Riverview/Apollo Beach 49-57
7
March 2022
Volume 20, Issue 3
Ph: 657-2418
CELEBRATING 20 YEARS OF PUBLISHING P OSITIVE COMMUNIT Y NEWS
NEW WATERSET SCHOOL NAMED DOROTHY C. YORK PREK-8 MAGNET Staff Report
Osprey Observer 2109 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. Valrico, FL 33596
By Sharon Still
Montel Williams opened the door to show the Clarke family a completely redesigned home after his Military Makeover team did its magic for these selfless veterans.
The Military Makeover with Montel TV show, led by Montel Williams, a veteran of both the Marine Corps and the Navy, came into town recently, and for six days, contractors, designers and volunteers worked feverishly to give a makeover to the Riverview home of veterans Kari and Adam Clarke and their two sons. Family, friends, neighbors, volunteers and the East Bay High School Junior ROTC Color Guard gathered as the rain poured steadily, awaiting the family’s arrival for the big reveal. Military Makeover co-host Art Edmonds proclaimed, “This is all about community. Rain, cold, wind—nothing could stop us.” Williams’ Military Makeover show seeks out deserving veterans and does a complete design renovation on their home as a way of offering a helping hand and saying “thank you.” “This is our 29th season,” said Williams. “We are proud to making a forever home for a two-veteran family.” “She is so deserving,” said Kristine Dugas about her sister, Kari. “She is always helping others.” From landscaping and new paint outside to new lighting, appliances, furniture, artwork and even a cat tree to entertain their fuzzy feline, the house had a whole new flair and function. Additionally, the Clarkes received a hyperbaric chamber from Grunt Style, which will aid in Kari’s autoimmune disease. “That is really exciting and very helpful,” said Kari.
“We are so glad they like it,” remarked co-host Lacey Evans at the big reveal. “Our whole team nailed their personality.” After meeting at The Veterans Administration hospital, Kari and Adam found that their similar experiences brought them closer together. Both served as army sergeants in different areas and saw the horror of the front line in war, losing close friends, cheating death and encountering horrific situations that would stay with them for life. The aftereffects of an accident during training left Kari with several herniated discs in her spine and being diagnosed with auto-immune disease, forcing her to medically retire long before she hoped to end her military career. Though both Adam and Kari continue to battle their emotional and physical scars, and they spend their time giving back and supporting others. Kari serves as president of Post 9/11 Veterans, an organization in Tampa that focuses on integrating the community together with returning veterans. Many volunteers and businesses throughout the community donated their time and products during the sixday shoot, including Chill Cawfee, Lowe’s of Riverview, Bath Fitters, SERVPRO of Brandon/Riverview and others. Smith & Steele Design served as general contractors throughout the entire project. Nominations for Military Makeover can be made at www.mililtarymakeover.tv. The Clarke Family’s show is set to air on Lifetime on Friday, March 11.
IN THIS ISSUE: TURKEY TROT RESULTS .....................PG 3 SADLER HONEY FARM ..................... PG 12 EYE ON BUSINESS ...................PGS 25-26 SUMMER CAMPS......................PGS 49-57
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After receiving more a teacher for all teachers than 1,500 school name do.” submissions, the HillsYork-Cohen said her borough County School mother tutored children Board voted unanimously for free and dedicated to name the district’s new her life to ensuring chilschool Dorothy C. York dren had every chance to PreK-8 Magnet School succeed. “My mother was last month. absolutely a phenomenal Dorothy C. York PreK-8 teacher, believing in all Magnet School is schedchildren. She was an aduled to open in fall 2022 vocate for children and in the fast-growing area believed all children deof Southeastern Hillsborserved a second chance,” ough County. The school said York-Cohen. is located in the WaterMissy Lennard was set by Newland communamed the principal of the nity off Hwy. 301. This The new preK-8 magnet school set new school back in Nonew school will engage to open in Waterset by Newland in vember. Lennard started students with an inter- the fall will be named after former her education career in teacher Dorothy C. York. nationally minded focus Hillsborough County Pubwhile also offering lic Schools in 1993 art, dance and other and taught at Gibopportunities to exsonton Elementary, plore their creative where she also atside. tended as a student. Dorothy Carter Lennard is a proud York, the school’s graduate of East Bay namesake, was a High School. She also dedicated teacher has experience openfor 45 years. She ing new schools in was an English instructor at Blake High Hillsborough County. In 2009, she became School (English department chair) and lat- the principal of Stowers Elementary. er at Hillsborough High School. She also Lennard and other district leaders held worked with University of South Florida’s community meetings to share information Project Upward Bound and as an adjunct about the new school and gather name professor at Hillsborough Community Col- recommendations. Name submissions also lege. Plus, York was a talented writer and came in through a district survey and by author. She passed away on July 29, 2012. email. York’s daughter, Liz York-Cohen, was Dorothy C. York PreK-8 Magnet School overcome with emotions after Superin- will provide relief to schools that are altendent Davis announced the school’s new ready at or near capacity. Construction is name in her mother’s honor. “My mom booming in Southern Hillsborough County would be speechless today. She wouldn’t with thousands of students expected to be believe it. She was a teacher. Schools in entering our schools over the next three to this district are named after big shots—she five years. was a teacher. She would be stunned and To learn more, visit www.hillsboroughhonored that the district would recognize schools.org.
MONTEL HONORS RIVERVIEW VETS WITH MILITARY MAKEOVER
The SUN ‘n FUN Aerospace Expo will take place in Lakeland from Tuesday to Sunday, April 5-10. See full story Section 3, Page 59.
3 31 22 OO2022
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Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
Volume 20, Issue 3
March 2022
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
BACK THE LINE CHARITY GOLF TOURNAMENT TO BENEFIT POLICE OFFICER’S FAMILY
By Brad Stager
The local communileaves behind, including ty will have a chance wife Mandy, a son and a to show its support to daughter. the family of deceased Some of those inTampa Police Officer volved with Back the Matthew McNeal by Line Charity Events participating in an have family or close ties 18-hole charity golf to the first responder tournament, promoted community and their as the Back the Line understanding of what First Annual Golf Toura public safety career nament, on Saturday, involves provides motiApril 2 at Summerfield vation to help others. Crossings Golf Club in “They give their lives Riverview. to the community and McNeal died of A charity golf tournament will be held to it’s something I’ve albrain cancer at age support the family of Tampa Police Offi- ways wanted to do,” 34 on January 2 and cer Matthew McNeal, who died of cancer said Founder of Back at the beginning of the year. McNeal had been an officer the Line Charity Events served on TPD’s bike unit. with TPD since 2014. Heather Cropper, who He was a member of the grew up in Valrico and played department’s Special Opergolf at Durant High School. ations Unit’s Bicycle OperBesides the golf tournament, ations and Response Team the Back the Line event will and earned two Life Saving include ticket drawings with Awards, an Excellent Duty prizes and dinner. Award, a Community PolicSummerfield Crossings ing Award and a Unit CitaGolf Club is located at 13050 tion during his service as a Summerfield Blvd., one mile police officer, according to east of U.S. 301, in Riverview. a TPD Facebook post, which Tournament sign-in begins at also describes McNeal as 11:30 a.m., as do the silent auc“a kind and humble man, who loved being a tion and drawing of raffle and 50/50 tickpolice officer.” McNeal was born in Tampa ets; the shotgun start is at 1 p.m.; and dinand also served as a corrections officer with ner is at 5:30 p.m. The cost to play is $125 the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office af- per golfer or $400 for a team of four. The ter earning an Associate of Arts degree at deadline to register is Saturday, March 26, Hillsborough Community College. and paid sponsorship opportunities for the The event is being organized by Back the tournament are available. For more informaLine Charity Events and is sponsored by the tion, send an email to backthelinecharity@ Firemen’s Benevolent Association of the City gmail.com or visit the Back the Line Charity of Tampa. According to organizers, the funds Events Facebook page @BackTheLineCharraised will go entirely to the family McNeal ityEvents.
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WATERSET TURKEY TROT SURPASSES $100,000 RAISED FOR LOCAL SCHOOLS
Staff Report
L o c a l school received SouthShore over $8,000 this community year, which can be Wa t e r s e t used at the discreby Newland tion of the school welcomes principals. Past runners and uses have includresidents ed technological alike every and aesthetic upThanksgivgrades, scholaring morning 2021 Waterset Turkey Trot raised money for local schools. ships and student for their Turincentives. key Trot 5K and Kids Fun Run. After going “I continue to be humbled by the comvirtual in 2020 due to the pandemic, the munity support we receive each year,” said race bounced back in a big way in 2021, Amy Stevens-Cox, principal of East Bay drawing a crowd of almost 1,000 partici- School. “Waterset’s generosity speaks volpants. The 2021 race raised over $25,000 umes. We have set a portion of the funds in proceeds, benefitting three public schools aside for scholarships for seniors, and we near the Waterset community: Doby Ele- use the remaining monies to upgrade our mentary, Eisenhower Middle and East Bay building.” High Schools. This brings Waterset’s total In addition to the Turkey Trot fundraiser, donations through the Turkey Trot to over Waterset donates several iPads each quar$110,000 in seven years. ter to deserving students at Eisenhower Waterset by Newland is owned in a joint Middle and East Bay High School. Students venture partnership between North Amer- from the schools also volunteer at a numica Sekisui House, LLC (NASH) and Brook- ber of Newland-sponsored events at the field Residential, and it is proudly managed community throughout the year, further by Brookfield Properties. These partners fostering a strong sense of connection. share a deep commitment to sustainable “We’ve had the pleasure of partnering development practices and apply these with our local public schools in a variety of core values to the vision, planning, and de- ways since Waterset’s inception,” explained velopment of their communities. Waterset the Marketing Manager for Waterset Lynby Newland is one of more than 20 commu- da McMorrow. “Our team and our residents nities this partnership manages together care deeply about our SouthShore commuacross the US. nity. We all want to help our local schools, The Waterset Turkey Trot raises money their staff and their students however we through race entry fees and sponsorships can.” from local businesses. The schools received For more information on Waterset by an even split of the proceeds and the Fish- Newland, visit www.watersetfl.com or visit Hawk Ranch Road Runners running club, the Information Center in The Landing Club which helps facilitate the run, also received & Café, which is open daily from 10 a.m.-6 $1,000 for its annual scholarship fund. Each p.m. and on Sundays from 12 Noon-6 p.m.
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Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
Volume 20, Issue 3
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
March 2022
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Let’s rattle off some roof, heated/cooled front minivan names: Toyota and second-row seats, Sienna, Honda Odyssey mammoth 12.3-inch disand Chrysler Pacifica. play screens for digital And now let’s add anothinstrument cluster and er, all-new ride to the list: infotainment controls, Kia Carnival, a fine and Bose 12-speaker audio fitting replacement for system and power tailCARNIVAL (SX PRESTIGE) the Sedona. No kidding! Angate. There also is a dual-screen Tires: 235/55R19 Wheelbase: 121.7 inches nual sales of the Korean autoentertainment to keep the tiny Length: 203 inches maker’s former minivan had tots in the second row occupied. Width: 89.2 inches Height: 69.9 inches been dismal, but we expect The power sliding doors open up Weight: 4,727 pounds the seven or eight-passenger to lounge seats with footrests Suspension: MacPherson Carnival to shake up the othfor second-row passengers with strut front; multilink erwise monotonous segment. Steering: motor-driver power slide, recline and leg extenders. Fuel capacity: 19 gallons A 3.3-liter gasoline-direct So, you are basically riding as City: 19 mpg Highway: 26 mpg injection powertrain pumps though a member of the royal Base price: $46,300 out 290 horsepower at Website: family. The third-row 60/40 www.kiausa.com 6,400 rpm and 262 poundssplit seats fold into the floor. feet of torque at 5,000 rpm With both rear seats folded, you while mated to an eight-speed auto gearbox. get an impressive 145.1 cubic feet of space. The drive mode selector allows the driver to Standard safety amenities include dual pick normal, smart, sport and eco. Looking front and side airbags, side curtain airbag to haul a small boat? With a tow capacity of for all three rows, driver knee airbag, elec3,500 pounds for the front-wheel drive ride, tronic stability, traction and hill-start assist it’s game on. controls, four-wheel anti-lock brakes with You would rarely hear anyone call a min- electronic brake distribution, lane-keep/ ivan good looking, but the boxy and SUV- follow assists, blind spot/parking and rear like Carnival is just that; perhaps it is now cross-traffic collision avoidance, remote keythe most attractive minivan on the road. less entry, daytime running lights and tire Dual LED headlights flank a massive matte- pressure monitoring system. chromed, tiger nose grille to portray a handFor far too long in the past, its predecessome presence. You just cannot miss the sor, the Sedona, was the black sheep of the fresh KIA emblem on the sculpted hood. The minivan family, but with a solid powertrain, cabin is spacious and functional with a tri- spacious passenger and cargo-hauling capazone auto AC, eight-way power front leather bilities and decent fuel economy, the Carniseats, dual glove box, power tilt/slide moon- val has arrived. Let the festivities begin!
