Riverview/Apollo Beach
8 C E L E B R A T I N G
September 2020 Volume 18, Issue 9 Ph: 657-2418 1 8
Y E A R S
O F
P U B L I S H I N G
P O S I T I V E
NOW OPEN
Riverview Location
Page 4
C O M M U N I T Y
N E W S
Four Kids Fundraise To Support New Outdoor Classroom In Honor Of Dad Matt Swartzlander
Sumner High Opens For 2020-21 School Year As First Cambridge & Largest School In District
A local family is Not only were working with a the Y and Camp Riverview camp to Cristina a huge part remember a loved of their father’s life, one. Jason, Katie, but Jason, Katie, David and Jake David and Jake all Swartzlander started spent countless sumfundraising for their mers there as Mr. Matt Project early campers and even this August in order went on to be counThe Swartzlander family is raising to raise funds to build selors and a lifemoney to build a new nature trail, a new nature trail, guard. plaque, reflection bench, bridge and covered outdoor classroom at Camp plaque, reflection “As a staff memCristina to preserve the memory of their ber, I have made bench, bridge and dad, Matt Swartzlander. covered outdoor some of the best classroom at Camp friends and met some Cristina to preserve of the most incredible the memory of their people ever. I am so dad, Matt grateful for my four Swartzlander, who summers as a Y passed away in April employee, I have cerdue to stage 4 tainly made memoMelanoma. ries that will last forMatt had worked ever,” said Katie. at the Y for more The community than 10 years, since 1996, can join in on the Mr. Matt working all over the camp as Project by donating to the a counselor, camp director GoFundMe, ‘The Mr. Matt and lifeguard. His favorite Project,’ or directly to Camp thing to do was take kids out Cristina, specifying that it is for onto the nature trails and the project. So far, $9,850 has teach outdoor education, teaching the been raised out of the $11,000 goal. kids about the plants and animals Members of the community can also around them. The new nature trail, volunteer at Camp Cristina to help with classroom and more will allow the kids the construction, as the area is set to be to be fully immersed in nature and give a built by hand so that the surrounding space to learn more about nature for environment is preserved. The Mr. Matt kids who don’t have access to such a Project is hoped to be finished and open large and diverse area. to the public by this upcoming Spring. “Its really important for the kids to To donate or learn more, go to understand that nature isn’t something to www.gofundme.com/f/the-mr-matt-probe afraid of or even careless about, it’s ject or something to be appreciated and cared www.tampaymca.org/locations/ymcafor,” said David. camp-cristina.
As students Principal Dave headed back for a Brown. very different The school school year last costed an estimated month, one group $70 million to build. of Riverview resiThis school was dents were treatfunded by three ed to a brandyears of impact fee new experience. collections. “Hillsborough County “We are ready to Public Schools is excited welcome our students to to officially open Sumner this beautiful campus. I High School, our first new know our students and high school built in more staff are excited to start than 10 years,” said rich, new traditions and Sumner High School in Hillsborough County Riverview opened its doors to build a lasting legacy for Public Schools Chief of future students. We welstudents last month. Communications Tanya Arja. come the Sumner Stingrays to our district Sumner High School is the largest family,” said Superintendent Addison high school the district has ever conDavis. structed at 265,000 square feet. It is This school will provide relief to high located at 10650 County Rd. 672 in schools in the area that are already at or Riverview, in the fast-growing area of near capacity. Construction is booming in Southeastern Hillsborough County. This Southern Hillsborough County with thoustate-of-the-art, picturesque campus will sands of students expected to be enterhouse ninth to 11th grade students this ing our schools over the next three to five first year, adding a senior class the next years. The most recent high school built school year. in Hillsborough County was Strawberry Sumner High School will also be Crest High School back in 2009. home to an innovative, one-of-a-kind proFor more information, visit gram called Academy 2027. One cohort www.sdhc.k12.fl.us. of 450 middle school students will move from grade to grade, beginning with sixth grade, with the same teachers each year In This until they enter the high school grade Issue level. No other cohorts of middle school students will be added once these stuHCC AWARDED GRANT ......................PG 3 dents move on to the high school grades. Over time, the school will have a total CRACKER BARREL OPENS...................PG 4 enrollment of about 2,800. ROTARY CLUB UPDATES .....................PG 6 Principal Dave Brown is proud to announce Sumner High School has just LOVE’S FIRST TIRE WINNER ...............PG 8 been notified it won approval as a DOVE INTERIORS CELEBRATES 30 ....PG 13 Cambridge AICE Program, the first high school in our district to receive this interLIVING IN COVID‐19 STORIES ..PGS 14‐15 national status. EYE ON BUSINESS....................PGS 25‐26 “I am honored to open the largest and most advanced new school in IN THE GOLF ZONE .........................PG 28 Hillsborough County. I am thrilled that we will be the first Cambridge AICE high READ MORE LOCAL NEWS ONLINE school in the district. My faculty and I www.ospreyobserver.com can’t wait to serve this community,” said
Osprey Observer 2109 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. Valrico, FL 33596
Postal Customer
ECRWSS EDDM
PRSTD STD U.S. POSTAGE PAID TAMPA, FL PERMIT #2397
By Dominique Asher
Supervisor of Election Craig Latimer wants voters in Hillsborough County to know that they have three options to choose from in order to cast their votes. This includes the ability to drop off your Vote By Mail ballot at one of 24 curbside sites. If you opt to vote in person during either Early Voting or on Election Day, Latimer is working to ensure that your experience will be safe, healthy and orderly. Remember, whichever method you choose, every vote counts. See full article on page 29.
Staff Report
Page 2
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
Volume 18, Issue 9
September 2020
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
Boys & Girls Club Opens Expanded Facility
By Michelle Caceres
After an expanThe Boys & sion project that Girls Club at took two years to Bethune Park complete, the Boys offers multiple & Girls Club program areas Wimauma at for youth as well Bethune Park as a computer opened its doors in lab, teen room August. and serving area. Located at 5809 It is open for Edina St. in after-school proWimauma, the grams for both expansion added students attendThe Boys & Girls Club at Bethune Park in 3,000 square feet ing brick and morWimauma got ready for its opening with the to the existing tar schools as help of the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s building, which will well as eLearning Department, which has a substation in the new building. allow the club to students. Some serve more of the community’s youth. of the after-school programs offered The existing structure was also moderninclude an after-school meal program, ized and retrofitted to allow for more of academic enrichment and homework the programs the Boys & Girls Club is assistance, mentoring, anti-bullying and known to provide. Additionally, the buildcyber safety, fitness programs, arts and ing will also house a Hillsborough County crafts, photography and teen programs. Sheriff Substation, which creates a comPeacock said the space is more than munity collaborative and place where the just a club for youth and their families. community sees law enforcement officers “These programs benefit the Wimauma as mentors. community as a whole,” she said. “Excited doesn’t begin to describe the With the safety of its staff and youth emotion I am feeling regarding having our being a priority, the club is following CDCnew building completed and ready for our recommended guidelines for safety, kids,” said Club Director Ronneka including taking the temperature of everyPeacock. “We are blessed to see it come one prior to them entering the building, to fruition and I am deeply honored to be sanitizing hands upon entry and every a part of BGC history.” hour, setting limits on building capacity, Wimauma children will once again ensuring youth follow the 3-foot perimeter get that complete club experience, which rule.. helps ensure success is within reach of The park is open for after-school proevery young person who enters its doors grams on Monday from 1-6 p.m. and by being on track to graduate from high Tuesday-Friday from 2-6 p.m. school with a plan for the future, demonTo register or for more information, strating good character and citizenship call 682-4618 or visit its website at and living a healthy lifestyle. www.bgctampa.org.
Page 3
HCC Awarded $1.8 Million Federal Funding For Student Support Services Grants
Staff Report
The U.S. Many Student Department of Support Services Education announced alumni have gone on recently that to great success. Hillsborough Among them are Community College Emmy, Tony and (HCC) will receive a Academy Award-winfederal Student ning actress Viola Support Services Davis; U.S. Rep. (SSS) grant of Gwendolyn Moore of $1,891,185.00 to help Wisconsin’s 4th more students sucDistrict; and Franklin ceed in and graduate Chang-Diaz, the first from college. Hispanic astronaut. According to SSS began in HCC representatives, Hillsborough Community College will 1968 and is one of receive a federal Student Support this amount reprethe eight federal sents an increase of Services (SSS) grant of $1,891,185.00 ‘TRIO’ programs to help more students succeed in and $64,000 for the grant authorized by the graduate from college. period of 2020-2024. Higher Education Act HCC received its first TRIO SSS to help college students succeed in highgrant in 1974 and for 46 years the proer education. It recognizes that students gram has served more than 8,000 stuwhose parents do not have a college dents and boasts a high graduation rate. degree have more difficulties navigating Over the last five years, student particithe complexity of decisions that college pants were awarded $352,938 in scholrequires for success; it bolsters students arships. from low-income families who have not SSS helps college students who are had the academic opportunities that their low-income, first-generation (those college peers have had and helps stuwhose parents do not have a four-year dents with disabilities remove obstacles college degree) or students with disabilipreventing them from thriving academities. The array of services the grant will cally. provide are comprehensive and will For more than 50 years, nationally, include academic tutoring, financial aid the Student Support Services program advice, career and college mentoring, has made important contributions to indihelp in choosing courses and other viduals and society as a whole by proforms of assistance. Such services viding a broad range of services to help enhance academic success and make it students succeed. This vital program more likely that students will graduate or can and does make all the difference. transfer with the lowest possible debt. To learn more, visit hccfl.edu.
Page 4
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
Pepin Launches Adoption Programs For Both Teachers And Students
Staff Report
Pepin Academies and The City of Foundation has Ember and painted launched its inaugural what the underground ‘Adopt-a-Classroom’ city might look like.” and ‘Adopt-a-Student’ Adopt-a-Student campaigns to help funds will provide stuequip teachers and dents with a backpack students with needed filled with needed school supplies for school supplies that the 2020-2021 school will be delivered year. Individuals and directly to their school Pepin Academies Foundation has launched its inaugural ‘Adopt-abusinesses are invitfor collection. Classroom’ and ‘Adopt-a-Student’ ed to participate by “This campaign campaigns to help equip teachers and sponsoring or ‘adopt- students with needed school supplies will help build confifor the 2020-2021 school year. Pictures dence in our students ing’ a classroom or are from 2019. student, with the who don’t have the option to donate to a specific Pepin supplies needed for the upcoming school Academies campus or support all three of year as a result of their socioeconomic its Tampa Bay area campuses. situation,” said Lea Lewis, life manageAdopt-a-Classroom funds will provide ment skills teacher for high school access teachers with needed academic enrichat Pepin Academies. “For students, raisment materials. Teachers will have the ing their hand to borrow something from a opportunity to identify their individual teacher can sometimes be classroom needs, a crucial step in grantiembarrassing. If we had these funds desng schools the flexibility needed to adapt ignated, we could instead build their selftheir teaching practices to suit the individconfidence, which enables them to thrive ual needs of their students. in the classroom.” “Especially during this time of ongoAdopt-a-Classroom and Adopt-aing uncertainty, it’s reassuring to know Student donations can be securely made there are community partners who care online at www.pepinacademiesfoundaabout us and the needs of our students,” tion.org. Pepin Academies Foundation is said James Jacobelli, a sixth grade reada nonprofit organization that supports all ing and language arts teacher at Pepin of Pepin Academies’ campuses. Pepin Academies. “If my classroom were to be Academies are public, tuition-free charter adopted, I would use the money to bring schools located in Tampa, Riverview and to life the books that I read with my stuNew Port Richey that serve students with dents. Previously, for example, we read learning disabilities in grades 3-12. Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone For more information about Pepin and had a sorting ceremony. We also Academies Foundation, visit pepinacaderead Hoot and made papier-mâché owls, miesfoundation.org.
Volume 18, Issue 9
Cracker Barrel Opens Its Riverview Location Next To Newly Announced AMC Movie Theatre
By Kate Quesada
Exciting news for Riverview area diners. Cracker Barrel opened the doors to its newest location on Gibsonton Ave. late last Cracker Barrel recently month. opened the doors to a The new restaurant in Gibsonton. 10,000 sq. ft. restaurant has the ability to seat 180 guests; although, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, it has opened at 50 percent capacity. “Because we are operating at a limited capacity, we created an additional dining space on our front porch for guests to choose,” said a Cracker Barrel spokesperson. Construction on the location broke ground in mid-September of 2019 with the intent to open this past spring. “These plans were put on hold due to the pandemic, as you would expect,” said the spokesperson. “Needless to say, we’re thrilled to finally open the doors of our 60th location in Florida to guests.” The location offers the same menu as the other more than 660 locations nationwide, including the opportunity to enjoy breakfast all day. In fact, we recently announced the launch of our new, simplified dinner menu, offering high-quality, homestyle food at an everyday value,” said the spokesperson. “We are excited for the community to try some of our new dish-
es like maple bacon chicken and pot roast supper, as well as our other popular items.” According to the spokesperson, the restaurant’s location was chosen due to the growth in the area. “What draws people to Cracker Barrel is our unique, family-friendly restaurant environment that combines dining and shopping in a seamless experience full of hospitality and charm,” said the spokesperson. One of the most distinguishable aspects of Cracker Barrel stores is the antiques that hang on the walls. “Each collection of décor that goes into a store is carefully planned and curated to reflect the unique families and cultures of the communities we serve,” said the spokesperson. “The décor found in our Riverview store has been thoughtfully selected based on research into the history and culture of the area.” Just before press time it was announced that AMC will take over operation of the former Goodrich GDX theatre next door to the new Cracker Barrel Location and expects an opening in early September. The restaurant is located at 9370 Theater Dr. in Gibsonton and can be reached at 741-2744. For more information, visit crackerbarrel.com.
September 2020
W W W
Page 5
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
.
O S P R E Y O B S E R V E R
.
C O M
ASSOCIATED WITH OSPREY OBSERVER
It’s Rodeo Season, Get Ready For The 8-Second Ride & Non-Stop Action 7 2109 Lithia Pinecrest Rd., Valrico, FL 33592 • (office) 657-2418 • (fax) 657-4469 MANAGING EDITOR
ASSIGNMENT EDITOR
Marie Gilmore
Kate Quesada 657-2418
657-2418
editor@ospreyobserver.com
kquesada@ospreyobserver.com
LAYOUT EDITOR
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT EDITOR
Kathi Hayes
Kathy Collins
657-2418
657-2418
khayes@ospreyobserver.com
kcollins@ospreyobserver.com
BILLING MANAGER
GRAPHICS MANAGER
Terry Vassalotti
Denise Graf
terry@ospreyobserver.com
denise@ospreyobserver.com
657-2418
657-2418
CUSTOMER SERVICE
MARKETING MANAGER
Jenny Bennett
Jennifer Hurst
657-2418
657-2418
jbennettt@ospreyobserver.com
NEWS REPORTER
FOLLOW US:
jhurst@ospreyobserver.com
Taylor Wells 657-2418
twells@ospreyobserver.com
FISHHAWK/BLOOMINGDALE & VALRICO ADVERTISING
RIVERVIEW, APOLLO BEACH, & SOUTHSHORE ADVERTISING
Kerrie Hoening
Melissa Hartmann
kerrie@ospreyobserver.com
mhartmann@ospreyobserver.com
BRANDON & WINTHROP ADVERTISING
CHRISTIAN VOICE ADVERTISING
625-1527
833-7470
Melody Gershkoff
I get super excited this time of year. The bait balls (threadfin herron, sardines, whitebait) have moved into the shipping channel and the fish are following. Spanish mackerel, jack crevalle, false albacore and even breeder redfish are chasing the bait balls. It’s rodeo season, one of my favorite times of year. I was once asked, why do you call it rodeo season? Well, I come from Lake Luzerne, New York, which is the largest dude ranch area east of the Mississippi. The rodeo is a big deal there and of course the riders have to ride for at least 8 seconds to register a good ride. In rodeo fishing, we follow the birds that are diving into the bait balls. The water will be exploding with Spanish mackerel jumping out the water. Jack crevalle and false albacore will be boiling on the surface and occasionally giant breeder redfish will also be in the pile. It’s a beautiful sight to see. Once we see the schools of fish, we head right towards them at high speed with the wind at our backs. About 40 yards from the school we put the boat in neutral (everybody has to hang on tight)
and glide towards the bait ball. Everyone that’s casting towards the bait ball has about 8 seconds to hook onto a fish. The bait ball will move very quickly away from the boat, and the fish follow. Whoever is hooked up fights the fish to the boat. Once the fish is landed, it’s time to start the chase again and again. This is nonstop action. Every client who has been on our charter rodeo fishing has said it’s the greatest time they have ever had fishing. All the pics attached are from rodeo fishing. One other bonus of rodeo fishing in the heat of summer is the AC is always on as the boat is always moving. Though, even if you have boat legs, you will definitely be worn out by the end of the day. So come on out into Tampa Bay and enjoy the rodeo.
Captain Brian Lemelin Optimus Fishing Charters 813-365-0230 www.optimusfishingcharters.com
Cammie Yick
300-5152
810-8106
mgershkoff@ospreyobserver.com
cyick@ospreyobserver.com
If you have an
Ad, Story or Press Release that you would like in the next
Riverview/Apollo Beach edition
please contact Osprey Observer 657-2418. Deadline for next Riverview/Apollo Beach edition is 25th of month.
WWW.DANCING4DONATIONS.ORG Email: dance4donations@gmail.com
Locations in Brandon, Riverview, & Westshore
1 & 2 Classes - $30/month | 3 & 5 Classes - $70/month | 6 & 8 Classes - $85/month | 9 & 11 Classes - $100/month Please visit our website for more information on classes and pricing.
Mission: 501c3 nonprofit dance studio, our mission is to make dance more available to all ages and abilities in the Tampa Bay Area area & give back to the community.
In-Home Care & Assistance
We accept most long-term care insurance policies. We are a Medicaid provider. Now accepting Select Medicaid waivers. Some of our many services include, but are not limited to... • Personal Grooming • Light Housekeeping including Meal Prep 2-Hour to • Alzheimer’s Assistance 24-Hour Care 21st • Medication Set Ups and Reminders • Companions • Grocery Shopping In-Home • Private Duty, In Home or Facility WE ARE OPEN AND Consultation • Transportation for All Your Needs TAKING EVERY • Emergency Room Assistance
FREE
Call (877) 634-6617
PRECAUTION FOR YOUR LOVED ONES!!
Page 6
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
Volume 18, Issue 9
The Rotary Club Of FishHawk-Riverview Presents New Leadership
Operation Lotus Shining A Light To Help Return Students To The Classroom
The Rotary Club working to plan of FishHawkmany events Riverview began a engaging the new club year on community, with July 1 with new leadfestivities such as ership and a new a World Polio Rotary International Day event in theme of ‘Rotary October, Opens Veterans Day Opportunities.’ event in The new leaderNovember, the ship consists of a 37th annual The Rotary Club of FishHawk-Riverview president, board Alafia Lighted began a new club year on July 1. and foundation, with Boat Parade on support and guidance from the Rotary Saturday, December 5 and the 11th District leadership. The club aims to plan annual Crawfish Festival planned for April events, determine budgets and vote 17, 2021. members into the club, as well as hold The club encourages community weekly meetings concerned with general involvement with the upcoming projects membership. and events. The new leadership, composed of Ans expressed, “The community is many who aim to better the local commu- welcome to contribute to any of the servnity, is led by President Shirley Bhat, ice projects that we have, speak at our President-Elect Gabriel Mbulo and Vice club meetings, join our meetings or attend President Mara Shaughnessy, along with any of our events locally.” other esteemed members such as Not only that, but the club is always Marilyn Everett, treasurer; Jackie Fields, welcoming businesses, corporate and secretary; Mario L. Galvez, membership nonprofit partnerships and involvement. It chair; Jerry Harburg, administration chair; is even seeking to get local high schoolChristopher Jones, club service chair; ers active in the Rotary Club by partnerChristine Ans, public relations ing with the club and establishing a chair; Stanley T. Rzad III, foundation Rotary Club at the high school level, or an chair; Daniel Cyral, sergeant-at-arms; and ‘Interact Club.’ James M. Everett, past president. Ans said, “There are so many opporAdditionally, the club has two district lead- tunities, such as speech contests, scholers, Deborah Williams, district governor arships [and] Seminar for Tomorrow’s elect for 2021-2022, and Michael Leaders Camp.” Broussard, assistant district governor To contact the Rotary Club of (Area 9). FishHawk-Riverview, email Ans at This new club year, the members are christineans@kw.com.
