreme“ShapeShifter Fish ly high risk for skin cancer. and Friends was started “It’s crazy, in early October 2020, there are a during a time when we ton of fishing felt the world needed shirt-style more positivity, especompanies in cially our youth, and a Florida and reminder that we can I could not all look different, think find a single one that is different, whatever, yet doing this, so there is defistill be friends,” said nitely a need,” Aller said. Co-Founder Maria Aller. “Our partner and printer, “We wanted to create an LogoHQ generously doall-inclusive community nated their time to help where it is encouraged print our first batch of to be yourself, to be difshirts. On May 1, we were ferent and embrace this able to kick off Project idea that we are united ShapeShifter Fish and Friends is a FIN and give the first set by this diversity.” branded community featuring Tam- of UPF50+ shirts to TamShapeShifter Fish and pa Bay marine life. Each design is pa Homeless Outreach at a Friends is a branded com- made up of different shapes, different charity event held at Branmunity featuring Tampa colors, different sizes and printed on don Harley-Davidson. Also UPF50+ long-sleeve shirts. Bay marine life. Each debeginning May 1, a portion sign is made up of different shapes, differ- of proceeds of every ShapeShifter Fish ent colors and different sizes and printed and Friends shirt we sell will be donated on UPF50+ long-sleeve shirts to encour- to continue Project FIN. Very soon, we will age you to go outside, where friendships also be setting up additional online donaare made and nurtured. “Friendship is the tion opportunities for any of our friends, foundation of a healthy childhood, suc- old or new, who also want to contribute to cessful partnerships and thriving commu- help us grow our reach and provide even nities,” Aller said. “We invite people to be more shirts all over Florida.” part of our circle of friends, where everyTo learn more about ShapeShifter Fish body is welcome.” and Friends as well as Project FIN, you ShapeShifter Fish and Friends recent- can visit their website at www.ssfishandly decided to create and personally fund friends.com.
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
June 2021
Page 17
TIPS FOR HELPING TEENS COPE WITH STRESS OF PANDEMIC By Michelle Caceres It can sometimes be difficult to talk to your teen, especially if answers to question like ‘how was your day?’ are met with such mysterious replies such as ‘fine’, ‘okay’ or ‘alright’ but learning to communicate with our children, especially from a young age, can help promote maturity, help him or her make choices that support their well-being, help them avoid situations that might be dangerous and teach them how to look after themselves mentally as well as physically. Pre-teens, tweens and teens are dealing with far greater and far more pressure than ever before. Challenging physical changes and ever more complex relationships (exacerbated by a pandemic) mean there’s never been a better time to talk, and listen what they’re thinking and feeling. Family therapist Cory Pacheck M.Ed. LMFT said that while the parental system is just one system that a child exists within (others include their biological system, family system, community system, etc), it is ultra-key because parents are the foundation of every child’s life. “In attachment theory we refer to the ideal version of that foundation as a ‘secure base’,” said Pacheck. That foundation begins with parents who have their own lives together. “Your credibility and your character matter,” he said. “You have to be trustworthy, honest, responsible, reliable and safe. You have to know what you are talking about and know how to shut up and listen A LOT and then maintain confidentiality with what your child has just shared with you.”
“Don’t invalidate their feelings by telling them they’re wrong or telling them all the reasons why they shouldn’t feel the way they do because it’s one of the most common communication errors that parents make,” he said. Kindergarten teachers tell their students to turn on their listening ears; parents need their listening ears. “Take the time to truly and deeply listen with genuine compassion and empathy, first seeking to understand and validate that person’s feelings and experience,” he said. “And resist the urge to start complaining about how terrible your own life is thinking it will somehow make your child feel better.” Be responsible, safe, strong, reliable, level-headed and trustworthy. They’ll feel good about talking with you when they need to. “Parents need be a united front and well-functioning team,” he said. “Don’t yell and scream and undermine one another.” Talk to the Student Services team (a school counselor, school nurse, school social worker) at your teen’s school if you need assistance. You can also ask your health care provider for a referral to a family therapist or licensed mental health provider who has experience and expertise in treating youth. Going through a crisis that needs immediate attention? Call The Crisis Center of Tampa Bay at 2-1-1 (24 hours a day/7 days a week).
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Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
Volume 19, Issue 6
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June 2021
Page 19
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Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
Volume 19, Issue 6
GIBSONTON WAS A CARNIVAL TOWN: FINDING A HOME By Charles Nelson Gibsonton is a town with tation, and the a fascinating slice of histoword spread on ry unknown to many Hillsthis new, welborough County residents. coming winter Nationally famous residents home for travelincluded Al and Jeanne Toing show people maini, Casper Belsom, Dolfor much of the ly Reagan and Percilla and 1940s and 50s. Emmitt Bejano. They share Gibsonton, a unique story; these folks as a carnival were once human stars sideshow workof bizarre traveling, carnier retreat, beval sideshows popular in gan to change mid-century America. Yet, in the 1960s it was in Gibsonton where and 70s. Medthey found a permanent ical advances, home far from the curious changing public crowds. perceptions and “Percilla, the ‘Monkey Girl,’ and “Col. Casper Belsom with his pal, Al Tomaini, at Giant’s Al Tomaini stood at 6’4” laws as well as Emmitt, the ‘Alligator Skin Man.’” “Al and Jeanie Tomaini: ‘The World’s Fish Camp in Gibsonton.” Source: International IndepenSource: International Independent and was known professionthe dramatic rise Strangest Married Couple.’” Source: dent Showmen’s Association. Showmen’s Association. International Independent Showmen’s ally as ‘The Giant.’ He was of television led Association. neighalso the fire chief in Gibsonto the demise of resident for 18 bor, hired by Stiles’ wife, murdered him. the carnival sideshows. As a result, many ton and president of the town’s chamber years until his death in 1968. of commerce. Dolly Reagan, immobilized her entire life The resulting criminal case splattered all human performers who worked for shows In stark contrast to her husband, Jean- due to a birth-related condition, was once across the nation’s papers. Yet, despite the like the Gibsonton-based Royal American ie Tomaini stood a mere 30” tall. She once Gibsonton’s town librarian. She, too, trav- notoriety of this infamous case, most car- Shows saw their numbers dwindle in Gibperformed as a carnival acrobat, billing eled the carnival sideshow circuit under a nival sideshow workers, including sword sonton during the remainder of the centuherself as the ‘Half-Lady.’ Jeanie also variety of show names, including the ‘Ossi- swallowers and human pincushions like ry. By the early 2000s, many of the sideserved as one of Gibsonton’s postmistress- fied Girl’ and the ‘Half-Woman/Half-Baby.’ Melvin Burkhardt, lived everyday lives in a show performers and their families had es. Together, they toured as ‘the World’s Yet, she found comfort in her Gibsonton town that they called home. died or moved away. Eddie and Grace LeMay, carnival cookStrangest Married Couple.’ After perma- home, where she felt at ease and entirely To experience Gibsonton’s role in this nently settling in Gibsonton, they operat- welcome in the small town until she died in house operators, were the first carnival once-dynamic industry, do plan to visit workers to come to Gibsonton in 1924. the International Independent Showmen’s ed Giant’s Fish Camp and Restaurant (and the early 1990s. many other businesses). Al died in 1962, Many more carnival sideshow workers Heading south for the winter, they crossed Association on Riverview Dr. near U.S. 41. and Jeanie continued to run the restaurant found a home in this place they loving- the Alafia River, stopped to fish, had lunch Here you will find an excellent museum until she died in 1999. ly called ‘Gibtown.’ Percilla Lauther (the and planned to rest before moving on. But, highlighting the carnival industry. It’s well ‘Colonel’ Casper Belsom also toured with ‘Monkey Girl’) and Emmitt Bejano (the instead, they were attracted to the area worth a visit. the carnival circuit in the mid-20th centu- ‘Alligator Skinned Man’) were married for and decided to make it their permanent ry. As a little person, Belsom stood 36” tall 40 years and also lived in Gibsonton for home. Together, they opened Eddie’s Hut, CHARLES NELSON HOLDS A MA DEGREE IN HISTORY FROM GEORGE MASON UNIVERSITY and counted Al as one of his best pals. He several years. (Emmett died in 1995, and a Gibsonton restaurant that operated for AND TAUGHT AS AN ADJUNCT INSTRUCTOR AT many years. Eddie and Grace urged their served as Gibsonton’s police chief (and en- died Percilla in 2001 in Lutz.) HCC (DALE MABRY). HE IS ALSO AFFILIATED WITH TAMPA BAY HISTORY CENTER AS A tire police force) from 1949 until the earMore infamously, Grady Stiles, aka the fellow carnival workers to join them. Many VOLUNTEER DOCENT, RESEARCHER AND ly 1960s. He ran for the title of honorary ‘Lobster Boy’ because of his claw-like carnival workers, including a large number COMMUNITY LECTURER, WITH AN EMPHASIS ON SOUTH HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY HISTORY. mayor in 1964. He was a proud Gibsonton hands, lived in Gibsonton until 1992, when a of sideshow performers, answered his invi-
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FINANCIAL FOCUS Father’s Day Gifts
If you’re a dad, you may be in line to get some nice gifts on Father’s Day. But your greatest gift may be your ability to help your children. One way of doing that is to get them started in the world of investing – and making a few investments on their behalf. Here are three possibilities: 529 plan – If you invest in a 529 education savings plan, your earnings can grow federally tax-free, provided the money is used for qualified educational expenses. (Withdrawals not used for these expenses will generally incur taxes and penalties on investment earnings.) If you invest in your own state’s 529 plan, you might receive some state tax benefits, too, depending on how your state’s tax laws apply to 529 plans. State-by-state tax treatment may vary, so you’ll need to consult with your tax professional about your situation. Provided you stay within certain limits, you can also use a 529 plan to pay for qualified K-12 expenses and registered apprenticeship programs. And you can even use it to repay certain qualified student loans, within limits. A 529 plan can affect financial aid, but its effect is generally lower than that of other assets. And as the account owner, you have control of your 529, so, if one child decides not to go to college or pursue further education, you can switch beneficiaries. UGMA/UTMA account – When you establish a special type of custodial account known as either UGMA (Uniform Gift to Minors Act) or UTMA (Uniform Transfers to Minors Act), you are providing financial resources that can be used for education or another purpose that benefits your child, such as summer programs.
Notice Under Fictitious Name Law Pursuant to Section 865.09, Florida Statutes NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned, desiring to engage in business under the fictitious name of Mr. Appliance of Brandon and Riverview, located at 316 E. Bloomingdale Ave., Suite 2, in Hillsborough County, in the city of Brandon, FL 33511 intends to register said name with the Division of Corporations of the Florida Department of State, Tallahassee, Florida Dated at Valrico, Florida this 7th day of June 2021
One potential benefit of an UGMA or UTMA is that some of the earnings will be taxed at the child’s rate, which is likely lower than your own. Plus, UGMA/UTMA accounts typically allow a wide range of investment choices. However, once children reach the age of majority (typically 18 or 21) they gain complete access to the money and can do whatever they want with it. IRA – A child with any taxable compensation, such as money from an after-school job, is eligible to fund an IRA. You may want to open one on your child’s behalf – and you can “sweeten” the offer by matching some of their contributions. You can’t directly invest in the IRA, but you can give your child money for that purpose. Keep in mind, though, that the total amount contributed can’t exceed your child’s taxable compensation for the year. An IRA is a great introduction to the world of investing. For one thing, your child can make small contributions throughout the year, so investing in an IRA doesn’t seem burdensome. Also, since an IRA can be invested in different types of securities, your child can learn about various investment vehicles – stocks, bonds, mutual funds and so on. Plus, you can point out that, with a traditional IRA, taxes won’t be due on the earnings until your child starts taking withdrawals decades from now. (And with a Roth IRA, withdrawals are tax-free, provided certain conditions are met.) On Father’s Day, you can show your appreciation for whatever gifts you receive from your children. But by investing in their future, you can gain some longer-term contentment. This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones financial advisor. Edward Jones. Member SIPC.
edwardjones.com/adam-benabram
June 2021
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
LOCAL BUSINESS OWNER RUNS FOR BRANDON HONORARY MAYOR
Page 21
ORTHOPAEDIC MEDICAL GROUP OF TAMPA BAY COMES TO FISHHAWK
By Kate Quesada
By Brian Bokor
One of Brandon’s most well-loved tradi- Cats and Dogs Animal Shelter will go to tions is kicking off next month. The annual help increase the shelter unit size by 45 anHonorary Mayor’s Race, which is made up imals by utilizing a large, covered, indoor/ of fundraising opportunities for local char- outdoor area for the smaller dogs, thereby ities, will take place throughout June with allowing it the opportunity to help more only one candidate, dogs and, while in its Melissa Canfield, care, give the dogs co-owner of HiTech the ability to be both Automotive. outside and inside. Canfield, who has In order to raise lived in Lithia since the funds, Canfield 2001, will be raising has organized a funds for Camp Rotanumber of events ry, an outdoor camp that will take place offering special needs throughout June. children a traditional “We have somesummer camp expething for everyone,” rience, and Raining she said. “We are Cats and Dogs Animal going to have a Shelter, which cares grand kick-off on for local pets that June 1 at JF Kicks are sick or have been at 6 p.m. where abandoned in order there will be raffles to rehabilitate and reand door prices, and home them to loving Lithia resident Melissa Canfield, co-owner of they are donating HiTech Automotive, is running for Honorary families in our area. back 10 percent of Mayor of Brandon. “I am super excited all the proceeds from to work hard for these two amazing chari- that night.” ties this year,” said Canfield. “Two amazing Her team is also planning a Michael Kors organizations that I am proud to be asso- Bingo June 22 at the Regent with The ciated with. Kids and pets, two things we George Shea Team as the signature sponall love. sor for the event. I especially appreciate the fact that each “There will also be a bowling tournaorganization has a specific need which we ment, bunco night, Cruella movie night are working to fulfill.” and I have even heard of a potential Elvis Canfield’s goal is to help Camp Rotary sighting,” said Canfield, who is planning to repair boards and railings along its docks. end the month with a strictly online bid“This is necessary so children can safely ding auction from Wednesday, June 30 to access the water area, and that is some- Friday, July 2. For more, search for ‘Mething we can help with directly,” she said. lissa4BrandonMayor’ on Facebook or visit The funds she hopes to raise for Raining www.valricofishhawk.org.
continue to grow our business.” Additionally, the complex will include the Dr. Stuart Goldsmith conference center, dedicated to the founder of OMG, which has been in operation since 1978. OMG is working in conjunction with Surgical Development Systems, Inc. (SDSI), based out of Jupiter, FL on the 12,000-square-foot Ambulatory Surgical Center (ASC), which will be providing outpatient surgery focused on sports-related injuries, total joint replacements and general orthopedic procedures. Four state-of-the-art operating rooms utilizing cutting-edge technologies such as robotics to assist with procedures will work in conjunction with the physical therapy office, allowing OMG to give its patients the most complete care available. On-site specialists will include doctors in the fields of orthopedics, podiatry, and ophthalmology. The ophthalmology department will be headed by Dr. Haroon Ilyas. Dr. Ilyas is a cornea specialist and one of Tampa Bay’s leading cataract and refractive surgeons. Speaking with staff podiatrist and FishHawk resident Dr. Patrick Donovan, the move to the new facility will offer patients the opportunity to have all aspects of their procedures handled at the same location, from diagnosis to surgery to rehabilitation, on any part of the skeletal frame from head to toe. For more information, visit www. omgtb.com.