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Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
GOOD COUNTY PLANNING LEADS TO GOOD LIVING FOR RESIDENTS
Volume 20, Issue 3
SUPERINTENDENT RECOMMENDS BUS DRIVER PAY INCREASE TO COMBAT SHORTAGE By Superintendent Addison Davis
By Brad Stager
When it comes mission’s meetto local governings, as are ments fulfilling issues related their obligations to the county’s in providing safe, infrastructure habitable comand natural remunities for the sources, such residents they as undevelserve, proper oped land. planning has a Besides Hillsborough County’s official Facebook photo. role. serving as The Hillsborough County City-County Planning Commission plays a role in local government decisions that In Hillsboran appointed ough County, affect how future growth is managed and what happens to commissioner, undeveloped parts of the county. that responsibilithe public can ty is borne in large part by the Hillsborough get involved in the county’s planning process County City-County Planning Commission. by participating in online surveys available The Planning Commission is an indepen- on the Plan Hillsborough website or condent entity staffed by appointed representa- necting with one of the advisory committives from the four local governments within tees addressing a variety of concerns, such Hillsborough County and is a resource used as traffic congestion. by the participating governments. The Planning Commission is one of three Members of the Planning Commission commissions that the agency known as Plan serve four-year terms and are apportioned Hillsborough provides staffing and logistical as follows: four members each appointed support to. The other two commissions are from Hillsborough County and the City of the Hillsborough Transportation Planning Tampa, with one member each appointed Organization and the Hillsborough River from the municipalities of Temple Terrace Board & Technical Advisory Council. and Plant City; a representative from HillAccording to Melissa Dickens, senior plansborough County School District; and one ner with Plan Hillsborough, internal changes from MacDill Air Force Base serve in ex-of- in the overall planning organization should ficio roles. facilitate the work of the Planning CommisMeetings of the Planning Commission are sion and benefit county residents. held monthly in a hybrid format with com“We’ve had a number of new staff join us missioners and support staff able to meet over the past couple of years,” she said as in-person and the general public viewing part of her presentation during the February and commenting virtually. Meetings can be 14 commission meeting. viewed live or afterward via the YouTube “They have provided lots of opportunities channel Hillsborough County Meetings, Hill- to hear different perspectives from people sborough TV (HTV) on the county’s website, who may have worked on similar projects at as well as on select cable channels. other places.” Housing needs of a growing population You can learn more about the Hillsborand the locations of commercial projects ough County City-County Planning Commisare among the topics discussed at the com- sion by visiting planhillsborough.org.
Our parents and families have faced a multitude of challenges as our community acclimates to the impacts of COVID-19. One of the more unexpected side effects of the worldwide pandemic has been a crippling labor shortage facing multiple industries across our nation. Our educational system has unfortunately not been immune to this development. Parents in Hillsborough County Public Schools are keenly aware that this district is contending with a critical shortage of bus drivers. These hardworking and dedicated individuals are the backbone of our district, and without them our exceptional educators would not be able to change the lives of our learners. However, it has always been a challenge to recruit and retain bus drivers. In fact, in other states this year, the National Guard has been called in to drive children to school because they simply do not have enough people to fill the positions. Hillsborough County Public Schools is currently in need of approximately 130 bus drivers, which means those currently driving are performing double and triple runs to ensure students make it to school safely. Unfortunately, this creates angst for our learners and families as they experience delays both to and from school.
It is for this reason I made the recommendation to our school board to raise the hourly rate for our bus drivers from $14.57 to $16.04 per hour. This will represent one of the highest pay rates in the state for bus drivers, which we in turn anticipate will help to alleviate a shortage while recruiting and retaining more highly qualified individuals to transport our learners to and from school. I want to remind our community that bus drivers have been on the front lines since the pandemic began. These talented and passionate individuals did not have the opportunity to work from home as they drove food and academic materials to families while our brick-and-mortar schools were closed. They deserve our respect and appreciation for the difficult work they have performed. This initiative will also impact veteran drivers who will receive a well-deserved raise from their current salaries. This move will not only strengthen our transportation department; my hope is that your family will see a noticeable difference with time as we work diligently to combat these complex issues. Bus drivers are often the first smiling face a student encounters as their school day begins. We are excited to welcome new and highly qualified individuals to the HCPS family to make a difference in children’s lives every day.
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Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
March 2022
Page 7
CONGRESSMAN BUCHANAN ANNOUNCES COVID-19 TESTING COMES TO YOU
SERVICE ACADEMY NOMINATIONS
By Michelle Caceres Newsome High seed States Nanior Alexander Fraga val Academy; faced a dilemma. While Marion Military sitting in AP MacroInstitute cadet economics class he Francis Connor glanced at his cellphone Dias of Lithia and noticed an email to the United had come across from States Military Congressman Vern Academy and Buchanan’s office. The Congressman Vern Buchanan made 22 nomina- United States moment had arrived Naval Acadetions to four U.S. service academies. when he would find out if he had received my; Newsome High School students Colby a nomination to the United State Merchant Prince to the United States Naval AcadMarine Academy, his dream school. emy, Matthew Iocco to the United States He had to decide whether to open it or Naval Academy and Cody Basquill to the wait until he was home with his family. United States Air Force Academy; and “I saw a smiley face emoji in the title of U.S. Air Force Academy Prep School cathe email and just couldn’t wait,” he said. dets Ryan Matthews of Riverview, Yaideliz Fraga opened the email, and then he Lorenzo-Mendoza of Ruskin and Axeladiel smiled. He had earned the nomination. “I Zengotita of Lithia to the United States was just so excited and trying not to disrupt Air Force Academy. Former United States class,” Fraga said. Air Force Academy cadet Spencer Caceres, In all, Buchanan made 22 nominations to who left to serve a two-year church misthe four U.S. service academies: the U.S. Air sion in Mexico, also received a nomination Force, Merchant Marine, Military and Naval for re-entry to the United States Air Force Academies. Unlike other service academies, Academy. the Coast Guard Academy does not require The nominees’ names are forwarded to a congressional nomination for admission. the service academies where they were Applicants who meet strict qualifications nominated. are interviewed and recommended by a “Here in Florida’s 16th district, we are nonpartisan service academy board ap- fortunate to have so many driven and coupointed by the congressman. rageous students willing to serve in our In addition to Fraga, other local nomi- armed forces,” said Buchanan. “Each of the nees include: Bell Creek Academy students nominees is deserving of the privilege of atSebastian Correa to the United State Mil- tending one of our nation’s prestigious seritary Academy and Matthew Martinez to vice academies. I wish each of my nominees the United States Air Force Academy and the best of luck throughout the remainder United States Naval Academy; Durant High of the selection process and look forward to School student Austin Holcomb to the Unit- their future success.” ed States Air Force Academy; Sumner High For more info about Congressman BuSchool student David Tirado-Alonzo to the chanan or the Service Academy nomination United States Military Academy and Unit- process, visit www.buchanan.house.gov.
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Generations ago, As a small and health care profesgrowing company, this sionals made house event was exponencalls that were pertially more than just sonalized, private, growing pains. Most safe and convenient. experts did not anticThat at-home type of ipate this demand to service faded away arrive as fast and furidecades ago and has ous as it has. Through only been available as this time of adversity, a VIP service for a seBeeperMD has learned lect few at a very high how to be better precost. pared with managing BeeperMD is a new and handling excessive at-home health care demand. “However, service that comes to we believe a demand you. event of this magni“We currently ser- BeeperMD is a new at-home health care tude is very difficult service that comes to you. They are bringing vice patients in Florfor any organization house calls back for sick visits and medical ida and New York,” to maintain full pretesting. said Lauren Berger of paredness along with BeeperMD. “We do have limited opera- successful execution,” Berger said. “We tions in other states that we are expand- will always continue to improve every day ing to this year. BeeperMD also services and thankfully we have come out better businesses nationwide.” on the other side of the Omicron phase of BeeperMD is bringing house calls back this pandemic.” for sick visits and medical testing. For at-home urgent care and COVID “Originally, one of our founders, Jeremy testing, you can simply call or make an apGelbart, offered COVID testing to a local pointment at beepermd.com, submit your school to help get kids back in class. It information and a BeeperMD clinician will took off from there, and before we knew come to your home to examine and/or test it, we were testing thousands of clients you to diagnose an illness. “Additionally, at home as well as employees at some of there is always a nurse practitioner or the largest companies in the state and be- doctor connected to your appointment yond,” Berger said. “Once Omicron hit, we via video chat,” Berger said. “We generally were inundated with an unprecedented test for symptoms related to COVID-19, demand for testing. Despite successfully flu, strep, respiratory infections and more. testing over 150,000 people across Flor- We also send appropriate prescriptions to ida during the Omicron phase of the pan- your pharmacy.” demic, BeeperMD definitely experienced If you would like to learn more about major operational challenges and a critical BeeperMD, you can visit its website at workforce shortage.” www.beepermd.com.
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Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
HILLSBOROUGH SCHOOLS ANNOUNCES FOUR FLORIDA PREPAID SCHOLARSHIPS WORTH COMBINED $25,000
Staff Report
Hillsborough County lifelong career. With Public Schools recentone scholarship aidly partnered with the ing high school seFlorida Prepaid College niors and the other Program to announce for one of our youngfour scholarships est learners, these worth a combined awards truly recog$25,000. The Superinnize the spectrum of tendent Addison Davis important work our Future of STEM Scholeducators take part Hillsborough County Public Schools arship will be awarded recently partnered with the Florida Prepaid in here in Hillsborto three students. This College Program to announce four scholar- ough County Public scholarship is a twoSchools,” said Davis. ships worth a combined $25,000. year Florida College “Hillsborough CounPlan worth $8,000. ty Public Schools has a laThese scholarships are ser-like focus on providing designed to encourage the most robust STEM new teachers to join the programs for our stueducation workforce in dents to prepare them for areas with critical shortthe careers of tomorrow. ages. To apply for this It is equally as important scholarship, students that we focus on cultivatmust meet criteria and ing STEM educators who write a 500-word essay have a passion for the about why they want to subject and for teaching become a teacher in a students a genuine love of STEM subject. science. This scholarship Superintendent Adwill help to support one dison Davis’ Preparing Students for Life of our future educators, who will in turn Scholarship is a $1,000 Florida 529 Sav- inspire our learners to excel in STEM,” said ings Plan awarded to a parent or guardian Larry Plank, director of K-12 STEM educawho attends a kindergarten registration tion. event or begins the registration process Florida Prepaid kicked off its annual by Saturday, April 30 for the 2022-2023 open enrollment period by offering famacademic year. An eligible student’s name ilies who purchase a 529 Prepaid Plan will be drawn at random. by April 30 up to $500 in a 529 Savings “The Florida Prepaid College Program Plan to be used toward additional college is a proactive way that parents can begin expenses. Open enrollment runs through to prepare their learner for postsecondary April 30 and is the annual window when education. We are so fortunate to be able families can lock in future tuition costs at to provide students an opportunity to help today’s plan prices. Visit www.myfloridapay for college, which is a pathway to a prepaid.com for more information.
FINANCIAL FOCUS USE YOUR FINANCIAL STRATEGY LIKE GPS
When you’re driving these days, it’s pretty hard to get lost because your smartphone’s Global Positioning System (GPS) can get you just about anywhere. And as an investor, you can have a similar experience by employing another directional tool – a personalized financial strategy. Let’s look at the parallels between your GPS and this type of strategy. To begin with, your GPS pinpoints your exact location at the start of your trip – in other words, it tells you where you are. And when you create a financial strategy, your first step is to evaluate your current situation by answering these types of questions: What are your assets? How much do you earn? How much do you owe? How much are you contributing to your IRA, 401(k) or other retirement accounts? Once you’ve got a clear picture of your finances, you’ll be ready to begin your journey toward your long-term goals. Once your GPS has identified your starting point, it will then show you where you want to go and the routes to help you get there. And it’s the same with your financial strategy – you want it to help lead you to a particular place in your life. In fact, a well-designed strategy can show you the steps you need to take to help reach more than one destination – to a place where you can send your children to college, a place where you can retire comfortably, a place where you can leave the type of legacy you want, and so on. Here’s another element of your GPS that applies to your financial strategy – the warnings. You’re certainly familiar with those thick red lines your GPS shows to indicate traffic slowdowns ahead. And while they’re
annoying, they’re also useful in cautioning you that you may arrive at your destination later than you had originally planned. Your financial strategy can also express “warnings” about events that could hinder you from reaching your goals. These obstacles might include an illness or disability that could keep you out of work for a while, or the need for some type of longterm care, such as a nursing home stay or the services of a home health aide. Your financial strategy can not only identify these threats, but with the guidance of a financial professional, suggest potential solutions. In addition to providing warnings about things such as heavy traffic and road construction, your GPS can change your route if you miss a turn or if you decide, for whatever reason, to go a slightly different way. Your financial strategy can also show you alternatives, if it’s comprehensive and overseen by a financial professional, who, using specialized software, can create hypotheticals – illustrations that provide alternative outcomes for different steps, such as retiring at various ages, investing different amounts each year or earning different rates of return. These hypotheticals can be quite helpful to you as your chart your course toward your goals, especially if you need to change your plans along the way. Your GPS and your financial strategy are two great tools for helping get you where you want to go. This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor. Edward Jones, Member SIPC Edward Jones, its employees and financial advisors cannot provide tax or legal advice. You should consult your attorney or qualified tax advisor regarding your situation.
edwardjones.com/adam-benabram
Volume 20, Issue 3
WATER QUALITY MONITORING PROGRAM – YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED
By Catherine Wolden
Water is vitally as springs and wells. important to every Q: What does the aspect of our lives. District look for in Monitoring the quality water quality moniof our region’s water toring? helps protect, manage A: The District asand preserve our aquisesses the quality of fers and spring syswater in several ways. tems. The Southwest In the field, scientists Florida Water Manrecord and collect agement District (Disthe water temperatrict) has a dedicated ture, dissolved oxygen team of scientists who concentrations, pH, collect water quality Catherine Wolden is the Southwest Flor- concentration of ions ida Water Management District’s Water samples from groundin the water (specifQuality Monitoring Program manager. water and surface wa- A native of Florida, she has a Bachelor ic conductance) and ter bodies throughout of Science in environmental science and amount of material the region. policy from the University of South Flor- suspended in the waQ: What is water ida and has spent her entire 20-plus-year ter (turbidity). More career in various roles in the District’s quality and why is it complex measureWater Quality Monitoring Program. important? ments for nutrients A: Water quality is and saltwater indicaa description of the condition of water. tors are measured in a laboratory. Water quality can refer to the chemical, Q: What does the District do with the physical and biological condition of water, collected water quality data? including the suitability of the water to A: The District uses the data to help be used for a specific purpose like drink- make decisions about protecting, managing, recreation or support of wildlife. The ing and restoring water resources within quality of our water is important because our region. The data collected supports it has a direct impact on people and the studies of ongoing issues like saltwater environment. intrusion, impacts to aquifers in our reQ: Why does the District monitor wa- gion and evaluation of minimum flows and ter quality? levels for our springs and surface water A: The District’s Water Quality Monitor- bodies. ing Program, or WQMP, provides critical Q: How can the public access the Disdata to anyone making decisions about trict’s water quality data? protecting, managing and restoring water A: The data collected by the District, resources within our region. District scien- including water quality data, can be actists collect samples from surface water cessed and downloaded from our Environbodies like lakes, nearshore estuarine ar- mental Data Portal (EDP) at watermateas, rivers and groundwater systems such ters.org/edp.