Melanie Jordy, MD, a researcher founder of Operation from the U.S. Food Lotus, has partnered and Drug with UVILIZER to Administration, supply six teachers showed the effect UV with UV lamps to light has on COVIDhelp disinfect schools 19. for students’ return in “UVC (ultraviolet August. C) efficiently inactivatEight years ago, ed SARS-CoV in 40 A UV lamp donated by UVILIZER to Jordy started her minutes,” Darnell Operation Lotus for schools. nonprofit, Operation concluded. Lotus, to improve the lives of people in The Center of Disease Control and her community through donations and Prevention confirmed Darnell’s results, charity events. explaining that UV light can kill “In September of 2012, my huspathogens in the air and on surfaces. band, Leon, died suddenly in my arms. Operation Lotus’ newest project is At 31 years old, I was a widow. Leon left helping students and teachers return to behind two small sons, Brodie (then age schools safely. After her research, Jordy 5) and Carson (then age 3). On the reached out to UVILIZER, a company morning of his funeral, I discovered I that sells UV lamps. UVILIZER said it was pregnant with our third child,” she would partner with Operation Lotus and explains on the Operation Lotus website. donated two handheld ultraviolet light She chose the name Operation wands and two ultraviolet lamps. It also Lotus because “a lotus is a beautiful provided a 10 percent discount to cusflower that grows from the muck in the tomers that use the code LOTUS. water. In the worst conditions, it develMaggie and Nate Goldberg from ops into something beautiful.” FishHawk donated two additional UVIWhile Hillsborough County families LIZER lamps. The Goldbergs donated have been struggling with the decision the lamps because they wanted to do whether or not to send their students their part in helping students return to back to school in the middle of the coroschools. navirus pandemic, the mother and “We both believe strongly that one retired educational therapist came up of the best ways to protect the kids is with an idea to help sanitize classrooms. keeping the classrooms continuously In her research, Jordy uncovered clean,” Goldberg said. the ability of UV lights to eliminate bacteTo purchase a UVILIZER lamp, visit ria and viruses that incubate in classhttps://www.uvilizer.com. To learn more rooms. about Operation Lotus, visit https://operOne study by Miriam E. R. Darnell, ationlotus.wixsite.com/website.
By Dominique Asher
RoLaV Computers, LLC 813-294-4047 ONE STOP AFFORDABLE SUPPORT & SOLUTIONS • Computer Setup • Virus Detection & Removal • System Backup & Imaging • Software & Applications • Networking • Training & Consultation • Off-Site System Management
WE’LL BEAT ANY PRICE!
Joseph LaViola www.RoLaVcomputers.com
WE COME TO YOU!
By Lily Belcher
September 2020
Page 7
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
Best s e k a M Authorr List, New Selle Coming... Market ennett yB by Jenn er.com d e il p m serv Co spreyob o @ tt e n jben
Local Author’s Biography On The Bestseller List
Jacky Costello’s story is not unlike many immigrant success stories of hard work and determination to take advantage of opportunities in America she did not have before. It is also the story of a cancer survivor and how her faith, her husband, her friends and a stray dog from Greece all gave her the support she needed to persevere. How Far I Have Risen - Coming Clean About God, Cancer And My American Dream was published in March and rose to number two in new releases in Christian biographies in the U.S. Today, seven years after arriving, Costello is the owner of Custom Cleanups, a house cleaning service in Lithia. To make good on her promise to “pay it forward,” she partnered with Cleaning for a Reason, a nonprofit organization that provides free house cleaning for cancer patients. “My greatest hope is that by sharing my story, I will inspire others to know that no matter what you face in life, you can overcome it and achieve all your dreams, even if you don’t quite know what those dreams are yet,” Costello explained. How Far I Have Risen – Coming Clean About God, Cancer And My American Dream by Jacky Costello is available on Amazon and at bookstores nationwide. A portion of the proceeds from every book sold will be donated to Moffitt Cancer Center in Tampa, where Costello received her follow up care.
New Market Coming To Park Square
Art Monkey Emporium, located at 16132 Churchview Dr. in the Park Square neighborhood of FishHawk Ranch, in collaboration with Pish Posh, is pleased to announce that they will be hosting a market on the second Saturday of every month commencing on Saturday, September 12, from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Approximately 20 vendors featuring local artists and makers are expected.
SouthShore Chamber Of Commerce Opens New Office
The SouthShore Chamber of Commerce is excited to have recently moved into its new office at 201 W. Shell Point Rd. in Ruskin. The chamber was formed in 2011 when the Apollo Beach and Ruskin Chambers of Commerce were merged. The mission of the SouthShore Chamber of Commerce is to commit to growth through proper planning, new membership acquisition and serving existing members through valueadded projects. Visit its website at www.southshorechamberofcommerce.org to find out more.
Popular Bluegrass Band Coming To Sun City Center
The United Methodist Church of Sun City Center welcomes Sandy Back Porch to its campus for a 7 p.m. concert on Friday, September 25. Sandy Back Porch is most often called a bluegrass band, but make no mistake, they are also country, patriotic, Irish, gospel and country classic as well. One thing is for sure: they hit the ground running with hard-driving, traditional music at lightning speed, offer-
NEW, EXCITING TERMITE PRODUCTS!
ing toe-tapping, peoplepleasing performances. The church will employ safety measures including masks and a 25 percent venue capacity, meaning only the first 175 people will be admitted into the sanctuary. A donation of $10 is requested at the door on the night of the concert. For more information about this and other conBluegrass band Sandy Back Porch is coming to Sun certs, please contact Kevin City Center. Goodenow, concert series coordinator, at 362-0956.The United HCC To Launch Free Job Skills Methodist Church of Sun City Center Training Program is located at 1210 Del Webb Blvd. W. Hillsborough Community College is Additional information about the launching a free training program in church can be found at partnership with Verizon to boost inwww.sccumc.com. demand job skills and workplace con-
Second Book In Local Author Fantasy Series Published
Just in time for your end of summer reading pleasure or back-toschool lists, Riverview resident T. L. Stride has published Spirit Path. It is the second installment of his young adult fantasy series, Shaman Tales – The Chronicles of Little Hawk. The new book picks up the tale where the first book, Shaman Tales – The Chronicles of Little Hawk: So Much At Stake, left off. In celebration of the release of Spirit Path, you can read book one, So Much At Stake, for free through the end of October at https://tlstride.wixsite.com/tlstride-stories. The books are also available from Amazon and Barnes & Noble.
nection. The program will have multiple offerings through the fall of 2022, and the first cohort will begin on Monday, September 14 and run through Saturday, October 31. The innovative program will offer flexible learning formats, build industry experience and develop the most sought-after aptitudes needed for in-demand fields. Topics for the program include communication, problemsolving, collaboration, leadership, networking and more. Individuals who complete the training will be paired with a mentor, job shadow and/or be placed in an internship with local companies. Limited need-based scholarships are available for unpaid intern placements. For more information and registration, visit hccfl.edu/academics/lets-get-2work.
Tampa Fishing Charters
As Low As $99 Per Person Call Captain Brian Lemelin:
(813) 365-0230
Inshore Fishing In Tampa for Redfish, Snook, Trout, and More!
Termidor 10 Year Guarantee
BRANDON TERMITE AND PEST CONTROL
Against Subterranean Termites
MEMBER WEST FLORIDA
Existing customers may purchase Termidor at an additional cost. Call Brandon Exterminating for free estimate 685-7711
#1 Bug Muggers Since 1973
Brandon Pest Control, Inc.
Main Office: 108 S. St. Cloud Ave. • Valrico • Fax 685-3607 • 6am-6pm Clearwater-Lakeland-Orlando-Plant City- Carterville GA- Warner Robins, GA
Book online: www.optimusfishingcharters.com
Has COVID-19 left you short on Cash?
BUYING: GOLD AND SILVER
Sun City Center’s
ALL BULLION GOLD & SILVER BROKEN GOLD & SILVER GOLD AND SILVER BARS & COINS JEWELRY
FL EC 13005767
IN T S I L A S PEC I OLEX A LL R
Call: (863) 899-8048 or (813)373-2802 Hours: Mon-Fri 9-3 | Sat 10-2 |Closed Sunday Private appointments available. NE W LOCATION:
1509 suite A, Sun City Center Plaza (next to Bella Cucina)
Page 8
Volume 18, Issue 9
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
New Level Dance Company
Love’s Tire & Service Center Gifts Free Tires To Dedicated Frontline Worker
SOUTH
Mention this ad and Receive
By Anjali Caligiuri
Love’s Tire & Love’s Tire & Service Center in Service Center’s qualValrico recently found a ity repairs are backed way to give back to with its two business those working hardest mottos: “Small busiduring the pandemic. ness, big service” and “Love’s is a full-ser“We might not get it vice automotive repair, right 100 percent of diagnostic and service the time, but we make center, working both it right 100 percent of foreign and domestic the time.” Riverview resident Nick Shreves, with light trucks and cars,” Aided by the his wife, Stephanie, and their two said Scott and Gay owners’ constant faith daughters, recently won tires from Love’s Tire & Service Center. Lynn Love, owners of in their religion, Love’s Love’s Tire & Service Center. Tire & Service Center has received The company held a contest within countless blessings to become the wellits location in Valrico to give one hardestablished business it is today. working frontline employee a new set of The winner of the free tires, Nick, tires, including free installation and lifewas one of many nominated, deserving time balance to the tires as well. On June frontline workers. During these unprece29, dedicated diesel mechanic Nick dented times, these workers are providShreves was picked for the prized tires; ing care and services while others are furthermore, the many other committed delivering food and supplies. Even frontline nominees also received free oil though only one could win the tires, the change certificates as a way of showing Loves showed their appreciation for these thanks from the Loves. faithful frontlines with certificates for free Founded in 1996, Love’s Tire & oil changes. Service Center is a certified Goodyear Nominated by his wife, Stephanie, dealer and also carries Dunlop and Kelly. Nick’s tireless hours of fixing generators Some of its services include oil changes, for grocery stores like Publix have alignments and tire repairs, making it a demonstrated his unwavering dedication. fundamental part of its community for “He is a frontline worker and works over two decades. long hours during times of crisis, some“Many of our highly skilled technitimes seven days a week. I would love cians and service professionals have for him to win this prize as he always puts been employed with us for over 15 years. our family and others first,” said We have built a trusted reputation in the Stephanie. community and value the relationships To find out more about Love’s Tire & that have developed as a result,” said the Service Center, visit www.lovesautoreLoves. pair.com or call 661-3955.
Expiration: 9/30/2020
10% OFF
Offering DANCE & AERIAL ARTS August - June Fun for all ages and levels! In studio registration dates: Mondays - Thursdays 4pm-8pm
Or call/email to register! (813) 513-3111
Newleveldancesouth@gmail.com | Newleveldance.com Visit us at 13145 Kings Lake Drive Ste. Unit 102, Gibsonton , Fl 33534 (Conveniently Located off Big Bend Rd)
813.433.4047
www.ajwestfallco.com licensed bonded insured In Business Over 20 Years
FULL SERVICE CLEANING COMPANY
Residential Commercial Moving/Home Sale Presentation Tenant Turnover
Expiration: 9/30/2020
Expiration: 9/30/2020
September 2020
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
Page 9
BayCare And St. Joseph’s Children’s Hospital Launch Back-To-School Resource Hub
Palm River Family Services Supports Children And Families In The Community
Going back to helping children cope with school may look difCOVID-19, keeping kids ferent for many famisafe while social distanclies this year. To proing, how to kill germs in vide parents and the home and tips for caregivers informakeeping kids active while tion to help get kids eLearning at home. back to learning General back-tosafely, BayCare school topics such as BayCare is teaming up with St. launched its back-to- Joseph’s Children’s Hospital to offer immunizations, backpack school resource online back-to-school resources for safety, healthy lunch students. hub: options and signs of bulBayCareBackToSchool.org. lying. “Whether a child will go back to The web page is organized with school in person or learn at home, we COVID-19 resources at the top, followed want to help them stay healthy—both by general learning information for physically and mentally,” said St. infants/toddlers, kids and teens. Content Joseph’s Children’s Hospital President is arranged by target audience so that Sarah Naumowich. users can easily find the information they On the back-to-school resource need. page, families have access to podcasts, “The back-to-school resource hub videos and articles that offer health and offers a variety of information to help get safety information as well as the opporkids back to learning safely and we hope tunity to find a pediatrician or pediatric families in our community find the specialist. resource helpful,” said Naumowich. Some of the featured content BayCare is a leading not-for-profit includes: healthcare system that connects individVideo interviews featuring BayCare uals and families to a wide range of experts regarding back-to-school safety services at 15 hospitals and hundreds of and how to talk to kids about the best other convenient locations throughout way to properly wear and store masks. the Tampa Bay and West Central Florida A podcast discussion regarding the regions. Inpatient and outpatient servicdecision to send kids back to school in es include acute care, primary care, person during COVID-19. imaging, laboratory, behavioral health, Animated videos for children that home care and wellness. Its mission is demonstrate the proper way to wear a to improve the health of all it serves mask, how to prevent the spread of through community-owned healthcare germs and the proper way to wash your services that set the standard for highhands. quality, compassionate care. For more Articles that provide information on information, visit www.BayCare.org.
The power of three free after-school prois what could be said grams for students proabout the three women viding individualized at the helm of Palm homework assistance, River Family Services outdoor activities, in Tampa, a not-forsnacks and educational profit organization. activities that support Chelsea Lee is one of the children’s learning the Go-4-Kids afterand development.” Palm River Family Services is a school teachers at the The program’s parneighborhood-based not-for-profit center, Luz Hernandez ticipants are challenged organization that is committed to is its family support academically and often building a better community by investing in children and families. experience learning specialist and Cathie Schroder is the executive director. deficits during the school year and experiAll three women have a passion for ence summer learning loss. In addition to the children and families they serve in the providing after-school educational procommunity. grams free of charge to families, they also “I like to give back as a thank you for provide family support case manageall the wonderful things life has blessed ment. me with,” Hernandez said. “Helping and “The families in our community are serving is my passion and kids are a poor and are often in need of assistance great reminder that we all deserve a good with rent, electric, water, food, basic role model and support.” needs such as bedding, clothing and Palm River Family Services originatcleaning supplies,” Schroder said. “We ed in 1996 as a nonprofit community serve as a safety net within our communidevelopment corporation in collaboration ty for underserved youth and their famiwith local residents. The group challies. We provide financial support and lenged the Board of County linkages to needed services in the comCommissioners to approve a $6.5 million munity.” investment for the improvement of one of The center is looking to the commuthe community’s most important roadnity to help support its efforts. ways, Causeway Blvd. “Collaborations through local organizaThe center also provides an aftertions in our areas or charitable donations school enrichment program at Clair Mel to help with our STEAM-Makers afterand Palm River Elementary Schools school program and volunteering are called Go-4-Kids. great ways to help,” Schroder said. “The aim of our program is to provide Visit www.facebook.com/palmriversocietal and educational safeguards to familyservices or call 628-9179. The cenprevent learning loss,” Schroder said “We ter is located at 7454 Palm River Rd. in carry forth with this mission by offering Tampa.
Staff Report
By Libby Hopkins
Page 10
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
Riverview Native On Front Lines Of U.S. Navy Coronavirus Fight
By Rick Burke, Navy Office of Community Outreach
Hospitalman Grace qualities especially Council, a native of relevant during this Riverview, is playing a age of coronavirus critical role in the U.S. when there is much Navy’s efforts to mainuncertainty, fear and tain a healthy and ready distrust of others,” fighting force in the face Council said. “I am of the coronavirus panalways conscious of demic. the stress that this As a hospitalman pandemic can put on working at Navy Medical others and keep Readiness Training those things in mind Command Sigonella in as I navigate through Sigonella, Italy, our new normal.” Council’s skills are vital Riverview native Grace Council is a The U.S. Navy hospitalman working at Navy to maintaining the health Hospital Corps is the Medical Readiness Training of the Sailors in the Command Sigonella in Sigonella, most decorated Sigonella area, and by career field in the Italy. extension the readiness of the Navy’s Navy. Corpsmen have earned 22 operational ships and submarines on Medals of Honor, 179 Navy Crosses, which they serve. 959 Silver Stars and more than 1,600 “The Coronavirus Disease 2019 Bronze Stars. Twenty ships have been (COVID-19) Pandemic brought an invisi- named in honor of corpsmen. ble enemy to our shores and changed In its century of service, the U.S. the way we operate as a Navy,” said Navy Hospital Corps has supported milAdm. Mike Gilday, Chief of Naval lions of Sailors and Marines in wartime Operations. “The fight against this virus and peace around the world. As the is a tough one, but our Sailors are years have progressed, technological tougher. We must harden our Navy by innovations are transforming medical continuing to focus on the health and training for the next generation of hospisafety of our forces and our families. The tal corpsmen, according to Navy officials. health and safety of our Sailors and their As a member of the U.S. Navy, families is, and must continue to be, our Council as well as other Sailors know number one priority.” they are a part of a service tradition that Council is a 2018 T. R. Robinson dates back centuries. Their efforts, espeHigh School graduate. According to cially during this time of challenge Council, the values required to succeed brought on by the coronavirus, will have in the Navy are similar to those found in a lasting effect around the globe and for Riverview. generations of Sailors who provide the “I learned compassion and respect, Navy the nation needs.
Volume 18, Issue 9
Local Business Nonprofit Gladiator Goes To Battle To Help Nonprofit Organizations Achieve Goals
By Gwen Rollings
“When I was a boy and I would see scary things in the news, my mother would say to me, ‘Look for the helpers. You will always find people who are helping.’” – Fred Rogers Mary Lee Walker, president of Nonprofit Gladiator, a consultant in nonprofit leadership, quoted Mr. Rogers on her home page because she has devoted her life from an early age to helping others. Walker explained, “I worked on my first capital campaign in the third grade while helping my mother raise funds to buy a permanent home for a local children’s theater troop.” Walker said she volunteered for her children’s activities and networked in the community, but it was in graduate school while studying communication theory that she made the connection between the nonprofit world and her calling in fundraising and donor relations. She said, “Fundraising is all about building relationships. I fell in love with the concept of using my gifts and talents to make a difference in this crazy world.” After 25 years of nonprofit leadership experience, mainly with smallersized grassroots nonprofits, Walker is now using her education—Bachelor of Science in business administration and Master of Science in communication— and experiences working with nonprofits to help them achieve their mission and long-term growth in the Central Florida
area. Walker believes that nonprofits are vital to our community and bridge the gap between what the government will not provide and what the private business sector will not produce. For example, in 2019 in Hillsborough County, there were 6,333 registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations, employing 50,764 people, which collectively generated $10,578,020,429 in revenue. Walker is passionate about teaching nonprofit organizations the best practices that will help them to be more efficient and effective in achieving their missions. Her consultation services include strategic planning, development audits, board training, annual fund campaign planning, executive coaching and skills as an interim executive director. Her proficiency at this is validated after raising millions of dollars through years of working with limited resources, constricted budgets and a variety of board personalities. Nonprofit Gladiator seems to fit Walker’s purpose, as she explained, “I go to battle for the organization. I train on techniques to fight and defend them. I am a nonprofit gladiator fiercely advocating to make the world a better place. My true purpose is to teach others the joy that comes from giving.” For more information, visit nonprofitgladiator.org.
September 2020
Page 11
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
Beth-El Farmworker Ministry Partners With Matthew 25: Ministries To Host PPE Giveaway
New Hispanic Task Force Of Hillsborough County Helps Raise Awareness
Matthew 25: plies they need to proMinistries, a humanitect their employees tarian aid and disasand safely meet the ter relief organization needs of the communiheadquartered in ty. To date, Matthew 25: Cincinnati, Ohio, Ministries has distribworked with Procter uted over 5 million & Gamble and Bethpounds of COVID-19 El Farmworker supplies, including Ministry to provide masks, gloves, hand free COVID-19 supsanitizer, disinfecting plies to residents in wipes, paper products, Hillsborough County soap, batteries, diaMatthew 25: Ministries, Procter & last month. pers, additional personGamble and Beth-El Farmworker Beth-El, located al protective equipMinistry are partnering to prevent at 18240 U.S. 301 in and reduce the spread of COVID-19 ment, personal care in Florida. They held a supply give products and cleaning Wimauma, distribaway in Wimauma last month. uted free kits conitems to more than taining personal care and hygiene items 1,200 unique partners. For the most curand basic personal protective equipment rent information on Matthew 25: (PPE). Ministries’ distribution activities, please “Kits contain a variety of Procter & visit Gamble personal care and hygiene https://m25m.org/disaster/covid19update products from brands including Always, s/ or follow Matthew 25: Ministries on Crest, Gillette, Old Spice, Pantene, social media. For more in-depth informaSecret, Tampax, Tide, Dreft and Oral-B, tion about Matthew 25: Ministries’ as well as basic PPE, including gloves humanitarian aid and disaster relief and masks,” said Joodi Archer, media efforts or to schedule an interview, conrelations director at Matthew 25: tact Joodi Archer at joodi@m25m.org. Ministries. Beth-El Farmworker Ministry sits on In an effort to best protect public a 27-acre site about 20 miles south of health, recipients remained in their vehiTampa. Beth-El serves the nearby rural cles while picking up supplies. Kits were population in the Tampa, Brandon and placed directly into the trunk of the vehiPlant City areas in Hillsborough County cle in order to maintain social distancing. through opportunities for hunger relief, Matthew 25: Ministries works with education, healthcare and spiritual first responders, hospitals, healthcare growth. For more information about providers, public service agencies and Beth-El, contact the director at direcother organizations and businesses to tor@beth-el.org, call 633-1548 ext. 223 ensure that they have access to the sup- or visit www.beth-el.org.