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A new Orthopaedic Medical Group of Tampa Bay complex is under construction in FishHawk.
The large concrete block structure FishHawk residents have been watching take shape at the corner of Circa Crossing Dr. and Mosaic Dr. in Lithia, adjacent to Kids ‘R’ Kids child care facility, will be the new home of Orthopaedic Medical Group of Tampa Bay (OMG). The growing operation will utilize the nearly 4-acre FishHawk location as its headquarters. The doctor’s office in Brandon (615 Vonderburg Rd.) as well as administrative office in Valrico will be consolidated as part of the project under newly named CEO Dr. Scott Goldsmith. Headed by OMG’s development team of Dr. Jeff Watson and William Romaniello (director of business development and sports medicine), the 37,000-square-foot complex with parking capacity for 196 vehicles is estimated to have construction completed, offices occupied and procedures performed by the end of this year. Romaniello noted the complex will include “administrative offices, which will be the hub for all our administrative operations, including our billing and service center, the outpatient surgery center, and the orthopedic medical office [and] outpatient physical therapy office. Daily, we will have approximately 50-75 employees, with the capacity to add staff as we
Page 22
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
SUMMER NIGHTS WITH FIREWORKS AND ENTERTAINMENT COMES TO BUSCH GARDENS Staff Report
For more than menu inspired by 100 nights this backyard summer summer, guests can cookouts with a Busstay late and safely ch Gardens twist. enjoy world-class Adults 21 and over coasters, electrifycan indulge in new ing entertainment glow-in-the-dark throughout the park summer cocktails or and more during refreshing nonalcoextended hours at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay. On weekends and select dates, guests Summer Nights is underway at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay. can look to the sky for the new ‘Spark! A Nighttime Spectac- holic drinks that ular,’ featuring an explosive new firework are equally beauand special effects production. ‘Spark!’ will tiful and satisfyfeature an explosive array of fireworks and ing for the perfect end to a summer night. exciting effects from dazzling lasers to Entertainment will include DJ Block Pargraceful water elements and dramatic py- ties, the all-new ‘Cirque Electric’ show and rotechnics. ‘Spark!’ is offered every Friday, the return of the ‘Turn It Up’ ice skating Saturday and Sunday night at 9:15 p.m. show. from May 28 to Monday, September 6, inCelebrate all summer long and viscluding extra presentations from Thursday it again and again with a Busch Gardens to Sunday, July 1-4 for Independence Day Fun Card, with which guests can pay for and on September 6 for Labor Day. a day and play all year, with few restricLong before the first burst of ‘Spark!’ tions. For the price of a single-day ticket to covers the night sky, guests can join in the Busch Gardens, the Fun Card allows access evening excitement with new entertain- throughout the year, so you can visit again ment, music, food and drinks for the park’s and again and experience great events like biggest and brightest summer celebration. Summer Nights, Bier Fest, Christmas Town A new event for this year is the Pre-Par- and more. ty on the Festival Pathway, where guests Guests can visit www.BuschGardenwill be greeted with glowing lights strung sTampa.com for more information and among the trees, live music and more. The reservations—and to purchase tickets, Fun stunning visual journey on the Festival Cards or Annual Passes. Fans can stay up Pathway will spark the spirit of summer in to date with park events, attractions and everyone. more by following Busch Gardens Tampa There is also a new seasonal summer Bay on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
Volume 19, Issue 6
ACE GOLF OFFERS FREE GOLF FOR KIDS THIS SUMMER Staff Report Are the kids driving you crazy and playing after 12 Noon every day through the end of too many video games this summer? Want October. to have them do something healthy and learn Ace Golf Range is located at 12910 a lifelong sport? Ace Golf is offering a free Boyette Rd. in Riverview and can be reached summer golf practice program for kids age at 672-7750. It is open daily until 10 p.m. 5 to 15. Every day from Tuesday, June 1 through Tuesday, August 31, kids can sign up to receive a free small bucket of range balls each day for the whole summer. Kids hit the balls on the practice ranges at Tampa Bay area Ace Golf locations. And, it’s all free. “There are a lot of families out there that just can’t afford to put kids in camps or they just want something productive to fill their summer,” said Bill Place, owner of Ace Golf Ranges and Golf Courses. “We want to help, and hopefully in the process we may find the next Every day from Tuesday, June 1 through Tuesday, August 31, kids can sign up to receive a free small bucket of range Tiger Woods.” balls at Ace Golf in Riverview. How it works: • Children may sign up for free at any of The facilities feature lighted golf practice five Ace Golf locations in Riverview, Tampa, ranges, miniature golf and batting cages. For Land O’Lakes and Tarpon Springs. more information, visit ace-golf.com. Ace • Each child receives a daily stamp card for Golf Courses include Pebble Creek Golf Club one free small bucket each day. at 10550 Regents Park Dr. in New Tampa • Each time the child redeems their free (phone: 973-3870, website: pebblecreekclub. bucket, they will get a stamp on their card com), Plantation Palms Golf Club in Land noting the redemption. An adult must ac- O’Lakes (phone: 996-4653, website: plantacompany them. tionpalms.net) and Crescent Oaks Country • No purchase is necessary. Kids should Club at 3300 Crescent Oaks Blvd. in Tarpon bring a golf club with them or may rent one. Springs (phone: 727-937-4653, website: • At the Riverview and Land O’ Lakes loca- crescentoaksgolf.com). tions, kids may substitute miniature golf (one All Ace Golf Courses are open to the public round per day) instead of the small bucket and offer membership, dining and banquet each day. centers. Ace Golf is locally family-owned by In addition to the Free Bucket or Mini-Golf Su Lee and Bill Place since 1993. In addition program, kids may also play golf for free to the free kids program, each location offers when accompanied by a paying parent at summer golf camps, clinics as well as private all Ace Golf Courses (18-hole golf courses) and group golf lessons.
June 2021
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Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
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Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
Volume 19, Issue 6
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Volume 19, Issue 6
Riverview/Apollo Beach
www.ospreyobserver.com
BELL SHOALS, 3.1-MILE ROAD WIDENING UPDATE
By Brian Bokor
The project to widen the 3.1-mile stretch of Bell Shoals Rd. from Boyette Rd. north to Bloomingdale Ave. is moving along.
Work accomplished to date on the 3.1-mile stretch of Bell Shoals Rd. from Boyette Rd. north to Bloomingdale Ave. has been primarily associated with land clearing, utility relocation and retention pond construction necessary to accommodate the new four-lane divided highway. But more changes are ahead on this major project. Drivers traveling from Boyette Rd. towards Bloomingdale Ave. will notice the northbound Alafia bridge addition, including bike lanes and sidewalks, now under construction. Once this northbound portion of the bridge has been completed, traffic will shift and the existing southbound lanes will undergo similar renovations. Expect bridgework to be completed mid to late 2022. The large cleared area north of the bridge on the east side will become one of several retention ponds necessary for drainage of excess water runoff created by the project, with additional areas located adjacent to the south of Three Bulls
plaza, between Rosemead Ln. and Jiffy Lube, as well as north of the Bloomingdale Ave. intersection on the west side. When asked why so many ponds were needed and what the estimated timeframe was from this point going forward, Hillsborough County Design Manager of the Capital Programs Department Sandra González, P.E. told me the retention areas were a statutory requirement. “The ponds are designed to hold a certain amount of rainfall that is determined by the amount of impervious area (asphalt and concrete) that is being constructed,” she said. “The project began on schedule in late 2018 and is set to be completed on schedule by December 2022.” An idea of what a typical cross section of the new road will look like when complete can been seen between Bloom Hill Ave. and Three Bulls plaza, where the majority of engineering work is done. The design features 6 ft. wide sidewalks, curbs and gutters; 4 ft. wide bike paths; and two 12 ft. wide lanes on either side of
a fully landscaped, raised center median. The median from Glenhaven Dr. to Rosemead Ln. will be fully irrigated and maintained by the Bloomingdale Special Taxing District through a formal maintenance agreement with the county. This will allow the district control of landscaping upkeep and design, which is still in the formative stages. The median from Glenhaven Dr. south to Boyette Rd. will be nonirrigated and maintained by the county. From Glenhaven Dr. north to Bloomingdale Ave., utility relocation is ongoing, with the challenges ahead focused around completing the remaining northbound lane sections, renovating the existing southbound sections and widening the four signalized intersections at Glenhaven Dr., Rosemead Ln., Starwood Ave. and Bloomingdale Ave. The project will taper from four lanes to two near the end of the project at Knowles Rd. north of Bloomingdale Ave. and will widen from two lanes to four for drivers heading south at the same location.
The speed limit will be 45 mph for most of the new stretch of road and will be reduced to 35 mph in the areas closer toward Bloomingdale Ave. Maps of each neighborhood entrance located along Bell Shoals Rd. in the work zone can be found by visiting HCFLGov. net/CountyProjects, clicking on “Government” (top of page), then “County Projects” and then “Highlighted CIP Projects,” where you’ll find the link to the Bell Shoals Road Widening project with detailed maps available there for every community. Please contact Public Works at 6355400 with any additional questions. The Bloomingdale intersection will be expanded to include dual left-turn lanes, dual center-thru lanes and single rightturn lanes for drivers headed in either direction on Bell Shoals Rd., which should alleviate some congestion, along with the retiming of the traffic signals at Rosemead Ln. and Starwood Ave. to allow for a smooth flow of traffic through this busy area.
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Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
CALVARY CHURCH OF RIVERVIEW RESTORES PLAYGROUND AREA AT KID’S COMMUNITY COLLEGE SOUTHEAST CAMPUS By Tatiana Ortiz Join Calvary sure children get to Church of Rivercontinue with some view and the comelement of socializmunity on Saturing,” she added. day, June 26 from 8 KCC is an authoa.m.-4 p.m. during rized Internationthe church’s projal Baccalaureate ect to restore the school in which its playground area funds are pushed at Kid’s Commuto global undernity College (KCC) standing and supSoutheast Campus porting its teachers in Riverview. through continued For several years, Pastor David Jasper purchasing Thanksgiving Day professional develCalvary Church dinner items from Winn-Dixie for the families at Kid’s opment and more. Community College Southeast Campus. of Riverview has Tackett expressed assisted with nuher and KCC’s gratimerous activities for tude in regards to the KCC. For instance, support of Calvary Calvary Church’s Church. pastor, David JasWith that in mind, per, mentioned that Calvary Church of with the pandemic of Riverview has also COVID-19, his church partnered with the partnered with the Greater Riverview student counselor at KCC to provide up to Chamber of Commerce to assist with geteight families with free Thanksgiving Day ting materials donated for this project and dinner boxes. Each box consisted of a tur- so forth. Volunteers will be placing down key, stuffing, potatoes and more. This all mulch along with helping in various ascorrelates to Calvary Church’s mission to pects of the playground area. The proviserve the community. sion for lunch for the volunteers is being Jasper sat down with Brandy Tackett, worked out. director of KCC Southeast Campus, to “As a community-wide effort, I pray that learn more about what the school needed this will set the precedent for other partand how Calvary Church could help. nerships to develop,” Jasper said. “The partnership with Calvary Church For more information, visit https://myRiverview will be hugely beneficial for all kidscc.org. It is located at 11519 McMullen KCC students,” Tackett said. “In the wake Rd. in Riverview. If you have questions or of COVID-19, our funds are tight and as are interested in volunteering, contact Jasequipment deteriorates, along with limited per at riverviewcalvary@gmail.com. resources, this gives an opportunity to en-
Volume 19, Issue 6
WATER CONSERVATION TIPS FOR LIFE IN THE SUNSHINE STATE – YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED By Robin Grantham, Lead Communications Coordinator Q: How are Florida or stricter one-day-perlawns different? week schedules, so it’s A: Many of the grassalways best to check es found in northern your local city or county lawns can’t survive regulations. Florida’s heat. Instead, Q: Can I capture the district encourages rain to water my Florida-friendly landlawn later? scapes that need less A: Yes! While some water by incorporating states have laws against drought-tolerant plants rain harvesting, in Florand mulch. To learn ida rain barrels are more about specific encouraged and homeplants and turfgrassowners associations es best suited for your are forbidden to prohibhome, reach out to your it rain barrels. Before As lead communications coordinalocal University of Flori- tor, Robin Grantham oversees water purchasing a rain barrel, da Institute of Food and conservation programs, including the check to make sure your Agricultural Sciences neighborhood associaFlorida Water StarSM program. (UF/IFAS) county extion doesn’t have restrictension office for recommendations and tions that specify rain barrel characterlandscape workshops. istics, such as color, size and location. Q: How should I water my lawn? Q: How should I keep your lawn A: The district encourages homeown- healthy? ers to watch the weather, wait to waA: Florida lawns are connected to the ter. During the summer months, Florida watershed. Since water seeps through typically sees increased rainfall. When to the aquifer, applying too much fertilit’s raining frequently, turn off your ir- izer too often or at the wrong time can rigation system and turn it back on only pollute our waterways with nitrates. Bewhen needed. In addition, most Florida fore applying fertilizer, always read and lawns need only ½ to ¾ inches of water follow the package directions to avoid per week. Figure out how long you need overfertilizing. Order the free ‘Florito run your sprinkler system to apply this da-Friendly Fertilizing Guide’ at Wacorrect amount of water to reduce over- terMatters.org/Publications for simple watering, which not only wastes water steps to apply fertilizer and maintain but can also lead to pests and diseases. your landscape. Q: Are there any restrictions on Q: Where can I find more water when I can water my lawn? conservation tips? A: The district has year-round water A: To find more water conservation conservation measures in place, limiting tips, as well as Florida-Friendly Landlawn watering to no more than twice scaping™ and fertilizer suggestions, per week. Some local governments may visit the district’s website at WaterMathave special twice-per-week schedules ters.org/Conservation.
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Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
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Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
TO CONTINUTE GROWTH, BSAC CHANGES NAME TO HIGH 5, INC. By Michelle Caceres
Beginning on Friday, June 4, BSAC’s name will change to High 5, Inc.
Since 1963, Brandon Sports and Aquatic Center (BSAC) has been impacting lives through its superior educational and athletic programming that enhances physical, mental and spiritual well-being. The center’s name will changed to High 5, Inc. “The change reflects where our organization is now and where it’s going in the future,” said CEO Chuck Burgess. ‘High 5’ references its five pillars of impact: aquatics and youth drowning prevention, after-school education, special needs education, sports and recreation as well as its community initiative. The organization will continue to provide a wide variety of programming options, including swimming, diving and tennis lessons; after-school programs; special needs education; and team and individual sports. Its facility features include an Olympic-sized pool; 1-meter and 3-meter diving boards; a 10-lane, 25-yard lap pool; 10 tennis courts; an indoor gym; sports fields; and an on-site cafe.