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March 2022
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
APOLLO BEACH WOMAN’S CLUB EVENTS Staff Report The Apollo Beach nifer Wells China Woman’s Club and Chrissy Mill(ABWC) has some saps, RN. China has exciting events combeen the campus ing up. president at HillsThe group met borough Commuat its new meeting nity College (HCC) location, the Ruskin - Southshore since Moose Lodge, locat2018 and has a ed at 1212 E. Shell Ph.D. in educationPoint Rd. in Ruskin, al administration on February 9. Guest from the UniversiSpeaker Eric Hughes, ty of Texas. MA, MLS, literacy liMillsaps is a aison at Tampa Free critical care regisLibrary, discussed tered nurse with Hillsborough Couna BSN at Tampa ty’s basic literacy General Hospital The Apollo Beach Woman’s Club’s (ABWC) and English Speaker (TGH). She has February 9 luncheon at the Ruskin Moose of Other Languages been working at Lodge. Top photo (left-right): Guest speaker (ESOL) programs TGH for over 25 Eric Hughes, Hillsborough Literacy Council, and providing womyears and has most and Jeanette Doyle, ABWC vice president of programs. Bottom photo (left-right): ABWC en a second-chance recently been carCommunity Service Co-Chairs Mary Lou scholarship. ing for COVID-19 During the Cunningham and Rebecca Crotwell display the patients. The tickWednesday, March 9 donations made by ABWC members for Back- et price is $15 per packs on a Mission. luncheon, Anne Mcperson. Carthy, FWC, Gulf Coast Marine Fisheries A buffet lunch will be served, advertising Hatchery and Enhancement Center at Apollo opportunities are available in the Gala ProBeach Florida Conservation and Technology gram Journal and there will be silent auction Center, will discuss her career history and items available. Proceeds will benefit the setup of the Piney Point Hatchery. All lun- Woman’s Advancement Scholarship given to cheons are $22; however, the deadline for an adult woman demonstrating commitment making reservations and payments for the to improving herself and the lives of others March 9 luncheon has passed. For menu through continuing education. For Gala Prodetails and reservation information, con- gram Journal inquiries, contact Sally Coupal tact Barbara DeOca at 892-1219 or abw- at 585-734-1646 or sally@gompc.net. For club2020@gmail.com. ticket inquiries, contact Sheila May at 847Although, it may not be too late to pur- 514-1475 or smay1180@gmail.com. For chase tickets to the ABWC’s inaugural Inspi- auction contributions, contact Karen Kelsey rational Women Gala on Saturday, March 12 at 784-6454 or waterspout@verizon.net. from 12 Noon-2 p.m. For more information, visit www.apolloAt the gala to be held at Del Webb South- beachwomansclub.com or contact Liz Pedshore Falls Ballroom in Apollo Beach, two ersen at 777-8215 or kenlizpedersen@msn. remarkable women will be honored: Dr. Jen- com.
Page 9
NEW SCIENTIST JOINS SOUTHERN HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY RESEARCHERS
By Brad Buck
Dana Choi grew crops in West up in South Korea Central Florbut considers Floriida. Through da her second home. her Extension She spent several program, Choi years on the main is also doing campus of the Unioutreach, alversity of Florida, getting her master’s ready talking and doctoral deex t e n s i v e l y with farmers grees in agricultural Dana Choi is starting her artificial intelligence to find out and biological engiresearch and outreach at the UF/IFAS Gulf Coast Retheir conneering from the UF/ search and Education Center (GCREC) in Wimauma. IFAS College of Agricerns and how she can help address them. cultural and Life Sciences (CALS). “I value working closely with growers After earning her Ph.D. in 2017, Choi spent four years as an assistant professor and directly communicating with them,” of agricultural engineering at Penn State she said. “This often inspires my research University, where she used artificial intelli- topics.” “I am really grateful for this research and gence to help apple farmers move toward more financially and environmentally sus- education center environment. I dream altainable agriculture. most every day what research projects I Last month, Choi returned to UF, also as want to do in this center,” Choi said. an assistant professor. She is just starting Currently, agriculture faces a huge new her artificial intelligence research and out- challenge: produce more food on fewer reach at the UF/IFAS Gulf Coast Research acres while minimizing environmental imand Education Center (GCREC). pacts and dealing with a shrinking labor Her journey to UF/IFAS started in South force and resources. Korea. Her grandparents used to be farm“My research focuses on developing iners, and her parents still own a rice farm, telligent systems to improve the capacity although they no longer do any of the of field robots and precision agriculture farming themselves. practices to ease the labor and environAs a child, she liked math and physics, mental issues,” Choi said. “We ask such but she wasn’t sure she wanted to pursue questions as, ‘Do farmers and growers have engineering as a career. All her classmates enough economic incentives to adopt this wanted to be teachers. technology?’ This question has required my Now that she’s at GCREC, Choi will be research to maximize leverage from lowusing AI to help attenuate labor and en- cost but effective devices through AI and vironmental issues with all sorts of crops. robotics.” To learn more about GCREC, visit ifas.ufl. She’s starting with strawberries and tomatoes because those are the most prevalent edu.
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Page 10
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
FIRST LADIES FARM AND SANCTUARY OFFERS A SENIOR CATS FOR SENIOR LAPS PROGRAM
By Tatiana Ortiz
First Ladies the life of the Farm and Sanctuowner.” ary, located in RivFirst Laerview, brought on dies Farm and the Senior Cats Sanctuary for Senior Laps is a woman Program, which and veterprovides older an-owned cats between the rescue that ages of 5-12 as opened in companions for 2018 and adults 65 and grew out of older, disabled or a passion at-risk healthwise. for rescuing The goal of this cats and kitprogram aims to First Ladies Farm and Sanctuary runs a Senior Cats for tens. Since Senior Laps Program. match older, less its inception, active and harder to place more than 1,000 animals cats with seniors who are have been removed from looking for lap cats that are the streets, specificaldocile. ly in Eastern HillsborAn approved senior must ough County. It serves pay a one-time adoption the Greater Riverview, fee of $100 for the cat that Ruskin, Valrico, Brandon they get matched with. The and Plant City areas. cat will already be spayed First Ladies Farm and or neutered, vaccinated, Sanctuary is a commuhealth-checked and more. nity-supported, ‘no-kill’ Also, once a year, First Larescue with supporters dies Farm and Sanctuary and followers from all 50 will follow up with the senior and provide states and internationally. transportation from one of the volunteers “We would like this region to give us to take the cat to its annual checkup. In first consideration when adopting,” Edaddition, the program provides an end- monds said. of-life agreement so if the senior passes On Saturdays from 11 a.m.- 3 p.m. the away and they have family or friends who sanctuary hosts a small market as well as cannot take care of the cat, First Ladies Adoption Day, which includes local proFarm and Sanctuary will accept the cat duce and more. back. It is located at 13028 Shadow Run Blvd. Chelsea Edmonds, founder of First La- in Riverview. For more information, visit dies Farm and Sanctuary, mentioned what https://firstladiesfarm.com, call or text makes the program unique: “The fact that to 477-9948 or email firstladiesfarm@ our commitment to the animal surpasses gmail.com.
Volume 20, Issue 3
CENTER PLACE WELCOMES NEW EXECUTIVE BOARD PRESIDENT By Libby Hopkins Center Place Fine Arts voted in as Center & Civic Association is Place’s new executive excited to announce it board president. “I has a new board presilove the opportunident, Riverview resident ties that Center Place Bernadette Pello. She is offers not only to stualso the president and dents but adults as co-founder of Livingwell,” Pello said. “It stone Academy as well is very important to as the marketing manengage our diverse ager for KNOW Women members in the arts, Tampa Bay. whether it is our “I am originally from young students and upstate New York,” Peladults, our veterans lo said. “I have been in or our vulnerable popFlorida, specifically the ulations. We partner Brandon area, for 28 Center Place Fine Arts & Civic Association with other nonprofits years. I have 35 years of is excited to announce it has a new board in the community to president, Bernadette Pello. professional experience, provide quality pro15 in corporate and 20 grams. I love watchyears as the co-owner ing the collaboration with my husband, Chris, with other nonprofits for almost 20 years. Chris and I founded and and organizations.” own Livingstone Schools.” Ryan is still an active board member, as The couple started Livingstone Academy is his brother, Tom Odiorne, who is Center with 30 students and four staff members. Place’s treasurer. “We now have 450 students, four locations Pello has many goals for Center Place and 85 employees,” Pello said. “We are during her term. “Some of my goals obvistarting up our fifth location next school ously need to continue our efforts to keep year. It will be a trade academy focusing Center Place strong financially,” Pello said. on preapprenticeship programs for anyone “Without that, we cannot provide the prowith a high school diploma or GED. grams needed in the community. I would The couple also owns a food truck as a love to see our monthly events grow, such family with their son, Michael, called Pasta as Artist Night. I want to see Center Place Monsta. “I served as the chairman of the known for our quality art and community board for the Brandon Chamber of Com- programs and our beautiful event space. We merce in 2020 and I currently chair GEAC,” have been a part of the Brandon community Pello said. for 49 years, and thanks to our committed Pello has been a part of Center Place’s board and other community members, we board for more than a year. When the cur- are here to stay.” rent executive board president, Ryan OdiFor more information, visit www.centerorne, stepped down, Pello was unanimously placebrandon.com or call 685-8888.
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
March 2022
GREATER RIVERVIEW CHAMBER OF COMMERCE HOSTS DINNER ANNOUNCED AWARD WINNERS Staff Report This year’s Greater Riverview Cham- HiTech Automotive. For Organizations ber of Commerce (GRCC) Annual Mem- With Over 20 Employees, the winner bership Dinner was a Down on the Bay- was Align Right Realty Riverview, and ou Night. Each year at this dinner, seven the finalists were the Osprey Observawards are presented er and YMCA Camp to very deserving inCristina. vestors. The awards The 2021 Ambasinclude the Businesssador of the Year es of the Year as well was Lisa Jordan, Acas Ambassador of the cent American, Inc., Year, Volunteer of the the 2021 Volunteer Year, Citizen of the of the Year was KrisYear and a Shining ti McCart, McCart Star. & Tesmer, P.A.; the Charismatic em2021 Shining Star cee E. Michael Isaak, was Chris Nelson Isaak Law PLLC, with LegalShield; led the festivities and the 2021 Citithroughout the evezen of the Year was ning. Current Board Cliff Fletcher with Chair Mike BrousHillsborough County sard chose the baySheriff’s Office. ou theme and showThe GRCC was cased a fun night full able to accumulate of bayou and Cajun $3,000 during the influences. Music 50/50 raffle. The was provided by Pete chamber was able to Snow. The Louisiana give away $1,500 to bayou-infused menu Dr. Bryan Thatcher was catered by Tamof Thatcher Properpa Catering. ties. The evening’s theme The chamber was also brought to would like to give life by the many dedspecial thanks to Photos courtesy of Gerardo Luna Photoicated members who its top sponsors: graphs and Bill Kirkland. creatively decorated Bayou presenting The Greater Riverview Chamber of tables throughout the sponsor Tampa-HillsCommerce held its annual dinner in venue. Guests were borough Expressway January. asked to participate Authority; Pontcharin the contest by voting for their favor- train Bar sponsor Christopher Ligori & ite table. AcuSystem Home Inspections, Associates; and Backwoods sponsors LLC was declared as the Table Decorat- The Bridges Retirement Community, ing Contest winner for the 2022 Annual Charity Clothing Pickup, The Flying Dinner – Down on the Bayou. Locksmiths, The Mosaic Company, OEL The annual awards were presented on Heating and Cooling, Riverview MortJanuary 21. The winner in the Organiza- gage, South State Bank, Suncoast Credtions With 5 or Less Employees catego- it Union, the evening’s beautiful Tabellas ry was Myers Law, P.A., and the finalists at Delaney Creek venue, Tampa Electric were Bikes For Christ and RGS Foods. Company and Thatcher Properties. The finalists for Organizations With For more information on the GreatUp to 20 Employees were AcuSystem er Riverview Chamber of Commerce, Home Inspections, LLC and Riverview please visit www.riverviewchamber. Tire & Auto Service, and the winner was com/ or call 234-5944. Private Charters: 4 hour, 6 hour, 8 hour & 2.5 hour Sunset Cruises. Cruising the Alafia River and Tampa Bay.