In late 2019, a a town hall meeting on team of determined Zoom in which leaders people created the discussed the 2020 Hispanic Task Force of census, methods to Hillsborough County. avoid COVID-19 and While this county does the reopening of have a rich history of schools in the area. having Hispanic comFully done in Spanish munities, a new wave to reach any person of immigrants has who is not well-versed come into the area in English, Guerrero, and they are facing Jose Pares-Avila and unique challenges that Karen Perez gave muldo not affect the more Hispanic Task Force volunteers take tiple tips on how to established segments a break during flyer distribution to easily fill out the cenof the Hispanic popu- have some ‘coco frio’ (fresh coconut sus and how to keep milk) on a hot day. lation. This organizaany school-going chiltion was created to help alleviate their dren safe from COVID-19. challenges. Verbally raising alertness over criti“The goal of the Hispanic Task cal topics is just the beginning for this Force is to help the emerging Hispanic organization; it hopes that in the future it communities in Hillsborough County find can have an impact on subjects from their voice by engaging them into the urban planning to affordable housing to political process. This starts with getting earning a livable wage. To do this, it counted in the census and registering to needs as much help as possible. vote,” explained group leader Javier Despite the name, any volunteer is Guerrero. accepted and appreciated at the The group, although new, has Hispanic Task Force. already had over 50 volunteers assist “All you need is to be willing to the Hispanic Task Force through differdevote some of your time to this project. ent ways, such as phone banking, trans- We have all walks of life on our team, lating and much more. but more often than not all that is needWith the pandemic, the Hispanic ed is to be willing to walk the less travTask Force is somewhat limited in how it elled path, to be willing to meet the percan help, but it’s been able to pass out son, those who look and sound different flyers that spread awareness of its misthan us,” said Guerrero. sion, help people register to vote over To find more information or to volunthe phone and has held Zoom meetings teer, go to https://hillsboroughcountydeto debate important issues. mocrats.org/ and fill out the volunteer On August 15, the organization held form.
Staff Report
By Laura Tamayo
For Aesthetic Appointments Call 813-514-4711 FAMILY OWNED
Who knows more about skin than dermatologists?
Serving the Tampa Bay Area since 1988
Medical Services
HONESTY & INTEGRITY THE CORNERSTONE OF BUSINESS THERESA TURNER, CPA
CERTIFIED PUBLIC ACCOUNTANT WITH MASTER’S DEGREE IN TAXATION
WE ARE OPEN FOR BUSINESS.
Adult and Pediatric Dermatology Mohs Micrographic Surgery And More!
We continue to offer telephone appointments. In person appointments are available when ABSOLUTELY necessary. PROUD MEMBER OF WORKING WOMEN OF TAMPA BAY AND THE GREATER RIVERVIEW CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
Aesthe c Services
CALL OR VISIT TO FIND OUT WHY WE HAVE A 4.9 STAR RATING FROM 64 REVIEWS ON GOOGLE!
813.304.5569 | WWW.TAXHAPPENS.COM
Laser Treatments Injectables Medical Microneedling & PRP
10018 PARK PLACE AVE • RIVERVIEW (JUST OFF I-75 & GIBSONTON DR • EXIT 250)
CELEBRATING 25 YEARS IN BRANDON!
Protect Your Skin From Harmful Rays with OBAGI™ Sunscreen
FAMILY MEALS $39.95 SANGRIA QT. $20
Now O ering
25%
OFF
Regular Price
VALRICO
RIVERVIEW
813 440 5544
813 868 3052
NEW! PLANT
CITY
2438 Bloomingdale Ave. 6901 Simmons Loop, Suite 207 1503 W. Reynolds St.
813 514 4688
AcademicAllDerm.com
WE ARE OPEN FOR YOU!! 11:00 am - 8:00 pm | Pick up and Delivery Bottled Wine Available with Pick Up orders!
702 W. Lumsden Rd., Brandon • 813-685-0502 • www.laseptimacafe.com Mon. - Sat. 11am. - 8pm. • Closed Sunday
Page 12
Volume 18, Issue 9
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
Nate Walcker Takes Lead At Florida Cancer Specialists
Law Offices Of Laurie E. Ohall Ready To Serve Clients With Estate Planning Needs
Making a differment and driving ence and driving operational excelchange is important lence every day. to Nate Walcker, “Patients and as the new deserve a highchief executive offitouch, personalized cer for Florida approach to their Cancer Specialists cancer battle, and (FCS), he’s poised that starts with to do just that. access to innovative His philosophy treatment options,” Nate Walcker is the new chief executive of being both “dataWalcker said. officer for Florida Cancer Specialists. driven and purRecognized by pose-driven” aligns perthe American Society of fectly with the company’s Clinical Oncology (ASCO) mission of providing with a national Clinical world-class medicine close to home in its Trials Participation Award, Florida Cancer nearly 100 locations across Florida. Specialists offers patients access to more Following the retirement of long-term clinical trials than any private oncology CEO Brad Prechtl in July, Walcker now practice in Florida. In the past four years, leads a team of nearly 4,000 that includes the majority of new cancer drugs more than 230 renowned oncologists and approved for use in the U.S. were studied specialty physicians. in clinical trials with Florida Cancer Walcker already has a head start on Specialists’ participation (prior to delivering the next generation of strategic approval). Florida Cancer Specialists has priorities for FCS. Walcker joined the built a national reputation for excellence company in the summer of 2019 as the that is reflected in exceptional and comchief financial officer, bringing more than passionate patient care, driven by innovaa decade of healthcare, physician servictive clinical research and cutting-edge es and corporate finance expertise. He technologies that help advance targeted has been instrumental in guiding cost treatments and genetically-based containment efforts that have enabled the immunotherapies and embodied by its ongoing delivery of patient care with mini- team of highly trained and dedicated mal disruption throughout the COVID-19 physicians, clinicians and staff. pandemic. Walcker looks forward to driving FCS High on his list of opportunities are toward its next chapter as a national efforts to further FCS’ mission of providing leader of community-based medical the highest quality cancer care by focusoncology. ing on the advancement of clinical trials, For more information, please visit investing in early phase drug developFLCancer.com.
When taking care ered a routine matter of of life’s administrative preparing for the future, details like estate plansome people are now ning, it’s beneficial to coming to Ohall with an understand the choices increased sense of on the table, especially urgency about formalizin cases involving the ing their plans. elderly or other special “With the pandemic needs family members that is occurring, we are who may need a little seeing more and more more guidance and people who want to consideration in securmake sure they have The legal team of the Law Offices their estate planning in ing their futures and E. Ohall is ready to serve protecting their assets. of Laurie order,” wrote Ohall. clients in the areas of estate Informing clients “People realize that they planning, elder law and guardianship. From left to right: about their options is a have no control when Dana Kemper, Neysa Smith, cornerstone of how the something bad could Laurie E. Ohall. Law Offices of Laurie E. happen and they want Ohall conducts business in to make sure that they take the areas of estate planning, care of their family and have elder law, probate and a plan in place so that, if guardianship. something happens to them, they have Laurie E. Ohall earned her Juris named who they want to make healthDoctor degree from Stetson University care and financial decisions for them.” College of Law and has been practicing Teaming up with Ohall to serve since 1994. She has been Florida board clients at the firm’s Brandon office, locatcertified in elder law since 2012 and ed at 1464 Oakfield Dr., are Attorney emphasizes the importance of communiDana Kemper, who also received her cating to clients what the law requires in Juris Doctor degree from Stetson documenting their intentions and actions. University College of Law and is Florida “When we speak to clients, we try to board certified in elder law, and Neysa make sure that they understand why they Smith, the firm’s paralegal. need certain types of documents and we You can learn more about how the strive to educate them to the best of our Law Offices of Laurie E. Ohall may be ability,” Ohall wrote in an email, citing able to help you by calling 438-8503 or by examples such as a durable power of visiting online at ohalllaw.com, where you attorney or a living will, as well as healthcan also find general answers to common care surrogate designations. estate planning questions and view While ensuring personal and estate informative videos of a guardianship affairs are in good order can be considworkshop that Ohall facilitates.
Staff Report
By Brad Stager
Where Smiles Start! No Insurance? No problem! | In-House Memberships Available!
Free Oral B Electric Toothbrush for first 100 New patients in October! CALL to Schedule your Appointment!
122 Harbor Village Lane • Apollo Beach • (813) 652-0409
smileLYNNdental.com
NOW ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS Call today to schedule an appointment.
813-530-0903
631 W. Lumsden Rd. | Brandon, FL 33511
www.edwardjones.com/adam-benabram adam.benabram@edwardjones.com
September 2020
Page 13
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
Dove Interiors Celebrates 30 Years In Business Offering Showroom & In Home Design Dove Interiors Carpet One Floor & Home, owned by mother/daughter duo Joan Miller and Kimberly Scott, is celebrating its 30th year in business in September, a milestone most businesses don’t reach. Its office and showroom, located at 2305 E. College Ave. in Ruskin, is a onestop shop for helping homeowners make their dream homes a reality, offering custom flooring options for every home, from tile to hardwood, carpet to vinyl. In addition to flooring options, Dove Interiors’ experts can measure and install a variety of window treatment options and custom drapery. It’s also a one-stop shop when renovating kitchen and baths, from custom cabinetry to countertops. The family-owned operation sprouted from Miller’s leap of faith in 1991, when she walked away from a successful career in finance to open Dove Interiors with her two children, Kimberly and Rick. “We just made the decision to start a family business and moved into a small space in the Sun Pointe Shopping Center where we were warmly welcomed by the community,” said Scott, who credits their success to their trust that God would help them through both the good times and the bad. “He’s allowed us to make it through some really tough times, during recessions times as well as through personal trials,” said Scott. Those personal trials include the passing of her brother, Rick,
By Michelle Caceres
four years ago. “He was such an important part of our family, our business, but we had faith that the Lord would provide us with the strength to march on,” she said. And march on they have. The company’s 13 employees in addition to installation crews have all been able to continue working and get paid during the pandemic. “We are dedicated to our staff because they are dedicated to us and our customers,” said Scott. The Preserve at FishHawk Ranch resident Claudia Figgins is one customer of Dove Interiors who has seen firsthand that dedication. A friend referred her to Dove Interiors when she was looking for a company to install blinds in her new home. “My friend did all the legwork, searching for someone who had excellent reviews at a competitive price,” she said. “When I met Kimberly, I knew immediately I would become a customer.” Scott and her team installed Silhouette automatic window shadings in her home and she couldn’t be more pleased with the result. “They were so meticulous and I love the finished product,” she said. Dove Interiors’ showroom is open Monday-Friday from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. and Saturday from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Don’t feel like driving to the showroom? Call 6424369 for samples or visit www.doveinteriorscarpetone.com.
Alafia Driving Academy Helps Get Future Drivers Road Ready In 5-8 Lessons
By Laura Tamayo
Alafia Driving straight roads Academy is a that typically lasts local business an hour, while the opened by Cole rest are 90 minDolmseth in utes and October 2013. increase in diffiThe driving culty as each one school, which passes. teaches safe As of now, driving skills and the academy has habits including three instructors, Alafia Driving Academy has had countless merging, hard including successful graduates. braking recoverDolmseth, and ing, interstate access, offer numerous options turns, parking and more, for classes to satisfy the has served multitudes of needs of the student. teenagers and adults This can range from a 10 who need extra help in their journey to or 20-hour package to just a single lesgetting their licenses. son before the DMV’s driving test. “I started it when I realized that there The instructors bring a company car weren’t any driving schools in the area, equipped with a passenger side brake to and my son needed to learn how to use as the driving vehicle and even have drive,” explained Dolmseth. video cameras set in place to document The company serves Eastern good and bad habits and sometimes Hillsborough County and has had stuhilarous mistakes. These moments can dents from Iraq, England, Jamaica, be found on their YouTube channel, France, Cameroon, Vietnam, Uganda ‘Alafia Driving Academy,’ where they and several other countries learn from have been posted with consent. them over the past seven years. Declared an essential business, the “We are based out of Bloomingdale school will continue to run throughout and service from Wimauma and Sun City COVID-19, combatting the pandemic by Center all the way up to Thonotosassa,” thoroughly cleaning the vehicles after said Dolmseth. each lesson and having teachers wear Students are found to typically need two masks when with the students. around six to eight hours of lessons The hour-long lesson costs $80, the before they are fully prepared to take on 90-minute costs $120 and the two-hour driving alone; and to pass the driver’s costs $160. Packages are available. test, however, each person is different. To book a lesson (or multiple), visit The 10-hour and 20-hour package the academy’s booking page at lessons begin with an easy ride along http://alafiadrivingacademy.setmore.com.
We’re Waiting For
You!
Children in foster care need you to be a consistent, caring presence in their lives. Visit our website to see how you can help.
Remove the worry – meals, engagement, care, safety and so much more! Safe at home, doesn’t have to mean alone. Contact us today to see how we can help take care of you or a loved one.
www.galtampa.org
813-272-5110
Info session via phone!
24 hour On-site Nurse ECC (Extended Congregate Care) License Physician Services—Including Dentistry, Podiatry and Dermatology On-site Physical, Occupational and Speech Therapy Services
WE ARE OPEN!! 11-9
EVERYDAY
Pilot Designs, Adjusts Business To Create Dividers, Guards & More
New Career Opportunities Due To The Pandemic, Teacher Turned Temp Taker
Reynier De unique to fit each busiArmas loves to ness’ needs. design and create “We work with the things. This is why business every step of he started his design the way,” De Armas and contracting busisaid, “from design to ness, Pilot Designs logos and making sure & Elements. His their color schemes company was match. All of the prodrecently in the ucts we use in creating process of remodelthe safety pieces are Reynier De Armas used his design ing some homes in purchased from local skills to help local businesses stay safe businesses here in the the Brandon and during the pandemic by designing Riverview areas protective dividers, separators, guards Tampa Bay area.” as well as handwashing stations and Depending on the job, when the pandemic hand sanitizing stations. started to affect his the turnaround time on business. the custom-made pieces can be completDe Armas decided to use his design ed in about a week. skills to help local businesses stay safe De Armas and his company recently during the pandemic by designing protec- became licensed to offer COVID-19 fogtive dividers, separators, guards as well ging cleaning for businesses as well. as handwashing stations and hand sani“In this difficult time, most businesses tizing stations. “I didn’t see this as an have to restore the confidence that their opportunity to make money off of COVID, business, school or church is safe by probut as a way for businesses and schools viding that precautionary measures to stay safe during COVID,” De Armas against COVID have been taken,” De said. Armas said. “This lack of confidence has De Armas and his team have recent- shown to directly affect their ability to ly been working with a lot of teachers and maintain normalcy at their business on schools in the area to make their classevery level.” rooms and buildings safe for them and De Armas will offer a 10 percent distheir students to return to classes. “We count for fogging services done at local have been doing a lot of refabricating and nonprofits, religious and approved educacreating wayfinding and traffic control sigtional faculties. nage,” De Armas said. “This will help To learn more, visit keep everyone safe and help limit the www.facebook.com/Pilot.Designs.Elemen number of people in the buildings.” ts. De Armas can be contacted by phone All of the fixtures Pilot Designs & at 804-8621 or by email at Elements creates are custom-made and rey.pde@gmail.com.
The COVID-19 contracted pandemic has through TECO changed all of our and Mosaic. lives in many ways. Molter works five It has affected days a week some more than doing temperaothers because the ture checks at pandemic has TECO’s Big taken livelihoods. Bend location. Kellie Molter of “The only Riverview is just downside to this one of the millions job is that I have of people whose to get up at 3 career path has a.m. because my taken a turn shift begins at because of COVID- Kellie Molter of Riverview is just one of the 4:15 a.m.,” 19. millions of people whose career path has Molter said. “I taken a turn because of COVID-19. “Pre-COVID, I usually work was a VPK teacher for schools in about five hours a day, so this gives FishHawk and I worked at a salon in me the rest of the day to be with my Brandon,” Molter said. “When the family.” school shut down for spring break, I Originally, Molter’s health screenkind of had a feeling I was going to be ing job was supposed to last until May off for longer than spring break.” of this year, but her contract has since When the pandemic hit, Molter’s been renewed through the holidays. VPK and salon closed, but since she “I’ve decided to take the rest of the was a teacher, Molter had already year off from teaching because of the been looking into other sources of way things are right now with COVID income because she has summers off and going back to the classrooms,” from teaching. Molter said. For now, I’m enjoying this “Luckily, when things shut down, I new job and having more family time. was already looking for other work for I’m very optimistic about the next 12 to the summer,” Molter said. “I saw a post 18 months.” on one for the FishHawk group pages As of July this year, Florida’s about needing health screeners. I unemployment rate was 11.3 percent. reached out and was hired, so I was Florida experienced a loss fortunate enough to not have to go on of 497,700 jobs since July 2019, with unemployment.” the bulk of the loss happening during The company that hired Molter is the pandemic.
Survivor Corps Heroes Educate & Donate Plasma Post COVID-19 Recovery
Area Non Profits Need Volunteers As Demand For Service Increases
On March 13, Diana ple back into their comBerrent became a supermunities and back to hero. She didn’t know it work, all while fostering back then, but she knows the spirit of unity and soliit now. darity that is urgently “I live in New York needed during this time of and I was one of the first crisis.” people to be diagnosed Survivor Corps’ motto with COVID and one of is: “Be a superhero, save the first to go public about lives.” the virus in New York,” “One donation of conshe said. valescent plasma can Berrent had been save three to four people,” keeping an eye on Berrent said. COVID-19 in the news This is why Berrent is Diana Berrent is the founder of even before she contractSurvivor Corps, which is the a superhero; she has ed the virus from a meet- largest grassroots movement in donated her plasma to America dedicated to actively save many lives since ing she attended. As she ending this pandemic. was at home recovering she has had COVID-19. from COVID-19, she started to Survivor Corps’ Facebook read about requests for convapage has 96.1k members and lescent plasma to help battle it’s a vital resource for those COVID-19. who have COVID-19, survived “I saw that [there] would be a free COVID-19 or have loved ones battling open market for plasma, and during a COVID-19. pandemic, we need efficiency and collab“The Facebook page is a place oration,” Berrent said. “I knew something where strangers can have a simple conneeded to be created or survivors were versation, and in our current times, that’s going to end up being a commodity.” She amazing,” Berrent said. “There is no polidecided to create Survivor Corps. tics, no conspiracy theories or YouTube Survivor Corps is the largest grassvideos allowed. If anything like this is roots movement in America dedicated to posted, it is immediately removed. Only actively ending this pandemic. factual information about COVID is “We are educating, connecting, motiallowed or personal anecdotal informavating, mobilizing as many of those affect- tion, not our medical opinions.” ed by COVID-19 to support all ongoing To learn more about Survivor Corps, scientific, medical and academic research visit www.survivorcorps.com. To join the to find a cure and help to develop a vacgroup’s Facebook page, visit www.facecine,” Berrent said. “We hope to get peobook.com/groups/COVID19survivorcorps.
Many local and is spread very thin trynational nonprofits ing to fulfill the requests have taken a hit durshe is getting from veting the pandemic. erans in the Riverview Donations are down, and Brandon areas. monetary donations “If anyone is willing are low and volunto volunteer to help us teering is almost help these veterans, obsolete. that would be amazing,” Mary McColgan McColgan said. “I’m Mary McColgan (left) is the president is the president of very flexible when it of West Tampa Memorial American Legion Auxiliary Unit 248 and the 15th comes to our volunWest Tampa District president of the American Memorial American teers. Some weeks we Legion Auxiliary of Florida. She relies Legion Auxiliary Unit may only need two to heavily on volunteers to help the veterans. 248 and the 15th four volunteers, District president of the American Legion depending on the need, while other Auxiliary of Florida. She relies heavily on weeks we are needing four to eight volunvolunteers to help the veterans she and teers to help us.” her organizations serve. Food requests have increased since “Our program helps veterans who the pandemic as well. “We are getting have been put into housing through the multiple calls for food donations from our V.A.,” McColgan said. “Most of our vets veterans because other nonprofits who used to be homeless and now they have give them food have shut down due to a place to live. We help them with getting COVID,” McColgan said. “Our food pantry furniture and the items they need to start is running low too because we have been their home.” trying to fill those requests as well.” McColgan and her organization have To learn more about West Tampa always had difficulties getting volunteers, Memorial American Legion Auxiliary Unit but with the recent pandemic, she has 248, visit the Facebook page at had more challenges. www.facebook.com/West-Tampa“We’ve had multiple requests from Memorial-American-Legion-Auxiliary-Unitveterans who have moved into homes in 248. To learn more about the 15th District the Riverview and Brandon areas, needof the American Legion Auxiliary of ing furniture, cleaning supplies and food,” Florida, visit McColgan said. “Since COVID-19 hit, we www.facebook.com/American-Legionhave been challenged getting volunteers Auxiliary-Florida-15th-District. To volunto help us get these much-needed items teer or donate food or cleaning supplies and furniture to them.” for veterans, contact McColgan at 603McColgan is just one person and she 4448.
Do You Need A Will?
$100 OFF!
Estate Planning Wills • Living Trusts Health Care Documents Probate 635 W. Lumsden Road, Brandon Bank of America Plaza (by appointment only) 101 E. Kennedy Blvd., Suite 1430, Tampa
We Are Open!
Boasting the finest food, the best entertainment, and the most breathtaking sunsets on Tampa Bay. LIVE ENTERTAINMENT 7 DAYS A WEEK
Weddings • Banquets • Special Events See our website for more info!
Dine In Take Out and
Exquisite Sunsets!