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Camp High 5, its summer camp program, starts on Tuesday, June 1 and offers weeklong day camps for children in grades K-6. “We are so much more than sports and aquatics now, and, while our main campus is in Brandon, our programs and reach are well beyond home base,” Burgess said. “With partnerships with organizations like Livingstone Academy and Livy O’s, we’re impacting even more families throughout Hillsborough County.” Members of the community are invited to attend its grand opening celebration in honor of the name change and first official day of doing business as High 5, Inc. The event will be held on June 4 and will kick off with a ribbon-cutting ceremony at 10 a.m. Guided tours of the facility and the surrounding 12.5-acre campus will be offered. “The name change is just the beginning of what’s in store for our community, with new programs slated for 2022 and beyond as well as facility upgrades, new corporate partnerships and a laser focus on our five pillars,” he said. High 5, Inc. is located at 405 Beverly Dr. in Brandon. Its hours of operation are Monday-Friday, 7 a.m.-6 p.m., and Saturday, 8 a.m.-2 p.m. For more information about High 5, Inc., visit www.high5inc.org or call 689-0908.
Volume 19, Issue 6
MOBILE MEALS IS LOCALLY OWNED DELIVERY SERVICE BRINGING RESTAURANTS TO YOUR DOOR By Tatiana Ortiz What’s for dinner torestaurants may be night? Brandon residents available for catering and USF grads Jennior family-size meal defer Mekdeci Kalmbach livery only. Full details, and brother Christopher menus and pricing are Shelton found a need for available online. restaurant delivery with“Customer-centered in Southern Hillsborough service has always County and developed been at the heart of their successful business our company, along Mobile Meals 12 years with our number one ago. goal,” said Kalmbach, Business ownership who is proud of the runs in the family, as their partnerships with the grandfather started Salocal restaurants that bal Homes of Florida while her company has, which their grandmother estaballowed it to be ready lished Ann Lee Realty, Inc. for the pandemic, and Now, Kalmbach works as is proud of the increase the operations managin home delivery and er and Shelton works as no-contact drop-offs. the IT technical officer. Customers can orKalmbach said that, with der through the Mobile Shelton’s technology backMeals website, by callground, he felt online oring in or by submitting dering and delivery was an order through the the future. app. Typically, there Mobile Meals delivers is a small delivery fee food from more than 100 that covers the cost of A Mobile Meals uniformed crew local restaurants to one’s transportation, which member delivering food to a customer. hotel, office or home. It is listed on the website delivers to the areas such as Lithia, Apol- and is typically between $3.99-$5.99. lo Beach, Brandon, Seffner, Valrico, River- Promotions and specials often offer free view, South Tampa, Wesley Chapel, New delivery. Tampa and more. “We treasure ourselves on working A uniformed Mobile Meals crew mem- with restaurants,” Kalmbach said. “We ber will deliver the food items in a timely also pride ourselves on being local too,” manner inside an insulated bag to keep it she added. fresh. For more information or to place an orOrders can even be placed for immedi- der, visit https://www.mobilemeals.com/. ate delivery or in advance for future de- Ordering is open Monday through Sunday, livery. Depending on your address, certain 9 a.m.-9 p.m. Call 907-MEAL(6325).
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
June 2021
FIELDS & TABLE FRESH MARKET GROCERS IS NOW OPEN
By Kate Quesada
Have you we’re focusing on checked out the what we know and new Fields & Table do best—giving yet? The boutique the community the specialty grocery best grocery shopretailer opened its ping experience doors in Riverview from a product, as last month to a very well as educationwarm welcome al, standpoint. We from the commuwant people to be nity. informed about Fields & Table what they’re putSpokesperson Amy ting into their bodLundy wants to ies and we want thank everyone them to know that who has made the their food should store opening such look as good as it a success. tastes. Whether it’s “We are so apa three-course meal preciative of the for a party they’re continued support throwing or a and feedback,” said Tuesday night preLundy. pared meal they’re Fields & Table opened recently in Riverview. T h e looking for, we ab8,000-square-foot indoor store is filled solutely have them covered. And our team with locally sourced, fresh, healthy as well loves talking food and recipes, especially our as affordable products. Fields & Table of- butcher.” fers a huge produce department filled with Lundy also explained that if the store the freshest fruits and vegetables, a meat doesn’t stock a particular product that is and seafood department staffed by an ex- available from local vendors and farms, perienced butcher with the best cuts and Fields & Table will work to special order it. varieties offered in the area, a stocked deli To make shopping even more affordable featuring a great assortment of Boar’s Head and easy for customers, Fields & Table has products, baked goods, prepared foods and an app available for download in Google Play a floral department. Some of the store’s and the Apple Store. Through the app, cusunique features include a do-it-yourself or- tomers will be able to see specials and find ange juicer, self-serve pineapple corer and a coupons. Order pickup and delivery options made-to-order, customizable guacamole and are also coming soon. salsa bar. Fields & Table, located at 11531 Balm Riv“Fields & Table is all about supporting our erview Rd., is open from Monday to Saturcommunity and making the shopping ex- day, 9 a.m.-7 p.m., and on Sunday, 10 a.m.-6 perience enjoyable,” said Lundy. “We’re not p.m. Go to www.fieldsandtable.com or visit trying to be a restaurant or a coffee shop, its www.facebook.com/FieldsandTable.
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Page 29
MARY & MARTHA HOUSE HAS BEEN POSITIVELY IMPACTING THE COMMUNITY FOR 39 YEARS
By Libby Hopkins
Founded in 1982, Mary & Martha House ring said. “The pandemic really hurt us has been helping women and families es- last year. However, God provided for us cape domestic violence and homelessness through the pandemic. We were one of the for 39 years. few agencies that didn’t have to lay anyMary & Martha House provides individ- one off or close our doors. We were able ualized case management for each woman to maintain the care of our women and to identify perchildren.” sonal barriers The next and overcome Passport them. Mary & to Freedom Martha House event will is not a onebe held on size-fits-all Friday, June or group pro11 at The gram. Each Regent. The client receives event starts individual at 6 p.m. counseling ser“We are vices to help very careFounded in 1982, Mary & Martha House has been helping her conquer ful in the women and families escape domestic violence and homelessher unique names we ness for 39 years. The program provides individualized case struggles. “It management for each woman to identify personal barriers and choose for was started overcome them. Mary & Martha House is not a one-size-fits-all our events,” or group program. Each client receives individual counseling many years ago Herring services to help her conquer her unique struggles. by three womsaid. “It’s en, two of which who were more than just a fundraising nuns,” said Mary & Martha event. It’s an opportunity for House’s executive director, women to shine. They can Laurie Herring. “It just kind show their accomplishments of evolved over the years, but of the things they have done what is very important about if they choose to. Passport to our agency is that we are not Freedom is basically a name just a shelter for women. We are a full- for the freedom they have now. They are on program where women can take the safe from domestic violence and put it bevery next step in putting their lives back hind them. We are making this more of together again. Our main goal is to help a celebration of the accomplishments of with getting through every barrier that our women and children.” brought them to our program.” If you would like to learn more about Like many nonprofits in the area, the Mary & Martha House or if you’d like to COVID-19 pandemic greatly affected attend its Passport to Freedom event, you Mary & Martha House, forcing it to can- can visit its website at www.marymarcel its Passport to Freedom event. “This is thahouse.org or contact Herring at 645our largest fundraiser of the year,” Her- 7874.
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Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
SUPERINTENDENT DAVIS IS A WHITNEY M. YOUNG JR. SERVICE AWARD RECIPIENT Staff Report On May 13, Hillsborough County School Superintendent Addison Davis was honored as a 2021 Whitney M. Young Jr. Service Award recipient from the Greater Tampa Bay Area Council, Boy Scouts of America for his significant contributions in advocating for rural and low-income urban youth who face challenging barriers in their academics and in life. Davis was among a distinguished group of honorees this year, including State Representative Fentrice Driskell; Kevin Plummer, head of Tampa Preparatory School; and Glenn Permuy, senior vice president of the Boys & Girls Clubs of America. “I am truly honored to be recognized alongside this group of dedicated community and state leaders. The students who are part of the Boy Scouts of America live by a set of values that influence the rest of their lives and sets them on a path to achieve their goals. Through the work of our educators in the district’s Transformation Network of schools, our goal is to eradicate the barriers that prevent students from reaching their true potential and focus on innovative programs that provide equitable access
Hillsborough County School Superintendent Addison Davis was honored as a 2021 Whitney M. Young Jr. Service Award recipient from the Greater Tampa Bay Area Council, Boy Scouts of America.
to high-quality instruction for all students,” said Davis. The Whitney M. Young Jr. Service Award recognizes individuals who are instrumental in developing the principles of Scouting for youth from rural or low-income urban backgrounds. The award is named in honor of influential civil rights leader Whitney M. Young Jr., who became the head of the National Urban League in the 1960s. Young’s work transformed the organization into a major civil rights organization while creating thousands of new jobs for African Americans. To learn more about the award and Superintendent Davis, visit www.hillsboroughschools.org.
Volume 19, Issue 6
BUSINESS OWNERS CAN GET FREE MENTORING FROM SCORE By Brad Stager When James tain a business,” Zanatta started his said Werremeyer. full-service residenTrust is also an tial and commercial important element building contracting of the relationship company, ProCraft with SCORE cliBuilders, he knew ents, according to about hanging dryBill Wright, another wall and laying a mentor, who is the foundation for conpresident and CEO struction. What he of First Intelligence was less sure of Group, which spewere the practical cializes in conductdetails about opering background ating and managing checks. a business. Fortu“Confidentialinately, he was aware Bill Wright (left) and Kit Werremeyer (right) are two ty is a big part of mentors of the local SCORE chapter which assists of who could help. what we do,” said entrepreneurs. Zanatta reached Wright, who has out to the Tampa chapter of SCORE, a also been a financial services executive and nationwide network of experienced busi- is an Army veteran of more than 20 years ness professionals who mentor—without service. He conducts SCORE’s Boots to Busicharge—entrepreneurs like Zanatta and op- ness workshops for military personnel who erate every imaginable kind of business. are transitioning from active duty to civilian “I knew about them prior to starting my life and work. business and I knew I needed some help,” Other workshops conducted by the local said Zanatta. SCORE chapter include: Going Into Business, The local SCORE chapter connected Preparing Your Business Plan and ConstrucZanatta with Kit Werremeyer, who owns tion Contracts. The organization has also an engineering business, Southernstar Con- helped local entrepreneurs apply for the Paysultants, which advises on construction con- check Protection Program, which supported tracting, sales and marketing. He has also businesses affected by the COVID-19 panpublished a how-to manual on construction demic. negotiations, Understanding and Negotiating The pandemic has required SCORE to opConstruction Contracts: A Contractor’s and erate virtually for the most part in the last Subcontractor’s Guide to Protecting Compa- year, but a return to supporting entrepreny Assets. It is just the kind of relationship neurs in person is anticipated to occur this matchup that SCORE seeks to establish with summer. SCORE’s offices are located at the its clients, whether they are starting their Entrepreneur Collaborative Center on 2101 own business from scratch or undertaking a E. Palm Ave. in Ybor City. franchise opportunity To find out more about SCORE and how “We try to give them a realistic overview to become a client or mentor, you can visit of what it takes to start a business and sus- online at tampa.score.org or call 448-2311.
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
June 2021
NATURAL BOURNE LEADERS ACADEMY FOUNDER HELPS LOCAL YOUTHS BECOME LEADERS By Libby Hopkins but after the diagnosis, my career as firefighter came to an end,” Chatman said. “After I retired in 2013, my wife and I decided to move back to Tampa. In 2014, I became a school security officer, and in 2018, I became a Tampa police officer with the Reserve Unit.” When Chatman became involved with the school, he saw many of the struggles When Billy Chatman was in his senior year of and challenges teens high school, his counselor called him into her were going through, office and told him that he was not going to and it broke his heart. graduate if he didn’t get all of his credits. This drive would later help move him to create Natural Bourne Leadership This inspired him to create Academy, which mentors teens to become leaders of tomorrow. Natural Bourne Leaders Academy. When Billy Chatman was a senior in high “Natural Bourne Leaders Academy is a school, his counselor called him into her ofmentoring program where I cultivate the fice and told him that he was not going to leaders within young men and women who graduate if he didn’t get all of his credits. others have given up on,” Chatman said. “This meant that I needed eight classes in “Our motto is ‘Shaping Today’s Youth Into my senior year in order to graduate,” ChatTomorrow’s Leaders.’ The academy is comman said. “The normal student only needed mitted to mentoring, motivating and transsix classes, but because I spent my time forming the lives of thousands of youth in fighting and chasing girls, I had to take the Tampa Bay area. I encourage the youth eight classes plus tutoring every morning of today to spread those wings and sore like before school. I did not have a lunch break an eagle.” in my senior year. I got the job done so that Chatman recently gave a $500 scholI could graduate.” arship to a student who is graduating this This drive is what led Chatman to join year. “I use my own funds to help him with the Louisville Fire Department at the age his books for college,” Chatman said. “I’ve of 19, his first major career job. “After beknown him and his family for a while and ing there for eight years, I was promoted he really excelled once he became involved to the rank of Sgt. over Hazmat 5, and only with the academy.” two years after that I became the company Last year, Chatman also gave two scholcommander of Tele-Squirt 9,” Chatman said. arships to two African teens in Kenya. To In 2005, Chatman was forced to retire learn more about the Natural Bourne Leadfrom the fire department after being diagership Academy, visit www.naturalbournenosed with multiple sclerosis. leadersacademy.org. “I had plans to move higher in the ranks,
Before you leave town, make sure all of your estate documents are up to date.