Page 11
THE REGENT HOSTS THE SECOND ANNUAL WEDDING DRESS GIVEAWAY By Lily Belcher The Regent in Rivhelp The Regent with erview has announced its second event. its second annual Nominations were Wedding Dress Givesubmitted through away, which will give The Regent’s website wedding dresses to throughout February selected teachers and and brides will be sesoon-to-be-brides. lected and fitted for “Educators just betheir gown in April. came the next group of “I think the biggest people who really have part of it is just makhad to modify how ing sure enough people Wedding Dress Giveaway winner they do things [due to Jenna Rose received a dress from The know about it … and Regent this year the coronavirus] … so we give as many dresswe figured it would es as we can away,” be a great appreciasaid Keil. “I hope that tion for them as well,” it encourages others to explained The Regent give back and to do litCEO Shannon Keil. tle unexpected things.” The Regent has colThe event will conlected around 50 doclude in May with a nated wedding dresses brunch for the brides, from local bridal shops who will pick their like Satin & Lace Briddresses. al Boutique in River“I love it when the view and Flora’s Bridal girl comes in for the in Brandon and prefitting and she puts served dresses from on the dress and it fits former brides in the her like a glove and area. These donated her face lights up,” exdresses will be given plained Keil. “There’s to teachers who were Bride Jenna Rose was the first wedding just a look on her face nominated by their dress recipient and stands with her dad when she puts ‘the one’ peers and selected by on, and that moment is and Shannon Keil. a team outside of The Regent. worth everything.” “We have had a lot of donations from The Regent is still accepting dress dopeople dropping them off, so it has be- nations. To donate, call The Regent at come a community thing for people to 571-2494 or drop off a dress between feel like they’re connected to it,” said 9:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m., Tuesday through FriKeil. day. For more information on the event, Keil also mentioned that some of last visit The Regent’s Facebook page or visit year’s health care workers who received its website at www.experiencetheredresses have reached out and offered to gent.com/wedding-dress-giveaway.
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Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
Volume 20, Issue 3
SUMNER HIGH JROTC RECEIVES DONATIONS FROM VVA & LEGION
SADLER HONEY FARM LLC RELOCATES TO RUSKIN
A local school’s Dietz explained JROTC recently that he hopes this received supwill be the start of port from a a relationship belong-standing tween the school community orgaand the groups. nization. “Sumner JROTC According to seeks to supLTC (R) Dave Diport the Amerietz, senior army can Legion, VVA, JROTC instructor Representatives of American Legion Post 246 and MOWW and at Sumner High Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 787 recently other veteran orSchool, veteran presented checks to the newly formed Sumner High ganizations for o r g a n i z a t i o n s School. Participating in the ceremony were, stand- years to follow,” Vietnam Veter- ing from left to right: Cadet Archer; Cadet Smith; he said. “Cadets ans of America Jim Haney, Post 246 first vice commander; Bill Wil- will assist these (VVA) Chapter cox, Post 246 finance officer; Cadet Coore (female); important organi787 and Ameri- Cadet Lahmon; Tim Pennell, VVA 727 treasurer; zations with color and LTC (R) David Dietz; and senior army instruccan Legion Post guard teams, the tor of Sumner High School’s JROTC. Kneeling from 246 recently preplacement and left to right: Cadet Royal and Cadet Levy. sented checks retrieval of flags to the Cadets at burial sites for of Sumner High School both Memorial Day and JROTC. Veterans Day.” Veterans Bill Wilcox and He believes relationTim Pennell, both retired ships like these enrich the U.S. Army, and James program for students and Haney, retired USMC, all the community. worked together to pres“Community service like ent the cadets these charthis enables cadets to obitable funds. tain life skills and expe“Cadets are extremely rience while providing a thankful for the support that was giv- great service to our community and its en to their JROTC program,” said Dietz. veterans,” said Dietz. “Community ser“The donations received from the VVA vice is a tenet of our budding program and the American Legion will be used to and offering this type of community assist with funding the cadets upcoming service will further promote citizenship Military Ball, as well as upcoming drill while [cultivating] benevolence amongst competitions and uniforms. Not only do our young cadets.” these organizations support cadet obFor more information on Sumner High jectives and goals, but they also aid in School JROTC, contact the Dietz at 704developing America’s future.” 0175 or david.dietz@hcps.net.
As a third-generahere do not really leave tion beekeeper, Apollo the state as we keep Beach resident Colthem here year-round.” by Sadler, owner of Stoney lived in Perry, Sadler Honey Farm Florida and moved to LLC, now located in Lakeland when he was Ruskin, understands around 7 years old. In all the efforts that 1970, he started beetakes place to mainkeeping, and he passed tain his farm. Colby away in 2003. Colby’s grew up around bees dad took over the farm since his dad, Michael that year and opened Sadler, and grandfaBee-Haven Honey Farm ther, Stoney Sadler, Colby Sadler, owner of Sadler Honey Inc. in Central Florida. Farm LLC in Ruskin, with his son, were beekeepers. The Colby is part of the Colton Sadler, out in the beeyard. Sadlers are true local American Honey ProFlorida beekeepers, as ducers Association as it has been in the famiwell as the American ly for 52 years. Beekeeping Federation. In 2010, Colby esThose interested in tablished Sadler Honey bees can reach out to Farm LLC. For several their local beekeeping years, he had worked in committees. Colby will his dad’s shop in Lakedo his best to keep his land. In 2019, Sadler family’s legacy alive. Honey Farm built a With that in mind, the brand-new facility built pollinators are strugand moved to Ruskin on gling due to the eco-sysfive acres of land to be tem being destroyed from closer to the coast. It is rapid development. The a commercial wholesale future of it is uncertain. farm that produces be“Overall, always suptween 400 to 500 drums port your local farmers, of honey a year with beekeepers and ag as 2,000 hives on-site. Bemuch as possible,” Colby sides Florida, Sadler Honsaid. “To add, visit farmey Farm distributes its ers markets too,” he stathoney across the United States in places ed. such as Kansas, Colorado and more. If there is an opportunity for people to Colby mentioned what makes Sadler place bees onto their property or to purHoney Farm unique: “With our climate chase honey, call Colby Sadler at 863being subtropical and tropical, the bees 860-8020.
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March 2022
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
Page 13
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Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
Volume 20, Issue 3
NEIGHBORS AND FRIENDS RENEW THEIR WEDDING ByVOWS Libby Hopkins
Love was definitely in the air this past February in Winthrop, as several couples from the Riverview and Winthrop area renewed their wedding vows on February 12 on the green space in Winthrop.
Love was definitely in the air this past February in Winthrop, as several couples from the Riverview and Winthrop area renewed their wedding vows on February 12 on the green space in Winthrop. “We celebrated with certificates, cake, champagne and all the brides were given a bouquet of flowers,” said Andrea Rogers, a local real estate agent who helped put the event together alongside Mary Anne Gonsalves, Debbie Martinez and Allison Sheehy. “We did the wedding vows renewal as a social event for Winthrop Village. We are the social committee in Winthrop; we schedule monthly social events for the community.” They had two ordained ministers perform the ceremony with Winthrop residents Pauline Tracy and Laura Litman. “Our flower girl was 6-year-old Everly Graham along with Tracy, Monica and Doug Folken,” Rogers said. Some of the couples who participated in the ceremony have been together for many years, while others have been together for only a few. “Doug and Monica
have been married for 22 years this past June,” Rogers said. “They went to Paris for their honeymoon. Monica was a widow with two small boys and Doug was divorced with two older boys. After their marriage, Doug adopted her boys and they moved to North Carolina to Kansas City. They moved to Florida 12 years ago and love the neighborhood.” Frank and Bonnie will celebrate 52 years of marriage this coming June. “They have known each other since they were 8 and 9 years old,” Rogers said. “Their daughter, who also renewed their vows that day, suggested they join my husband, Rich, and me.” Rogers and her husband had planned to renew their vows two years ago on a cruise. “Due to COVID, the cruise was canceled; however, I still had the white dress in the back of my closet,” Rogers said. Charles and Debbie Britch have been married for 25 years and were thrilled to be a part of this event. Julie and Robert Bills have been mar-
ried for eight years. “They have been together for 10 years,” Rogers said. “They met in seventh grade and went to high school together, and they reunited after 21 years. They ran into each other at a
mall after he moved back to their hometown, and they went from there.” Rogers and they rest of the committee hope to make this a yearly event at Winthrop.
March 2022
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
RODGERS MIDDLE SCHOOL IN RIVERVIEW HAS AN OUTSTANDING BAND
By Kathy L. Collins
ers and want to succeed. This discipline projects to the community in many ways. Academically, the band kids tend to lead the school in academic success. They are well The Rodgers Middle School Band is hard at work preparing for the upcoming behaved, rarely Music Performance Assessment (MPA). Shown here is the band with Dana get in trouble Burt helping to prepare them for the MPA. and set an examThe Rodgers Middle School Band is led by ple in the school Christopher Shultz, a teacher who has start- and the community. They are recognized as ed and turned around several area bands in members of this fine group and will take Hillsborough County over the last 24 years. those skills with them into the community.” He has led multiple bands and individuals to Shultz has been able to have the kind of great success, including all-states, all-coun- success he has had over the years because ties and Music Performance Assessments he develops relationships with the students. (MPA). Band member Austin West said, “I joined Shultz came to Rodgers Middle School, band because it was fun. I have had the oplocated in Riverview, in the summer of 2018. portunity to make new friends, participate At the time, there were nine band members. in things such as All-State and All-County Currently, it has 160 band members. Addi- Band and play some really great music.” tionally, Rodgers Middle School has its first Students spend a lot of time developing all-state band member, 12 all-county band their skills, and as a result they have develmembers and is about to go to an MPA and oped an outstanding band. Shultz said, “The hopefully earn its first Superior in 20 years. Rodgers Band rehearses daily in sections as Shultz said, “Students should have an the brass has its own class, the woodwinds outlet for their leisure time that is a positive have their own class and the percussion has influence. The Rodgers band is creating that their own class. The entire band gets togethand more. The band is giving these young er a few times before each concert to put people a positive identity, a focus that they the music together and develop a full symcan move over to other aspects of their lives phonic band.” such as academics and it is developing comThe Rodgers Band will play with the Rivpetitiveness that is allowing them to grow erview High School Band for a spring conskills that they will need in their adult lives.” cert on Tuesday, May 3 at Riverview High Shultz added, “They are very hard work- School.
Page 15
CIGARS ON THE BOULEVARD LIGHTS UP APOLLO BEACH
By Amy Schechter
Whether you’re a different types of novice who has never people. By the end smoked a cigar or an exof the night, you’re pert who cannot wait to going to know get your hands on that everybody that’s hard-to-get stick, Cigars sitting at your on the Boulevard is the table. It’s a very perfect place for you. social, welcoming Apollo Beach’s preplace, and Charlie mier cigar and cocktail is going to do his lounge was born out best to make sure of friendship. Charyou have a reallie Buntin partnered Charlie Buntin, along with his brother, Michael, ly great time.” manage Cigars on the Boulevard. with Kevin and Carrie Cigars on the Elwell, whom he met Boulevard holds at CrossFit Apogee in trivia nights ev2016. Buntin is pasery Monday and sionate about cigars: recently started “I’m a retired army oflive jazz music ficer, and I love cigars every Friday, but and bourbon. Kevin and Carrie are dear there is ample seating for you to pull up a friends and mentors. I couldn’t have done chair and chat with new and old friends evthis without them. They saw my vision and ery night. helped me bring it through to fruition.” ToIn addition to the comfortable lounge, it gether, the team created a spacious, classy offers a VIP room for private events and atmosphere where guests can come to- meetings. Once you fall in love with Cigars gether. on the Boulevard, you can join a memberCigars on the Boulevard offers a wide ar- ship program with exclusive benefits. Plus, ray of cigars, signature cocktails, beer and its mobile events can bring the smoke to wine. Its custom humidor holds 130 differ- you. From poker nights to birthday parties ent types of cigars, and its experts can help to bachelor parties to neighborhood BBQs, you find a stick that fits your flavor profile. it can bring a variety of stogies to your Buntin is so excited about what they offer event so your guests can enjoy their smoke because it’s more than a business: “We sell on the spot. an experience. If you want a box of cigars, For more information including informayou can get you a box of cigars anywhere, tion on special events, call 296-1016, visit but when you come here, you’re building a www.facebook.com/CigarsOnTheBlvd or relationship with us. It’s about asking how find it online at cigarsotb.com. Cigars on you are doing and helping out when you’re the Boulevard is open daily from 3-11 p.m. having a bad day.” with morning hours available by appointCarrie went on to add, “I love how a cigar ment. Cigars on the Boulevard is located at can really bridge the gap between so many 1438 Apollo Beach Blvd. in Apollo Beach.
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Page 16
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
Volume 20, Issue 3
SHOPPES AT ALAFIA IS OPENING WITH 3 SPOTS LEFT By Sharon Still
Trulieve, a medical marijuana treatment center, is the first business to open in Shoppes of Alafia on Gibsonton Dr., adjacent to the I-75 northbound on-ramp.