813-607-2900 | 602 Bahia Del Sol Drive, Ruskin | Sun - Thurs: 11am - 10pm | Fri & Sat: 11am - 11pm
Page 16
Volume 18, Issue 9
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
Tampa Bay Speech, Language & Reading Clinic Offers Solutions For Communication Disorders
HCC Hosts Robotics Camp For Girls
By Faith Miller
By Gwen Rollings
Some children strugshe is the mother of four gle with understanding children, so she also and speaking, and they brings the ‘mommy perneed help. They may not spective’ into her clinic. master the language mileOther team members stones at the same time include Mandy Matteis, as other children, and it who has a Master of may be a sign of a lanPhysical Therapy degree guage or speech delay or and over 15 years of clinidisorder, according to the cal experience in treating Center for Disease orthopedic injuries, neuroControl. logical conditions and If your child is one of Director Julie Kogut with one pediatrics. Matteis is also of her special friends. the nearly 8 percent of a certified handwriting U.S. children who struggle with speech specialist through the Handwriting and communication problems as well as Without Tears program. the many other disorders associated Other members of the clinic include with speech, language and reading, the Samatha Schultz, Ayesha Aawad and Tampa Bay Speech Language & Loren Oglesby, who earned B.A. Reading Clinic in Lithia has solutions for degrees in SLPA (speech-language you. pathology assistant). The clinic opened in 2001 and is Some of the therapies include: articlocally owned and directed by Julie ulation, auditory processing, fluency, Kogut, MA, CCC-SLP. Kogut has been a reading/writing, handwriting, pediatric speech-language pathologist for 22 physical therapy, speech-language disoryears. Parents are reassured as Kogut der, sensory feeding, voice, hearing disand her team give individualized attenorders, stroke, Alzheimer’s and autism. tion and effort in order to properly Kogut said that implications from assess the problem, find a solution and COVID-19 have made her clinic even give the treatment necessary to achieve more necessary. “COVID has basically a successful resolution. The clinic also elevated the need for our support of caters to all ages, from infant to adult, as these kids, and we never closed. We are the team has extensive experience in like a family and do not want any of speech, physical and occupational thera- those coming to us to get even further py. behind because of what is happening,” In addition to her master’s degree in she said. Zoom sessions are available, speech-language pathology and her 22 as are one-on-one safe procedures in years of experience working with both the clinic. children and adults in numerous settings Email tampabayspeech@gmail.com (private clinics, hospitals and schools), or call 368-2485.
Last month, the Engineering Technology Department at Hillsborough Community College (HCC) - Brandon Campus partnered with the Tampa Bay STEM Network and Hillsborough County School District to host a weeklong virtual robotics camp for girls. According to Desh Bagley, HCC camp coordinator, HCC Brandon has hosted all-girls robotics camps for five years. The camp was for girls in grades 5-10 and was hosted via Zoom from 9 a.m.-12 Noon, Monday-Friday. Bagley explained it was very important to those in charge of the camp to give the girls the opportunity to learn together with handson tools as in previous summers. The camp provided participants with UBTECH’s UKIT Intermediate robotic kits to work with and keep at the camp. The kits included a microprocessor, four servo motors, wheels, LEDs, IR sensor, touch sensor and a charging cable, altogether valued at $299, and were made available to the girls through a partnership with the Tampa Bay STEM Network, Hillsborough Education Foundation, Women In Defense and UBTECH Education. By using the UKIT app that was available through tablets
and cellphones, the girls were able to look at 3D models of the robots they were building and were able to program robots through Bluetooth. Campers built multiple robots and learned skills about robotics, including motors, sensors, lights along with controls such as joysticks and buttons. At the end of the week, each girl was given the task of creating her own robot using these skills and gave a presentation through Zoom. The goal was to make a robot that could help in the community or the world. They then demonstrated their robots in action and showed the code on the UKIT app. Some of the robot designs included companion robots, food serving robots, robotic pets, police officer robots, trash collecting robots, hand sanitizer dispensing robots and many more. Shirley Dobbins, HCC Engineering Technology Department chair, stated that her hopes for the future of the program, along with the continual support of their partner, include being able to be on the campus next summer and make some creative and competitive activities that will challenge and encourage the young ladies participating. “I enjoy[ed] the joy and sense of accomplishment displayed by the young ladies,” Dobbins stated. For more information on future camps and other opportunities, including virtual robotics teams, contact Bagley at dbagley5@hccfl.edu. Learn more at www.westfloridarobotics.org.
Bruce Anderson - Colts
Warren Sapp - Bucs
Ryan Griffen - Bucs
Chris Godwin - Bucs
Bryant Mitchell - Bucs
September 2020
eeks S O H EC ers, Car Voluntaell Bingo & Show, FMore... ett
enn Jenny B com y b d e Compil preyobserver. @os jbennett
Page 17
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
increased need due to COVID19, it has found itself experiencing a reduction in volunteers as many of its older volunteers choose to isolate for their own protection. If you would like to assist ECHO by volunteering, please visit www.echofl.org or call 685-0935 to register.
Riverview Masonic Lodge Gives Back To The Community
one that stopped by for a visit. This small token of appreciation was well-received as many voters took part and expressed their thanks.
Brandon Junior Woman’s Club Fall Bingo
Lodge members serving hot dogs to the community on polling The Brandon day. Junior Woman’s DeSoto Masonic Lodge No. 105, American Legion entertainment for the family. Club is celebrating fall and raising Donates Supplies To If you are interested in having a money with a virtual bingo game on Local Schools booth or entering your vehicle into the Sunday, September 13 from 4-5:30 Julie Arndt, president show, call 954-300-8657 or email belp.m. The cost is $10 for three games of of American Legion montmarketandcarshow@gmail.com. All bingo and winners can choose between Auxiliary, Unit 148, locatproceeds from the event will benefit the a selection of handbags and tote bags, ed in Riverview, wants to Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. including items from Kate Spade New thank everyone in the York, Coach, Dooney & Bourke, American Legion Family Registration Is Open For The Michael Kors and Brahmin. Anyone for their generous donaAnnual Hillsborough River And ages 18 or older in the continental U.S. tions of school supplies Coastal Cleanup can participate and rewards will be for both Gibsonton and At this time of year, Keeping Tampa shipped to the winners. Riverview Elementary Bay Beautiful would traditionally be lookTickets are available from the Schools. ing forward to having huge numbers of BJWC clubhouse at 129 N. Moon Ave. volunteers gather for the annual Some of the school supplies collected by the American Legion in Brandon on Saturday, September 5 ECHO Brandon Family being delivered to Gibsonton Elementary School. Hillsborough River and Coastal and 12 from 10:30-11:30 a.m. or at Looking For Cleanup. Like a lot of other organized https://www.eventbrite.com/e/bjwc-fallFree and Accepted Masons, on 10801 Volunteers events, it will be doing things a little diffestival-virtual-bingo-ticketsECHO was founded in 1987 with the Desoto Rd. in Riverview has been active ferently this year. Instead of designating 117867445703. in our community for decades. Located mission to assist residents of one day for the cleanup, it is devoting in voting precinct no. 956, the Hillsborough County in crisis with emerthe entire month of September to Car Show To Benefit Leukemia & Hillsborough County gency food and encouraging you to do self-led cleanups Lymphoma Society supervisor of elections clothing, offering either individually or in small groups. The first annual Belmont Car Show has utilized the DeSoto life stabilizing proKeeping Tampa Bay Beautiful will be and Market will take place on Saturday, facility for over 10 years grams and providing supplies to all, which will October 3 at 10050 Paseo Al Mar Blvd. as an Election Day resources. It was include supplies needed to perform in Wimauma from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Do polling location and the created so cleanups, masks or buffs as well as you want to show your car off? lodge members like to churches and others could send people Chick-fil-A gift cards as a thank you to Categories include fan favorite, classic take this opportunity to give back to the in need to one central location. ECHO its volunteers. and best in show; preregistration is only community. On Election Day, volunteers has been extremely successful in fulfillTo register for the event, go to $10. Along with the car show, there will offered free hot dogs to the families and ing its mission, but during this time of https://bit.ly/2DfEJ39. be a market with local vendors and friends of our voting community or any-
CUSTOM HAIR For the hair you’ve always wanted!
• Human Hair & Synthetic Hair Wigs Lori, • Permanent, Non-Surgical Options Owner & Client • Chemotherapy & Alopecia Specialists Since 1969 • Largest selection in Tampa Bay • Also offering sales & service of all MEN’S hair systems
Karla Marie Carolan, J.D.
APPOINTMENTS ONLY. PLEASE CALL.
CustomHairTampaBay.com BRANDON (813) 651-9484 117 N. Kings Ave
As always, we are here for any legal support you may need and wish everyone good health.
CLEARWATER (727) 725-1052
(Across from Costco) 2643 Gulf to Bay, Ste. 1530
TAMPA (813) 932-5327 1425 W. Busch Blvd.
WE ARE OPEN! Clean Carpets make for better breathing!
All precautionary safety measures taken.
Serving Greater Brandon, Riverview, Valrico, and Lithia areas. SPECIALIZING IN:
• Student Tutoring • Spanish for Elementary and Middle School • Adult Spanish Lessons
VIRTUAL CLASSES AVAILABLE at this time
813-763-5435
www.GradeASpanishTutors.com
Health-Sharing Programs and Other Affordable Options! Need help with Obamacare tax credits? We can help! Turning 65 for Medicare or need a different plan? We can help with that too! Mark McDade e macar No Oba edits? Tax Cr mical o Astron ms? Premiu , $500 300 Save $ ore or m TH! ON EACH M
ASK ABOUT MY $10 DENTAL PLAN! WHY GO WITHOUT?
Life and Health Insurance Agent
GLAD TO HELP! 813-310-0403 Mark@AccurateHealthPlans.com
Visit www.AccurateHealthPlans.com
The Pet Friendly Realtor Assistance with Selling or Buying Real Estate Training Classes with Certified Instructors • Concealed Carry and Home Defense • Children's Gun Safety Training • Countering The Mass Shooter Threat
Nancy Monsipapa & Bentley
(813) 597-5296 442 W Kennedy Blvd, Tampa, FL 33606
www.YourLocalRealtor.US facebook.com/RickandNancyRealtors Hours: 8am - 8pm
Rechargeable Hearing Aids Available Lowest Prices Around!
REGISTER NOW! October 3rd • November 28th December 12th
• Stun Devices • Pepper Sprays • Security On the Go • Concealed Carry Purses and more!
Contact James Simon:
www.mydamselpro.net/simondefense
Concealed Carry & Home Defense Fundamentals Class
Besafe@SimonSafetyTraining.com or (813) 363-7576
Call Cora Simon
(813) 465-4328
Specializing in
Premium Digital Technology
45+ Years Combined Experience
813-642-8200
1647 SCC Plaza Building Suite 203A Sun City Center, FL SUMMER HOURS: Tuesday - Thursday 10 am to 2 pm Monday and Friday by Appointment
FREE
Hearing Evaluation
BIG HR for Small Business.
Providing Full Service HR Advisory services for A Fixed Monthly fee. • UNLIMITED HR Q&A S Is your BUSINES • LEGAL COMPLIANCE ID-19? • PAYROLL SOLUTIONS affected by COV eak with an Reach out to sp • RECRUITING & STAFFING ost. HR ADVISOR at NO C • EMPLOYEE HANDBOOKS • EMPLOYEE BENEFITS and more!
Contact Us TODAY for a FREE Initial Consultation. Don and Chris Guiley
www.aplushearingsuncity.com
1-866-4MYHRPRO (1-866-469-4777)
100%
Satisfaction Guaranteed
A Complete Mobile Auto Glass Service Company Preferred by your insurance company.
"We Come To You for Your Auto Glass Needs"
WE ARE OPEN
and SHIPPING our COOKIES Nationwide!! Send to Friends, Family and Loved ones who are Self Quarantining.
A DELICIOUS WAY TO SHOW THEM YOU CARE!
“We are here for your financial and insurance needs or questions during these uncertain times.” INSURANCE & FINANCIAL PLANNING SERVICES
COMPREHENSIVE FINANCIAL PLANNING • RETIREMENT PLANNING ESTATE PLANNING • LONG-TERM CARE • LIFE INSURANCE MEDICARE COVERAGE • COLLEGE PLANNING "We are here for you and for all your financial planning and insurance needs."
Rendee Hughes
Broker Associate
813-627-0872
333 N Falkenburg Road, Suite B206, Tampa
813-735-6181 WWW.TURNERCOLE.COM Rendeehughes@gmail.com
912 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. Brandon, FL 33511
Michael Beiter, Sr.
www.preservation1st.com
Christian Beiter, CFP®
Securities offered through J.W. Cole Financial, Inc. (JWC), Member FINRA/SIPC. Advisory services offered through J.W. Cole Advisors, Inc. (JWCA). Preservation 1st Financial Group, LLC. and JWC & JWCA are unaffiliated entities.
Corey Gomis
“Moving You in The Right Direction”
Licensed Real Estate Professional
“Everyone who remembers his own education remembers teachers, not methods and techniques. The teacher is the heart of the educational system.” – Sidney Hook
Insurance:
Car Home Life Business Motorcycle RV Boat
813-654-3100 | 655 W Lumsden Rd | Brandon, FL magruderagency.com
YOUR HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY REAL ESTATE PROFESSIONAL SELL • BUY • FIRST TIME HOME BUYER 11268 Winthrop Main Street Suite 104 | Riverview FL 33578
Call NOW! 813-368-9506
www.YourRealtorCorey.com
Need Stress Relief? Need to LOSE the Covid 15? Need to Stay Focused?
HYPNOSIS WORKS!!! Daniel Cyral, Hypnotist | 248.941.4246 | HypnoticEngagements.com
Located in the heart of Brandon close to I75, 1320 Oakfield Dr., Brandon, FL 33511 Hwy 60 and Hwy 301 (813) 607-6880
tesserabrandon.com
“Tessera Brandon…Living your lifestyle.”
Our office is open and we are here to address any of your financial concerns.
Proudly serving the Tampa Bay area and beyond for 50 years.
813-641-7575 www.pearsoncapitalinc.com NO SALT
Never Buy Salt Again! NONELECTRIC
HEALTHIER WATER
PURIFIER WATER CONDITIONER
American Water
FREE CHECK-UP OF YOUR WATER SOFTENER
"Enjoy Healthy, Sodium-Free Water"
Gary (28 Years)
“The Water Wizard”
SAVES WATER: No BackWashing Needed
SAVE UP TO
50%*
Assisted Living Facility #AL13150
Services provided:
Account Management Individual Joint Custodial Corporate Partnership Trust IRAs: Roth • Traditional College • SEP • 401(k) 403(b) Rollovers Transfers
September 2020
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
Page 21
SouthShore Orthodontics Welcomes New Orthodontist With Yale & Columbia Degrees
Budget Blinds Offers Great Window Services And Keeps Things Clean And Distanced
Dr. Matt Ahrens meaningful friendof SouthShore ships with them. “I Orthodontics cherish learning searched for a year to about my patients find the right orthoand what is happendontist to join his ing in their lives,” she growing practice. said. “We’ve been Dr. Shehata blessed with growth knew she didn’t want and I needed to find to practice alone, Dr. Matt Ahrens preferring to work as an orthodontist who of SouthShore would be a good fit Orthodontics has welcomed Dr. Mary a team with other here and share simidoctors who could Shehata as the newest doctor in his practice. lar philosophies on share their ideas and treatment and patient care,” he said. knowledge as they worked together for When Dr. Ahrens interviewed Dr. the benefit of the patients. Mary Shehata, his search was finally “This is Dr. Matt’s prized office and I over. am grateful that he has opened it up to Dr. Shehata earned an undergradube to work with him,” she said. ate degree from Yale University before SouthShore Orthodontics specializes receiving her dental education at in orthodontic treatment for the whole Columbia University in New York, where family and offers many treatment options. she was president of the orthodontic soci- Even if your little ones are not quite ety. After dental school, she completed a ready for braces, they will be included in three-year residency in orthodontics at its SWAG (SouthShore Watching and Albert Einstein College of Medicine Growing) Crew, where children receive Montefiore Medical Center. complimentary visits to its office once or But it was more than her impressive twice a year so the doctors can monitor education; it was also her philosophy on their dental development for better orthopatient care. dontic treatment planning in the future. “I love being an orthodontist and SouthShore Orthodontics is located have wanted to be one since the time I at 13135 Kings Lake Dr., Unit 103 in received treatment as a teen,” she said. “I Gibsonton. Its office hours are Monday, am passionate about creating beautiful Wednesday and Thursday from 8 a.m.-5 and healthy smiles, all while developing p.m., Tuesday from 8 a.m.-6 p.m. and meaningful relationships with patients and Friday from 8 a.m.-12 p.m. their families.” Most insurances are accepted. Another reason she is passionate For more information or to schedule about orthodontics is because she gets to an free consultation, call 815-0080 or see patients regularly and can develop visit www.southshore-ortho.com.
Mike and Adriane This zero contact Wonderlin have now process includes: owned the Social distancing local Budget of 6 feet minimum. Blinds franchises of All products Brandon and Greater packed in boxes and Tampa for two years. or cardboard will be In January, they unpacked outside. expanded by purchasIncreased sanitaing the Lakeland territion by all design conAdriane and Mike Wonderlin have tory. They also plan sultants and installers owned the local Budget Blinds franchises of Brandon and on opening a new before and after Greater Tampa for two years. showroom in Wesley every call, including Chapel this fall at the KRATE container hand washing and disinfecting of all tools. park. Every design consultant entering The Budget Blinds showroom that your home wears shoe coverings or will serves Brandon, Lakeland, Apollo Beach remove their shoes. and the surrounding areas is located at “Our niche in the market is some10437 Gibsonton Dr. in Riverview. The where between a big box store and callWonderlins have a second showroom in ing a decorator,” said Adriane. “Our Tampa, serving the North Tampa area. It design consultants don’t just go out and offers a complete line of window covergive a quote, they actually help design.” ings, be it blinds, shutters, shades, pan“You can buy the same exact line at els, valances or drapes. Home Depot, but you won’t get the same “The most important thing is that we warranty,” Mike explained, noting that have a style and service for every budgmany of Budget Blinds’ warranties are et,” Adriane said. both lifetime and ‘no questions asked’— While customers are always welfor any reason, the product will be come to visit either showroom, Mike said replaced. that many clients never set foot in the Budget Blinds, the Wonderlins said, door. A design consultant will come to is also an area leader in smart devices your home with many samples for a com- and offers many products that are autoplimentary design consultation to help mated, set on timers and interact with you choose the perfect products for your smartphones or Alexa. needs. Budget Blinds’ showroom hours are To help customers quickly and safely, Monday-Friday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m., and Budget Blinds implemented a zero conSaturday, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Visit budgettact process that minimizes all person-toblinds.com/brandon. Call 445-7121 or person contact during in-home service email btumelty@budgetblinds.com or calls. 522-0619.
By Michelle Caceres
Staff Report
813•672•WOOF (9663) 9708 Carr Rd, Riverview FL www.CanineCabana.biz
50% OFF 1st 3 Nights for New Lodging Guests! Offering a Safe & Fun Environment Expert Pet Care to Meet the Unique Needs of Each Pet 7 Days a Week / 365 Days a Year Positive & Proven Dog Training (for Puppies too!) #dogsofCanineCabana #CabanaCares Celebrating 10 Years of Award Winning Dog Lodging, Daycare & Training!
Page 22
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
Volume 18, Issue 9
September 2020
Page 23
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
Tide Dry Cleaners In Valrico Launches Their New Delivery Service
Savannah Court Offers Way For Residents To Get A Hug While Maintaining Protocols
Tide Dry Tide also Cleaners is offers contact making life free drop-off easier for resiand pickup dents. Berry options with a and Sharon 24-hour drop Wright, who box, 24-hour own the locapickup and tions in Valrico drop-off and a and South kiosk that can Tampa, be utilized 24launched a hours a day. Tide Dry Cleaners Route Manager and Driver Ted There is also a new delivery Craft are part of the the company’s new delivery service out of valet lane for service. the Valrico store this month. drop-off and pickup, and wash and The service, which has been run- fold laundry is also available as team ning in South Tampa since earlier this members follow the requirements to summer, makes the well-known Tide protect themselves and guests. cleaning services more convenient According to Sharon, a team with for customers. more than 100 years of experience in “To provide the guest with conresearch developed the Tide venience and quality would be our Complete Care System. It creates goal of the new delivery service,” whiter, cleaner and fresher clothes, Sharon said. using a detergent that can only be According to Sharon, when cusfound at Tide Cleaners. tomers sign up for the service, they A reward program, included autoreceive a hook and a Tide Cleaners matically, allows customers to receive bag that can be placed outside their coupons and more with a point door. After confirmation via text the earned for every item brought in. night before, a driver comes to cus“All in all, as we continue to tomer’s homes to pick up items adapt to the times, we are happy to placed on the hook. help as much as we can,” Sharon Homes or businesses in the said. Valrico, Brandon and Riverview areas For more information, visit are serviced for delivery out of the https://tidecleaners.com/en-us. The Valrico location. Those who choose Valrico store is located at 1928 E. delivery can expect it to come twice a Bloomingdale Ave. and is open week for either drop-off or pickup. Monday through Friday, 7 a.m.-7 The day and time will depend on the p.m., and Saturday, 8 a.m.-5 p.m. area. Call 662-4243 to learn more.