Page 31
LIMONA PARK OFFERS FIRST PUBLIC DISC GOLF COURSE DESIGNED BY LOCAL WORLD CHAMP
By Libby Hopkins
the 1970s and shares with golf the objective of completing each hole in the fewest strokes, or, in the case of disc golf, the fewest throws. A golf disc is thrown from a tee area to a target, which is the ‘hole.’ The hole can be one of a number of disc golf targets; the most common is an elevated metal basket. As a player progresses down the fairway, he or she must make each consecutive throw from the spot where the previous throw landed. The trees, shrubs and terrain changes located in and around the fairways provide challenging obstacles for the disc golfer. Finally, the Limona Disc Golf Course was designed by ‘putt’ lands in the basket and the hole world renowned disc is completed. golfer JohnE McCray McCray is the course designer for Limona Disc Golf Course. He is also a Limona Disc professional disc golfer who has traveled Golf Course was the country, competing with his wife as the first public his caddy. He was also in the world top 10 disc golf course of disc golf players. in Hillsborough “We have both been involved with disc County. From start to finish, it took 18 golf for 25 years,” McCray said. “I’m no months to get the course installed. The longer top 10 in the world, that was a few disc golf course is free to play. years ago, but I am a world champion, U.S. “There are several leagues scheduled Masters champion, 13-time Florida Tour throughout the week if you want to get champion and I have won over 250 tourmore involved with the Limona communaments as a professional.” nity,” said JohnE McCray of the disc golf “I think what I like most about being league. “Tuesdays at 6 p.m. is Doubles and involved with the Limona community is the cost is $6, Thursdays at 6 p.m. are that every single one of us takes pride in Handicaps and the cost is $8, Saturdays Limona Park,” McCray said. “We’re all out at 9 a.m. is also Handicaps and the cost is there taking care of the park and enjoying $8 and then on Thursdays at 6:45 a.m. is the beautiful scenery.” BCB Handicaps.” Limona Disc Golf Course is located at So what exactly is disc golf? Disc golf 1315 Lakewood Dr. in Brandon. To learn is played much like golf. Instead of a ball more about it, visit www.pdga.com/ and clubs, though, players use a flying disc course-directory/course/limona-disc-golfor Frisbee. The sport was formalized in course.
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Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
Volume 19, Issue 6
GREAT SHOP LOCAL IDEAS FOR FATHER’S DAY GIFTS By Kate Quesada
Summerfield Crossings Golf Club is offering a Summer Membership Special this month.
AJ’s Fine Wine & Liquor is offering its annual Jack Daniel’s Engraving Event on Saturday, June 12 from 6-9 p.m.
River Hills Country Club offers the gift of a golf membership.
Bloomingdale Rare Coins and Gold offers unique gifts for Dad.
FishHawk Pinch A Penny is a local Big Green Egg Headquarters.
The Cottonseed Marketplace offers personalized gifts for dad’s with all types of interests.
Shopping for Father’s Day can be intimidating, but whether Dad is a griller, a golfer or a collector, we are here to help. There are many local businesses that can make it easy to show Dad how much he means to you.
Jack Daniel’s Frank Sinatra, Gentleman Jack, Jack Daniel’s Gold, Woodford Reserve Bourbon and Herradura Tequila. To learn more, call 654-6488. AJ’s Fine Wine & Liquors is located at 3443 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. in Valrico.
The store is located at 1544 Bloomingdale Ave. in Valrico and can be reached at 438-8889. Search for ‘Bloomingdale Rare Coins and Gold’ on Facebook to keep up with current offers.
Summerfield Crossings Golf Club Located just off Big Bend Rd. in Riverview, Summerfield Crossings Golf Club is a public, 18-hole golf course with a driving range and practice facility, and it is offering a clubhouse where Dad can get something to eat or drink. The club is also offering a Summer Membership Special this month starting at only $69. For more information, visit www.summerfieldgc.com or call 671-3311.
River Hills Country Club River Hills Country Club (RHCC) in Valrico is offering the gift of golf membership this year. A private club located in the River Hills Community, RHCC offers membership at varying budget levels, from budget to full privilege. Amenities include the 18hole course, tennis, swimming, fitness and much more, including family events like a Father-Daughter Dance. To learn more, call 653-1554.
FishHawk Pinch A Penny Located at 16715 FishHawk Blvd. in the Winn-Dixie Plaza, FishHawk Pinch A Penny has the perfect gift for dads who like to grill. The store is a local Big Green Egg Headquarters with all sizes of the special grills and everything you need to go with one, from spices and charcoal to grilling tools and tables. The store is open Monday-Saturday, 9 a.m.-6 p.m., and on Sunday, 11 a.m.-3 p.m., and can be reached at 655-3700.
AJ’s Fine Wine AJ’s Fine Wine & Liquor is offering its annual Jack Daniel’s Engraving Event on Saturday, June 12 from 6-9 p.m. This year’s event will feature eight different liquors to choose from for the bottle engraving. The eight liquors that can be purchased for engraving are Jack Daniel’s, Jack Daniel’s Single Barrel, Jack Daniel’s Barrel Proof,
Bloomingdale Rare Coins And Gold If you are looking for a unique gift for Dad, visit Bloomingdale Rare Coins and Gold. Recently opened, the store is owned by a graduate gemologist and offers a variety of gifts, including thousands of coins for collectors of all levels. The store also purchases coins, bullion, watches and jewelry in all conditions.
Cottonseed Marketplace The Cottonseed Marketplace is a homegrown and handmade local small business rooted in Valrico, specializing in creating life-inspired designs for engraved gifts, home accents and holiday decor. The store offers ‘grab-and-give’-themed gift sets as well as ‘build-your-own’ gift sets just for Dad. Themes include dad’s vices, beer and
Trilogy Dive Center is a family-owned retail dive store and training center offering private and group scuba training classes.
cigars. There are also personalized golf bag tag/tee holders, hat clips with golf ball markers, divot tools with ball markers and, due to a collaboration with local woodworker and Tampa Police Officer Jeremy Wells of Wells Woodworking, engraved and personalized solid hardwood cutting boards. All items are sold separately and most can be combined into gift sets. To learn more, visit https://cottonseedmarketplace.com/ or www.facebook.com/ TheCottonseedMarketplace. Trilogy Dive Center If Dad is adventurous and loves the water, scuba classes could be a great gift. Trilogy Dive Center is a family-owned retail dive store and training center offering private and group scuba training classes. The store provides entry level scuba all the way to scuba instructor with local and international trips. Trilogy is located at 4501 E. Columbus Dr. in Tampa and can be reached at 425-3500 and scuba@trilogyscuba.com. Visit www.trilogyscuba.com or www. facebook.com/trilogyscuba.
June 2021
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
TAMPA BAY SUMMER RV SHOW OFFERS SOMETHING FOR EVERY FAMILY By Sharon Still According to Kampgrounds of America’s (KOA) latest annual North American Camping Report, 10.1 million households camped for the first time in 2020; this is a five-fold increase over 2019. Additionally, the number of households that own RVs increased by 2.6 million compared to 2019. More than 60 percent of first-timer campers reported they planned to camp as much or more in 2021. Mark your calendars for Thursday, June 10 through Sunday, Those who have never been June 13 and head over to the Florida State Fairgrounds to enjoy RVing before will be amazed everything associated with RVing. at all the comforts of home in With the interest in Recreational Vehian RV these days and seasoned RVers can cles (RVs) on a constant rise, the Florida check out new products, shop for accessoRV Trade Association (FRVTA) expects this ries and more. It will be fun for the whole year’s Tampa Bay Summer RV Show to be family with a DJ, face painting and activities a big hit. Mark your calendars for Thursday, the kids. June 10 through Sunday, June 13 and head Admission is $5 per adult; children ages over to the Florida State Fairgrounds to en16 and under are free. Military and first rejoy everything associated with RVing. sponders are discounted $1 off the price of The Tampa Bay Summer RV Show will admission for all days of the show and sefeature multiple dealers showcasing severniors get a $1 discount on June 10. There al different brands and styles of RVs that also will be a $100 American Express Gift guests can tour, all in one location. There Card given away as a door prize each day. also will be a variety of vendor booths feaMasks will be required and social distancturing everything from RV necessities and ing will be in effect. Prior to the event, the accessories to RV rentals and campgrounds, entire show will be disinfected with KOCplus parts, household items and more. 86 sanitizer, which is EPA-Certified and “The RV Show is a great way for newbies lab-tested to kill human coronaviruses. to learn more about RVing or find the RV of Show hours are June 10 to June 12, 9 their dreams,” said Walt Williams, Suncoast a.m.-5 p.m., and Sunday, June 13, 10 a.m.-5 RV Rental co-owner and one of the vendors p.m. Leashed pets are welcome. in the show. “We have seen a lot of first-time The Florida State Fairground is located at RVers renting since the onset of COVID-19,” 4800 U.S. Hwy. 301 N. To see a sneak peak he added. “In addition to RVing being the and opening day videos, subscribe to the safest way to travel, it is also a wonderful FRVTA YouTube page at https://www.youvacation alternative that many had not contube.com/frvta. sidered before.”
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BOLAY FRESH BOLD KITCHEN DEBUTS VIBRANT, BOLD & FRESH FLAVORS
Staff Report
Bolay Fresh Bold broccoli, herb-roasted Kitchen, the dynamic potatoes and balsamic and freshness-fueled mushrooms. Proteins build-your-own ‘bol’ concome next, with somecept from South Florida, thing for everyone, like officially debuted in the juicy steak au jus, savory Tampa Bay market with miso-glazed tofu and the opening of its Branspicy Thai shrimp for a don location this month. bit of heat, then each bol Created by Chris Ganis finished with add-ons non, son of Outback like fresh cilantro and Steakhouse Foundparmesan cheese, foler Tim Gannon, the lowed by signature saucfast-casual concept es, such as creamy garlic seeks to offer food and herb, cilantro pesto that is nutritious, and spicy Thai sauce. Bolay Fresh Bold wholesome and nourGuests can also find juicKitchen opened its es, teas, agua frescas and ishing paired with a Brandon location desserts to complement culture of inspiration earlier last month. for its guests to be their meal. the best version of “I’m extremely grateful for the opportuthemselves. nity to introduce our fresh, bold flavors to The opening of the the Tampa Bay area, starting first here in Brandon restaurant Brandon,” said Guillermo Novoa, operating will mark the 18th partner of the newest Bolay Fresh Bold location in less than Kitchen. “At Bolay, we don’t want to just be five years for the rapidly growing brand, another restaurant on the block. Our goal with the St. Petersburg location set to be is to become a hub for inspiration, personal unveiled this September. growth and development, encouraging our Chris dreamed up the concept for Bolay team and guests within the local commuwhen he came to the realization that the nity to be the best versions of themselves.” culinary scene needed a brand that beLocated at 1544 W. Brandon Blvd., the lieved excellent food fuels an amazing life- 2,600-square-foot space will allow for instyle, and that ‘fast’ and ‘casual’ can also door as well as patio seating for a total of mean extraordinary and nutritious. nearly 70 guests. Dine-in, curbside pickup Bolay boasts an offering of precom- and direct delivery will be available to best posed bols, endless opportunities for cus- suit how every guest would like to enjoy tomization across its chef-driven menu their favorite bol, along with catering and along with gluten-free, vegan and veg- family meal options. etarian options. Guests build their own To learn more about Bolay, please visit bols, starting with bases such as forbidden www.bolay.com, like it on Facebook @Eatblack rice and cilantro noodles and topped Bolay or follow @Bolay on Instagram and with veggies featuring options like ginger Twitter.
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Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
Volume 19, Issue 6
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
June 2021
Page 35
RIVERVIEW MARINA READY TO BUILD RAMPS & RESTAURANT By Brian Bokor
The first signs of progress seen at the new Riverview Marina with seawall and retention wall construction.
In August 2018, Mike Richards along with his business partner, Nick Gonzalez, held the initial meeting with county leaders to propose their idea of a marina on the Alafia River, Riverview Marina, something desperately needed for the area given the already crowded boat ramps coupled with the influx of new residents. Since then, Richards and his team have dedicated the last 33 months working to clear hurdles associated with rezoning and permitting requirements, and at long last, the end is nearing. Drivers using U.S. 301 over the Alafia River probably have not yet noticed the first steps of the massive project, seawalls and retention walls, now under construction, which will be followed by pouring a concrete foundation for the main building. After the slab cures, the large metal-framed structure will be constructed on-site, similar to an erector set utilizing a specialized construction crew to complete the job. General Contractor David Lennon of McCullagh and Scott provided some insight
into the unique project: “The 50-foot-tall, pre-engineered building is designed for 150 mph wind speeds with 145 tons of structural steel and 48,280 square feet of corrugated steel siding. Site preparation includes 14,000 cubic yards of fill dirt and 232 lineal feet of upland retaining wall with 22 tons of reinforcing steel and 435 cubic yards of concrete in the slab.” To put things in perspective, seven semi-trailers will be needed to haul all the steel to the site with roughly 1,000 dump truck loads of dirt and 50 truckloads of concrete used for the foundation. Once the shell comes together, the 17,000-plus square feet of dry storage will be fitted with levels of interior scaffolding. The boat rack system will be capable of holding 896,000 pounds (448 tons) of boats. Larger vessels will occupy the lower spots, with remaining boats stored based on size from bottom to top. A 75-foot precast concrete load-out bridge will extend into the Alafia River, dropping boats at the deepest part of river, regardless of tides, utilizing a special-
ized marina forklift that will lower boats from the storage area, haul them to the water and then repeat the process at the end of the day. The two other planned buildings, one an office and the other a 600-squarefoot waterfront restaurant with outdoor seating serving small food and beverage items, will be completed once the storage facility is operational. Richards believes the key to their success will come from first-class customer service unlike any offered in the area. Clients of Riverview Marina will be able to prearrange all aspects of their trip, from launching time to items they would like to have ready waiting for them on the boat, by using the SpeedyDock app. The app also gives boaters the option to notify the marina of their return time, allowing sun-soaked boaters to jump off their boat
and get into their cars, handing over cleanup and storage duties to the staff. “As soon as you park, someone will pick you up in a golf cart and drive you and all your stuff down to your boat. Use the app to order whatever you want and we’ll have it loaded up and ready to go when you get there. Other marinas don’t give you that kind of customer service,” said Richards. He anticipates an opening date later this year and is now actively soliciting clients to add to the waiting list for upcoming available slips. Richards is also the proprietor of Michael Anthony Productions DJ Entertainers and Lighting (michaelanthonyproductions.com), specializing in wedding events, and since 2018 he has been the designer and decorator of the Winter Village at Curtis Hixon Park Christmas Lights show, hanging over half a million lights each year for the downtown festival. Riverview Marina will be open to members and their guests and is located at 10531 Moody Rd., south of Riverview Dr. and west of U.S. 301 on the north bank of the Alafia River. To find out more, visit rivmarina.com, Facebook @RiverviewMarinaFL or call 1-833-DRY-DOCK (1833-379-3625).