The Shoppes at Alafia is buzzing with activity as businesses begin opening and construction continues on nearly 50,000 sq. ft. of retail space that will bring more businesses offering conveniences to the area. The project, located at the northeast corner of I-75 and Gibsonton Dr., has been divided into six phases, and residents can expect to see a mix of national retail stores, medical offices, restaurants and other types of convenience-type stores, such as salons, dry cleaners, childcare and others. Phase I consists of the Shoppes at Alafia—two 7,000-plus sq. ft. buildings totaling about 15,000 sq. ft. of retail space. Trulieve, a franchise marijuana and CDB dispensary, is open for business 9 a.m.-9 p.m. from Monday to Friday and 10 a.m.-8 p.m. on Sunday. Visit www.trulieve.com for information or call the store at 592-8113. Set to open next, in early March, is an F45 Training facility. F45 Training has locations throughout Tampa, and General Manager A.J. Cafaro said, “We are opening in Riverview because it is an up-and-coming, growing area.” He added, “We are here to give back and inspire the community.” At F45, the ‘F’ stands for functional training, a mixture of circuit and HIIT-style
workouts, and the ‘45’ is the total amount of time for the workout. Cafaro described F45 as boutique-style fitness with classes that all feature two coaches to motivate and challenge participants. The training studio hours will be 6 a.m.-6 p.m., seven days a week. Memberships are currently being established by calling 291-4775, or visit www.f45training.com to find out more. Jason Aprile of Aprile Real Estate, the company marketing the project, announced that AT&T and Papa Johns also have signed leases for 1,300 and 1,576 sq. ft., respectively, and should open this spring. That leaves three spaces available, ranging in size from 1,500 to 1,800 sq. ft. Those looking for a location to open a new business can select from a variety of sizes and styles of spaces available as there is more than 40,000 sq. ft. of space throughout the development without confirmed leases. Parcel and space sizes are flexible and available for lease, ground lease or build-to-suit. Phase II of the 12-acre development consists of a currently-under-construction, 5,000 sq. ft. building that will be suitable for retail stores or quick-service restau-
rants. This is located on about an acre of land to the east of the Shoppes at Alafia. Aprile could not announce any confirmed tenants for this building, nor the 28,000 sq. ft. multiuse center dubbed Phase IV. Also already in the works is Phase III, an 11,000 sq. ft. medical building. Derik Dermatology has signed a lease for about 7,000 sq. ft., according to Aprile. He anticipates the remaining space, divided into two 1,900 sq. ft. spaces, to be other types of health and wellness businesses or, possibly, an urgent care center or walk-in clinic. Derick Dermatology, based in Illinois, offers medical, surgical and cosmetic dermatological services such as Botox, treatment for acne, laser hair removal, skin cancer excision and more. This will be the first location in Florida for Derick Dermatology, and another is planned for Wesley Chapel. Representatives from Derick Dermatology could not provide any information about the planned opening date of its Gibsonton office. Phase IV will start next month, reported Aprile. He added that preleasing is currently being offered for the two-story, mixeduse building that will total 28,000 sq. ft. of space.
Phase V, with no planned date for construction, is a 5.63-acre outparcel located between the hotel site and the retail centers. The property is suitable for a fast-food restaurant or other stand-alone businesses such as a preschool or childcare facility. Lastly, slated as Phase VI, Aprile confirmed that a 124-room hotel will definitely be built on the 1.23-acre plot closest to I-75. The property, located at 10114 Gibsonton Dr. in Riverview, is accessible by a traffic signal at Gibsonton Dr. and Fern Hill Dr. Old Gibsonton Dr. runs along the front side of the property parallel to Gibsonton Dr. According to Hillsborough County’s Capital Improvements Program, intersection improvements for Gibsonton Dr. and Fern Hill Rd. are in the design stages with an anticipated completion date in mid-2023. The plan calls for signals, including pedestrian, at all four corners. Fern Hill Rd. will have additional turn lanes added at the south leg of the intersection. For now, to access the Shoppes of Alafia, take Fern Hill Rd. to Alafia Preserve Ave. which abuts the rear of the development. For leasing information, contact Aprile of Aprile Real Estate at 532-6432 or visit www.aprilerealestate.com.
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
March 2022
Page 17
COVID-19 PUBLIC EDUCATION CAMPAIGN HIGHLIGHTS PREVENTION
AN AMAZING LIFE INSPIRES BEAUTIFUL JEWELRY
The HHS COVID-19 its original efforts public education camand has expandpaign is a national ed to include over initiative to increase 17,000 members public confidence that stretch across in and uptake of health care, sports, COVID-19 vaccines rural and faith orwhile reinforcing baganizations. CCC The HHS COVID-19 public education sic prevention meaprovides resources sures such as mask campaign is a national initiative to increase to trusted messenwearing and social public confidence in and uptake of COVID-19 gers so that they vaccines while reinforcing basic prevention distancing. can open a space measures such as mask wearing and social Through a nationfor vaccine promodistancing. wide network of tion in person or trusted messengers and consisonline, reaching people where tent, fact-based public health they are. Organizations have messaging, the campaign helps led vaccination conversations, the public make informed detesting clinics and social media cisions about their health and promotion.” COVID-19, including steps to HHS has also launched a webprotect themselves and their site called We Can Do This that communities. serves as a hub for volunteers “In January, we activatto grab statistics and stories to ed nearly 50 local communishare on the ground, supportty-based organizations that ing over 300,000 unique visits hosted in-person and virtual and more than 850,000 page events, share resources and maviews. “It featured dozens of terials through trusted messengers and host toolkits and over 95 videos in English and vaccine pop-up clinics,” said Press Secre- Spanish from trusted messengers providing tary for Vaccine Public Education Campaign fact-based information about COVID-19,” Zachary Dembner. “Events will be happen- Dembner said. ing nationwide and in priority markets to The COVID-19 Public Education Campromote initial vaccines and booster shots.” paign are organized around three themes, This effort focuses on Americans who want which are to slow the spread of COVID, to protect their health but may have ques- build vaccine confidence and protect our tions about the COVID-19 vaccines. nation. “We’re growing every day as vacciAnother way Dembner and his team are nating as many people as possible becomes spreading the word about COVID-19 vacci- even more critical to our nation’s health, nations is through their COVID-19 Commu- communities and economy,” Dembner said. nity Corps (CCC). “CCC began as an effort to If you would like to learn more about the empower people and organizations to build COVID-19 Community Corps and the We vaccine confidence in their communities,” Can Do This campaign, visit the HSS webDembner said. “Today, CCC continues all site at www.wecandothis.hhs.gov.
Hayley Milks of Brandon has had a very interesting life. Her life’s journey began in Miami and has now led her to Brandon, where she creates beautiful and unique jewelry inspired by her journey. “From a very young age, I have vivid memories Hayley Milks of Brandon is the owner of BeadnikRow, a local jewelry of making your company. quintessential there is beauty and creativity in the biggest friendship bracelets with multicolored of messes. It has sort of become a metastring while securing the knot with a safe- phor for my life.” ty pin fastened to my shoelace,” Milks said. BeadnikRow jewelry can be found at “Through the years and into adolescence, Pat’s Corner inside Center Place Fine Arts I would make beaded bracelets and even & Civic Association at the monthly Windabbled with woven hair ties, all while lis- throp Pop-Up Market, as well as other artitening to Three Dog Night, Jethro Tull and san markets throughout Tampa. Credence, but then life happened.” “Every morning, I wake up and pinch myIn a span of 18 years, Milks had four self because it is so hard to believe that I daughters, graduated from college, had a get to create for a living,” Milks said. “I nevfew failed marriages, owned a yoga studio er, in my wildest—or most realistic—dayfor eight years and donated a kidney to a dreams, did I believe I could see something complete stranger. on one of my morning runs, rush home and What’s more, Milks became the owner of turn it into a piece someone will wear. I BeadnikRow, which is a local jewelry com- also get to work alongside my 13-year-old pany. daughter, who is unbelievably talented and “I can honestly say that most of my in- makes all of our rings. Our customers are spirations come from music, landscapes extremely supportive and some of the most and T-shirts,” Milks said. “I will look at a genuine humans I have ever met.” band shirt and see something that I can If you’d like to learn more about Beadsuccessfully turn into an earring. If it isn’t nikRow or if you’d like to see more of Milks’ too successful, then I scrap it, and what jewelry, you can visit her Instagram page comes from the scrapped clay is usually at www.instagram.com/beadnikrow. Pat’s better than what I had originally planned Corner is located at 619 Vonderburg Dr., for initially. I have learned that with my art, Ste. B in Brandon.
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Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
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Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
March 2022
Page 19
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Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
Grace Market, Bingo, Spring Bazaar & More Compiled by Jenny Bennett jbennett@ospreyobserver.com
Hearing Loss Association Of America Meeting
Volume 20, Issue 3
The Bridges Retirement Com- line at www.sccumc.com by clicking the munity Hosts Veterans Assis- ‘Events’ tab. SCCUMC is located at 1210 W. Del Webb Blvd. in Sun City Center. tance Seminar
For more inThe Bridges Reformation tirement Commuabout this nity is hosting a and other veterans assistance concerts seminar on Tuesday, and recitals March 22 from 10at SCCUMC, 11 a.m. to educate please conwartime veterans tact Kevin and their survivors Goodenow, concert series coordinator, at about a benefit, ‘Improved Pension with 362-0956. Aid and Attendance,’ which can help offset the cost of living in an assisted living.
Compassion Club Sends Valen- starts at 6:30 p.m. Club President Jeff Lukens will provide an update on election tine’s Day Cards To Patients
St. Joseph’s Hospital-South patients received student-made Valentine’s Day cards from Riverview Academy of Math and Science. The cards were made by the school’s Compassion Club, whose purpose is to spread compassion and to help others. The cards with encouraging words Seating is limited; please call 413-8900 and messages helped to make the day to reserve a seat. The Bridges Retirement brighter for the patients in the hospital. Community is located at 11202 Dewhurst Dr. in Riverview. Bingo Returns To St. Stephen
The mission of the Hearing Loss Association of America is to open the world of communication to people with hearing loss by providing information, education, support and advocacy. The Sun City Center chapter will be holding its next meeting at St. Andrew Presbyterian Church, located at 1239 W. Del Webb Blvd. in Sun City Center, on Tuesday, March 15 at 12:30 p.m. This will be a hybrid meeting, available to attend in South Bay Genealogy Society person or via Zoom. A guest speaker will Meeting present, and there will be time to mingle On Tuesday, March 15, the South Bay afterwards. RSVP via email to debbe.hagGenealogical Society will meet at Unitner@gmail.com or text 727-271-0770. If ed Methodist Church of Sun City Center you have any questions, contact Eloise at (SCCUMC) in the Life Enrichment Center. eloise6376@gmail.com. Beginning at 10:30 a.m. is an optional roundtable discussion, followed by a Grace Community Market luncheon at 12 Noon and a guest preGrace Community Church, located at sentation at 1 p.m. Drew Smith will dis5708 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. in Lithia, is cuss ‘Organizing Your Genealogical Files.’ holding its next market day on Saturday, The cost is $15, including the lunch and March 26 from 9 a.m.-2 p.m. There will be presentation. For reservations and meal a wide selection of vendors with food and choice, call Dianne Loudermilk at 864fun as well as local shopping for Moth- 607-1330. SCCUMC is located at 1210 W. er’s Day, FaDel Webb Blvd. in Sun City Center. ther’s Day and graduaBluegrass Band Sideline tions. Coming To Sun City Center If you are The United Methodist Church of interestSun City Center (SCCUMC) weled in being comes the bluegrass band Sideline a vendor, to its campus on Friday, March please reg18 at 7 p.m. Advance tickets are ister at $15 and can be purchased in the www.gracechurch office from Monday to communityThursday, 8:30 a.m.-4 p.m., or onmarket.com.
Catholic Church
St. Stephen Catholic Church, located at 10118 St. Stephen Cir. in Riverview is pleased to announce the return of bingo to its Family Life Center. The event is held on the fourth Tuesday of every month. The next date is Tuesday, March 22, and it will begin at 6:30 p.m. The doors open at 5:30 p.m., and a concession stand will be available for refreshments. There will also be a 50/50 raffle, and proceeds from the evening will support community families in need and church groups like St. Vincent de Paul.
Riverview Republican Club
The Riverview Republican Club will hold its meeting on Monday, March 28 in the meeting room of The Alley Pub & Grill at 10221 Big Bend Rd. in Riverview. Social time begins at 6 p.m. and the meeting
integrity and members will learn more about sponsoring meet and greets for Republican candidates, and Republican candidates will be given an opportunity to speak. All Republicans and like-minded voters are welcome to attend.
Spring Bazaar To Benefit Kittie Corral
Kittie Corral, a nonprofit animal rescue, is holding an outdoor spring bazaar on Saturday, March 12, from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. at Lake Wimauma Convention Center, located at 5408 SR 674 in Wimauma. There will be vendors of all kinds, including arts, crafts, pet-rel a t e d businesses, food trucks and more. Beautiful raffle baskets will be available to win. If you are interested in being a vendor, please contact Angelite Bragg on 634-5873 or 731-6303 for more information; apply early, as only two vendors per industry will be allowed. For more information on Kittie Corral, visit www.kittiecorral.org.