As restaurants leaving a family member reopen, people start to in assisted living strugventure out and life gle with not being able somewhat normalizes to hold the hand of their after the beginning of the loved ones or give a coronavirus pandemic, long-awaited hug. Huff things are not the same realized, “They need for our most vulnerable that contact, just like populations, such as the they need air.” So, she residents at Savannah and her staff have creatCourt Assisted Living ed an innovative way for Facility of Brandon. For that to happen. Huff these people, it has been calls it the Hug Booth. It over 100 days since is a box, much like a many of them had seen telephone booth, that their friends and families can separate two indiface to face. viduals, yet it still allows Chyna Huff, execu- Savannah Court assisted living for a true embrace. facility recently installed a hug tive director of Using easy to clean booth for residents. Savannah Court, knew plastic barriers and this was not healthy: “It’s bad enough wearable, disposable gloves/shields, where the families cannot get in and residents can now safely embrace one see them. Humans aren’t made to sus- another, their families and their friends. tain that type of constant depression, Savannah Court of Brandon’s disconnect and loneliness. We had try efforts are a testament to the loving, to do things that will ease the situagracious senior care it offers the comtion.” munity. Currently, it provides traditional Savannah Court is an active assisted living in a variety of floor plans assisted living facility. Its monthly activi- as well as overnight respite care for ties included big field trips to places those individuals who may need help like the USF Botanical Gardens, but for a few days or weeks following a Huff had to revamp their offerings for surgery, for example. When the pansmaller, in-house groups. Bible study, demic passes, it hopes to again offer exercise classes, bingo and music are day services designed for caregivers regular activities, but Huff and her staff who may need eight hours once in a have added more events, like ice while or on a regular basis to fulfill oblicream socials and beauty salon days gations they would not be able to do that mimic the aspects of the residents’ while caring for their family member. routines that they can no longer enjoy. For more information or to take a It offers Zoom sessions with family virtual tour, call 603-7844 or visit members, recorded messages from www.slm.net/seniorfamilies and friends and even window living/fl/brandon/savannah-court-ofvisits where families, friends and resibrandon/. Personalized virtual tours are dents are safely separated yet able to also available for those who have speinteract. cific questions and want to hear resiStill, Huff realized something was dent interviews. Find it on Facebook at missing. There is nothing that can truly www.facebook.com/SavannahCourtBra replace the physical touch of another ndonAssistedLiving. Savannah Court person. So many children, spouses, of Brandon, ALF License #9353, is and residents who deal with the rollerlocated at 824 N. Parsons Ave. in coaster of emotions that comes with Brandon.
By Tatiana Ortiz
By Amy Schechter
LOOK FOR
GREAT THINGS
Donations Accepted Tuesday, Thursday & Friday: 9 am - 1 pm Clothing and Accessories, Housewares, Furniture, Children’s Toys and so much more!
TO COME!!
LIFE INSURANCE • INVESTMENTS • MANAGED MONEY
813-645-7874 • marymarthahouse.org • 312 US Hwy. 41 S., Ruskin, FL 33570 You can help to sustain our programs by shopping with us and by donating your gently used items.
WHAT MAKES US DIFFERENT? Never pay a consult fee to talk to us. Attend one of our seminars on Social Security. Full retirement/social security analysis (no charge)
We stay up to date on all tax laws. We are a fully licensed fiduciary firm.
(813)626-7575 Business Hours: Mon - Fri 9am-5pm
Locally Owned and Operated by a 21-Year Air Force Veteran
WWW.ANGELONITAX.COM
LAKE BRANDON VILLAGE 11325 Causeway Blvd • Brandon • (813) 655-1237 Hours: 6am - 10pm
SOUTH BRANDON 2010 Bloomingdale Ave • Brandon • 813) 571-0569
Page 24
Volume 18, Issue 9
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
w g Nestin i L
w g Nestin i L
619 BALIBAY RD
w Nerice P
440 S GULFVIEW BLVD #1802
w g Nestin Li
5005 SANDY BROOK CIR
w g Nestin i L
10799 FLORENCE AVE
w Nerice P
10447 RIVERDALE RISE DR
12304 BALLENTRAE FOREST DR
w g Nestin Li
4612 JOHN MOORE RD
w g Nestin Li
2008 BERRY LAKE DR
w Nerice P
3520 BUCKBOARD LN
13433 SWEAT LOOP RD
w g Nestin Li
2780 BUCKHORN OAKS DR
w g Nestin Li
15444 SANTA POLA DR
Over 270 Homes SOLD in 2020! Call Brenda 813-924-8677
In This Section
Riverview/Apollo Beach
GOLF ZONE.....................................PG 28 AROUND THE CORNER ...................PG 30 SCHOOL LUNCHES ..........................PG 33 BH3 TRIBUTES BRADLEY.................PG 36
September 2020
Volume 18, Issue 9
SPORTS CONNECTION ....................PG 43
Ph: 657-2418
Local Dentist Honored With Award
owners who love them. Canine Cabana is located at 9708 Carr Rd. in Riverview. Please contact Angie Pickren at 6729663 or email her at angie@caninecabana.biz.
Incisal Edge dental magazine recognizes brilliant achievers ages 40 and under with its signature award, 40 Under 40. Among this year’s honorees is the owner of local Apollo Beach practice SmileLYNN Pediatric Dentistry, Dr. Casey Lynn. The final 40 Under 40 list includes innovative and passionate young professionals in Award-winning dentist Dr. Casey A recent Dancing for Donations recital dentistry across the United States. Lynn. group. Dancing For Individuals were nominated and vetted recognizing skin and coat health concerns Donations Open To All by an independent panel to select the final are fundamental to completing this certifiDancing for Donations is a nonprofit recipients. Whether renowned for their cation as well. “We are always looking for medical innovations, volunteer work, phiways to improve the services that we offer organization with a mission to make lanthropy or simply a commitment to outto continue to provide an exceptional level dance affordable and available to all standing patient care, these honorees rep- of care. We recognized that we could dra- members of the community. Dancers of resent the best of dentistry today. matically improve the quality of our bathing all abilities are welcome and encouraged to explore the different types of dance SmileLYNN Pediatric services by seeking available to them. Dentistry is located at 122 professional groom The studio can be found at 1076 E. Harbor Village Ln. in tech training for our Brandon Blvd. Visit www.dancing4donaApollo Beach and can be team,” said Cotions.org or call 601-3009 for additional reached at 591-3052 or Owner Angie information. www.smilelynndental.com Pickren. for more information. Canine Cabana New Hours For The Mary is a premium pet & Martha House Fashion Canine Cabana Takes care facility offering Dog Baths To overnight accommo- And Home Goods Store Exceptional Level The Mary & Martha dations, fun and Canine Cabana recengaging daycare for Fashion and Home Goods ognized one of its team all dogs and positive store which sells items to support Mary & Martha House has members, Gabby Velosa, Gabby Velosa from Canine Cabana proven training. with her new groom technician certifi- Canine Cabana’s new opening hours for the for becoming a certified cate. groom technician. The mission is to provide summer. The store, situated at 312 U.S. Hwy. 41 S. in Ruskin, will now techniques learned set a foundation of a safe, active and healthy recreational be open on Tuesday, Thursday and skills based on the American Kennel environment that meets canines’ physical Club’s breed standards. Learning safe and behavioral needs while improving the Friday from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Mary & Martha handling practices, canine psychology and quality of life for both the dogs and the
House was founded in 1982 and has been helping women and families escape domestic violence and homelessness for over 35 years.
Heath Wealth Management Welcomes New Licensed Administrative Assistant
Heath Wealth Management LLC is happy to announce the newest addition to the team, Will Heath, as the new licensed administrative assistant. Will joined the team after completing his Series 7 General Securities license and plans to pursue his CFP designation while working and learning alongside Elijah Heath. Will started his higher education at Florida Gulf Coast University before transferring to the University of South Florida, where he graduated in the Fall of 2019 with a bachelor’s degree in business management. Heath Wealth Management, a statewide leader in financial planning, is led by Elijah Heath, who has over 20 years of experience as a financial professional. Heath Wealth Management invests time into understanding what is important to you and what you would like to accomplish financially over your lifetime. For appointments and additional information, visit HeathWealth.com, visit on Facebook @HeathWealthMgmt or call 556-7171.
Continued on Next Page
FLOORING, WINDOW TREATMENTS, WALLPAPER, KITCHEN & BATH REMODEL
Save up to
40%
on KITCHEN KI TCHEN and BATH CABINETRY
Save up to
26%
on HARDWOOD H ARD WOOD Flooring
Invest in the beauty and comfort of home this holiday season with Hunter Douglas shades.
* Manufacturer’s mail-in rebate offer valid for qualifying purchases made 9/1/2020-12/7/2020 from participating dealers in the U.S. only. Rebate will be issued in the form of a prepaid reward card and mailed within 6 weeks of rebate claim approval. Funds do not expire. Subject to applicable law, a $2.00 monthly fee will be assessed against card balance 6 months after card issuance and each month thereafter. See complete terms distributed with reward card. Additional limitations may apply. Ask participating dealer for details and rebate form. ©2020 Hunter Douglas. All rights reserved. All trademarks used herein are the property of Hunter Douglas or their respective owners. 20Q4NPPIC1
Your Home Interior Experts ... Over 30 Years Strong
0% FINANCING
WAC ON ALL PRODUCTS See Store for details
Page 26
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
Volume 18, Issue 9
a.m.-3 p.m. at the temporary new location of 6186 U.S. Hwy. 41 S. in Tampa in the car park next to the Salty Shamrock Irish Pub.
Thursday of every month. Young, a talented and trusted aesthetician, is a leader in the field who owes his reputation to a highly personalized and meticulous approach. Starting on Thursday, September 3, appointments will be available at Deliz Dental Studio on 2448 Bloomingdale Ave. in Valrico. To schedule an appointment, call 353-0023 or visit foreveryoungtampa.com.
Business Column Continued................... Dental Care Now Open At Summerfield Crossing
Dr. Jay Wickersham, DMD, and Dr. Caitlin Wild, DMD, are excited to be offering dental services to the community of Riverview at their brand-new office located at 12926 U.S. Hwy. 301 S. The stateof-the-art family dental office is fully equipped with the latest products and equipment available, offering Dr. Wickersham, Dr. Wild and their team the ability to provide the most up-to-date procedures and services to their patients. From routine cleanings to more in-depth restorative and cosmetic services, patients can expect individualized care to help them keep their teeth for a lifetime. For more information or to schedule an appointment, call 365-3830 or visit DentalCareAtSummerfieldCrossing.com.
1 Stop Golf Shop Opens
By Jenny Bennett
ous class formats you can diversify your workout to rock your ride any way you’d like. Energizing playlists and a concert environment accompanied by performance stats help you to achieve your personal best, ride after ride. The studio will be situated at 3335 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. in Valrico in the same plaza as Sprouts. More information can be found at www.cyclebar.com/location/brandon, its Facebook page @CYCLEBARBrandon or by calling 990-7978.
Tampa Restoration Equipment Rental Is Here To Meet Your Needs
Tampa Restoration Equipment Rental is based in Valrico and is the place to go for your restoration equipment needs. You can rent just the equipment or they can supply a full restoration service. Products available include air movers, air scrubbers, dehumidifiers and emergency generators. Restoration services for water mitigation from floods, burst pipes or other water intrusion are also offered. An additional service currently on offer is COVID-19 cleaning, using electrostatic misting. It is available 24 hours a day and can be reached on 510-7357. Visit www.trerc.com or its Facebook page @tamparestorationequiprental to find out more.
Being named 1 Stop Golf Shop, the store really is the one stop needed to fulfill all your golfing requirements. Recently opened at 3321 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. in Valrico in the same plaza as Sprouts and JF Kicks, the new owners, Jim Allsbrook and Sean Klotz, are excited to share their knowledge and love of golf with all those that stop by. Along with retail Owner Sean Klotz using Jen’s Markets & Events merchandise, 1 Stop Golf TrackMan to practice Looking Forward To Fall and monitor his swing. Jen’s Markets & Events manShop also offers golf lessons with professional instruction, club fit- ages two seasonal outdoor markets and after the COVID-19 pandemic it is excited ting and repair and lots of friendly and to reopen for the fall. The markets have informative advice. over 30 local vendors from all over Currently, 1 Stop Golf Shop is open Southern Hillsborough County, including Tuesday to Friday from 11 a.m.-7 p.m., crafts and local produce. Booths will be Saturday from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. and Sunday set 6 feet apart and directional signs will from 1-6 p.m.More information can be help you to navigate the site, vendors will found at www.1stopgolfshopfl.com, its be required to wear masks and hand Facebook page @1StopGolfShop or by sanitizing stations will also be available. calling 655-0355. Instead of the usual fundraising CycleBar Opening In activities held at Valrico the markets, a CycleBar, the world’s portion of the premium indoor cycling proceeds will brand, is coming to Valrico. instead be The studio goes beyond a donated to a great cardio workout with local nonprofit premium amenities and a organization. community of riders to motiThe Little vate and inspire your fitness Harbor Market journey. Each CycleBar seswill take place at 536 Bahia Beach Blvd. sion is a 45-minute low-impact, highin Ruskin on Saturday, October 10 from intensity cycling experience for all ages 12 Noon-5 p.m. and the Mira Bay Market and body types. Classes are led by the will be held on Sunday, October 18, 11 industry’s best instructors and with vari-
Lithia Storage Opening Soon
Craig Stern, owner of Lithia Storage, and his family.
Lithia Storage, the new storage facility built on Lithia Springs Rd. alongside Lithia Pinecrest Rd., will be opening soon. The facility offers over 80,000 square feet of climate-controlled and non-climate-controlled storage space as well as outside covered and non-covered parking for boats and RVs. An onsite manager will reside on the grounds and free use of its company truck will be available when moving items into the facility. Owner Craig Stern is excited to open. “While leasing storage units and selling merchandise is our business, we want our unmatched customer service with primary focus on our customers’ needs to distinctly define us and set us apart. The difference is not in what we do, but rather how we do it,” he said. “As we aim to please our customers, we also aim to be of benefit to our local community by supporting, participating and providing resources to the community around us in various capacities. We believe life is best lived when we work together, encourage, support and serve one another.” One way it supports the community is by offering a military discount and free use of the company truck for local charitable organizations and by utilizing the area on the rear of the truck to thank and show appreciation to the military service members and frontline workers that live among us.For more, visit lithiastorage.com or call 502-6755.
Forever Young Aesthetics Coming To Valrico
The founder of Forever Young Aesthetics in South Tampa, Rick Young, CRNA, will be in Valrico on the first
Motion ChiroTherapy Celebrates Two-Year Anniversary
Dr. Robert Lutz and his team at Motion ChiroTherapy would like to thank the community for all their support over the last two years. Dr. Lutz said, “At Motion ChiroTherapy, we understand that each person is unique, and that’s why we are dedicated to providing progressive, evidence-based care with individualized treatment plans. At Motion ChiroTherapy, we help you by not only treating the symptoms, but finding the solution to what is causing them.” Ailments that it can help with include headaches, neck pain, joint pain, sciatica and others. Motion Chirotherapy is located at 16765 FishHawk Blvd. in Lithia in the Shops of FishHawk plaza. More information can be found by calling 793-7791 or visiting www.motionchirotherapy.com.
Tower Radiology And openDoctor Partner For Online Scheduling
Scheduling an appointment at Tower Radiology just got easier with a new online scheduling experience through the openDoctor platform. Online scheduling is easy, fast and convenient for patients to set an appointment. The new online feature is available 24/7 and provides appointment confirmation and paperless preregistration. This exciting new tool enhances the patient experience. If you would like to enroll, contact Christie McCarty at 253-2721 ext.1950 or csmccarty@TowerRadiologyCenters.com.
Go Affordable, Go Velox!
813-425-5155
13220 Boyette Rd., Riverview, FL 33569 riverview@veloxinsurance.com
Let Us Reshop Your Insurance!
HOME • AUTO • COMMERCIAL
September 2020
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
Page 27
Page 28
Volume 18, Issue 9
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
Service League Continues Dedication To Community By Awarding Scholarships
By Kathy L. Collins
Like every Elementary other organization, School and had a the GFWC part-time job at Brandon Service the YMCA. League has had to Atkins will adjust to the new attend normal of operatHillsborough ing in a pandemic. Community This year, the College this fall, GFWC Brandon where he anticiService League pates becoming The GFWC Brandon Service League awarded awarded two two Education Scholarships this year to two more involved scholarships in an deserving graduates from Durant High School, with the agriculCarley Oliver and Benjamin Atkins. informal but still ture community. celebratory manner. After earning his Associate in Science Each year, it offers two $1,000 scholdegree, he plans to transfer to either the arships to two deserving high school stuUniversity of Florida or Georgia Southern dents who want to pursue a degree in University and obtain an education education or the arts. degree in agriculture. Atkins will be the This year’s recipients both graduated fifth generation of cattle ranchers in his from Durant High School. “We were family. He also comes from a family of unable to hold the spring luncheon which teachers. This includes his great, greatwould allow the students and their pargrandmother, grandmother and both parents to celebrate their accomplishments ents. Atkins has been in the FFA since with the entire organization, so we went middle school. He also works on his famiwith plan B. Both students live close to ly’s cattle ranch. each other, so they decided to come and Bradlee Swanson, co-president of celebrate at my home,” explained Judy the GFWC Brandon Service League, Darsey, scholarship chair. said, “We are a strong organization that is The recipients are Carley Oliver and committed to serving the greater Brandon Benjamin Atkins. community. While we have had to make Oliver will attend the University of hard changes due to the COVID-19 panSouth Florida’s St. Petersburg campus demic, we plan to hold events as soon as this fall and work on her degree in eleit is deemed safe to do so.” mentary education. She worked with The GFWC Brandon Service League Durant’s ‘Little Cougars’ Preschool proplans to hold its first meeting for the fall gram for three years. According to on Thursday, September 10 at New Hope Darsey, “This really helped her know for United Methodist Church. Social time certain that this was the career she wantbegins at 6:30 p.m. followed by the meeted.” She also volunteered at Valrico ing at 7 p.m.
From The Tee Box With Jason Blanchard That dreaded bunker shot. How many times have you felt that pit in your stomach when you hit a shot and realize the ball has just landed in a bunker? Webster’s definition of a bunker is: “a bin or compartment for storage.” However, even after you have taken that third swing out of the bunker, it definitely feels like your ball is stuck in permanent storage and can never get out. There are certain areas of golf that require more practice than others, the short game being one of them. Putting, chipping and bunker play all require a lot of feel, and that can only be gained through repetition. There are a few different ways to play a bunker shot. All try to have the same end result: getting it out of the sand. The rule of thumb when playing a greenside bunker shot is to imagine your ball is sitting in the middle of a dollar bill and when you swing you want to enter the sand at the beginning of the bill and exit at the end.
Greenside bunker shots should be played with a lofted club of 50 degrees or more. However, when you find yourself in a fairway bunker, you want to try and pick the ball off the sand, making sure you have solid contact with the ball before hitting the sand. Each week on the PGA tour, you see players knock bunker shots 2 feet from the flag similar to how you or I would hit a chip shot. This skill can only come from practice. Just like a test, if you study, you have a better chance of not failing; if you spend time in the practice bunker, you have a better chance of not ruining your round. Don’t allow that ‘compartment’ in the ground to get the best of you. For questions or input, please email me at golfguyosprey@gmail.com. Jason Blanchard, PGA manages the 18-hole Summerfield Crossings Golf Club as the COO/General Manager. The course opened in 1987 and was designed by Ron Garl. Visit https://summerfieldgc.com/
BEAUTIFUL HOMES START WITH BEAUTIFUL FLOORS
September 2020
Hillsborough County Enforcing Water Restrictions While Offering Tips And Grants
By Brad Stager
Just as it’s wise to save conserving. Low-volume money for a ‘rainy day,’ it can irrigation grants up to also be a good idea to con$2,500 for installing effiserve water when the aquifer cient watering systems or and local reservoirs are replenupdating existing ones in ished with help from the sumcommon areas of neighmer’s frequent afternoon borhoods are available storms. through Hillsborough That’s the approach County’s Office of Hillsborough County is taking, Neighborhood Relations. by encouraging conservation Applications are accepted By following watering through year-round enforceon a continual basis and ment of lawn-watering restric- restrictions and conserving the deadline is other uses, Hillsborough tions and offering a financial Wednesday, September County residents can incentive for neighborhoods to ensure their potable water 30. taps are always flowing. upgrade common-area irrigaRebates are availtion systems. able to residential and non-residential Watering lawns in unincorporated water users through the Tampa Bay Hillsborough County is restricted to two Water Wise program, an initiative offered specified days weekly, once per day through Tampa Bay Water, its member either before 8 a.m. or after 6 p.m. Days governments and the Southwest Florida are determined by the property’s address. Water Management District. These According to Hillsborough County, include incentives for efficient high-water the following schedule is in effect: use items like toilets, dishwashers and Addresses ending in 0, 1, 2 or 3 can irrigation devices. water their lawns on Mondays and David Glicksberg manages the Thursdays, addresses ending in 4, 5 or 6 Sustainable Water Resources section of can water their lawns on Tuesdays and Hillsborough County’s Environmental Fridays while addresses ending in 7, 8 or Management Division. He said, “The 9 can water their lawns on Wednesdays main goal of all these water conservation and Saturdays. Wednesdays and programs is to communicate to people Saturdays are also the days that locations that we all need to use water as efficiently with no addresses, including common as possible so that we can have a safe areas, as well as locations with mixed and sustainable water supply for all of us addresses such as office complexes, can for generations to come.” Glicksberg water their lawns on Wednesdays and added that drought-resistant, FloridaSaturdays. Violators of the restrictions friendly landscaping also helps save could receive citations with financial water and that people should check for penalties starting at $100 from indoor and outdoor water leaks. Hillsborough County Code Enforcement. Visit hillsboroughcounty.org or call There are also financial rewards for 663-3295.