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Page 36
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
SCOUT AND CANCER SURVIVOR COMPLETES EAGLE SCOUT PROJECT
RESIDENTS CAN SERVE ON AFFORDABLE HOUSING ADVISORY BOARD
By Brad Stager
By Michelle Caceres For some completed Life Scouts, without the deciding on a help from service projmembers ect to comof the complete to earn munity. “We the Eagle are grateful Scout rank for the comis the most panies that challenging have donatpart of the assignment. ed to help make the projFor Scout Sean Covais, ect possible,” said Holly. In a member of Scout Troop addition to raising $1,500 212 in Lutz, it was the in monetary donations, easiest part of the project. The Home Depot donatSean, who attended Rotaed all the lumber, Lowe’s ry’s Camp Florida, a camp donated all the paint and for kids with special needs, supplies and TMI Nursery knew he wanted to give donated the soil for the back to the place that has gardens. Life Scout Sean Covais completed welcomed him every sumSean said there were mer for more than a decade. his Eagle Scout project at Rotary’s many lessons learned Camp Florida in Riverview. Sean has plenty of chalduring the experience. “I lenges in his young life. He learned that I can comwas diagnosed with cancer at just 2 years mand a large group and I’m a better leader old—but is now in remission—is on the au- that I thought I was,” he said. tism spectrum and has ADHD. In all, the experience was a positive one. He has persevered through all of his chalTo earn the Eagle Scout rank, the highlenges. est advancement rank in Scouting, a Boy “It’s amazing to see his growth and come Scout must fulfill requirements in the areas up with his own ideas and lead others,” said of leadership, service and outdoor skills. He his mom, Holly Covais. (or she) advances through the ranks—Scout, Camp Director Liz Fields said the organi- Tenderfoot, Second Class, First Class, Star, zation had one need (outdoor picnic tables) Life and Eagle—along the journey, earning and two wants (raised gardens and direc- a minimum of 21 merit badges, serving six tional signs). months in a troop position of responsibility, “Sean went above and beyond what we taking part in a Scoutmaster conference and expected him to do,” said Fields. “We’re also proposing, planning and carrying out leadernaming one of the herb gardens ‘Connor’s ship to others in a service project helpful to Corner’ after a young man that just lost his the community. battle with cancer.” For more information about the Scouting Holly said the project couldn’t have been program, visit www.scouting.org.
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With a steady flow of new residents arriving to live in the Sunshine State, it is no surprise to those already here that Hillsborough County is a favored destination for newcomers. Statistics from the U.S. Census Bureau indicate a 19.7 per-
who represent local governments (including Hillsborough County and the cities of Tampa, Temple Terrace and Plant City), local housing agencies as well as the homebuilding industry and financial services sector. There are also positions filled by individual county residents and affordable housing advocates. Members serve three-year terms. Details about specific positions such as required qualifications can be found on the AHAB page of the county’s website. Topics discussed at meetings include updates of legislation, guidance and initiatives from local, state and federal entities, especially as they pertain to balancing free market interests and Ironwood Flats at Brandon Greene on Kings Ave. is an social needs. Navigating these apartment complex under construction to help meet the elements on behalf of county growing demand for housing in Hillsborough County. cent population growth in Hillsborough residents is a challenge that Connie BurCounty between 2010 to 2019, with an es- ton, who serves as an at-large resident of timated population of 1,471,968 at the end Hillsborough County, spoke about at the of that period. The percentage of people April 12 meeting. living at or below the poverty level in 2019 “While Tallahassee might have a strong was given as 13.5 percent. Numbers from hand, the moral compass of this communithe 2020 census have yet to be released ty has to take some leadership,” said Burin detail. ton. With rapid growth creating a strong Meetings are held the second Monday of need for housing, ensuring that there are each month, beginning at 9 a.m., and can affordable options for longtime residents be viewed live as they occur or as a recordas well as those starting new lives here is ing made available afterward via the counthe role of the Hillsborough County Afford- ty’s YouTube channel. able Housing Advisory Board (AHAB). You can find out more about the AHAB The AHAB provides advice to the Board by visiting hillsboroughcounty.org or conof County Commissioners and Affordable tacting Cheryl Howell at 274-6673. A reHousing Services about affordable hous- quest to speak at a meeting of the AHAB ing issues and assists in developing related or to submit input can be made by sending programs and projects. an email to AffordableHousingServices@ The board consists of 11 voting members HCFLGov.net.
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Volume 19, Issue 6
June 2021
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
THE FIREHOUSE CULTURAL CENTER HAS A GREAT LINEUP FOR THE MONTH OF JUNE The Firehouse Cultural Center, on its singers. The music will be blues-centric. Firehouse Center Stage, will present an Stein added, “With limited seating, excellent array of talent this June. You can please book early. This show is sure to be choose from local a treat.” musical groups or Next, come see a clever comedian. Ken Miller on the Whatever choice Firehouse Center you make, you will Stage. Miller is a be supporting a two-time chamlocal nonprofit as pion of Florida’s well as local enterFunniest Comedy tainers. Competition. This First up, retime, he beat out turning to Center more than 1,000 Stage at the Firecomedians worldhouse is Victoria wide in the first Ginty and her full Steve Harvey band on Saturday, Standup Spotlight June 19 at 7:30 Competition. p.m. The theme is Miller will perfor the evening’s form on Friday, performance is ‘Fa- Victoria Ginty and her band will be playing at the June 25 at 7:30 Firehouse Cultural Center in Ruskin this month. vorites.’ p.m. This show is just one that you can select to see localGinty will be Come back on sharing the stage ly. You will be supporting not only local entertainers Saturday, June 26 but a great local nonprofit as well. with her guitarist at 7:30 p.m. and of many years, Tim Costello. She will also see The Taylor John Band. The Taylor be joined by the famous performer Steve John Band is a blues, soul and groove enArvey and world-traveling performer Dr. semble performing throughout the state Oren Plous on hammond and keyboard. of Florida. The three founding members Also included will be the fabulous rhythm are Ken Budd on guitar, Taylor John on section of Nick Lauro on drums and Allan piano and vocals and Bob Nesbitt on the Tatum on bass. drums. Taylor John has spent years playAccording to Beth Ann Stein, market- ing in front of a live audience. ing and programming coordinator for the Tickets to all shows are $23 for memFirehouse Cultural Center, “This group is bers of the Firehouse Cultural Center and a combination of both bands Victoria has $28 for future members. All reservations performed with at the Firehouse and at must be made in advance. There is no daymany concerts and events.” of-show pricing as the Firehouse Cultural Ginty and her band are looking for- Center must reserve seating to allow for ward to bringing some soulful and also social distancing. energetic ‘Favorites’ to the stage. The For tickets, please call 645-7651 or visit performance will be delivering familiar www.firehouseculturalcenter.org. Please Firehouse material by three strong lead note, all tickets are nonrefundable.
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TAMPA THEATRE’S SUMMER CLASSICS MOVIE SERIES IS BACK BIGGER AND BETTER THAN EVER This year, Tampa Theatre will cele- Gold Rush. If you miss the Sunday show, brate 30 years of presenting its popular see it on Thursday, June 24 at 7:30 p.m. Summer Classics Movie Series. There With this film, the audience will get to is no better way to see classic movies see it exactly how audiences saw it in than the way 1925, as it will be they should be presented in their seen- on the original format big screen. with live accomJill Witecki paniment on the with Tampa Mighty Wurlitzer Theatre said, Theatre Organ. “Last summer, Tampa Thewith Tampa atre will presTheatre closed ent Citizen Kane during the on Sunday, June pandemic, the 27 at 3 p.m. and 29th annual Thursday, July 1 After missing the 29th year of the Summer Classics Summer Clas- Movie Series due to the COVID-19 shutdown, Tampa’s at 7:30 p.m. The majestic movie palace, Tampa Theatre, is bringing sics series did war classic, Glory back a great lineup of favorite films along with a not happen. will be shown on This year, as long-awaited request from fans, with more than one Sunday, July 4 at showing of each film. people start to 3 p.m. and again return to their on Thursday, July favorite leisure 8 at 7:30 p.m. activities again, You can see the we hope that Hitchcock thriller, this year’s lineNorth by Northup of all-time west on Sunday, favorite Summer Classics – along with July 11 at 3 p.m. Tampa Theatre will our reduced capacity and other safety present it again on Thursday, July 15 at precautions – may encourage our friends 7:30 p.m. and fans to make their post-shutdown Tampa Theatre will present the com‘First Movie Back’ a classic at Tampa edy classic, The Big Lebowski on SunTheatre.” day, July 18 at 3 p.m. and then again on Something that fans have been asking Thursday, July 22 at 7:30 p.m. for is going to offered this year. Tampa Tickets for Summer Classics films are Theatre is offering each Summer Classic $10 at the historic Franklin Street Box more than once. Films will be shown both Office, $12 if purchased online ($7 for Sunday at 3p.m. and again at 7:30 p.m. Members). Silent Films are $13 at the the following Thursday evening. Box Office or $15 online ($10 for MemOn Sunday, June 20 at 3 p.m., come bers). For more information, please visit out to see the 1925 silent comedy, The www.tampatheatre.org.
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Suncoast Ringers, Scholarships, Charcuterie & More... Compiled by Jenny Bennett jbennett@ospreyobserver.com
The Angel Foundation FL Announces New Appointments The Angel Foundation FL is proud to announce that after serving as the executive director since 2014, Liz Brewer has been appointed to chief executive officer. In addition, Ericka White, pastor of OneChurch, has been appointed president; Gary Searls, chief financial officer of Brandon Regional Hospital, has been appointed as treasurer; Julie Dahl will continue in her second term as secretary; and Shannon Keil will continue to serve on the board of directors as past president. The Angel Foundation FL (formerly known as the Brandon Foundation) serves families in our community affected by a life-threatening illness or catastrophic event by matching them with local businesses to meet the practical needs of the families. For more information, please call the foundation at 689-6889 or visit www.AngelFoundationFL.com. Registration Opens For The LAB’s Suicide Awareness Showdown Live Achieve Believe, Inc. (LAB) has opened registration for its Suicide Awareness Showdown. The LAB is an organization where assistance is offered in the odyssey of self-development. Its mission is to empower people through education, self-reflection and self-evaluation, expressly learning who they really are, not who they have been conditioned to be, and therefore finding their purpose, ultimately unlocking their power. The Suicide Awareness Showdown was started to help people celebrate life. It aims to encourage oneself to set out on a journey of self-discovery to comprehend the core of their very being, exposing the beauty that lies within, leading to character building. The showdown honors all those brave men, women, boys and girls who struggle with suicide in any form and continue to stay strong one moment at a time. The Suicide Awareness Showdown will take place at The Regent in Riverview on Saturday, September 18. The theme for the event is ‘Where Have You Been? A Night at the Oscars.’ Registration costs $20; visit the LAB’s website to register. For more information, visit www.thelabinc.org or call 588-5010.
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition Mary & Martha House Hosting Gala To Celebrate 39 Years Mary & Martha House has been helping women and families escape domestic violence and homelessness since 1982. It provides individualized case management for each woman to identify personal barriers and overcome them. Mary & Martha House is not a one-sizefits-all or group program, each client receives individual counseling services to help her conquer her unique struggles. To celebrate its 39 years, Mary & Martha House is hosting a gala event, Passport to Freedom, at The Regent on Friday, June 11. The evening will include cocktails, dinner and a silent auction starting at 6 p.m. Sponsorship opportunities are available. For additional information, call 6457874. Dr. Earl Lennard Scholarship Recipients On May 11, the Greater Riverview Chamber of Commerce hosted its Munch & Mingle lunch at The Barn at Winthrop. During this event, the 2021 winners of the Dr. Earl Lennard Scholarships were recognized: Anne Caroline Howard – Riverview High School, Emily Ann Pesquera – East Bay High School, Reagan Pulkowski – Riverview High School, Mattison Burris – Lennard High School and Asia Nobles – Spoto High School. The scholarship is dedicated to the memory of prominent local educator Dr. Earl Lennard. If you wish to learn more about the Greater Riverview Chamber of Commerce, visit www. RiverviewChamber. com, call 234-5944 or email info@riverviewchamber.com. Family Painting Class At Center Place Join Lori Dowe of Art & Ministry at Center Place Fine Arts & Civic Association in Brandon on Sunday, June 13 for a fun family painting class for parents and children. Tickets cost $40 for a parent and a child; an additional parent or child will cost $10. The ticket price includes food, family-friendly drinks and painting supplies. This class is limited to 50 par-
Volume 19, Issue 6
Suncoast Bronze Ringers.
Come To Center Place’s Charcuterie School Center Place Fine Arts & Civic Association in Brandon is hosting a pop-up charcuterie school with The Seasoned Corner on Thursday, July 8 from 6-9 p.m. Tickets are $50 and include a charcuterie board, apron as well as meat and cheese products to create your board and wine. The class is limited to 50 participants, so please regis-
a challenging opportunity for handbell ringers and a beautiful musical experience for community audiences. They move handbells beyond the church service setting and excite their audiences with the sights and sounds of handbells playing music ranging from jazz to pop to classical. A donation of $10 is requested at the door on the day of the concert. For additional information about this and other concerts at the UMCSCC, visit www.umcscc.org.
Riverview Garden Club 2021 Scholarship Awards The Riverview Garden Club is pleased to announce its 2021/22 scholarship awards. The two recipients are enrolled at a college or university studying environmental horticulture, natural resource conservation, environmental sustainability, marine aquaculture or agricultural endeavors. The first recipient, Emma DeAbreu, a Riverview High School graduate, will attend the University of South Florida, majoring in environmental science/policy with a focus on sustainability, Scholarship recipient Asia Nobles holds her certificate. research and development. The secter early. ond recipient, Mariano Davila, a graduate To register for this class, call Center Place of Durant High School, will attend Florida at 685-8888. Preregistration and payment Southern College, majoring in citrus and are required. COVID-19 policies are being horticulture with a minor in farm business followed and masks must be worn. operations. The awards were presented at May’s monthly club meeting. Suncoast Bronze Ringers PerformThe monthly meetings will resume in ing In Sun City Center September on the second Wednesday of The United Methodist Church of Sun City each month at 10 a.m. at the Hillsborough Center (UMCSCC) welcomes the very talCounty Riverview Civic Center at 11020 ented handbell ensemble, Suncoast Bronze Park Dr. in Riverview. The Riverview GarRingers to its campus for a 3 p.m. concert den Club’s contact is riverviewgardenon Sunday, June 20. The Suncoast Bronze club1954@gmail.com. Come and get acRingers are an advanced community handquainted with kindred souls. bell ensemble founded in 2012 to provide
Brunch And Coach Bag Bingo Coming To JF Kicks JF Kicks in Valrico is hosting a Coach Bag Bingo fundraiser for F.R.I.E.N.D.S. (Families, Respect, Inspire, Education, Networking for Down Syndrome & Special Needs). The event will take place on Sunday, June 27 from 11 a.m.-3 p.m. and will include over $6,000 in Coach bags, brunch and your choice of either a mimosa or a Bloody Mary, two bingo cards with the option to purchase more, raffles and lots of fun. ticipants. Tickets for this event are $50 in adTo register, call Center vance, tables of eight are $350; or, Place at 685-8888; preif there are any left, tickets are $65 Jeanette Doyle, Scholarship Chair; Emma DeAbreu, Recipient; Sondra registration and payment at the door. This event will probaare required. COVID-19 pol- Lundquist, RGC President/Scholarship Committee; Mariano Davila, bly sell out, so get your tickets today. icies are being followed and Recipient; and Judy Beauchamp, Scholarship committee. Absent: Barbara To purchase tickets, call 413-4229 McCarty, Scholarship Committee. masks must be worn. or email office@kenbrownlee.com.