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Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
HILLSBOROUGH PARKS & REC EMPLOYEE DARLENE NELSON EARNS POSITIVE COACHING ALLIANCE AWARD By Nick Nahas Mahatma Gandhi once approximately 50 student said that the best way to per day. find yourself is to lose your“We have a characself in the service of others. ter-building program,” said Hillsborough County Parks Nelson. “I think that the & Recreation Department children these days need Supervisor Darlene Nelson that. This program teaches is a perfect embodiment of them how to cope with difservice to community. ferent things that they may Nelson, who has worked not have the opportunity for the county for 24 years to learn. It helps them in out of the Apollo Beach school, in their community Park & Recreation Center, and with life skills. For me received an award from the to win this, I was so apprePositive Coaching Alliance ciative because that means (PCA) for her work making that I’m doing my job and Photo courtesy of the Hillsborough it’s getting across to my a difference in the lives of kids in Hillsborough Coun- County Parks & Recreation Department. students, and if they’re unDarlene Nelson, has worked for ty. She said that, without a derstanding it, then they’ll the county for 24 years. doubt, the most rewarding be better people. It’s just aspect of her job is providing a service. awesome to me.” “I don’t care what it is, if I’m able to help Nelson was one of 100 people across the someone out by providing a service, that is country named a winner of Positive Coachmy goal,” said Nelson. “I don’t care if it’s at ing Alliance’s Regional Double-Goal Coach the park, if it’s at another facility, another Award. The award is given to youth and high center, that is the most rewarding part of school sports coaches who embody the idemy job.” als of a Double-Goal Coach: striving to win Her supervisors said that they nominated while also pursuing the important goal of Nelson for the award because of her abili- teaching life lessons through sports. ty to work with all ages and ability levels, Nelson and some of her colleges also work her positivity and her encouragement of every Friday for an hour with 20-30 teenagchildren to give their best effort, learn from ers at the Department of Juvenile Justice, mistakes and respect teammates. where they teach positive character through The PCA award winner primarily works sports. with children ages 5-12 and teaches several Nelson will receive $500 for the honor, sports, including but not limited to basket- and she will be eligible to be selected as ball, hockey, soccer and football, along with one of 25 national Positive Coaching Alliathletic building skill sets such as jump- ance Coach of the Year winners. Her goal ing rope, running and completing obstacle is to create an after-school program at her courses. She also teaches several senior pro- center. She was also recently promoted to grams for ages 55 and up. She works with regional supervisor.
Page 21
HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY TAX COLLECTOR HIGHLIGHTS MANY SUCCESSES IN STATE OF THE ORGANIZATION AND ANNUAL REPORT By Kathy L. Collins Hillsborough County Tax Collector Nancy the toll agency for Central Florida) to clear Millan has released the State of the Organi- tolls by allowing residents to pay them at zation and Annual Report for the agency. In the time of their registration renewal. Hillit, Milan looks back at her sborough County’s tax accomplishments during collector’s office was her first year in office and the first in the state celebrates many successof Florida to deploy es. Millan was elected tax remote driving tests collector in 2020. She reduring the pandemic. placed Doug Belden, who It also worked with the had served in that electFlorida Department ed position for 22 years. of Health to increase “I am excited to share branch customer cathese amazing successpacity once COVID rees that we have been strictions were eased. Hillsborough County Tax able to accomplish. The office used an Collector Nancy Millan Many of them were artificial intelligence has released the State of the campaign promises that called Sofie to answer Organization and Annual I made,” Millan said. “I Report. Since being elected to the post in over 70,000 questions am honored to work with 2020, she has been a good steward of tax from 40,000 users. such a phenomenal team funds, worked hard to protect employFinally, the tax colwho understands the im- ees and the public during a pandemic lector collected $2.4 and made good on many campaign portance of what we do billion in taxes. After promises. and look forward to what distributions to taxing we as a team will do in 2022,” added Milan. authorities, the tax collector’s office was Some of the highlights are impressive. Mi- able to provide $22 million back to Hillsborlan increased the starting pay for custom- ough County for vital services such as infraer service representatives from $15.16 per structure, waterways, libraries and other hour to $17.10 per hour. important services. The tax collector’s office enhanced the call Milan is looking forward to the rest of center with additional staffing resources 2022, and this year, the Hillsborough Counand implemented an ad hoc telework pro- ty Tax Collector’s Office will be utilizing adgram for employees impacted by COVID-19 ditional technology and services to provide to improve phone services, resulting in an better customer service. They will enhance increase of calls answered by 59 percent. It accessibility, increase capacity in branches also achieved a 94 percent vaccination rate and provide more services online. Milan said, within the organization. This helped to keep “We want to make it convenient and easy not only employees safe but customers as for all who need our services.” well. To watch the State of the Organization The Tax Collector’s Office partnered with video and review the Annual Report, please CFX (Central Florida Expressway Authority, visit www.hillstax.org/state-of-the-org.
Page 22
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
HILLSBOROUGH EDUCATION PROGRAM SEEKS APPLICANTS AND MENTORS By Michelle Caceres
Riverview High gradmust in the seventh uate Kyah Stuckey or eighth grade, be enwasn’t thinking about rolled in a Hillsborough how she was going to County Public School, pay for college when meet financial requireshe was in middle ments (applicants school, but she’s gratemust submit copies of ful it was on her mom’s a 1040 tax return and mind. social security card) “She had to take out and have a minimum student loans to pay unweighted GPA of for college and didn’t 2.5. After preliminary want that for me,” said application screenings, Stuckey. the highest scoring Her mom encourstudents will be seaged her to apply Riverview gradate Kyah Stuckey earned a lected for an interview for Hillsborough Ed- two-year college scholarship by participat- with Hillsborough Education Foundation’s ucation Foundation. ing in Hillsborough Education FoundaTake Stock in Children Students who are contion’s Take Stock in Children mentoring program. mentoring program, sidered to be promising in which students are paired with a men- candidates for the program will be invited to tor and role model who provides emotional become Take Stock in Children scholars and support, fosters confidence and helps them will be paired with a caring volunteer menreach their academic goals. Students that tor and guidance from a HEF college success complete the program earn a Florida Pre- coach throughout their high school years. paid Scholarship on the condition that they Scholars take a pledge of commitment to meet the program’s standards. stay in school, maintain good grades and Stuckey excelled in the program, graduat- make positive life choices throughout their ing in 2021 with a two-year college scholar- high school years. ship. She’s currently attending Hillsborough Take Stock in Children Program Director Community College and hopes to one day Joanna Sandoval said HEF is also accepting work in the medical profession. applications for mentors. “The program and my mentor, Norma, “Mentors meet with students at least really helped me prepare for life after high twice a month, either in person or virtually, school,” she said. Stuckey is already applying to provide guidance, support and hope for a for more scholarships to pay for the last two brighter future,” she said. years of college. To apply for Take Stock in Children menThe application period for the 2022 pro- toring program, visit www.educationfoungram opens Monday, March 7 and runs dation.com?tsic-schoalrships. To learn more through Monday, May 9. To apply for Hills- about becoming a mentor, visit www.eduborough Education Foundation’s Take Stock cationfoundation.com/mentor-a-student or in Children mentoring program, students call 574-0271.
Volume 20, Issue 3
HEALTHY LIVING PROGRAM HOSTS FREE FOOD EVENT Staff Report County residents with limited income and assets who do not qualify for other health care coverage, including Medicare and Medicaid. The program is funded by a special sales tax and administered by Hillsborough County. The Healthy Living Program provides guidance and resources for a healthy lifestyle to Health Care Plan members and Hillsborough residents through local, Hillsborough County’s Healthy Living Program is hosting an on-site services. event on Saturday, March 19 for residents to receive free groceries. Features include an exercise room, educational acThere is good news for residents who are experiencing food insecurity in the South- tivities, group exercise sessions, nutritional Shore area. Hillsborough County’s Healthy counseling and health screenings at Healthy Living Program is hosting an event on Sat- Living Centers throughout Hillsborough urday, March 19 for residents to receive free County. Free classes on topics such as diagroceries. The program also offers many betes prevention/management, weight loss, healthy food choices, cooking, public health other resources to keep residents healthy. The event, which will provide Hillsbor- services and other health management serough County residents with free food, will vices are also available through the Healthy run from 10-11:30 a.m. at the SouthShore Living Program. All Hillsborough County residents are enCommunity Resource Center, located at 201 couraged to apply for the program for free 14th Ave. SE. in Ruskin. According to Hillsborough County rep- and anyone interested in joining can visit resentatives, the food packages, which are one of the Healthy Living Centers with an provided in partnership with Feeding Tampa identification card to sign up. In addition to Bay, generally include fresh fruit and vege- Ruskin’s SouthShore Community Resource tables, meats, canned goods and staples like Center, other centers are located in Tampa (the Lee Davis Community Resource Cenbeans and rice. There are no income restrictions to re- ter) at 3402 N. 22nd St. and Plant City (the Plant City Community Resource Center) at ceive the free groceries. Residents who attend also will receive in- 307 N. Michigan Ave. For more information on Saturday’s event, formation on Hillsborough County’s Healthy Living Program and the Hillsborough County the Healthy Living Program or the HillsborHealth Care Plan, which is a comprehensive ough County Health Care Plan, call 272managed care program for Hillsborough 5040.
CAC1820162
March 2022
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
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Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
Volume 20, Issue 3
Celebrating 41 Years Serving our Community Thinking it’s time for a new roof? Do you think your roof may have wind damage? DO NOT REPLACE YOUR ROOF WITHOUT LETTING US TAKE A LOOK!
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Riverview/Apollo Beach
March 2022 Vol 20, Iss 3 49-57
The Lexwerx Law Firm Provides Personalizes Attention The Lexwerx Law Firm was created to provide the personalized attention, disciplined turnaround time, excellence in results and affordable, upfront fee packages that you just don’t get from larger groups. The Lexwerx Law Firm is a veteran-owned and operated, full-service law firm with a strong focus on wills, trusts, estates, guardianships and probates. The Lexwerx Law Firm is located at 1550 W. Cleveland St. in Tampa. For more information, visit its website at www.lexwerx. com or follow on Facebook @TheLexwerxLawFirmLLC. Celebrate St. Paddy’s Day At The Salty Shamrock The Salty Shamrock is an authentic Irish bar and restaurant in the center of Apollo Beach at 6186 U.S. Hwy. 41. It is celebrating St. Paddy’s Day with two huge parties. St. Puppy’s Day will kick off the week on Sunday, March 13 at 11 a.m. with costume contests, a puppy parade and over 25 vendors and adoption agencies. There will also be all-day food and drink specials. St. Paddy’s Day, itself on Thursday, March 17, is an all-day celebration starting at 11 a.m. Ireland’s Irish Ramblers will entertain inside the pub from 11 a.m.-3 p.m. and there will be constant entertainment on the outdoor stage. Irish food specials as well as green beer flowing from
the taps will be available all day long. Additional information on events at the Salty Shamrock can be found by visiting its Facebook page @saltyshamrockFL.
1910 S. Pebble Beach Blvd. in Sun City Center. There you can meet some amazing new local business owners. Admission is free. If you would like to showcase your business, give Lynne a call at 634-5111 or email Popular Cuban Restaurant Cele- lynne@southhillschamber.com. brates Anniversary La Septima Cafe is A+ Hearing Presenting To celebrating 27 years Hearing Loss Association Of in business. It is well America known as a Brandon Don and Chris Guiley, owners staple for its delicious of A+ Hearing in Sun City Cenand authentic Cuban futer, will be presenting a talk on sion cuisine. After hav‘Future Hearing Aids – OTC’ to the ing to close its dining Hearing Loss Association of Ameriroom due to COVID-19, ca’s meeting. They have been in the the restaurant pivoted to serving family hearing business for over 45 years commeals to take home, bined and like to say, “We are not just in the which remain very popu- hearing aid business, but in the business of lar and are a great deal at only $39.95. La Septima Cafe was very happy to be able to reopen the dining room for counter service earlier this year and has welcomed many familiar customers faces back. helping people hear.” Subjects covered will La Septima Cafe is located at 702 W. include ‘Why can’t I hear?’, ‘What can be Lumsden Rd. in the La Viva Plaza in Brandon. done?’ and ‘What does the future look like For more information, visit its website at for hearing impaired?’. The meeting will be www.laseptimacafe.com or call 685-0502. held on Tuesday, March 15 at 12:30 p.m. at St. Andrew Presbyterian Church, located at Spring Business Expo In Sun City 1239 W. Del Webb Blvd. in Sun City Center. Center The meeting is free to attend. A+ Hearing The South Hillsborough Chamber of Com- is located at 1647 Sun City Center Plaza merce is holding its spring business expo on Bldg., Ste. 203A in Sun City Center. For Thursday, March 31, from 9 a.m.-1 p.m. at the more information, visit its website at www. Sun City Center Community Hall, located at aplushearingsuncity.com or call 642-8200.