2017 Small Business of the Year
Eliminate the High Cost of Your
Hurricane Deductible with Our Affordable Supplemental Policy Offering Services For:
Personal • Commercial • Auto • Home • Flood • Excess Flood • Work Comp General Liability • Commercial Auto • Rental Properties • And More!
Available for Rental, Primary & Secondary Homes
Southshore Insurance Professionals ™ Protection You Can Trust ™
1219 Millennium Parkway, Suite 132, Brandon, FL 33511 Phone: 813.448.7580 | Text: 813.517.8181 Michelle Mosher
Page 29
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
www.southshoreins.com Michelle@southshoreins.com
Be An Informed Voter, Know Where And How To Vote So That Every Vote Counts
By Kathy L. Collins
Voting is a right and not a privilege. In order to exercise this right, every voter in Hillsborough County must be informed and must know where to vote and how to do it. In Hillsborough County, there are three ways to exercise your right to vote: Vote By Mail, Early Voting and Election Day Voting. In order to vote in the general election, set for Tuesday, November 3, you must be registered by Monday, October 5. When you register, you are asked to select a party. The parties are Republican, Democrat or No Party Affiliation. You can also register as a member of a minor political party such as the Green Party of Florida. In a general election, your ballot, or those you vote for, is based upon where you reside. In other words, you vote for officials who represent your area. This year, everyone votes for the office of the president. There are no statewide elections this year as neither U.S. senator who represents Florida is up for election. There are countywide elections, including the office of the Hillsborough County state attorney. You can view a sample ballots for the general election by visiting www.votehillsborough.org. VOTE BY MAIL Vote By Mail is the most convenient method. You do not need an excuse to choose this option. If you request this method, you will receive your ballot in the mail as early as Thursday, September 24. The deadline to request your Vote By Mail ballot is Saturday, October 24. Using this method allows you to take your time making your voting decision. The Vote By Mail ballot must be received by the Hillsborough Supervisor of Elections Office by 7 p.m. on Election Day. You can mail it or drop it off in person at one of their offices or at an Early Voting site. In order to avoid any delays that may be experienced with the mail and to make voting as easy as possible, the supervisor of elections offers curbside drop-off this year. You must be mindful of the deadlines in order to use this method. You can request your Vote By Mail ballot and track its delivery by visiting www.votehillsbor-
ough.org. “During the primary election, we had curbside Vote By Mail drop-off at each of our 24 Early Voting sites and it was very popular. We expect even more voters to choose this convenient way of voting in the general election. Voters really liked being able to get their ballots at home and drop them off in person without leaving their car,” said Supervisor of Elections Craig Latimer. “The office plans to have drop-off tents at its four offices seven days a week, starting Friday, September 25, and will expand to the 24 drop-off sites during Early Voting, from Monday, October 19 through Sunday, November 1,” added Latimer. EARLY VOTING Early Voting will take place from Monday, October 19 through Sunday, November 1 from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Early Voting is just like Election Day Voting. You must bring one or two forms of identification with your photo and signature on it. Acceptable forms of identification include a Florida driver’s license, state-issued identification, U.S. passport, student ID, public assistance ID and more. During Early Voting, you can go to any of the 24 sites designated as an Early Voting site. Conversely, on Election Day, you must vote at the precinct designated on your voter registration. ELECTION DAY VOTING Polling places or precincts, noted on your voter registration card, are open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Election Day. This year, the general election day is Tuesday, November 3. You can bring your sample ballot with you and use it while you vote. Latimer said, “We got a lot of positive feedback from our voters and poll workers on the health and safety of in-person voting. Voters appreciated the way we set up our polling places so that everyone could be socially distanced, our poll workers were wearing masks and keeping things clean and we were happy to see that nearly all of our voters wore masks too.” Whichever method you choose, remember that your vote counts. For more information, please visit www.votehillsborough.org.
DAMON C. GLISSON, ATTORNEY-AT-LAW Probate and Estate Planning • Home Visits • Wills • Medicaid Planning • Divorce • Personal Injury • Wrongful Death 5908 FORTUNE PLACE APOLLO BEACH, FL 33572 www.Glisson1.com
(813) 645-6796 The hiring of a lawyer is an important decision that should not be based solely on advertisement. Before you decide, ask us to send you FREE written information about our qualifications and experience.
Page 30
Volume 18, Issue 9
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
YOUR NEIGHBOR & SOUTHSHORE REAL ESTATE EXPERT SINCE 2005! By Brian Bokor, Founder www.facebook.com/bokorscorner
Welcome to your latest update of recently submitted building permits or construction plans for Southeastern Hillsborough County. We have several new additions this month along with updates to projects previously reported. We will begin in Brandon with news of Mahana Fresh, a makeyour-own-bowl quick service restaurant scheduled for early October in the Regency Square shopping center next to Staples, as well as announcing the opening of Brandon Burgers, located next to Hungry Howie’s in the spot previously occupied by Five Guys on SR 60. Additionally, the 287unit Tapestry Town Center apartment complex is now leasing at its location near the Westfield Brandon mall. North of the Alafia River, Riverview will see two new franchises opening in the same plaza across from Pavilion Crossing at U.S. 301 and Crescent Park Dr. Bubbakoo’s, a build-your-own-tacoand-burrito concept, as well as Eggs Up Grill, a breakfast and lunch restaurant offering catering services, anticipate November openings. Further south, a Checkers will be opening at Progress Blvd. and 78th St. in the Madison Square plaza. South of the river, things are boom-
ing, starting with Tiki Docks Bar & Grill on the east side of U.S. 301 looking at a mid-September opening date. To the southeast, Boyette Rd. has a Culver’s planned across from Goolsby Pointe near the CVS hoping to open next January; Pink Door Bakery, located in the Shoppes of Boyette on Boyette Rd., recently opened in June; Waffle House, just south of U.S. 301 and Gibsonton Dr., has a late September opening; and Cracker Barrel, near the recently-sold Riverview GDX Theater, is also eyeing a early September opening date. The Big Bend area remains slated for Glory Days Grill in the Lincoln Bend plaza near Fuzzy’s Taco Shop with Chick-fil-A, north of Summerfield Crossing on U.S. 301, announcing an opening sometime mid-October. Local breweries that have recently obtained restaurant licenses in order to be allowed to serve alcohol on premises include Bootleggers Brewing Company at its new location just west of Falkenburg Rd. on Causeway Blvd., Leaven Brewing in the Shoppes of Boyette plaza and Bloomingdale’s own Bullfrog Creek Brewing Co. on Lithia Pinecrest Rd. near Erindale Dr.
Find out the value of your Southshore home!
VIRTUAL TOURS AVAILABLE!
Friends or family moving to our area? Need expert advice about investing in real estate?
Don’t worry, we’ve done this a million times! KATHY LIEBERMAN Realtor
ReMax Hall Of Fame GRI, CRS, SRES, SFR
®
Call or text me today & let’s talk real estate!
(813) 335-6559 Kathy@KathyLieberman.com kathylieberman.remax.com
REMAX REALTY UNLIMITED 2020 W. BRANDON BLVD. STE. 145 BRANDON, FL 33511
Saint Anne Catholic Church ~Masses~ Vigil Saturday 4:30 p.m. Sunday 8 a.m., 10 a.m., & 5 p.m. (12 p.m. Spanish) Monday-Friday 8 a.m. Wednesday & Jueves 7 p.m.
The Masses will be streamed and uploaded to the St. Anne website (SaintAnneRuskin.org) and Facebook page.
The Church will be open weekdays for private prayer between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. Reconciliation by appointment only. For more information, please check the St. Anne website.
Registration is now open for the 2020-2021 Faith Formation year. Please call the office for more information.
U.S. Hwy. 41 • 106 11th Ave NE • Ruskin SaintAnneRuskin.org • 813-645-1714
BUSINESS DIRECTORY OF LOCAL SERVICES DOG TRAINING ALTERATIONS “Since 1972”
• Puppy Training • Obedience Training IN • CGC & Therapy Training YOUR • Service Training HOME • PTSD Training • Protection Training • Aggression or County Citation
813-685-6666 allamericandog.net
ROOFING Palm Tree Roofing
A trusted local professional
ALL TYPES OF ROOF REPLACEMENTS FAST, FREE, FRIENDLY ESTIMATES
Call 813-333-6320 Frank Shaft Licensed Contractor #CCC1327713
Inna’s
PAINTING
Flexible Hours
CERTIFIED PUBLIC ACCOUNTANT
ALTERATIONS and REPAIRS Ladies, Gentlemen, & Children
• Accounting & Bookkeeping • Compiled Financial Statement Presentations • Tax Return Preparation for Individuals, Corporations, LLC’s and Partnerships • Consulting for New Business Startups • Financial & Estate Planning
BIG SALE
Homecoming Dresses Over 25 Years Experience
Bloomingdale Professional Center
813-971-4067
1514 Bloomingdale Ave E., Valrico
gmeyer4@tampabay.rr.com
(near Bloomingdale High School)
(813) 651-4416
Serving the Tampa Bay Area Since 1980
LAWN SERVICE PEST CONTROL
AUTOMATIC SPRINKLER REPAIRS
Warner’s Nursery 813-689-5081 (cell) 813-817-6826
(office)
Lic# RX0058177
ACCOUNTING GARY D. MEYER
YOUR TERMITE AND PEST SOLUTION FROM YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD PROFESSIONAL
RESIDENTIAL • COMMERCIAL FREE ESTIMATES CALL OUR TRAINED EXPERTS 24 HOURS A DAY
813-915-4080
4306 NORTH 56 STREET • TAMPA, FL 33610
YOUR BUSINESS COULD HERE! Advertise in this directory for just $50 per ad or as low as $200 per month* includes ALL 5 EDITIONS per month
*
Call Us Today! (813) 657-2418 or Visit OspreyObserver.com
September 2020
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
Page 31
PF Auto Glass Comes To You And Has Latest Smart Windshield Calibration Training
Palm Tree Roofing Strives To Provide High-Quality Products
Do you have a car we felt this new busiwith the latest high-tech ness was a great fit for features, such as nifty us,” said Fore. advanced driver assisAG Calibration tance systems (ADAS) offers both dynamic like collision warning or and static calibration. lane departure warning Dynamic calibration systems, both of which requires driving the rely on cameras and vehicle at a set speed sensors to work properon well-marked roads ly? Then you might be to recalibrate the camsurprised to realize that era system. Static PF Auto Glass and AG ADAS communicates recalibration requires a Calibration are ready to make with your windshield specific target image sure car windshields are quite a bit. mounted on a fixture in replaced and windshields in newer vehicles calibrated to For ADAS to work front of the vehicle dursafety cameras. properly, the windshield ing the recalibration needs to be calibrated and aligned with process. your car’s numerous sensors and cam“We have capable technicians eras. Certain areas of the glass are tint- ready to calibrate your vehicle and ed or un-tinted to allow this technology ensure your safety features are operatto ‘see’ the road and potential obstacles ing at their optimal level,” she said. in the vehicle’s path. Both companies can help resolve To make sure this communication most insurance claims. PF Auto Glass remains correct and safe, your windis a preferred vendor to the auto insurshield will occasionally need to be recal- ance industry. Part of its value-added ibrated, especially after a windshield service is to resolve auto glass claims replacement, following wheel realignquickly and efficiently. ment or when your dashboard alerts “We make it easy and fast to fix you with an error message. your auto glass problem,” said Fore. Donna Lee Fore, owner of PF Auto PF Auto Glass and AG Calibration Glass (in business since 1994), has are located at Faulkenburg Centre, opened AG Calibration, LLC to help located at 501 S. Falkenburg Rd. Its owners of newer cars be confident that hours are Monday-Friday, 8 a.m.-5 p.m. their windshields and computer systems For more information about PF Auto are aligned to the proper specifications. Glass, visit www.pfautoglass.com. To “At PF Auto Glass we were seeing speak to a trained technician about so many cars come in that had this new windshield replacement or diagnostic technology that needed calibration calibration or to schedule an appointwhen the windshield was replaced, so ment, call 741-3633.
With more than “My husband 25 years of experimakes sure to keep ence in the building up to date on the industry, Frank latest products and Shaft, a Florida cerinstallation procetified roofing condures,” Donelle tractor who owns said. Palm Tree Roofing The business in Apollo Beach, offers a wide varialong with his wife, ety of services Donelle Shaft, such as residential developed a wellroofs, flat roofs, Husband and wife Frank and Donelle gutter installation, known reputation Shaft, owners of Palm Tree Roofing. within the commushingle roofs and nity which their business serves. This much more. Palm Tree Roofing family-owned and operated business believes in completing every job to created numerous fulfilling relationthe highest of standards while taking ships in Florida and plans to contingreat pride in caring for one’s properues to service the area for many ty from start to finish of a project. In years. addition, its highest priority is quality. Palm Tree Roofing was estabPalm Tree Roofing offers free lished in 2006. Prior to Palm Tree roof inspections and estimates. In Roofing, Frank started his career in fact, Frank and his team abides by the commercial roofing industry as a the procedures in order to keep job supervisor and eventually earned themselves and others safe. For a general contractors license. Palm example, Frank does his one-on-one Tree Roofing mainly conducts service with customers outside with a face in Hillsborough County with a focus mask while staying distant. in the Brandon, Riverview, Apollo “All in all, our goal would be to Beach and Sun City Center areas. It ensure that our customers are 100 also assists homeowners with their percent satisfied as we work hard to decisions by providing them with the maintain a good reputation,” Donelle best kind of products for their home. said. What’s more, it consists of a skilled For more information, visit and trained team in all types of roof http://getyourroofnow.com. Hours of repairs and replacements. operation are Monday through Friday, Donelle shares her thoughts 8 a.m.-6 p.m. Email about what she would like the comPalmTreeRoofing@gmail.com or call munity to know about Palm Tree 333-6320 to schedule an appointRoofing. ment.
By Michelle Caceres
By Tatiana Ortiz
Page 32
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
Grade A Spanish Tutors Offers Virtual Lessons
By Gwen Rollings
Qué difícil es hablar people have a clear español? Translation: advantage in the compeHow difficult is it to tition for jobs. Business speak Spanish? owners who are bilingual According to Kevin open themselves up to a Kemp of Grade A wide variety of potential Spanish Tutors, no muy clients. On a personal (not very) difficult. level, learning another Kevin started his language provides an tutoring services in opportunity to learn August 2019. His mothabout another culture Diane Kemp is a Spanish tutor and broaden our knowler, Diane Kemp is a with over 40 years of experience. edge.” semiretired Spanish teacher who taught eleGrade A Spanish mentary, middle and high Tutors primarily serves two school Spanish as well as groups: students and reading and English as a adults. Kevin said that stusecond language with previous Spanish dents typically are struggling with Spanish tutoring. The mom takes care of the in school or are in need of a Spanish curtutoring and the son manages the busiriculum because they are homeschooled. ness. Adult clients usually want to learn The Kemps know how important it is Spanish to benefit their career or grow to learn another language, especially their business. Spanish. According to Ethnologue: The benefits for its students are Languages of the World, which is an many. Kevin explained, “Some students annual reference publication in print and start with us when their grades start to dip online, there are 329 million native and then leave us once their grades are speakers. Spanish is the second most back up…usually at the end of the common language in the world after semester or school year. Although each English. The Association of Spanish person learns at a different rate, people Language Academies estimates that by who are committed and practice can be 2050, the United States will be the fluent in a year or two.” Concentration on largest Spanish-speaking country. conversational Spanish expedites learnThere are other advantages to ers to become proficient as soon as poslearning Spanish. Researchers at the sible. University of Ghent in Belgium published During COVID-19, Grade A Spanish a study suggesting there is growing eviTutors is only offering virtual services dence that bilingualism can delay onset through Zoom and FaceTime nationwide, of Alzheimer’s and postpone symptoms which are priced per session or at a disof dementia. count with 10 or more sessions. Kevin said, “The world is a small For more information, call 763-5435 place and only getting smaller. Bilingual or visit www.GradeASpanishTutors.com.
Volume 18, Issue 9
Men’s Clothing Line Afribera Brings Stylish Shirts & Masks To Community & Beyond
By Libby Hopkins
Eduardo Malcolm “We decided to and Jacqueline Briggs make the masks and moved to Riverview we reached out to our from New York City followers in New York two years ago. In the first to see if we could two years that they help with getting them have been a part of masks,” Malcolm said. the Riverview com“Now, we are shipping munity, they have masks to all 50 states. managed to make We also have been their men’s clothing donating masks to the line, Afribera, quite homeless here in our popular in the Tampa area because they Bay area. Their shirts have been severely and masks can be Riverview resident Eduardo Malcolm affected by the panfound in shops in sells his men’s clothing line, Afribera, in demic.” the Tampa Bay area. Ybor City and St. Keeping things Petersburg. local is very important to Malcolm and “We moved to Florida from New York Briggs. With the help of local social media because our style is more focused on blogger Lisa Freeman (@loveandlisa88), spring and summer style,” Malcolm said. Afribera’s shirts and masks have become “Our shirts are so unique that they speak quite popular. to Floridians.” “Lisa invited us to an event in St. Malcolm received his degree in phoPete a few months ago that focused on tography and fashion from the Fashion black-owned local businesses,” Malcolm Institute of Technology in New York and said. “We went and sold our masks. Little immediately put his skills to work. “I got did we know that the owner of Black my degree in photography and fashion so Crow Coffee Company in St. Pete bought I could do all the photography for our one of our masks. The owner reached fashion business in New York,” Malcolm out to us and asked if we would be willing said. “I always remembered my mom to sell our masks in the coffee shop. We sewing while I was growing up and that agreed, and it has been a great partnerinspired me to follow in that path. My creship. This shows how a community can ative side is what drives me on this jourcome together to help each other. ney.” Helping each other is what makes a comWhen the pandemic hit, Afribera’s fol- munity grow.” lowers suggested to Malcolm and Briggs To learn more about Afribera or to that they start to use their shirts’ bright purchase a shirt or mask, visit www.afribcolors and unique patterns to make era.com or contact Malcolm at 347-615masks. 8445.
September 2020
Page 33
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
See What’s Poppin’ As The Popcorn Spot Welcomes Customers To Pick Up Treats
Healthy Lunch Ideas As School Starts From Dept. Of Ag MyPlate Program
The last thing an Orlando Magic one would expect to game a couple of be met with upon years ago and asked walking into a popus to stop into a corn store is the gourmet popcorn sweet smell of canshop near Amway died green apples. Arena. We were While they might amazed at all the difthink they had walked ferent things you into the wrong place, could do with popthey would quickly corn, so we figured realize it was just we’d bring the idea to Owner and Founder Riverview.” Kimberly Gregory With support Kimberly Gregory next to her sign in popping a fresh from their customers, The Popcorn Spot. batch of green apple The Popcorn Spot popcorn. has weathered the coronavirus shutThe Popcorn Spot, located in the down by allowing patrons to pick up or Riverview centre at 7441 U.S. Hwy. 301 get delivered their favorites from The in Riverview, is home to more than 70 Popcorn Spot. flavors of gourmet popcorn, made-inThe Popcorn Spot offers a 20 perFlorida Big Olaf ice cream, flavorful cent discount for its flavor of the week, gummy bears and ice-cold sodas. The which is announced on its social media shop is clean and spacious, filled with pages on Tuesdays. music and a counter of jars with brightly Gregory said her goal for The colored rainbow popcorn. Walking past Popcorn Spot is “to be able to be a stathe ice cream and popcorn counter, pop- ple in the community and a place where corn aficionados can see the popcorn people can come get great customer machine at work and freshly popped service, strengthen relationships [and] popcorn being coated with sweet or make lifelong memories with The savory flavoring. Popcorn enthusiasts Popcorn Spot at the heart of it all.” can pick up a bag (or two) of their Popcorn buffs cannot get their fix at favorite flavors, such as classic, movie the cinemas right now, but The Popcorn theater or dill pickle popcorn. Spot will supply a fresh bag for you to Gregory and her husband opened finish before the movie starts at home. The Popcorn Spot in January after visitFor more on The Popcorn Spot, visit ing a popcorn store in Orlando three thepopcornspottampa.com/ or visit its years ago. Facebook page “I love popcorn,” said Gregory. @ThePopcornSpotTampa or Instagram “Friends of ours knew we were going to page @tampatps.
during the day and put a negative learning curve on their education. So, making a healthy lunch choice will benefit your child now and in the future. If you include your kids in the process, they will tend to eat more and healthier. Children who know to eat healthy meals and snacks will do so at Kimberly Bragg-Armatrout, NDTR, health and nutrition agent of UF/IFAS Extension Hillsborough County, offers school and at home. tips for healthy back-to-school lunches. Such eating habits will help prevent weight With school starting soon, prepare your child—or yourself—with a healthy issues. It has been determined that one lunch. Make it easy and nutritious by out of three American children are following guidelines from the U.S. either overweight or obese. Providing Department of Agriculture MyPlate them with healthy lunch options can program. Guidelines from MyPlate include vegetables, fruits, lean protein, help prevent this from happening to your child. If they are getting the nutriwhole grains and fat-free or low-fat tion that they need during the day, dairy. By using the MyPlate program then they will not be as hungry when as a guide, you will provide your chilthey get home and grabbing the first dren with a lot of healthy options, and thing that they see, which is often you’ll teach them about portion conunhealthy. They will be able to choose trol. Why is lunch so important? Lunch a healthy snack and wait for dinner. So, mix and match and be creis served during the middle of the day ative with school lunches. Here, I’ve while kids are at school or adults are presented just a few ideas of a wellat work. This meal is going to give balanced lunch that you can pack for your children the nutrition and energy your kids or yourself so that you can to get them through the day, help finish out the day energized. them learn and provide them with For more information, contact good habits for a healthy future. Kimberly Bragg-Armatrout, NDTR, If their lunch is nutritious, they will health and nutrition agent of UF/IFAS be able to focus on learning. If their Extension Hillsborough County, at lunch is full of fat and high sugar conbraggk@hcflgov.net or 744-5519. tent, it is going to make them crash
By Lily Belcher
By Kimberly Bragg-Armatrout
PICKUP AND DELIVERY NOW AVAILABLE
Offer valid only when coupon is presented at drop-off. Coupon can only be redeemed by first-time customers for dry cleaning services sold at participating Tide Cleaners locations. They cannot be redeemed for any product sold at any other retail store. Not valid on wash and fold, leather, alterations, household items or wedding dresses. Cannot be used with any other discount or promotion. One discount per household. Offer valid for one-time use through 10/7/2020.