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June 2021
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
MICROIRRIGATION IN THE LANDSCAPE
FIRST TEE – TAMPA BAY BREAKS FUNDRAISING RECORD
Staff Report
LYNN BARBER, FLORIDA-FRIENDLY LANDSCAPING™ AGENT Water is among our most • Products are intervalued resources. It is rechangeable among vendors. quired for survival and is • Used as a ‘nurse system’ nonrenewable at our curto establish new plantings. rent rate of consumption. Maintenance is minimal. A The Florida 2070/Water monthly walk through your 2070 Project (https:// landscape beds will allow 1000fof.org/) estimates you to make adjustments that we will see an increase or repairs as needed that Drip Tubing of 15 million residents by could be due to lawnmowthe year 2070. This will reers, weed eaters or garden sult in an increasing demand critters, such as armadillos on water supply for growth. leveling spray stakes. That said, water conservaWe offer three types of tion is even more important microirrigation workshops today than in the past. to Hillsborough County resiThere are several ways to dents: microspray irrigation conserve water in the landfor landscape beds, patio/ scape, one of which is micontainer and vegetable Bubble to Drip Emitter croirrigation. It is a system garden microirrigation. One that provides small amounts microirrigation kit is providof water compared to an ined per household—one time ground irrigation system, is only for each of the three easy to install, connects to workshops. Preregistration an outdoor spigot/hose bib is required. Please see our and provides 30 gallons calendar of events at https:// per hour or less. There are sfyl.ifas.ufl.edu/hillsborough/ four types of microirrigaupcoming-events/. Drip Emitter tion: microspray, bubblers, For assistance with hordripper emitters and drip ticultural questions, call tubing. 744-5519 and visit us on The advantages of using Facebook for our Floria microirrigation system inda-Friendly Landscaping™ clude: news. We hope to see you at • Water is applied in gala workshop soon. As always, lons per hour vs. gallons per remember to reduce, reuse, minute from an in-ground irrecycle and repeat. Each of rigation system. us can make an environmenMicro Spray • Evaporation and erosion tal difference. are decreased. Contact Lynn Barber at • Design, installation and use are simple. labarber@ufl.edu.
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First Tee – Tampa Bay, a part of the Tampa Metropolitan Area YMCA, recently held a successful fundraiser.
First Tee – Tampa Bay, a part of the Tampa Metropolitan Area YMCA, is celebrating a record-breaking night thanks, in part, to Florida Governor Ron DeSantis. Governor DeSantis served as the keynote speaker for First Tee – Tampa Bay’s fourth annual Dinner Gala and Live Auction at Palma Ceia Golf & Country Club, sponsored by Foley & Lardner LLP, on April 14. His inspirational words helped bring in a record-breaking $1.3 million, including a $150,000 gift from Troy and Elizabeth Fowler through the Triad Foundation, to help more local kids learn life lessons through the game of golf. “We all know that 2020 was a difficult time for many organizations, First Tee included,” said Executive Director Ian Baxter. “We are so grateful to all of our generous supporters for helping us get back to doing what we do best—serve the children of the Tampa Bay community.” “It is tremendous to see our community’s key stakeholders come out to support the First Tee program,” said Tampa YMCA President and CEO Matt Mitchell. “This lev-
el of support will help ensure the sustainability of this great resource that impacts so many of our youth year after year.” First Tee – Tampa Bay provides more than 90,000 children each year with hands-on, interactive golf experiences along with introducing them to the First Tee Nine Core Values. Besides being part of the Tampa YMCA, First Tee – Tampa Bay also partners with community members such as the Tampa Sports Authority, the City of Tampa, Hillsborough County Public Schools and various golf facilities to offer year-round programming for kids and teens. “At First Tee – Tampa Bay, we do not just teach golf, we teach life skills,” said Gary Koch, First Tee – Tampa Bay’s board chair, former pro golfer and current NBC golf broadcaster. “Our program uses the game of golf to provide young people with the chance to develop life-enhancing values like confidence, perseverance and judgment and a series of life skills such as goal setting, meeting new people and staying healthy.” Governor DeSantis joined the list of previous honored guests at First Tee – Tampa Bay’s annual Dinner Gala and Live Auction, including 18-time major champion Jack Nicklaus, TV golf commentator David Feherty and PGA TOUR Commissioner Jay Monahan. Next year’s event is tentatively scheduled for April 14. To learn more about First Tee, visit www. firstteetampabay.org.
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Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
Volume 19, Issue 6
June 2021
Riverview/Apollo Beach
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
Page 41
Kids ‘R’ Kids Summer See PG 49 Bliss Nail Lounge Opens In FishHawk Ranch Bliss Nail Lounge recently celebrated its grand opening at 5635 Circa Fishhawk Blvd. in the new Publix plaza. There are 18 manicure and pedicure chairs in the lounge along with two full massage chairs to make sure clients are relaxed and pampered. What makes it one of a kind is that its products are all organic and it promotes nontoxic and safe beauty. For more information, call 444-5880 or follow it on Facebook @Blissfull5635. Iron Rock Insurance Celebrates First Year Of Business Iron Rock Insurance agents and Owners Lisa Hast and Jason Hast are celebrating its first year of business. Iron Rock Insurance is committed to excellence and offers a wide variety of personal lines of insurance, everything from homeowners to auto insurance to pet insurance. It also offers a wide variety of products for all your toys, motorcycles, motorhomes, boats, travel trailers and golf carts. Its team of professionals offer unparalleled customer support and
tion to stunning outfits, Fifi’s Fine Resale stores also deal in furniture. The Apollo Beach location is at 6156 N. U.S. Hwy. 41. For more information, visit www.fineresale.com, follow it on Facebook @JOINFIFISFRENZY or call 641-8444.
expert advice. Iron Rock Insurance is located at 1312 Apollo Beach Blvd., Ste. O in Apollo Beach. For additional information, visit www.ironrockins.com or call 213-9600. Cigars On The Boulevard Opens In Apollo Beach Cigars on the Boulevard is the premiere spot in Apollo Beach for a fine cigar experience. Its humidor holds 130 different types of cigars, allowing its experts to assist you in finding your perfect cigar. The spacious lounge has a coastal feel, so you can enjoy a fine smoke paired with signature cocktails, beer or wine. A VIP room is also available.
Cigars on the Boulevard is located at 1438 Apollo Beach Blvd. For more information, please visit www.cigarsotb.com or follow it on Facebook @CigarsOnTheBlvd. Fifi’s Fine Resale Opens In Apollo Beach Judith Williams, owner of Fifi’s Fine Resale, is excited to open in Apollo Beach. Fifi’s Fine Resale has over 20 years of resale experience, specializing in the art of resale of designer wear and accessories, leading to a thriving consignment business with over 15 resale stores. It offers a range of top-notch name brands such as Gucci, Louis Vuitton and Coco Chanel at pocket-friendly prices, including apparel, handbags, shoes and accessories. In addi-
New Vitality Center Moves To New Location New Vitality Center has moved to a new location. Its mission is to provide clients with the tools necessary to defy the qualitative aspects of aging. Its full range of services allows it to offer its clients a whole-body approach to achieve optimal health. The center offers safe and effective therapies that will reverse the processes associated with aging and eliminate adverse effects associated with the aging process, allowing individuals to enjoy happy, healthy and active lifestyles well beyond expectations. New Vitality Center is located at 665 S. Kings Ave. in Brandon. For more information, visit its website at https://newvitalitycenters.com/ or call 436-0708. Bay Area Trust, LLC Buys Houses Bay Area Trust, LLC has been in business since 2008 and will buy any house within an hour of Tampa, whether they are occupied, trashed, have bad tenants, etc. It has purchased hundreds of homes from $15,000 all the way up to $400,000 and its funds are available immediately.
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Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
BUSINESS COLUMN CONTINUED... Local and reputable title companies are used and it is able to buy your home as quickly as you would like. It can buy houses as soon as the next day or can postpone until next year if you prefer. Bay Area Trust is located at 1902 W. Main St. in Tampa. For more information, visit its website at www.buy813.com or call 540-7375. LegalShield Opens In Riverview LegalShield independent associate Christina Nelson has opened a branch in Riverview. LegalShield has been offering plans to its members for more than 48 years, creating a world where every person and small business can access legal protection—and everyone can afford it. With LegalShield, you will have access to a quality law firm 24/7 for covered personal situations. From real estate to speeding tickets to will preparation and beyond, it will help you with personal legal matters. IDShield plans also protect your privacy and restore your reputation, offering social media monitoring, unlimited expert consultation, financial account monitoring, reputation management and more. For more information, visit christinanelson.wearelegalshield.com or call 914-3760615. Maple Street Biscuits Company Celebrates Anniversary The Riverview location of Maple Street Biscuits Company opened during the middle of the COVID-19 shutdown, but, with the support of the community, it
survived and is now thriving. Owners Troy Gibson and Steve Moran are extremely thankful for the community support during these difficult times. “Our goal is to make a difference and be a part of the community. You’ll notice a lot of community-style seating for you to meet your neighbor and to enjoy our signature flaky buttermilk biscuits,” said Gibson and Moran. Maple Street Biscuit Company is located at 10777 Big Bend Rd. in Riverview in the plaza to the left of Panera Bread. For more information, visit www.maplestreetbiscuits.com/riverview. Hgreg.com Opens Flagship Car Dealership In Brandon Hgreg.com, one of the fastest-growing automotive groups in North America, opened the doors to its newest storefront in Brandon. Located at 1207 E. Brandon Blvd., the site features a 42,000-squarefoot, next-generation storefront, fulfillment center and inventory of more than 1,000 pre-owned vehicles. “We are happy to expand our team in the region and to make this property a key part of our plans for servicing customers up and down the coast through a combination of in-store experience when convenient and the digital experience,” said John Hairabedian, president and CEO of Hgreg.com. For more information, visit www.Hgreg.com or call 833237-8572.
Volume 19, Issue 6
Bump To Baby Boutique Celebrates 2 Years Bump to Baby Boutique is celebrating two years in business. It is a boutique store offering unique maternity, baby gifts and clothes, and it is an exclusive retailer for Posh Peanut, Little Me and Itzy Ritzy. Its hours of operation are Wednesday, 10 a.m.-6 p.m., and Thursday to Saturday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Located in Erindale Plaza near Bullfrog Creek Brewing Co. at 3642 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. in Valrico. For more information, visit www.bumptobabyfl. com, call 418-2227 or visit the boutique’s Facebook page @Bumptobabyfl. Home Clean Heroes Of Tampa Bay Recently Opened Whether you live in a condo, town home, apartment or house, you deserve to enjoy your abode sans dust bunnies and grime. Adeola Shabiyi, owner of Home Clean Heroes of Tampa Bay, which recently held its grand opening, is thrilled to provide professional cleaning services to his neighbors, where everyday, hectic life can make
it hard to keep your space dirtfree. A wide variety of house cleaning services for both residential and commercial properties is available. Home Clean Heroes of Tampa Bay is currently located in the CubeSmart storage facility at 12902 U.S. Hwy. 301 S., #4008 in Riverview. For more information, visit its website at www.homecleanheroes.com/tampabay or call 295-8440.
Raining Berries Opening Soon Raining Berries is bringing its premium acai bowls, fair trade coffee, smoothies and artisanal teas to Brandon. It will be opening in The Collection at Brandon Blvd. on SR 60 where Home Centric, Salons by JC and Home Centric are located. “As a company, we know the laughter, connec-
tions and memories that can be forged over a simple cup of coffee, our philosophy is ‘Real People, Real Coffee, Real Life,’” states a Raining Berries press release. Founded in 2018 by Bimal Bhojani, Raining Berries seeks to transform the coffee scene. The shop offers ethically and sustainably sourced coffee, fresh açaí bowls, and modern atmosphere invite anyone and everyone in. “We want to be a positive part of your lives, and contribute to making our society a better one through the donation of 1% of all gross profits to a Raining Berries charity of choice.” Real People, Real Coffee, Real Life. That’s the Raining Berries way. For more information on Raining Berries, visit its website at www.rainingberries.com. Residential • Commercial Exterior Repaint Specialists
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Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
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BRANDON ’86 ROTARY CLUB TREATS TEACHERS TO BBQ LUNCH IN APPRECIATION FOR ALL THEY DO FOR STUDENTS By Kathy L. Collins ed barbeque sauce. Earnheart said, “At the commercial kitchen, we smoked 26 pork butts, made 15 gallons of slaw and 10 gallons of BBQ sauce. The morning of the event, we put all the assembled all the meals with about 12 volunteers and the meals were personally delivered to the teachers by the Brandon ’86 Rotary Club Members.” Earnheart said, “We wanted Members of Brandon ’86 Rotary Club raised funds to provide a to recognize our local teachers free lunch to show appreciation to area teachers for their hard for all the hard work and dedwork and dedication during the past year. The food was prepared ication that they have had to by RBQ Catering and delivered to 455 teachers. endure this past year.” EarnRecently, Brandon ’86 Rotary Club, in heart added, “We went to social media to partnership with Nogard Insurance Group, secure individual and corporate sponsors Social Buzz Marketing and RBQ Catering, and were successful in getting 33 individual held a teacher appreciation event featuring and corporate sponsors, enough to provide a a free barbeque lunch. Teachers from area free lunch for each of the 455 teachers from Hillsborough County public schools, includour participating schools.” ing Brooker Elementary School, Kingwood The remaining funds raised will be distribElementary School, Burns Middle School uted to several local nonprofits that support and Bloomingdale High School, were treatarea families and children. These include ed to lunch. ECHO, Rotary’s Camp Florida, Family PromAccording to Laura Evans, social media ise and Everyday Blessings. chair for Brandon ’86 Rotary Club, “We held Evans said, “Our club has been in the comthis event to thank our local teachers for munity for over 35 years and we are activemaking a difference in our childrens’ lives ly involved in many hands-on projects, such over the last year throughout the pandemas Rotary’s Camp Florida, All Persons Park ic.” Johnson added, “This was a community and funding many local charities. We are event to let the teachers know that we were a fun group of business leaders that enjoy thinking about their hard work this year. supporting our local community. We meet Proceeds from our generous sponsors went on Friday mornings at 8 a.m. at the Rotary back to the local nonprofits that support our Event Center located at 3007 Kings Ave. in families and children.” Brandon.” The lunch was prepared by Roger EarnFor more information on Brandon ’86 Roheart of RBQ Catering and featured pulled tary Club, please visit http://brandon86ropork barbeque sandwiches with apple slaw, tary.com/. For more information on RBQ potato chips and three ounces of handcraftCatering, please visit www.rbqcatering.com.