Tropical Elegance - Veteran Team Member Now New Owner Jon and Megan Hurst have bought Tropical Elegance Window Fashions from the original owners, Don and Sabina Hanson. This company has been serving this area for 20-plus years and Jon has been an employee of the company for over 10 years. Jon and Megan are FishHawk residents and public service workers; Jon is a firefighter and Megan is a teacher at Bevis Elementary school. Tropical Elegance is known throughout the community for competitive prices, high-quality products and unmatched customer service. It specializes in plantation shutters, shades, blinds, motorization and more. To view products and find out more, visit www.tropicalelegancewindowfashions.com, view on Facebook @TropicalEleganceWindowFashions or call 766-9744. Citrus Home Center Buys Mobile Homes Citrus Home Center was founded as a full-service mobile home dealership based in Central Florida. It invests in used/unwanted
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Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
BUSINESS COLUMN CONTINUED... mobile homes as well as land with mobile homes on it. No title? No problem, it can resolve most issues. Its team is dedicated to making the selling experience as easy as possible with cash offers tailored to meet your needs while building lasting relationships with valued clients. Visit www.citrushomecenter.com or call 407-680-3014 for more information. Tracer Inspections Offers Services To Homeowners Tracer Inspections is a one-on-one, customer and service-based company that educates the consumer on the condition, quality and durability of their real estate investment. It offers a variety of inspections, including prepurchase, prelisting and general i n spection of current home, all carried out by licensed inspectors. Wind mitigation and roof recertification inspections can also help save homeowners money on their insurance. For more information, visit its website at www.tracerinspections.com, call 842-
Volume 20, Issue 3
helping local businesses grow. It helps to create comprehensive, custom strategies to help your business reach its goals. It always 0740 or follow on Facebook at https:// considers the ‘big picture’ and how best to www.facebook.com/Tracer-Inspec- get optimum results in the long term. When tions-105036448757542 you work with Meticulous Jess Marketing, it’s clear that it is truly determined, efficient Then Barbershop Is There For All and effective. Meticulous Jess Marketing is Your Barbershop Needs located at 10668 New East Bay Dr., Ste 207 Then Barberin Gibsonton. For more inforshop is a fammation, visit its website at ily-owned business www.meticulousjessmarketwhere all customers ing.com, follow on Facebook are valued, located at @meticulousjessllc or call 861 Lithia Pinecrest 822-9884. Rd. in Brandon. It ensures the best quality AAFMAA Wealth Manageof service for all customers with the goal of ment And Trust For The Military Commaking sure everyone has a great experience munity when getting their hair cut. It is open MonAnthony day to Saturday, 8 a.m.-7 p.m. and Sunday, 9 Nemanic, a.m.-3 p.m. An appointment is not necessary. re l a t i o n You can follow it on Facebook @thenbarber- ship manshop or call 653-9595 for more information. ager with AAFMAA Wealth Management & Trust, is Meticulous Jess Marketing Is Efficient now serving the Tampa area. The business And Effective offers investment management, financial Meticulous Jess Marketing is owned by planning and trust services exclusively for Jessica Edwards and is the place to go for the military community. It is a nonprofit orall your consulting, digital marketing, graphic ganization and over 50 percent of its staff design and business have either worn the uniform or is photography needs. a military spouse. As such, it conThe agency is dedfidently says that it knows what icated to helping is important to military families, bring prosperity to and its nonprofit status holds it the community by accountable to ensure it provides
the best solutions for military needs. More information can be found on its website at www.aafmaa.com/wealthmanagement, on Facebook @AnthonyNemanicAAFMAA or by calling 538-2634.c Dorothy Cares Assisted Living Facility Wins Best Of Senior Living Award Dorothy Cares Assisted Living Facility was recently awarded the Best of Senior Living Award by A Place for Mom for the fourth year in a row. Dorothy Cares has two locations, 11626 Tropical Isle Ln. and 10427 Crestfield Dr., both in Riverview. Each location offers individualized personal and skilled nursing care in private and semiprivate rooms in a homelike setting with home cooked food. Owner Dorothy Araujo said, “With this coronavirus pandemic, it’s been a rough year, but through it all we have kept all of our residents coronavirus-free at both locations. I am so proud of all our accomplishments and all my staff.” Visit www.dorothycaresalf.com, or call 8628871. Royal G Snacks Launches New Healthy Snack Line Royal G Snacks (RGS Foods), located at 850 E. Adamo Dr. in Tampa, recently launched a new line of healthy snacks. Its mission is to ensure that every one of its products is made with high-quality ingredients to ensure the satisfaction of its customers at all times. For more information about RGS Foods, visit its website at www.rgsfoods.com or call 941357-3189.
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March 2022
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
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Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
NAM KNIGHTS CREATE A K9 MEMORIAL By Libby Hopkins dian provinces, with hundreds of members made up of veterans of all eras as well as law enforcement personnel, plus a few special and dedicated ‘patriots.’ Nam Knights Westside Chapter of Brandon is currently working on a RegionAs Quigley has al K9 Law Enforcement Memorial to honor all the fallen K9 officers. said, “The club Denise and Gary Olson, the was formed to recapture new owners of Brandon’s Hithe brotherhood its foundTech Automotive, have been ing members shared while longtime members of the serving in Southeast Asia, AMVETS organization, parand to help other veterans ticularly AMVETS Post 26. of all wars who are unable to “My wife, Denise, was volphysically or financially help unteering her time as Canthemselves.” teen Steward one night and The Olsons and their fellow the Nam Knights Westside Nam Knights members are Chapter came into the post,” currently working on a ReGary said. “My wife called gional K9 Law Enforcement me at home and said, ‘There Memorial to honor all the are some guys up here I fallen K9 officers who have paid the ultithink you would really like to meet.’ So, I mate price for our protection, v be located went up to meet them. I found they were in the city of Temple Terrace. a military/law enforcement club, both cur“The city has kindly donated a piece of rent and veterans. Since I’m a veteran, we property to us for this memorial,” Gary said. hit it off immediately.” “We have the bronze dog statue, which will In the summer of 1989, a small group of be the center piece of this memorial, comHarley-riding combat vets of the Vietnam pleted at this time and are hoping to have War, who were also police officers, band- a groundbreaking ceremony held very soon. ed together to form the Nam Knights. The Also, we have our annual charity event, club was founded in New Jersey by Jack the Pig Roast, coming up on April 2 at Quigley, now-retired undersheriff of the Brandon Harley Davidson to help us supBergen County Sheriff’s Department. Quig- port the rising costs to build the memorial. ley served as a platoon sergeant with the There will be live music, vendors, food, raf11th Motor Transport Battalion, First Ma- fle items and much more to enjoy.” rine Division. If you would like to learn more about the Today, the Nam Knights of America Mo- Nam Knights Westside Chapter, you can torcycle Club has grown to 69 chapters in visit its website at www.namknightswest16 states, Washington D.C. and two Cana- side.com.
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Volume 20, Issue 3
HOPE FOR HER OFFERS MARCH HEALTH & WELLNESS CLASSES Staff Report
Hope for Her is offering classes to help women live their best lives.
“We are excited to have our second series of Healthy Habit Classes on Monday evenings in March from 6:15 pm to 7:30 pm,” said Hope for Her Director of Operations Myriam Lugo. The group’s mission is to help women and their families in crisis find stability and live their best lives, and these new classes go along with that. “We are creating a community of women who want to live their best lives,” said Lugo. “We do this by sharing our mutual experience and growing together. All facilitators will share from their personal experiences.” This month’s classes are: March 14 - Emotional Health With Ilene - Declutter Your Heart, Part 2 Join the class on March 14 to free your mind of overload and your living space of stuff. Learn tips for decluttering to ease anxiety and emotional stress. Let’s organize, give away and feel hope to head into spring with enthusiasm. March 21 - Physical Health With Amanda and Vivienne Get energized with Hope for Her! You’ll dance and move for 30 minutes of Zumba, then you’ll slow down by stretching, relaxing and praising God. March 28 - Spiritual Health With Kristen - Learning To Love Ourselves as
God Loves Us Hurtful relationships or traumatic pasts can make us feel that we aren’t good enough. If our hearts really wrestle with that, we may be hesitant to accept that we are fully accepted and loved as God’s children. Many of us struggle to believe that God truly loves and forgives us for our past, but God’s forgiveness and love are truly available to every one of us. Join in on March 28 for an interactive discussion and time of sharing with other women working to overcome shame and explore evidence from the Bible that can empower us to move with hope and confidence. Another class that was offered at the beginning of the month was Nutritional Health With Charlee - Baking Low Carb If you’re wanting to try low-carb sweets but are not sure where to begin or not sure about almond flour, then come check out this class where you will learn how to bake low-carb chocolate chip cookies using almond flour. You’ll also learn about the different sweeteners available and how they are used. Get ready because recipes and samples will be available. To register, call 309-3357. Classes will be held at 140 Yarbrough Rd. in Brandon. To learn more about Hope for Her, visit www.hopeforherfl.org.
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
March 2022
TAKE A HIKE AT FISHHAWK CREEK NATURE PRESERVE
By Michelle Caceres
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813-672-7876
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PUBLIC TRAILS
Hiking Only Trail
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mountain bikes might be able to navigate the sometimes-rough terrain, it’s best to leave your road bike at home. When taking a hike, bring plenty of water, download the trail map, tell someone your plan, wear proper shoes and sun protection and stay on the marked trails. Spring is a great time to take a hike on one of Florida’s many nature trails. To help get residents moving, Hillsborough County Parks & Recreation is sponsoring the 2022 Hiking Spree. Register for the program online, download the Hiking Spree’s printable trail list and start hiking. Participants who com. plete a minimum of eight designated trails between November 1, 2021 and March 31, 2022 will earn a prize. While the trails in FishHawk Creek Nature Preserve aren’t part of the program, other local trails located in Alafia River State Park, Alderman’s Ford Conservation Park, Edard Medard Conservation Park, Alafia River Corridor South Preserve and Bell Creek Nature Preserve are on the trail list. Trails are open from sunrise to sunset. Visit www.hcflgov.net/hikingspree. For more information about FishHawk Creek Preserve, call 673-7876. ) "
Many people are drawn to Lithia Springs Park to immerse themselves in the refreshing, cool waters of the headspring. However, as FishHawk resident Kerrie Hoening discovered, there’s more to enjoy near this special park. Running adjacent to the park is FishHawk Creek Nature Preserve, a 3,286-acre site bisected by FishHawk Blvd. and divided into a north and south section. The north portion, which can be accessed by entering Lithia Springs Park (for a $2 fee per vehicle) at 3931 Lithia Springs Rd., in% c g f e d ! cludes two pavilions with picnic tables and ! more than 3 miles of % c g f e d hiking trails. The south portion has free parking at 16640 Boyette Rd. and includes pavilions with picnic tables, a basketball court and a hiking trail, a portion of which is closed for restoration. The north portion of the trail can also be accessed via a paved walkway between Starling and The Preserve. After walking through the gate, the trail entrance is on the left side of parking area. “It’s a hidden gem a stone’s throw from where we live,” she said. “It was so picturesque and there was also access to FishHawk Creek.” The trail, though not paved, is wide and well marked. While
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Page 29
RCMA RECEIVES $1.275 MILLION INVESTMENT FROM CHARTER SCHOOL GROWTH FUND
Staff Report
RCMA, Florida’s largest nonprofit provider of early childhood education, announced that it will receive a $1.275 million investment over four years from the Charter School Growth Fund to add a third charter school and plan further expansion. This now makes RCMA a nationally recognized charter school operator. RCMA operates Immokalee Community Academy for grades K-7 and Wimauma Community Academy for grades K-8, serving 635 students. It has plans for a K-8 Mulberry Community Academy to open with K-1 classes for the 202324 school year followed by another site in 2024-25. By 2026-27, RCMA will serve more than 1,000 students in five charter schools. “Since our founding 56 years ago, our focus has been on helping children from rural, low-income and migrant families achieve academic parity,” said Isabel Garcia, executive director of RCMA. “Through our 65 child development centers and two schools, we support children from crib to high school and beyond. This grant commitment from the Charter School Growth Fund means that our impact on students, families and communities will be felt for additional generations to come. Our families want their children to continue with their RCMA education after seeing all they achieve in our child development centers.” The Charter School Growth Fund is the largest funder of high-performing charter schools in the country and currently has
approximately 180 organizations in its portfolio. Its focus is on schools that operate in underserved communities; 92 percent of the students in its portfolio charter schools are students of color, and 73 percent are from low-income families. During the past three years, representatives from the Charter School Growth Fund visited RCMA’s schools, assessed the academic achievement of its students, spoke with members of its leadership team, evaluated the nonprofit’s strong finances and heard enthusiastic praise from the families RCMA serves. “RCMA’s work within its communities is impressive, inspiring and a model for others,” said CSGF President Darryl Cobb. “We are excited to support RCMA as it embarks upon a new chapter in its growth. We are humbled by their leadership, their outstanding commitment to families and students and look forward to being partners as they expand their presence and impact.” Driven by a conviction that all children deserve great public schools in their communities, the Charter School Growth Fund identifies the country’s best public charter schools, funds their expansion and helps to increase their impact. It provides funding and support to a community of school leaders who seek to grow and serve more students, whether they are expanding from one to two schools or building a network of many schools. Learn more at chartergrowthfund.org. Learn more about RCMA at rcma.org.
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Page 30
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS SETS RECORD WITH 25 MAGNET SCHOOLS OF MERIT AWARD RECIPIENTS
Staff Report
For the first time in district history, 25 magnet schools in Hillsborough County Public Schools (HCPS) have been recognized nationally through the Magnet Schools of America National Merit Award program, which honors the top magnet schools in the United States. The schools are selected by demonstrating a commitment to high academic standards, curriculum innovation, successful diversity efforts, specialized teaching staff and parent and community involvement. A total of 10 HCPS schools received the Magnet School Merit Award of Excellence, which is the top award given to a magnet school. This number represents the highest amount of Excellence Awards our district has received in its history. The schools receiving this top award include Dunbar Elementary Magnet School, Boys Preparatory Academy at Franklin Middle Magnet School, MacFarlane Park Elementary Magnet School (also designated a National Magnet Demonstration School in 21-22), Jefferson High School, Muller Elementary Magnet School, Progress Village Middle Magnet School of the Arts, Riverhills Elementary Magnet School (also designated a National Magnet Demonstration School in 21-22), Roland Park K-8 Magnet School, Shore Elementary Magnet School of the Arts and Walker Middle Magnet School. A total of 15 district schools were designated Magnet Schools of Distinction, which is the second highest award a magnet school can receive. These schools include Armwood High School, Girls Preparatory Academy at Ferrell Middle Magnet School, Lennard High School, Lincoln Elementary Magnet School,
Middleton High School, South Tampa Academy at Monroe Middle Magnet School, Rampello K-8 Downtown Partnership Magnet School, Robinson High School, Rodgers Middle Magnet School, Sligh Middle Magnet School, Spoto High School, Stewart Middle Magnet School, Tampa Bay Technical High School, Tampa Heights Elementary Magnet School and Williams Middle Magnet School. “This record-breaking achievement could not have been realized without the steadfast dedication from our students, teachers, administrators and support professionals. These schools have demonstrated tremendous commitment to providing innovative educational experiences for learners of every grade band, and we are excited to continue to grow this tradition of excellence within Hillsborough County Public Schools. The fact that these schools have been able to soar to these heights amid a pandemic is all the more inspiring,” said Superintendent Addison Davis. “We appreciate Magnet Schools of America for recognizing the incredible work our students, teachers and schoolbased staff and administrators do every day. Our district is thrilled to have the highest number of awards in our history. Community is integral to the work we do within our magnet schools, and we will continue to strive to ensure our programs are responsive to our family’s needs,” said Robert Cox, supervisor of magnet programs. To learn more, visit www.hillsboroughschools.org.