Offer valid only when coupon is presented at drop-off. Coupon can only be redeemed for dry cleaning services sold at participating Tide Cleaners locations. They cannot be redeemed for any product sold at any other retail store. Not valid on wash and fold, laundry, leather, alterations, household items or wedding dresses. Cannot be used with any other discount or promotion. One discount per household. Offer valid for one-time use through 10/7/2020.
Offer valid only when coupon is presented at drop-off. Coupon can only be redeemed for dry cleaning services sold at participating Tide Cleaners locations. They cannot be redeemed for any product sold at any other retail store. Not valid on wash and fold, leather, alterations, household items or wedding dresses. Cannot be used with any other discount or promotion. One discount per household. Offer valid for one-time use through 10/7/2020.
1928 E Bloomingdale Ave (813) 662-4243 1529 S. Dale Mabry Hwy (813) 251-2234 Mon-Fri 7-7 • Sat 8-5
Page 34
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
RollerBlade Tampa Group Promotes Exercise, Meeting Friends & Having Fun
Volume 18, Issue 9
ONLINE & MOBILE APP ORDERING
By Amy Schechter
For nearother forms ly 20 years of cardio since she cause too arrived in much leg Tampa, and back Janeth Rector pain. She dreamed of started the rollerblading Facebook down the group steep, spiral RollerBlade Tampa Bay Tampa Bay Airport parkso everying structure one at exit ramp. every skill For her, the level can Michelle Rector, Janeth Rector and Christen Garcia invite the community to join RollerBlade Tampa Bay. silver lining plan events of social distancing resulted in her and make friends. It’s a great way to lifelong dream being achieved. socialize while exercising and having Nearly empty at the peak of the panaccountability. demic, she along with a few close “Some cities have huge groups friends and family jumped at the with thousands of members, and I opportunity to race down the twisting saw the need here,” Rector structure and filmed the entire adven- explained. She added that FishHawk ture. itself has over 28 miles of trails and Rector realized she wanted a sidewalks she frequents, but she and way for other rollerbladers to connect others in her group love adventure across Tampa Bay. and would welcome ideas for new “I’ve always loved rollerblading. I parks and neighborhoods. tried running, but running is not my The group is in its infancy, so thing,” she said. “It really wreaked please visit havoc on my knees. Rollerblading is www.facebook.com/groups/54360850 low-impact, and you can go longer 9687663 for more information, to join distances.” and to create events. You can even The American Heart Association watch the video of Rector and the agrees that it is one of the most inaugural members as they speed effective forms of aerobic exercise. down Tampa Bay Airport’s ramp. She and her crew live in the They know there are tons more peoFishHawk area, but she wants to ple who rollerblade regularly and encourage people all over Tampa to even more who will be hooked once give rollerblading a try, especially if they start. All are welcome.
10% OFF ENTIRE MEAL
For WEBSITE And MOBILE APP Orders
enter TENOFF when ordering
DRIVE THRU OPEN
September 2020
Page 35
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
Healthcare Solutions Team Helps Choose The Best Possible Health Insurance Plans
A Kid’s Place Continues Operations Despite COVID-19 Worries
Choosing a “Even if you are health insurance already covered by plan can be complia group plan by cated. Those in the your employer, we market for insurcan still run an ance must have an analysis to see if understanding of there is a less terminology such expensive plan for as HMO, POS, you,” he said. “Our EPO and PPO and Healthcare Solutions Team finds the best clients are surpossible health insurance plans for its be able to comprised at how much clients. pare plans that aren’t created equally. we can save them.” Ken Bardales, owner of Healthcare Open enrollment for the ACA-comSolutions Team, said he can make the pliant health insurance coverage for process simpler. He and his team help 2021 begins on Sunday, November 1 explore all healthcare possibilities to and will run through Tuesday, December ensure clients receive the best coverage 15. Some people may qualify for enrollat the best price. ment earlier. Obamacare plans may not Bardales opened Healthcare always be the best value. “We compare Solutions Team, located at 1040 E. them with private sector plans to find the Brandon Blvd., in 2018 but had been one that right for you,” he said. working in the industry for almost 10 Bardales commented that individuyears. Business has been thriving. His als who make more than $100,000 in team has rapidly expanded to more than income annually and don’t qualify for 30 employees working with clients in government assistance on the marketmore than 40 states. “We’ve been so place find that in most circumstances a busy I had to hire another assistant,” he private insurance plan is more costsaid. “It’s a good problem to have.” effective. They’re so busy because they are “We have a plan for everyone,” he good at what they do, which is finding said. “Whether you are looking for better the best coverage for each client and coverage, are recently uninsured or its their situation. your first time purchasing health insur“We’re not all the same when it ance, we will help you find a premium, comes to our health insurance needs,” affordable plan,” he said. he said. “It’s not a one-size-fits-all Healthcare Solutions Team is open approach.” Healthcare Solutions Team Monday-Friday, 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m. interviews each client and assesses key To schedule an appointment, visit data, including family size and health www.healthcaresolutionsteamstatus, to qualify them for available brandon.com or call 689-8800. plans.
Forever dedreopening and icated to serving residents are children in need, becoming more A Kid’s Place is comfortable with transitioning from engaging in local its summer quarbusinesses while antine practices maintaining to a fall, schoolsocial distancing, time schedule. local nonprofits But COVID-19 like A Kid’s Place has not made are seeing a that easy. return of overall “The pandemcommunal support. ic has affected us Recently, sevin a bunch of diferal local businessferent ways,” said es, such as Kona the CEO of A Kid’s Ice and Mission Place, Brad BBQ, came togethGregory. er to provide the A Kid’s Place kids with food and has seen its chiltreats made outdren isolated to side of the kitchen. the campus excluOver the last few Despite the pandemic, A Kid’s Place in sively, with few months, the Valrico is helping get local children ready for options to venture Hillsborough school this month. away from the County Community area, and only supervised Block Grant has also allowed visits to parks and open the home to spruce up its areas to ensure social discampus. tancing. For the community, According to Gregory, it Gregory suggests everyone has been challenging for the remain “smart and respectteam to convince about 60 ful” in maintaining safety kids to stay inside and on-site. standards. He encourages residents to “Keeping the children on-site excluspend at local businesses, where a sively also creates a negative emotional recent charity contribution consisted of impact,” Gregory said, adding that it crecommunity members buying meals at ates feelings of irritability and anxiety. local restaurants and directing those However, there is a plan for that. meals to A Kid’s Place. As summer comes to a close and Despite recent economic struggles, schools are looking at the reopening, A including cancellations of several Kid’s Place is looking at getting their kids fundraising opportunities, A Kid’s Place, ready to move back to a school-year Gregory said, is remaining open and schedule. To combat the emotional strain will continue to remain open with the that locked up children often get, ranging safety of its children kept in mind at the from young children to teenagers, highest regard. “We’re not shutting Gregory said school stands as a steady down.” consistency that helps them maintain a To learn more about A Kid’s Place healthy mentality; “a major emotional facand to help with donations of needed tor is school.” items, visit www.akidsplacetb.org or call As the community moves towards 381-3839.
By Michelle Caceres
By Jadon Khor
Air Conditioning & Heating
WE ARE OPEN! PREPAID TEE TIMES!
BOOK AND PAY ONLINE! JUST CHECK-IN AND HIT THE COURSE!
OPEN TO THE PUBLIC
with a variety of memberships to suit anyone’s budget.
Open for Breakfast and Lunch! Friday thru Sunday from 10-3 FRIDAY’S HAPPY HOUR DINNER 5-8 PM Sunday Breakfast Buffet: Until further notice, we have a regular breakfast menu available daily.
13050 Summerfield Blvd, Riverview • 813.671.3311
www.summerfieldgc.com
Celebrating 3 2 years in business!
Up to $1700 in Rebates! Sunairtampa.com | 813-684-9919
CAC044863
Family Owned and Operated for 32 Years
FREE
UV LIGHT with New Install
Page 36
Volume 18, Issue 9
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
Venom/BH3 AAU Basketball Team Honors Late Teammate; Finishes Third At World Championships By Nick Nahas The Venom/BH3 15U (ninth grade) AAU basketball team, made up of players from Durant, Riverview and Newsome High Schools, played inspired basketball at the AAU World Championships at Disney in mid-July, earning third place overall. The club played to honor their teammate, James Bradley Hulett II, who passed away last December in a tragic shooting accident. Throughout the tournament, in which they went 5-1, Hulett’s number 3 jersey was draped over an empty chair at the end of the bench. Co-owner of the club Patrick Horn changed the name of his Venom Basketball Club to Bradley was a student at Newsome High School. Venom/BH3 in honor of Hulett, who went by Bradley and joined more leading into the semifinals, the team in 2018 as their star player. where they lost 76-70 to a team from Bradley’s father, James Bradley North Carolina. “Everything we have Hulett, who goes by Brad, is the done this season has been a dedicaother co-owner of the team and tion to Bradley. The kids play for a coaches two of the five teams (10th bigger purpose than just themgrade and 10th grade varsity) in the selves.” program called BH3 Foundation, a Horn and Bradley had a special nonprofit organization. Venom/BH3 coach/player relationship. He rememwas able to go to the world champibers joking with Bradley on the onships because they were sponbench and always being able to talk sored by Brad’s nonprofit foundation, basketball with him. Horn recalls started by a group of his friends in struggling as a program in 2017 honor of his son. when the club first started until “To honor Bradley and his family, Bradley and his father joined in 2018. the kids played with passion and like Horn credits the Huletts with helping something was on the line,” said change the culture of the club. Horn. According to Horn, his team “When the accident happened, it won every game by 30 points or was really hard on everyone, includ-
thing bad about anybody, he was the kid that would sit and eat lunch with a bullied kid.” The team wears bracelets that have “kindness matters” written on them to remember Bradley’s legacy of being a kind and caring person. Horn appreciates Brad and his wife, Meagan, and views them as special people because ever since he has known them, they have cared The Venom/BH3 15U team holds up the number 3 in for and loved everybody’s honor of their late teammate, James Bradley Hulett II, kids, not just their own. He after finishing third in the AAU World Championships. says that Brad is still showing up to practices and takes his teams to tournaments and coaches them, and Meagan goes to a lot of the games to support the team. “It’s really a testament to how strong the Hulett family is,” said Horn. “It’s really inspirational.” The James Bradley Hulett II Youth Basketball Discretionary Fund is a nonprofit organization that was started in February of this year to help provide financial support to youth basketball players, teams and organizations in the Tampa area. The organization wants to provide scholBradley tragically passed away last December at the age of 15. arships to students in the future. ing our players and coaches, and Brad hopes to have a 3v3 basketball that’s one of the major reasons I tournament next February to help decided that everything we do from raise funds. If you would like to give now on will be for Bradley, in his a donation to the cause, visit honor, because he deserves that. He BH3Fund.org. was a special kid. Not only was he “It’s a good way to carry on his really, really good at basketball, but son’s legacy and to make sure that he really, really was a good soul. He Bradley is never forgotten,” said was a kind kid. He never said anyHorn.
Now Enrolling!
• 6 Weeks Through 12 Years • Full & Part Time Options • Open: M-F 6am to 6:30pm • Creative Curriculum for Infants & Toddlers • ABC Mouse Computer Technology • Brainwaves Curriculum • APPLE Accreditation • STEAM Curriculum • Security Code Access Entry • FREE Internet Viewing of Your Child’s Day • Outdoor Playgrounds with New CDC Guidelines with Water Park • Before & After School Care: 6-12 Years Alafia, Bevis, Cimino, FishHawk Creek, Foundation Christian Lithia Springs, Stowers, Valrico Academy
• Nutritious Meals & Snacks: Low Salt & Sugar • Spanish & Music Included • Trained Professional Staff, Certified in First Aid & CPR • Extracurricular Programs
NOW ENROLLING FOR FALL 2020 VPK FREE Part Time Program with “Pay for rest of day” Option • Accelerated Pre-K Curriculum with Math, Science, Spanish, Music, Sign Language & More • Preparation for National Kindergarten Standards • Must be 4 years old by September 1, 2020 • Must be Florida resident • Class times: Tuesday - Friday, 8:30am - 12:15pm
CIRCA FISHHAWK 813 654 7000 5815 Kids Crossing Drive
(Located next to Stowers Elementary and Mosaic)
www.KRKCirca.com Lic # CHC432384
VALRICO 813 657 6200 4321 Lynx Paw Trail
(Located across fromLithia Springs Elementary)
www.KRKValrico.com Lic # CHC431024
Two Great Locations!
September 2020
Page 37
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
New Original Song “Glass Box” By Local Teen Karinna Laneé
Peach Pit Farms, Family-Owned & Operated 5-Acre Farm In The Heart Of Lithia
Karinna Laneé, her, so she worked a local teen going with Nathan into 11th grade at Mitchell, a videograBlake High School, pher, to film the dropped her original music video in the song, “Glass Box,” forests and wooded which came out areas around her worldwide on July house. 17. At first, Laneé After feeling was nervous to trapped by the release the song, social norms of high worried about the school and overfeedback and judgewhelmed trying to fit ments made by into the crowd, those at her school. Laneé took to However, the origipaper, writing nal song had posi“Glass Box” in just tive responses and A photo of Karinna Laneé from a a couple of hours. Laneé’s friends recent photoshoot. Laneé wanted to liked and reposted convey the feeling of not being able her song, even singing along to it to express oneself and being conand reaching out for merchandise. fined by the opinions of others. Laneé said, “It’s crazy, I never Yadira Talamantez, Laneé’s thought I'd be able to put out my mother, expressed, “When Karinna own music. It’s really awesome to is feeling emotional, she writes see something you worked so hard songs in her journal to help. She’s for out for the public to listen to.” probably written lots of songs in This is actually Laneé’s second there so far.” original song out. When she was By working together with ME only 13, she came out with her first Talent Consulting and putting on a original song, “Blurry”; however, performance called Music Matters, “Glass Box” is her first professionalLaneé was able to perform the song ly recorded and produced song. for her community, which gained her To learn more, keep updated recognition. Thanks to donations with new music and merch or follow made by the community through the along with Laneé’s music career, folMusic Matters performance, Laneé low her Instagram and Twitter pages could not only record her song, but @karinnalanee and her Facebook film a music video too. page at Laneé knew she wanted a simhttps://www.facebook.com/Karinnaple music video in nature, with just Lanee-1901273606813381/.
Peach Pit Farms come out to the is a labor of love crefarm if they want to ated in 2012 by huspurchase its fresh band and wife Jeff produce. and Linda Lewis. The “Our volunteers Lewis’ began their have stopped comfarm with the goal of ing out to the farm offering local, fresh, to help us harvest, healthy fruits, vegetaso we are doing bles and herbs to the everything ourselves,” Jeff Tampa Bay community. said. “I’m also in the “We are a small 5-acre process of creating an farm in Lithia that is dedicatonline store that will take ed to being environmentalSquare payments and ly sustainable in its produchave a convenient delivtion practices of cover ery option.” crops, natural manures Peach Pit Farms and micro irrigation,” said offers its produce at other Jeff. “We have over 20 local artisan and farmers’ years of production experimarkets in the area if you ence growing greenhouse, can’t make it out to its nursery plants, fruits and farm. Its produce can be vegetables. We are a found at Passion Florida registered beeOrganics Farmers Peach Pit Farms has been a keeper as well.” Market in Thonotosassa part of the Lithia community The couple are strong and at the Valrico Artisan since 2012. believers in shopping and supporting Faire. “Our produce is picked daily in local. order to maximize freshness and to opti“We believe that producing fresh, mize the flavor and dining experience of delicious and healthy fruits, vegetables our clients,” Jeff said. “We give our clients and herbs is a way to build a positive fresh fruits and vegetables from our family relationship with our community,” Jeff to your table.” said. “With our locally grown and freshly To learn more about the produce picked produce, we promote healthy livPeach Pit Farms has to offer or to know ing as well as enhancing the lives of our when it is at the artisan and farmers’ marclients with our fresh, delicious, seasonal kets in the area, visit www.peachpitfruits, vegetables and herbs.” farms.com. To purchase produce directly The COVID-19 pandemic has had from the farm, call Jeff at 463-6855 or some effects on the farm. Customers Linda at 382-0652. Peach Pit Farms is must now call and schedule a time to located at 11106 FL-674 in Lithia.
By Dominique Asher
By Libby Hopkins
Plans Start at
$70 per month
Our carrier plans cover COVID-19 testing and treatments. Protect yourself and your loved ones with the right health insurance coverage.
CALL US TODAY FOR A FREE QUOTE!
813-689-8800
www.hst-brandon.com
Page 38
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
Volume 18, Issue 9
Bass Pro Shops Pairs With Take A Kid Fishing Charity To Help Make A Difference
Residents Adopt Teachers For Back-ToSchool Purchases Through Facebook Page
lies in the power A local charity, of fishing. Take a Kid Fishing Fishing Inc., teamed up enables these with Bass Pro kids the chance Shops recently to to learn brighten the lives patience, teamof a group of local work and relaxkids. ation, which in Take a Kid turn enhances Fishing, a nonprofit their mood and organization that Bass Pro Shops recently donated more critical thinking enhances the lives than 400 rods to local nonprofit Take a Kid skills, all while of underprivileged Fishing Inc. having the and fatherless kids chance to get onto the water through its fishing mentorand have fun. ship program, received Take a Kid Fishing gives more than 400 rods from kids without a father figure or Bass Pro Shops. reliable encouragement the The gently-used rods chance to feel supported not and reels were donated by customers in exchange for discounts just by Dunn and his team but also by the other kids within the program. on new gear; each piece is refurWhether they land the biggest bished to ensure they are fish-ready catch of the day or not, fishing for kids. teaches the kids how to support “We are excited that more famieach other, win or lose. lies and kids across the country are As a nonprofit, Take a Kid discovering fishing. They’re putting down their phones and video games, Fishing is entirely dependent on picking up fishing poles and enjoying donations, volunteers and sponsors. When asked about the impact making some memories together in the equipment would have on the the great outdoors,” Bass Pro program, Dunn stated, “We are all General Manager Ronnie Cheeks about the kids. We are so thankful to said. be chosen to receive this equipTake a Kid Fishing takes kids of ment.” all ages on various yearly fishing Stay connected with Take a Kid excursions where Founder William Fishing by following it on social Dunn and his team teach the youth media and visit www.takffl.com to in their program real-life skills and learn more about how to donate and the power of responsibility. make a difference. What makes the program unique
As teachers precation.” pared to go back to the Many teachers postclassroom last month, ed links to Amazon Wish Valrico resident Brooke Lists and within hours Elkins wanted to give residents had purchased them a helping hand. the much-needed supWhat started as a small plies. kindness quickly grew “It’s been a little overand within in a week whelming trying to think of more than 6,500 people all the things we need to were involved. make our classroom run Buckhorn Elementary School Elkins, who has successfully during these teacher Tiffany Schreffler taught at both Mintz and received unprecedented times,” items from her wish list Stowers elementary said Renee LaBarbera, as part of the Adopt a Hillsborough Teacher group on who teaches at Bevis schools, started the Facebook. Facebook group Adopt a Elementary School. “Even Hillsborough Teacher, which gives teachjust making the list made me feel better ers the opportunity to post items they and helped me to realize that I can make need for their classrooms and residents these tiny adjustments to help the school the chance to easily buy them. day be just a little bit safer for my stu“Our teachers are going through an dents and myself.” unprecedented time,” said Elkins. Teachers assigned to eLearning “Teachers are feeling frustrated and classes also requested items to help stuunsupported and I felt like this was a dents transition to the new style of learnsmall way the community could show ing. support.” “Teachers are working extremely Educators from all over Hillsborough hard to be better prepared for this unique County learned about the group and school year whether that be in the classstarted posting items from cleaning suproom or via Zoom,” said Randall Middle plies to voice magnifiers. School math teacher Chris Wikfors. “With “The start of this year is not like any so many unknowns, this is such a huge most of us have experienced before and help not only financially, but also for our we know there are very difficult decisions mindsets. Knowing we have the support being made by parents, teachers, admin of so many in our communities is a great and our leaders downtown,” said feeling as we head into uncharted Buckhorn Elementary School’s fifth grade waters.” ELA teacher, Tiffany Schreffler. “This proAnyone interested in sponsoring a gram helps serve as a reminder that givteacher can find the group on Facebook ing each child their best chance at learnby searching ‘Adopt a Hillsborough ing is still a top priority to all those in eduTeacher.’