SENIOR CONNECTION CENTER OFFERS WIDE ARRAY OF ASSISTANCE FOR THE ELDERLY
By Kathy L. Collins
For elderly individuals and the number one type of actheir caregivers, finding the cident that leads to emeranswers to questions on aging gency room visits among can be quite a daunting task. people over 65. A serious Senior Connection Center is a fall oftentimes means a nonprofit that has been dedlengthy hopsital stay and icated to helping people age may even require placeat home with dignity for 40 ment in a nursing home. years. If you live in one of the Senior Connection Cenfive counties, including Hillster works directly with borough, where Senior Con- Senior Connection Center team state and community partmembers Paula Nelson and nection Center operates, you ners to prevent the abuse, Frank Wagoner unload a ship- neglect and exploitation can get its services for free. ment of masks that were then Senior Connection Center of seniors. To report eldistributed to local seniors. can help with many issues der abuse, please contact and offers many services, including the Elder 1-800-96-ABUSE (1-800-962-2873). Helpline, where you can get valuable inforHelping the elderly and their caregivers mation and referral assistance on programs navigate the maze of information and serand services. This can include long-term care vices available is always important, but it is and other home-based services. especially important during a pandemic. At Its specially trained SHINE (Serving Health this time, due to the pandemic, Senior ConInsurance Needs of Elders) volunteers can nection Center staff members are working assist with Medicare, Medicaid, prescription remotely and providing critical services eidrug and health insurance questions. They ther by phone, online or through other techprovide information, help compare policies nology such as Zoom. and help with claims and appeals. No SHINE Patty Suarez, vice president of marketing volunteer is allowed to be a licensed insur- and communications for Senior Connection ance agent as they do not endorse any plan, Center, said, “When the COVID-19 pandemthey just give the best advice they can. ic hit, Senior Connection Center responded Senior Connection Center also offers quickly to ensure our clients remained safe health and wellness courses so the elderly while socially isolating. We sought out hardcan stay healthy and strong. Its courses cov- to-find supplies, from masks to toilet paper er a wide variety of topics, such as Tai Chi, to cleaning supplies, and shipped them to Matter of Balance, Living Healthy, Diabetes homebound seniors.” Self-Management and Living Healthy in Your Please visit www.seniorconnectioncenter. Community. One of their most important org or call 1-800-96-ELDER (1-800-963classes is on fall prevention because falls are 5337).
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Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
THE FLORIDA AQUARIUM’S PARTY FOR THE PLANET PROGRAM HAS LAUNCHED By Tatiana Ortiz In partnership with the Association of “Our goal is to inspire people to spend Zoos and Aquariums (AZA), The Florida time learning about how we can protect Aquarium launched Party for the Planet and restore our blue planet, to celebrate with 50 Days of Conservation. For this Earth’s tremendous biodiversity on a daily celebration, it included environmental basis and to affect change in a very posstewardship acitive way,” said tivities as well President and as conservation CEO of The Florand educational ida Aquarium programs that Roger Germann. began with Earth In honor of Day (April 22) World Enviand Endangered ronment Day Species Day and World (May 21) and will Oceans Day, continue with the Tr a d e W i n d s upcoming World Island Grand Oceans Day Beach Resort, (Tuesday, June located at 5500 8). This provid- Participants of the Port Cleanup, which The Florida Gulf Blvd. in St. Aquarium participated in on Earth Day 2021 as it ed families with Pete Beach, will kicked off Party for the Planet. unique opportuhost a beach nities to commemorate the earth’s biodi- cleanup on Saturday, June 5 at 8 a.m. The versity and more. cleanup will help to reduce other debris Dale Wolbrink, senior director of pub- and single-use plastics from reaching the lic relations and integrated marketing at waterways. Volunteers who registered The Florida Aquarium, stated what makes for the cleanup will be supplied with disParty for the Planet unique: “Collectively, posable gloves, grabbers, bags and much Party for the Planet aims to harness the more. passion and the power of each to inspire “We want participants to feel part of action within the communities of individ- The Florida Aquarium family as they get uals.” empowered to make a difference by helpWith that in mind, many of the sched- ing protect and restore our waterways as uled Party for the Planet events focused well as the animals that call this ecosyson two of the aquarium’s top conserva- tem home,” Wolbrink said. tion priorities, such as habitat restoration For more information, visit https:// and the reduction of single-use plastics. www.flaquarium.org/party-for-the-planIn addition, other events centered on lit- et. It is located at 701 Channelside Dr. in ter reduction, mangrove restoration, na- Tampa and is open daily from 9:30 a.m.-5 tive pollinator gardens and environmental p.m. Email moreinfo@flaquarium.org and stewardship. call 273-4000.
Volume 19, Issue 6
TAMPA-HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY PUBLIC LIBRARY PRESENTS ITS SUMMER READING PROGRAM, ‘TAILS AND TALES’ By Kathy L. Collins Tampa-Hillsborough County Public Li- drawn from a pool of eligible customers. brary’s Summer Reading Program is back. There are reading challenges for kids, This year’s theme is ‘Tails and Tales’ and tweens and teens as well as adults. Parit will feature both real and imaginary ticipants who meet reading deadlines animals. The Summer Reading Program and complete activities will be eligible to runs from Tuesday, June 1 to Saturday, win some fantastic tech prizes. July 31. Participants can take part in live virtual Chris Sturgeon, Learning Experiences events from home. These include animal consultant for acts, magic Ta m p a - H i l l shows, science sborough programs, stoCounty Public rytellers and Library, said, fun events for “Like previous all ages. The summers, we programs will have many fun be offered and amazing every TuesThis summer, Tampa-Hillsborough County Public Lithings in store day at 2 p.m., for our cus- brary will offer its Summer Reading Program, ‘Tails and Wednesday at Tales.’ Participants can enjoy live virtual events featuring tomers. We 6:30 p.m. and animal experiences and reading challenges for all ages. will be offering They can also track their reading progress and win prizes. Thursday at 11 reading chala.m. lenges, virtual events and classes, cool Sturgeon said, “Of course, Summer tech prizes, book giveaways, fun activi- Reading would not be possible without ties and more.” the help and support of our participating Sturgeon added, “In keeping with this community partners. We are proud to year’s theme, there will be several pro- be teaming up with ZooTampa at Lowry grams featuring virtual animal encoun- Park, Hillsborough County Pet Resourcters. In addition, our programming lineup es Department, Friends of the Library of will include magic, music, science, trivia Tampa-Hillsborough County, Inc., Hillsand much more. Funding for our summer borough County Parks & Recreation and programs is provided by Friends of the Tampa-Hillsborough County Children’s Library of Tampa-Hillsborough County, Library Foundation. Some of these partInc.” ners are generously donating prizes and Participants will track their reading will also be presenting virtual events.” progress and be eligible to win books, For more information about all aspects digital cameras and even hoverboards. of the Tampa-Hillsborough County Public Summer prizes will be awarded to read- Library’s Summer Reading Program, ining challenge participants, program at- cluding the programming schedule, readtendance and engaging with the library ing challenges and prizes, please visit on social media. All winners will be www.hcplc.org/summer.
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June 2021
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
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BRING THEM INTO YOUR HOME OR YOUR HEART DURING NATIONAL FOSTER CARE MONTH
Staff Report
“The people who put aside their personal lives to help out kids like me are beautiful people and greatly appreciated,” A.Q., former foster child. May was National Foster Care Month but you can make a difference by opening your home or opening your heart and offering time and support to a child in the dependency system. These children are in a difficult and scary situation through no fault of their own and could use a consistent, caring adult to help them get through it. A child in foster care may have experienced physical, psychological and/or emotional trauma, only to endure long periods of uncertainty in the system as they wait to go home, be adopted or simply see what happens next. Some are fortunate to be placed in individual foster homes and others may be lucky enough to have a Guardian ad Litem (GAL) to be an advocate for them. With approximately 3,000 children in foster care in Hillsborough County alone, there are
not enough foster parents or Guardian ad Litem advocates for them all. Children need a safe place to live and an adult they can trust. Having a GAL volunteer—someone who listens, checks in, follows up, holds the system accountable and puts the child’s best interests before all others’—can make a lasting difference as well. “Statistics show us that children with a Guardian ad Litem, [as opposed to a foster child who does not have one], do better in school, receive more services and often find a forever home more quickly,” said Tabitha Lambert, Guardian ad Litem 13th Circuit director. “GAL volunteers not only advocate for children within the court and child welfare systems but also form relationships with them that last for years. A number of young people who age out of the foster care system will maintain a relationship with their volunteer into adulthood.” When GAL volunteers are appointed by judges, they get to know the child and find out what they need to heal and thrive. Engaging youth and families can lead to increased family stabilization and expedite reunification or adoption. To learn more about the Guardian ad Litem program and its volunteers, visit www. galtampa.org or call 272-5110. Information sessions are available via phone.
By Nitish S. Rele
nitishrele@gmail.com
OVERHAULED SUBARU LEGACY DESERVES A SERIOUS LOOK For too long, sometimes feeling like eternity, the Subaru Legacy has been pushed by the wayside. It should never have been so, because the midsize sedan is nearly as good as the Honda Accord, Nissan Altima, Mazda6, Kia K5 and so forth. With a total redesign last val offerings. Other LEGACY LIMITED XT year, the Legacy should standard comforts Tires: 225/50R18 inspire plenty of interare the dual auto AC, Wheelbase: 108.3 inches est. After all, the car 10-way adjustable Length: 190.6 inches demonstrates incredible power driver and Height: 59.1 inches nimbleness, remarkable eight-way passenger Width: 72.4 inches handling and response. Partial credit, of course, Suspension: MacPherson strut seats, 60/40 fold goes to the standard front, double wishbone rear rear seats, rear-seat AC outlets, overhead symmetrical all-wheel Steering: rack-and-pinion sunglass holder and drive system that Subpower assist power moonroof. aru equips in all its veFuel capacity: 18.5 gallons Dual front and side hicles. City: 24 mpg airbags, side curThe seventh-generaHighway: 32 mpg tain airbag for both tion Legacy is equipped Base price: $34,445 rows, driver knee with a 2.4-liter, horiPrice as tested: $35,370 airbag, four-wheel zontally opposed, turWeb site: www.subaru.com anti-lock brakes bo four-cylinder engine with electronic blasting off 260 horsebrake distribution power at 5,600 rpm and 277 pounds-feet of torque at 4,800 rpm. and brake assist, vehicle dynamic control, The continuous variable transmission stability and traction system, rearview with eight-speed manual shift capabili- camera, blind-spot detection with laneties contributes to a compelling perfor- change assist and rear cross-traffic alert, reverse auto brakes, tire pressure monimance while ensuring gas savings. Ensconced on the unitized body struc- toring system and daytime running lights ture is a frameless hexagonal grille and come at no extra cost. The standard lower air intake with a centered Subaru Eyesight Assist Monitor, which features star cluster insignia, flanked by C-shaped lane-departure warning and active cruise LED headlights. Outdoor-loving folks will control, ensures that the driver maintains appreciate the mounting brackets atop a straight path while the DriverFocus the roof to haul a canoe or surfboard. Distraction Mitigation System sounds a A twin cockpit with electroluminescent warning if its camera and facial recoganalog gauge displays for the speedom- nition software finds tiredness signs or eter, tachometer, fuel and coolant tem- driver diversion. It’s about time the redesigned Legaperature give the cabin a rich feel. Its cy begins to attract serious attention huge, 11.6-inch, tablet-style touch screen among sedan buyers. For us in the Tamto control navigation, audio and phone pa Bay area, the standard all-wheel drive along with circular control knobs is easy will be practical during the rainy season. to use. Drivers of different heights in the Plus, the first-rate cabin and tremendous family will appreciate the three-spoke safety features make the Legacy a terriftilt/telescopic steering column. Its trunk capacity of 15.1 cubic feet matches ri- ic daily ride.
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Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
HILLSBOROUGH EDUCATION FOUNDATION AND KIWANIS ISSUE SCHOLARSHIPS By Kate Quesada
Volume 19, Issue 6
SOUTHSHORE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
COLLECTS HYGIENE PRODUCTS FOR
CAMPAIGN AGAINST HUMAN TRAFFICKING
By Tatiana Ortiz
Students throughnext generation can do theirs.” out Hillsborough through our proWith it having been in County are one step grams,” said Oestreoperation for 10 years, closer to reaching ich. CAHT still strongly adtheir goals thanks One of the partners heres to its mission, to the generosity of is the Kiwanis Club which is to support the two local groups. of Tampa. According fight against human trafHillsborough Eduto Oestreich, over ficking as well as related cation Foundation the past 20 years, domestic violence issues (HEF) and the Kithe Kiwanis Club of by offering educational wanis Club of Tampa Tampa and Tampa awareness and prevention and Tampa Kiwanis Kiwanis Foundation activities to the communiFoundation issued have given out nearty and schools. It also doscholarships last Students throughout Hillsborough County benefit- ly a half-million dolnates needed funding and month that will help ted recently from scholarships issued by Hillsbor- lars in scholarships tangible items to law enlocal seniors further ough Education Foundation and the Kiwanis Club through Hillsborough Robbie Chaplin, president of Campaign Against Human Trafficking forcement, at-risk youth, of Tampa. their educations. Education Founda- and Domestic Violence-SouthShore, receives boxes of donated hygiene rehabilitation homes, cen“Hillsborough Education Foundation tion. The scholarships help deserving Hillters and regional anti-huproducts from the SouthShore Chamber of Commerce. is proud to support graduating seniors’ sborough County Public Schools students man trafficking nonprofits. Members of the SouthShore Chamber of dreams of continuing their education at a achieve their goals of going to a university, Commerce in Ruskin collected an assortRobbie Chaplin, president at CAHT, stated university, community college or technical community college or technical college. ment of hygiene products like hair brushes, what her goals for the organization would college through our community scholar“In Kiwanis, internationally, our goal is toothbrushes, feminine hygiene products be: “To build upon the wonderful group of ships,” said HEF’s Kendra Oestreich. kids. We think the future is really tied to and more for those being placed in tempo- volunteers, which would be the strength of More than 200 Class of 2021 seniors good education. We feel in our communi- rary safe shelters through the Campaign CAHT, and continue to build strong relationwere awarded more than $500,000 in ty there’s a lot of kids who need help fi- Against Human Trafficking and Domestic ships within the community.” scholarships, ranging from $500-$15,000. nancially in being able to get into college. Violence-SouthShore (CAHT) nonprofit orIn addition, CAHT will also be awarding Twelve of these students graduated from We’ve been very pleased to partner with ganization located in Sun City Center, which 12 $1,000 scholarships to six students at East Bay High School, six from Lennard Hillsborough Education Foundation in our consists of all volunteers. CAHT works with East Bay High School and six students from High School, 22 from Riverview High programs,” said Dave Rogoff, Tampa Ki- multicultural groups by providing short- Lennard High School this fall. CAHT also proSchool and one from Spoto High School. wanis Foundation president. term housing along with other basic needs vides scholarships through a program called “We never want families’ incomes to be Last month, the club awarded $20,500 to families, such as referral services, schol- Pasos al Futuro with Hillsborough County a barrier for students to reach their full- to eight high school seniors. Public Schools to students at Lennard High arships and mentoring. est potential. These scholarships can help Established in 1987, HEF is a nonprofit Melanie Davis, executive director at the School. These are just a few examples of reduce that financial strain, positively [im- focused on strengthening public education SouthShore Chamber of Commerce, shared CAHT’s involvement with the community. pacting] students’ lives and the future of by supporting teachers and empowering how the idea came about: “Our members “All of the support we receive from the our community,” said HEF CEO Kim Jowell. students to achieve academic and personal love to help with the needs of our communi- SouthShore area is appreciated and put to HEF teams up with business partners, success. HEF’s resources and financial sup- ty at every opportunity they can.” She add- good use helping CAHT assisting others,” community organizations and individual port enrich K–12 educational experiences ed, “Organizations such as CAHT make such Chaplin said. donors to fund the scholarship program. and provide equity in education for all stu- an impact on the SouthShore area and we For more information, visit https://sc“We are grateful to the partners who dents. Learn more at educationfoundation. are happy to do our part to make sure they cblueheart.org, email sccblueheart@gmail. share our beliefs and are investing in the com. com or call 938-5660.
June 2021
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
LOCAL TEEN PUBLISHES
BREAKTHROUGH CHILDREN’S BOOK By Amy Schechter What were you doand now he plans ing when you were to make writing a 17? Were you eagercareer. His mothly awaiting your high er, Ashley Smith, school prom? Were you could not be more begging your parents proud: “We are to take the car out on over the moon. We a Friday night? Were were ecstatic when you running right from we found out they school to your first wanted to publish it. job to earn some exIt felt unreal.” tra cash? You probably However, when weren’t publishing your you meet Lincoln, it first book, but Lincoln is absolutely real; his Lincoln Smith, a young author, poses with Smith, an aspiring talent is apparent. Daisy, the inspiration behind Lazy Daisy. young author, is living He is well-spoken, this reality. mature and obserAfter joining a writing vant, qualities needed class, Lincoln found his in a blossoming author. passion, and he didn’t need Plus, once he starts to look far for inspiration. something, he sees it His dog, Daisy, became through. He is working his muse, and he penned a on making Lazy Daisy a children’s book which beseries, and next up will came her namesake, Lazy be Lazy Daisy Goes to Daisy. Daisy dreams of New York City, which he being a hero, but there’s is currently drafting. one problem: she’s just so Lincoln and Daisy lazy. She lounges around are available for readday in and day out, eating ings if local schools and sleeping; she cannot bring herself to or home school groups are interested. put in the effort. But what will Daisy do With COVID-19 precautions, they are when a dark figure appears in the night open to meeting at local parks in openand threatens her family? You will have air settings. Lazy Daisy is available for to read to find out. purchase directly from Olympia PublishLincoln partnered with his friend, Tee- ers at olympiapublishers.com/books/ gan Hernandez, who illustrated the story lazy-daisy, Amazon and Barnes & Noble after spending some time with the real (both online and at the Brandon locaDaisy, and soon after Olympia Publish- tion). If you are interested in booking ers picked it up. “It’s a dream come true. Lincoln for a reading, please message his Ever since I wrote this book, I found out mother, Ashley, at ashabee81@hotmail. how much I love this job,” Lincoln said, com.
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PEOPLES GAS REMINDS FLORIDIANS TO CALL 811 BEFORE STARTING DIGGING PROJECTS Staff Report Throughout April, Sunshine 811, Peoples cators will visit job sites and mark natural Gas and other utilities were promoting the gas lines around homes and businesses. 14th annual National Safe Digging Month, Here are some tips to remember: and although the month has passed, digCall 811 or visit sunshine811.com at ging safely is still least two full business a must. When digdays before digging to ging unprepared, make your request, givpeople risk hitting ing utility companies the network of enough time to propwires, cables and erly mark lines. When pipelines locatyou call 811, you will ed underground. be asked for the locaStriking one of tion(s) and description these underground Last month, Peoples Gas promoted National of your digging project. utility lines could Sunshine 811 notifies Safe Digging Month. Digging unprepared result in loss of nat- comes with the risk of hitting underground affected utility compaural gas, electric, utility lines and injuring a or others, potential- nies, who then send a water or commu- ly resulting in fines and repair costs, so be sure professional locator to to call 811 first. nications and cable mark the approximate services; injure you or others; and poten- location of underground equipment for tially result in fines and repair costs. free. “Thousands of our customers saw their Check the Sunshine 811 Positive Renatural gas service impacted by damage to sponse link at sunshine811.com and, once pipelines during excavation or DIY projects all utilities have responded, roll up those last year,” said Luke Buzard, vice president sleeves and dig carefully within 24 inches of Pipeline Safety and Regulatory Affairs of any marks in your project area. for Peoples Gas. “When homeowners forEven if you are not digging, remember get to call 811 before digging, they run the to leave any markers—paint or flags—in risk of damaging their own service lines. place. They are a sign of work that may When excavators don’t follow safe digging be coming soon to your area by a utility or practices, even if they call 811 ahead of a contractor. project, the impact is much greater—hunPeoples Gas System, Florida’s largest dreds of residents and businesses can lose natural gas distribution utility, serves more utility service from just one hit line.” than 425,000 customers across the state. Call 811 and Sunshine 811—a call cen- Peoples Gas is a subsidiary of Emera Inc., a ter and educational resource for Florida’s geographically diverse energy and services excavators, underground facility owners company headquartered in Halifax, Nova and operators and any other stakeholders Scotia, Canada. wanting to prevent excavation damage to For more information, visit peoplesgas. underground facilities—will notify all ap- com and sunshine811.com. For a step-bypropriate utility companies of your intent step process to digging safely, visit www. to dig, and then Peoples Gas’ team of lo- sunshine811.com/homeowner/.
NOW AT
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Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
Volume 19, Issue 6
PICTURES COURTESY OF TOMMY BRANNEN
TGH ICE PLEX WINS ITS FIRST FIGURE SKATING CHAMPIONSHIP Ta m p a ’s TGH Ice Plex performed in its first figure skating competition in 14 months. Its team did not disappoint, winning the 2021 Spring Classic at the RDV Sportsplex Ice Den TGH Ice Plex won the first ISI national championship in its history. in Orlando for the first Ice Ice Sports Forum) had the most total skatSports Industry (ISI) National Champion- ers with 66 competing in the classic. TGH ship in the rink’s history. Ice Plex’s ice skaters ranged in age from “I was excited and relieved,” said Anna the youngest, at 5, to the oldest, Helyn Barile of TGH Ice Plex, who was tied for Rodgers, at 68. ISI created a point system, most events competed in with 10. “Our adding up the total points accumulated team was a close second at the last com- from each individual skater based on how petition over a year ago, so everyone was well they placed in events. working extra hard to get first this time. It “I love skating because I feel so free was our rink’s first championship at an ISI on the ice,” said Caleigh Yick, 11. “Skating national competition.” alone is great, but I have even more fun The Spring Classic was held from April with my pairs partner, ensemble group 30 to May 2 with rinks from 10 different and sync team.” states competing, including Alabama, AlasTGH Ice Plex Skating Director Tommy ka, Connecticut, Florida, Massachusetts, Brannen, who has held that position since Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, South Da2005, said that most of the skaters that kota and Texas. TGH Ice Plex (formerly the
hard work they put in, as well as the coaching staff that put their heart and soul into coaching their students.” The classic win was extra special, considering that TGH Ice Plex hadn’t performed in a competition in 14 months because of the pandemic. It typically participates in about four local competitions each year. TGH Ice Plex received a banner, which proudly hangs in the arena, as well as a trophy to display in the trophy case at the rink. “Times are changing and hopefully skating is coming around and everybody is excited to get back to competing TGH Ice Plex performed in its first figure skating competition in 14 again,” said Brannen. months. According to Brannen, the competed came from the arena’s Learn team will participate in a local to Skate program for beginning skaters. competition in Oldsmar next month from Brannen was very proud of how his skat- Friday to Sunday, June 4-6. He welcomes ers competed and performed. anybody that is interested to join and par“I was very happy and excited for all the ticipate in the Learn to Skate program, kids, the parents and the arena,” said Bran- which is open year-round. nen. “It was an awesome moment that “We’d like to continue to support each came together from all the hard work that other as a team and to perform well at the kids have done. What makes me most our next competition in early June,” said proud is the character of the kids and the Barile.
For more information or tickets call 645-7874
June 2021
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
Page 49
PHOTOS COURTESY OF THE SUMNER SOFTBALL PROGRAM
SUMNER SOFTBALL TEAM WINS DISTRICT TITLE IN INAUGURAL SEASON; MAKES SCHOOL HISTORY In its first season of existence, the Sumner High School Stingrays softball team became the first program in their school’s history to win a district title. “The win was huge for us. It was unexpected for sure and we’re all so proud of the way we came together,” said junior third baseman Rachel Brown. “We’re the first to do it—we made history that night.” Stingrays Head Coach Autum Hernandez came to Sumner after being the head coach at Freedom High School for the 12 seasons prior. It was the right time for the transition for her because she lives near the school in the Riverview area. The former Robinson High School softball player was able to get her new players to buy into the program quickly. She always believed in them and constantly told them that she thought they could win a district title and make history. “The girls believed in each other and they fought hard,” said Hernandez. “It took a little time for us to gel together and for them to trust me and for me to trust them, but they did a great job of working hard every single day to get to that end-of-the-season victory.” The team had just three juniors, with
The Sumner Lady Stingrays won the first district title in their school’s history.
the rest being freshmen and sophomores. The school didn’t have seniors for the first year and had only eight players show up at tryouts. Sophomore shortstop Megan DeVilliers took on a big leadership role. Hernandez said that DeVilliers was a great asset to the team and that she not only understands the game, but also she is very patient and does a very good job of helping the younger players become comfortable. “I’ll remember all of the tireless practices and hard work that led to us win-
ning games,” said DeVilliers. “I’m excited to make new team traditions.” Hernandez usually doesn’t name a team MVP because she believes in the team aspect. The program was made up of team players who didn’t care about who got the credit, they just wanted to win. “I try to instill in them that every game someone different has to be the hero and that’s how a team is success-
ful,” she said. “The overall MVP of the season is the team as a whole, being fresh out of the gate and not knowing their coach and not necessarily knowing their teammates, a brand-new school, new facilities and, on top of that, a global pandemic. I would have to say that the whole team deserves MVP honors.” Hernandez said that the turning point in the season came after a 9-5 loss to Jefferson midway through. The Lady Stingrays lost to Jefferson twice in the regular season, but got their revenge later on. Brown stepped up her game in the district tournament with clutch hitting and was instrumental to the team’s run as 5A District 10 champions, beating Jefferson 10-8 in a slugfest. “I attended East Bay High School my freshman and sophomore year and I came to Sumner because I wanted to be a part of something new,” said Brown. “I’m excited to set the precedent for the following years, and I was very excited that we won our first distract championship.”
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Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
Volume 19, Issue 6
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
June 2021
A KID’S PLACE OF TAMPA BAY OPENS AKP THRIFT STORE IN BRANDON
NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE TAMPA BAY OFFERS WAYS TO STAY ON TOP OF SUMMER STORMS
By Tatiana Ortiz With school being out for the summer, too. One may even find name brands such one may consider revamping their ward- as Kate Spade, Nike and more. robe by either donating clothes or purStaff and volunteers sort through the chasing some. There’s a great new way donations prior to their arrival at a AKP to do this, as A Kid’s Place of Tampa Bay Thrift Store. The condition of these items will be opening its first AKP Thrift Store should be gently used. It also accepts in Brandon on Saturdonated furniture day, June 5 at 10 a.m. too. All of the items sold at For the older AKP Thrift Store help kids turning 17 foster children living or 18, AKP Thrift at A Kid’s Place of Store will provide Tampa Bay with 100 them with an oppercent of net proportunity to work ceeds going towards and learn the valit. To add, it provides ue of a dollar. residential services to Tamika Lopez, children in foster care Brad Gregory, CEO at A Kid’s Place of Tampa development cofrom birth to 18 years Bay, and Tamika Lopez, development coor- ordinator at A Kid’s old who were removed dinator at A Kid’s Place of Tampa Bay, stand Place of Tampa Bay, from their homes due encourages people outside the new AKP Thrift Store. to abandonment, to give since nothneglect and abuse. ing comes to AKP Brad GregoThrift Store withry, CEO at A Kid’s out them thinking Place of Tampa of the kids first. Bay, mentioned For more inhow AKP Thrift formation, visStore came into it https://akidfruition: “The comsplacetb.org/ munity has blessed akp-thrift/. It is us with an abunlocated at 948 W. dant amount of donations and this would Brandon Blvd. in Brandon and is open be an idea that has been thought of for Tuesday through Saturday, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. several years.” To donate, visit 1715 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. AKP Thrift Store will feature a wide in Brandon. Donation hours are Monday variety of great, quality clothing, shoes, through Friday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. For those accessories, household items and more interested in donating furniture, photos at reasonable prices. This 2,200 sq.ft. of the furniture should be emailed to destore includes 1,800 sq.ft. of retail velopment@akidsplacetb.org, through space. AKP Thrift Store will carry items which additional information will be profor newborns all the way up to men and vided; pickup times will vary, depending women, along with a plus-size section on availability.
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By Brad Stager
As the calendar advances into the summer installing a weather app from a local memonths in Florida, crisp, refreshing breezes dia outlet, having access to a radio that can and clear, azure skies make way for 90-de- receive weather updates and being familiar gree-plus temperatures and banks of cumu- with information and services available on lus clouds that often precede rain showers. websites from organizations like the FlorThere is a high ida Division of probability that Emergency Manstepping outside agement and the your door means Federal Emergenbeing greeted by a cy Management warm and soggy Agency. atmospheric hug. Residents can While hurricanes also stay informed get the big headabout the latest lines, the local arforecast informaea’s daily weather tion by monitoralso bears vigilant ing NWS Tampa watching, said DanBay’s social media iel Noah of the Naplatforms, such It’s the time of year when weather radar displays tional Weather Seras Facebook and explode with the bright colors of rain storms. vice (NWS) Tampa Twitter, which can Bay area forecast office in Ruskin. be accessed through the weather office’s “Expect thunderstorms most every day website. from late May to mid-October. These storms There is also a new program called Weathproduce frequent lightning and flood roads, er-Ready Nation Ambassadors. It is a Nationmaking travel dangerous,” he wrote in an al Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration email. “When thunder roars, go indoors.” initiative that works with local community Staying abreast of weather conditions organizations to improve severe weather that can change quickly involves effort from awareness and safety within their spheres of government, media and, importantly, individ- influence. Groups such as government entiual residents, according to Noah. ties, businesses, print and broadcast media, “Your National Weather Service in Ruskin churches, schools and homeowners associprovides local emergency management ations are among the organizations whose [agencies] critical weather information to participation is sought. prepare for, respond to and recover from More information about becoming a hurricanes. Our local media is responsible for Weather-Ready Nation ambassador is availcommunicating the weather threat to the able on the NWS Tampa Bay website at public. [We] have multiple ways to receive a weather.gov/tbw, where you can also find weather warning in case one way fails,” he the latest local forecasts, watches and warnsaid. ings as well as links to relevant social media Methods that Noah recommends include accounts.
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Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
Volume 19, Issue 6