By Kye Saunders
By Kate Quesada
September 2020
Page 39
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
Love First Christian Center Offers Life University Classes
Staff Report
Love First instruction and Christian Center is Christ-centered starting four new plans that “Aim series of virtual children’s classes this hearts toward month, with topics God.” Parents ranging from parwill gain fresh enting to biblical insights on parfoundation. enting children GriefShare, a of different GriefShare and parenting are two of the class 13-week proages and plan topics available through Love First Christian Center starting in September. gram, will take unique ways to place from Tuesday, September 8 to enhance each child’s personality and Tuesday, December 1. gifting. GriefShare is a friendly, caring group A class titled Single & Parenting will of people who will walk alongside you take place for 13 weeks, starting on through one of life’s most difficult experiMonday, September 14. This group ences. addresses how to deal with the deep“It may be hard for you to feel optidown worries and day-to-day struggles mistic about the future right now. If of single parents. you’ve lost a spouse, child, family memThe Biblical Foundations ber or friend, you’ve probably found Discipleship class will take place virtually there are not many people who underfrom Tuesday, September 15 to stand the deep hurt you feel,” said Love Tuesday, November 17. First’s Phaaedra Parker McKesson. “There are certain teachings of the “This can be a confusing time when you Bible that every Christian must know,” feel isolated and have many questions said McKesson. “Knowing the basic about things you’ve never faced before.” teachings of the Bible is important A recent attendee said, “Going to because what we believe affects how GriefShare feels like having warm arms we live. Whether you’re a relatively new wrapped around you when you’re shiver- believer in Jesus or a mature Christian ing.” looking for a better understanding of the Art of Parenting Small-Group Series, basics of the faith, Christian Beliefs is for an eight-week virtual class, will take you. You will learn about the Bible, the place from Monday, September 14 to characteristics of God, what it means Monday, November 2. that we are created in the image of God, The Art of Parenting class guides what God has done for us in Christ, the parents on their journey to make their purpose of the church and much more.” faith a core aspect to their parenting. To register for any of these classes, Attendees will learn intentional, biblical visit lfcc.tv/register.
ASK THE CHAMBER!
Plumbers, Handymen, Restaurants, You name it, we have a member who can probably help you! This month, we are giving away face coverings designed for the hearing impaired.
Give us a try! Lynne: (813) 634-5111 • info@sccchamber.com • 1651 Sun City Center Plaza
SOUTHWEST FLORIDA RHEUMATOLOGY Specializing in treatment of:
Rheumatoid Arthritis • Psoriatic Arthritis • Osteoporosis Gout • Osteoarthritis • Lupus Accepting New Patients most insurance accepted
Dr. Priya Reddy M.D. FACR
Board Certified Rheumatolog ist
Dr. Gina Prakash M.D.
On Site:
Board Certified Rheumatolog ist
Infusion • Lab • Ultrasound 813-672-2243 11954 Boyette Rd., Riverview
w w w.S WFLRHEUM.com
NOW, MORE THAN EVER, WE REALIZE THE IMPORTANCE OF FAMILY.
See our o website for additional informatio on. All are welcomed to participate in the sp piritually meaningful High Holiday services this year at CBS for fre ee. Join our community to celebrate this important time in the safe ety of your own home. We so appreciate your support and wou uld ask that you increase your donation this year so that we may continue to provide special i l programming i th through h 5781 5781.
Reb Tuviah and ourr congregational family welcome you. We h ope o to see you in person ... soon!!
Have you taken the TIME to do your Will or Trust? Remember, you are not doing it for yourself... you are doing it for THEM.
Shelltown Team of
Link Realty, Inc.
LOOKING TO BUY OR SELL A HOME?
We are your neighborhood expert Realtors.
Offering 100% VIRTUAL Home Buying & Selling Services
Contact us today for your personalized home analysis. Michele Urbanowski (732) 757-5186
www.FLhomesbymichele.com Shelly Valdez (813) 401-9489
www.Shellysuperagent.com Each Century 21 office is independently owned and operated.
2240 LITHIA CENTER LANE VALRICO 33596 THOMAS@TOMGALLOLAW.COM
813-815-4529
Page 40
Volume 18, Issue 9
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
Reimagined Taste Of GRCC Concludes With A Huge Success For Area Restaurants
Local Musician Wes Dearth Shares His Talents With Local Gigs
This summer, said Morford. Riverview residents During the of all ages had the monthlong event, opportunity to GRCC had over 700 expand their taste people join the Taste buds and try foods of GRCC Facebook from a variety of group and over 400 local restaurants. posts supporting the From June 23food and beverage July 21, Greater establishments. The Greater Riverview Chamber of Riverview Commerce (GRCC) Taste of GRCC event There were over was a huge success. Chamber of 1,300 Google Commerce (GRCC) hosted its reimagreviews accumulated from all of the ined Taste of GRCC event. In a world establishments on the Taste of GRCC without a pandemic, this event would list. There was a total of 71 food and have been hosted in person on June 23 beverage establishments supported with 300+ attendees during the June through this reimagined event, five of Monthly Membership Luncheon. This which joined the GRCC solely because year, GRCC wanted to ensure its food of the event. and beverage members were recogGRCC is grateful for the generosity nized as they are every year during this of the 14 sponsors and 16 prize donors time. for this event. GRCC was able to give “GRCC also wanted to engage the away over $2,000 in prizes. It wants to entire community no matter if they felt give a huge thank you to its Taste of comfortable dining in, doing takeout or GRCC sponsors: Art Monkey, Bahama ordering delivery,” said Gabby Morford, Breeze - Brandon, CALI - Brandon, event coordinator. Crispers - Brandon, Glory Days Grill Participants were asked to take a Brandon, Gran Agave, Hypnotic picture of their purchase and post it on Engagements, Longhorn Steakhouse the Taste of GRCC Facebook group Riverview, Papa John’s - Riverview, and/or leave a positive new Google Southshore Insurance Professionals, review for the establishment they visited. LLC, The Alley at SouthShore, The Each post or Google review they submit- Flying Locksmiths, The Forge Irish Pub, ted resulted in one entry into the drawTopgolf Tampa, Uncle Louie G and Your ings. Pie - Brandon. “The goal of this reimagined Taste of To be a part of the 2021 Taste of GRCC was to ensure their food and GRCC, contact Debbie Kirkland, GRCC beverage establishments had the oppor- membership director at tunity to increase their community expodebbie@riverviewchamber.com or 234sure and social media engagement,” 5944.
Brandon’s own Dearth dwells Wes Dearth (better on. Quite the known internationally opposite, he’s as John Wesley) has looking forward seen his share of sucto enjoying life cess in the music as father, husindustry enjoying thouband and consands of fans around tinuing his work the globe, hundreds of with The Heroes shows worldwide and Journey, a localdozens of studio album ly-run nonprofit appearances, many dedicated to Wes Dearth, Tampa’s most successful his own solo projects. veterans and hidden talent, plays regularly at local spots The list of artists first responders AJ’s on the River and The Talking Pint. Dearth has played alongside include transitioning from service to civilian life, some of rock’s biggest stars, being most which Dearth provided sound for the play associated with former local bands “Last Out – Elegy of a Green Beret.” Autodrive and Sister Hazel as well as “The one aspect of the past I never being affectionately known as the fifth mind revisiting is catching up with old member of the band Porcupine Tree. friends,” said Dearth. Dearth’s musical background is well docThe locally raised couple (Dearth umented with numerous interviews availwas born in St Anthony’s, attended able online. Nativity Catholic, wrestled for and graduBut “the times, they are a-changin’,” ated from Brandon High in 1980, with and life in the music business is tough. Becka being a 1993 East Bay grad) Recently, COVID-19—but before that, recently celebrated their 20th anniversary management, record labels, publishers, and look forward to seeing new and old venues, streaming and download servicfaces at Dearth’s shows. es and piracy—have cut into artists’ “We invite anyone that grew up in the income, and it’s estimated they only area in the 70s, 80s and 90s to come out, receive 12 percent of revenues generatsay hello and possibly run into some old ed by their work. Live performances, mer- friends along the way,” they said. chandise and direct online sales now proDearth’s catalog, including free vide the lion’s share of their earnings, and download samples, is available at this is where we can help. www.John-Wesley.com, with concert I caught up with Dearth, his wife, updates available on his Wes Dearth Becka, and 8-year-old son, John, after his Facebook page. He plays at AJ’s on the Wednesday night acoustic performance River on Wednesdays from 5:30-8:30 at AJ’s on the River in Riverview, and p.m. with a monthly show at Riverview’s found that looking back is not something The Talking Pint.
Staff Report
By Brian Bokor
Our 3rd Location is
NOW OPEN! Palmetto Bait & Tackle
Tampa Bay Speech, Language & Reading Clinic
(813) 296-7735
• Reading • Writing • Handwriting • Therapy Services: • Articulation • Apraxia • Auditory Processing • Autism • Sensory Feeding Disorders
Mon - Sat: 6 AM - 7 PM Sun: 6 AM- 6 PM
709 8th Ave West, Palmetto 1/4 mile north of the Manatee River Boat Ramp
Rods, Reels and Tackle • Live Shrimp (Small-Medium-Large-Jumbo)
Bait Reservations Accepted
Frozen Bait • Live Worms • Rod Repair • Live Shiners
With Our Merchandise You Can Catch What You Want! TWO LOCATIONS TO SERVE YOU:
Park Square - Fishhawk • 16132 Churchview Dr., Ste. 205 • (813)368-2485
10% OFF ENTIRE MEAL
JF Kicks 813-643-7777 3345 Lithia Pinecrest Rd., Valrico Excludes other discounts, specials, or offers. Expires 10/07/2020
Buy One Get One BAKLAVA (per order)
Little Greek Fresh Grill 813.570.8162
RIVERVIEW LOCATION ONLY
10173 Big Bend Rd., Riverview Expires 10/07/2020
6040 US 41 N, APOLLO BEACH
10% OFF
|
9851 US 41 S, GIBSONTON
LUNCH SPECIALS $7.95 every day!
FAMILY MEAL SPECIALS
10% OFF
ENTIRE ORDER
$39.95 includes flan! Take Out and Delivery
ENTIRE PURCHASE
Nekter Juice Bar
La Septima Cafe
Sunflower Cafe
(813) 409-2679 3482 Lithia Pinecrest Rd, Valrico Not to be combined with any other coupons, discounts or offers. Expires 10/07/2020
702 W Lumsden Rd, Brandon Not Valid with any other discounts, promotions or coupons. No Cash Value. Expires 10/07/2020
813-65-SUSHI Only valid with regular menu. With this coupon. Must present before submitting payment. Before tax. One coupon per visit. Not valid with other offers. Expires 10/07/2020
September 2020
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
Page 41
Hillsborough County Public Schools To Upgrade All Campus Air Filters
Local Catering Business Strikes Gold And Becomes Vendor For Super Bowl 2021
As local stuwant our families to dents prepare to know we are taking return to school every step possible to later this month, create a safe environHillsborough ment as our learners County Public prepare to return to Schools (HCPS) is the classroom,” said working to make Davis. classrooms safer In addition to the with new, upgradfilter installation, engied air filters. neers will assess “Hillsborough indoor air quality, ventiHillsborough County Public Schools is in County Public the process of upgrading air filters on all lation, temperature, campuses to a MERV 13 rating. Schools continhumidity, mechanical ues to invest in the safety of its students systems and domestic water following and staff by upgrading air filters on all CDC, ASHRAE and OSHA guidance to campuses to a MERV 13 rating, which help mitigate the spread of viruses and can help reduce the impacts of COVIDbacteria. Engineers are also conducting 19 within our schools,” said Tanya Arja, an assessment of indoor air quality along HCPS chief of communications. “The with CO2 sensor accuracy and exhaust CDC and the American Society of fan operations. Heating, Refrigerating and Air“I am proud that our long-term Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) has partnership with the district regarding recommended school districts across the energy efficiency will now include nation install these upgraded filters as upgrading filtration systems for each students return to the classroom.” campus. Our goal has always been to According to Arja, Superintendent help Hillsborough County Public Addison Davis announced this upgrade Schools to provide the most comfortearlier this month along with district partable and safe learning environment for ners as HCPS works to evaluate the students and teachers. By installing high-level functional performance of the MERV 13 filters, this district becomes ventilation systems in schools and admin- the state leader in this arena,” said istrative buildings. Mike Grabham, vice president of “The health of our students, teachers McKinstry. and staff has always been the priority More than half of schools will have since the beginning of this pandemic. been converted to MERV 13 filters by These upgraded filters are in highAugust 24, with full installation in all demand across the nation, and because schools set for completion by our team has been forward-thinking Thursday, October 1. throughout this situation, we are now able To learn more, visit the website at to provide filters for each of our schools. I www.hillsboroughschools.org.
Lennise Germany, founder and CEO of Livy O’s Catering, is a self-proclaimed ‘goal digger.’ She has gotten so good as a goal digger that she holds seminars on how to help others become successful at it, too. About six years ago, Germany made a decision to leave her career at a hospital The Germany family, who worked together to behind and head out in search of create Livy O’s Catering. the goal rush she dreamed she rently approved to serve breakfast and would find in the Tampa area goal fields lunch for grades K through 12 under the of culinary arts. National School Lunch Program. Like many other goal miners, her iniGermany envisions becoming a presence tial efforts were humble and uncertain as on college campuses as well. she began by making individual meals Livy O’s struck gold after being and selling them from the trunk of her car. named one of 200 vendors for the 2021 Her persistence finally paid off after a Super Bowl. Ashwood said it was a long meal delivery to TECO when she was process. “We were interviewed by a asked to cater an event. That’s when Livy panel in order to get approved. We also O’s Catering Company began. had to be a small business and minority The business name originated from business certified by both the City of the four younger children of Germany and Tampa and the County of Hillsborough.” her husband, Omar: Omar Jr., Olivia, COVID-19 has curtailed many Obree and Olena. Livy O’s became a catered events, but it has not halted Livy family affair. According to Staci-Leigh O’s operations completely as it safely Ashwood, operations manager, “When ensures food service for micro weddings, the company first began, it was complete- home celebrations and preparing stuly operated by family members in different dents’ breakfasts and lunches. capacities, from those preparing the food Although many goal seekers become to serving at the staffed events.” Ashwood discouraged and abandon their dreams stated that without the help of family when things don’t quickly pan out as they members, Livy O’s would not have hoped, Germany and her family press on, achieved its present success as one of providing delicious, healthy meals and the Bay area’s leading catering compacontinuing to mine unexplored opportuninies. ties in order to keep their claim of an Persistence, quality menu choices experience for guests that is unparalleled. and a respected reputation landed multiCall 494-0820 or check out the Livy ple government contracts. Livy O’s is cur- O’s website at http://livyos.com.
Staff Report
By Gwen Rollings
Page 42
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
Volume 18, Issue 9
Get Suspicious Seeds In The Mail? Hillsborough’s Extension Service Will Take Them
Staff Report
The New St. Pete Pier: More Than A View Of The Bay
By Kye Saunders
Located in feet at its tallest downtown St. point. Petersburg, the A Tampa opening of the Bay native, much-anticipatEchelman’s ed St. Pete Pier work sways in couldn’t have the sea breeze come at a better and at night it is time to provide illuminated with an outdoor purple and pink space for people of all light, making the tranages. sition from day to The 26-acre park night seamless and offers a chance to beautiful. explore the beauty of The actual pier The newly open St. Pete Pier offers the Tampa Bay both itself spans into the a fun day trip for Brandon area on land and overlookwater with plenty of residents. ing the water. viewing spots having outdoor seating Stroll, bike, skate, dine and drink at serval dining spots, such as in comfort and ease while enjoying the Driftwood Cafe, Pier Teaki and Teak. sunset without having to make a As a Brandon native, I have visitreservation. ed St. Petersburg plenty of times for Upon my first visit to the Pier, I one purpose only: the beach. But now, was struck by the its ability to be a the Pier is officially one of my favorite place to enjoy both nature and art. go-to spots in St. Petersburg. The largest piece of art at home Currently, St. Pete Pier does at St. Pete Pier is Janet Echelman’s request that visitors wear a mask and newest permanent work, Bending Arc, maintain a 6-foot distance from othis composed of 1,662,528 knots and ers. 180 miles of twine. The aerial sculpTo learn more and for directions, ture spans 424 feet and measures 72 visit stpetepier.org.
Recently, some ‘brushing scam’ residents may have where people been receiving receive unsolicited unsolicited seeds items from a seller from China, which who then posts should not be plantfalse customer ed or used in any reviews to boost way. Instead, sales. The seeds Hillsborough County should not be plantresidents who ed or used in any received these other way. unsolicited packSeeds of ages of suspicious unknown origin seeds in the mail One of the unsolicited seed packages may constitute received by a local resident. may bring the packagricultural smugets to the Hillsborough County gling, be invasive, introduce Extension Service three days a week. pathogens or toxins, pose a risk of Extension Service staff will foodborne illness or threaten plant accept the seeds on Mondays, and animal health, according to the Wednesdays and Fridays from 9 a.m. Florida Department of Agriculture and to 3 p.m. Residents who are unable Consumer Services. to drop off the seeds during these Residents should bring only times can call 744-5519 for additional seed/plant material packets and their instructions. The Extension Service is original packaging to the Extension located at 5339 County Rd. 579 in Service office. Any other items that Seffner. may have been contained in the packThe arrival in mailboxes across ages can be discarded. The seeds are the country of suspicious seed packbeing collected by the Florida ets that appear to have come from Department of Agriculture and China has generated headlines and Consumer Services, which is assisting prompted an alert from the U.S. in the nationwide investigation. Department of Agriculture. The USDA So far, the Hillsborough County is working closely with other federal Extension Service has been sent four agencies and state departments of seed packages from local residents. agriculture to investigate the deliverPeople in possession of unopened ies. packages or packages containing The USDA believes at this time other non-agricultural items should that the packages, reportedly somecontact the USDA APHIS Antitimes containing other items such as Smuggling Hotline at 800-877-3835 or silverware and fidget spinners, are a SITC.mail@aphis.usda.gov.
Find us on Facebook
and enter into a random drawing each month for a chance to win a featured piece of jewelry.
Mc Auley Fine Jewelry Open Tuesday-Friday 10-6 • Saturday 10-4
813-689-8124 Oakfield Drive, Brandon
(Located in the Atlantic Village Plaza, Kings Avenue & Oakfield Drive)
Watchmaker and Jewelers On Site • We Buy Gold!
September 2020
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
Page 43
Sports Connection 657-2418
Photos courtesy of Jarrett Guthrie from 813Preps.com By Nick Nahas www.ospreyobserver.com
Sumner High School Hires Former Lennard Baseball Coach Duran As Head Coach
Kennedy Duran coaching at the annual Hillsborough vs Pinellas All-Star game.
It has been a year of firsts for brand-new Sumner High School, located in Riverview. The school has already started putting together their athletic program—from new facilities and new staff to new students. Former Lennard High School Baseball Head Coach Kennedy Duran was hired by the school at the end of last season to take over the baseball program. Duran was the perfect fit for the Stingrays because of his prior experience. He launched the Lennard baseball program in 2006, where he remained for 14 years, building that program from the bottom up. The
Kennedy Duran watches on while coaching at third base.
Longhorns had their best season under Duran in 2019, making it to the playoffs for the first time in school history. The longtime Lennard head coach previously coached at Eastern University in Pennsylvania as the associate head coach. He has always had a love for the game that started during his upbringing. After having a successful high school baseball career and playing college ball at Division III Cortland State College in New York as a catcher, Duran wanted to get into coaching to share his knowledge and love of the game with the younger generation of players.
A man who puts family first, Duran, who will also teach PE at the school, said that one of the reasons he took the job was because his daughter will be attending the school next year. “It just felt like it was the right time to make the change with her coming into ninth grade next year and with this opportunity being open; you don’t get those opportunities very often,” said Duran. Duran is looking forward to the challenges that this opportunity will present. “I already opened up a school, and I built a program from scratch,” said Duran. “It’s those learning curves that you hit and how you figure those out,
not making the same mistakes that I have made before and learning from those mistakes, and embracing the growing pains that come with a new program.” The number one thing that Duran pointed out as a major advantage from his prior experience at Lennard that he will bring to Sumner is patience. Patience from the players and parents will be crucial to help build a program. Duran said that the three pillars that his new program will be built on are trust, honesty and accountability. He hopes the parents will trust him with their prized possessions and understand that the kids are getting a teacher first and foremost, and that the momentum created from the last few years at Lennard can carry on to Sumner as the kids are taught and brought along at the right pace. “Rome wasn’t built in one day,” said Duran.
Page 44
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
Volume 18, Issue 9