The Doors of The Church Are Open Church Services 10am Sunday Youth & Teens Church School 9:00 a.m. Kingdom Builders 10:00 a.m. (Children’s Church 2-10) Bible Study 7pm Tuesday (Teens) 5920 Robert Tolle Drive 7pm Wednesday (Adults)
Riverview, 33578 813-337-7457 Office Hours: Mon - Thur 10am- 3pm www.Mtzionriverview.com FACEBOOK: Mt Zion AME Church Riverview
Community Food Pantry 2nd & 4th Thursday 11:00 -2:00 Monthly Second Chances Job Training Mon.-Thurs.
Karen J. Sims, Pastor and Roy Sims (brother)
Volume 20, Issue 3
IRONWOOD FLATS APARTMENT COMPLEX OPENS IN MARCH
By Taylor Wells
tual sports simulator; state-of-the-art fitness center; remote work hubs; outdoor event suite balcony; and much more. Plus, guests can have two pets, either dogs and cats, in their apartment, and there is an open-air pet spa and leash-free dog park. The community of Ironwood Flats comes with many amenities, includFloor plans range ing a walking path, a lake and a pool. from 726 to 1585 sq. There’s a new apartment complex coming ft., starting at $1,654. Inside each spacious in March. Built and owned by the 101-year- home are a washer and dryer, smart locks old, family-owned Edward Rose & Sons, a and thermostats, fully equipped kitchens, real estate development and management plank flooring in all living areas and custom firm, Ironwood Flats of Brandon comes as textured bedroom carpet are designed for not just a beautiful place to live and relax the highest expectations. Ironwood Flats but also one backed by the company’s im- will consist of four buildings, totaling 296 pressive history. luxury apartment homes, upon completion “In a market where developers frequently of a two-phase build. Phase one, with 164 sell, our long-term investment in develop- homes, will open one building at a time, ments makes us unique in this market area,” with the Building 2 slated for Friday, March said Ethan Roark, property manager at Ed- 4 and Building 1 on Friday, April 15. Phase ward Rose & Sons. two, which includes the final two buildings, He added, “We are able to offer the peace is slated for completion in the fall of 2023. of mind based upon the fact that Edward Roark said to the community, “If they, their Rose & Sons will continue to provide the friends or family are seeking a new kind of same high-quality, resident-centric service resident experience designed with a balance and management for the duration of our between nature and interior thoughtfulness resident’s tenure.” and refinement, we can’t wait to introduce Ironwood Flats is dedicated to quality, re- and tour them at Ironwood Flats!” laxation, recreation and convenience. Being Edward Rose & Sons’ communities sell located in Brandon, just outside of Tampa, out fast, and Ironwood Flats is no different. it is near major employers, schools and the If you want a room, you’ll have to apply soon. shopping, dining and entertainment that the Ironwood Flats is located on the former area has to offer, like the Westfield Brandon Ace Golf Property at 795 Ironwood Flats mall, Busch Gardens and The Florida Aquar- Cir. near S. Kings Ave. & W. Lumsden Rd. in ium. Brandon. To apply or for more information, Its amenities include a resort-style, in- visit www.ironwoodflats.com or call 833finity edge pool with poolside cabanas; vir- 200-1479.
March 2022
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
SOUTHSHORE CHARTER ACADEMY GETS A VISIT FROM LUCKY THE SNOWMAN By Tatiana Ortiz Going that extra tons and eyes made mile can surely make of blueberries. a difference in one’s “I literally got life, especially when tears seeing the joy it comes to education. on the students faces Seffner resident when they saw and Robin Hughes, a spefelt Lucky,” Hughes cial education teachsaid. er at Southshore When Lucky is not Charter Academy in in the classroom, he Riverview, had taught can be found inside a lesson about weaththe school’s cafeteria er to her students freezer. The cafeteand realized that ria staff as well as many of them did not the entire school had have relevant knowlwelcomed him with edge when it came to open arms. the concept of snow. Amy Sams, prinHughes went home cipal at Southshore to Danville, Kentucky Robin Hughes, special education teacher Charter Academy for Thanksgiving to (left), and Amy Sams, principal at South- and a Greater Rivsee her sister, Am- shore Charter Academy (right), holding erview Chamber of Lucky the snowman. ber Estes. Through a Commerce memconversation with her ber, stated how sister, Hughes presenther school has transed a challenge to Estes formed since the arrivand asked to build a al of Lucky: “I see that snowman and mail it the arrival of Lucky for her students if it has piqued the curiossnowed in their area. ity of our students to On January 8, that a greater depth than challenge became a you would normalreality as Estes got ly see on the topic of 10 inches of snow and weather.” built a snowman that On Earth Day, Friday, she named Lucky. Due to the amount of April 22, Lucky will be melted. The wasnowfall, Estes waited to mail him until ter from Lucky will be used for the new after Martin Luther King Jr. Day. Prior plants at Southshore Charter Academy. to his arrival, Hughes recalls feeling anx“The thought of melting him will be ious since she did not know if he would bittersweet since this will be the end of still be intact. As Hughes opened the his chapter,” Hughes said. box, she noticed that Lucky was still in For more information about the school, good shape with his carrot nose, but- visit www.southshorecharter.org.
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LOCAL GROUP PLANS WORLD DOWN SYNDROME DAY EVENTS, LOOKS FOR WORK & MORE
Staff Report
F.R.I.E.N.D.S. and Specially Fit, two nonprofits, are coming together to look for jobs and plan events for special needs adults in the community.
Since 2012, residents all over the world have been celebrating World Down Syndrome Day (WDSD) on March 21 to raise public awareness about the genetic disorder Down syndrome. March 21, or 3/21, is the symbolic date we celebrate WDSD as it represents the three copies of the 21st chromosome, or trisomy 21, the most common type of Down syndrome. Down syndrome is a naturally occurring chromosomal condition that presents across all racial, gender and socioeconomic lines and occurs in approximately one out of every 800 live births. Down syndrome usually causes varying degrees of intellectual and physical disabilities, but with today’s health care, proper intervention and training, many individuals can live up to 60 years of age, work and become productive members of society. In an effort for the community to learn more about Down syndrome, F.R.I.E.N.D.S.
and Specially Fit, two nonprofits that provide free programs to our special needs community, are seeking out job opportunities for our special needs adults. “We want our community to know that most of our adults affected with Down syndrome will complete general education and graduate from school, that our adults can and do hold jobs, but we need your help,” said Ann Foyt, RN, executive director of F.R.I.E.N.D.S. “We are seeking job opportunities in the Brandon/Riverview area and if you have a job that you feel would be a good fit for our adults, please contact us.” All families who have been impacted by Down syndrome and other special needs are invited to celebrate WDSC on Sunday, March 20 at a celebration and picnic organized by F.R.I.E.N.D.S. and Specially Fit. The group also offers special needs adults (15 years and older) a monthly dance party. “We offer a safe place to meet up with friends to socialize and have fun,” said Foyt. “It’s a free event, but a $5 donation to help pay for the food and decorations will be greatly appreciated.” The dances take place on the third Friday of each month at the Riverview Hilton Garden Inn, located at 4328 Garden Vista Dr. in Riverview, from 7-9 p.m. To learn more, email info@friendssupport.org, visit www.friendssupport.org or call 245-2782. Specializing in treatment of:
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Questions? Just give me a call! Lynne: (813) 634-5111 • Lynne@SouthHillsChamber.com 1651 Sun City Center Plaza
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Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
DOVER DOODLES DOG BREEDERS TRY TO HELP SPECIAL NEEDS FAMILIES
By Libby Hopkins
our puppies F1BB Susie and Paul and birthed with Wirth of Dover are excellent pedigreed the owners of Dobloodlines. Still, our ver Doodles. They goal is to breed for embarked on their health and temjourney of breeding goldendoodles beperament first and foremost.” cause they wanted While the Wirths to share the love of are proud of their doodles with other friendly and adorfamilies, especially those with a special able family of dooneeds family memdles, they only prober. vide a few litters “We have been per year. The Wirth Family of Dover are the owners of dog lovers for many Living with auDover Doodles. They embarked on their journey years but bringing of breeding Goldendoodles because they wanted tism, as with any a doodle into our to share the love of doodles with other families. special need, can home added so make it very chalmuch more fun and enjoyment to our lives lenging for the entire family to live a northat we felt compelled to breed them,” mal life. The Wirths’ daughter, Ashlyn, is Susie said. “We do breed medium/stan- autistic, and she has a special soft spot for dard-size goldendoodles currently because her fur babies. “Since the arrival of our goldendoodle our daughter is autistic, and this is the size [of] pet with which she has truly engaged has helped our family, we want to help othand played. Our puppies should weigh be- er people with life challenges be able to extween to 45-50 pounds. We are open to perience the love and joy of a goldendoodle the possibility of breeding Bernedoodles in as well,” Susie said. “It is with this in mind the near future.” that we have committed to give a doodle Dover Doodle began in 2018 to provide away each year we breed to a special peran incredible experience for those seeking son. These puppies bring so much enjoyto add a Goldendoodle to their family. ment and love wherever they go.” “Our puppies live and play with us,” SuIf you would like to learn more about sie said. “Our dam and sire are genetically Dover Doodles, you can visit the website at tested and health cleared. Lord Augustus www.doverdoodlesfl.com. If you would like Gloop is full F1B goldendoodle and is CKC to be considered for a goldendoodle, please registered with a strong pedigree. Lady Ag- share your story of autism and how you feel nes comes from five generations of grand a puppy would benefit your special needs champion and champion on her sire’s side child with the Wirths via their website. Be and champion on her dam’s side. Lady is sure to fill out the puppy application that 100 percent standard poodle. This makes can be found on their website as well.
Volume 20, Issue 3
USF RECEIVES $1 MILLION GIFT FOR SCHOLARSHIPS Staff Report University of grown and South Florida evolved into a (USF) recently regional food announced a $1 distribution million gift from company with Connie and Tony warehouses Leung, founders in Tampa and of Sanwa Food Atlanta. “We Group, to estabwanted to lish the Leung give back to Family Scholarthe area that ships. invested in The gift, Jay Stroman, CEO of the USF Foundation; Connie Leung, us,” said Tony. made through Tony Leung, donors; and Irene Hurst, director of operations The Leungs at the USF Center for Analytics and the USF Founparticularly Creativity. dation, will suphope to help port students who graduated from high students from low-income and migrant schools in Southern Hillsborough Coun- families. Tony, one of eight children, was ty, including the areas of Ruskin, Apollo the first in his family to finish college. Beach and Wimauma. Both of Connie’s parents were educators, Beginning with the 2022-2023 aca- so it has always been important to her. demic year, the scholarship will have a “I think the best investment anybody minimum of four recipients with annual can give to their children is education, awards of $10,000 each. not money,” she said. This is the Leungs’ “We are grateful to the Leungs for their second USF scholarship. In 2009, they foresight and generosity in establishing established the Leung Global Experience this scholarship,” said USF President Scholarship, which they endowed in 2011 Rhea Law. “The Leung Family Scholarship and then earmarked for students in the will make the dream of a college educa- Muma College of Business in 2016. The tion possible for students who may not scholarship subsidizes a study-abroad otherwise be able to afford one.” experience, which is significant to the The Leungs were inspired to give back Leungs. Both natives of Hong Kong, the to the community that supported their couple met while attending the Universibusiness, Sanwa Food Group, which was ty of Guelph in Ontario, Canada. founded in Ruskin in 1981. At the time, “Sanwa Food Group has grown alongthe area was mostly farmland, and Inter- side the University of South Florida in the state 75 had yet to be completed. Tampa Bay region,” said USF Foundation Today, it is one of the fastest-growing CEO Jay Stroman. “We are thankful to areas in the county. “We did all our busi- the Leungs for investing in the communess for the first 30 years in South Hills- nity—and especially the students in the borough County, farming in the area,” said community—they have called home all Tony, who started out growing Chinese these years.” cabbages and melons. Sanwa has since Learn more at www.giving.usf.edu.
March 2022
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
Page 33
RIVERVIEW HIGH SCHOOL PRESENTS THE LITTLE MERMAID By Dave Marshall It’s time to go Unronmental message as der the Sea with the well. The show’s scenRiverview High School ery consists of over Theatre program and 10,000 reused plastic its upcoming perforbottles, cans and food mance of Disney’s containers. “It’s about classic The Little Merrecycling too,” said maid. And for this Vaughan. “Look how show, according to much plastic came from Theater Director Cajust one school. Where sey Vaughan, an extra would this plastic have special message of regone otherwise? These use and recycle will be are conversations that found in its handmade people can have with stage scenery. their kids after the perEvening shows will formance.” be offered on ThursRiverview High day and Friday, April Riverview High School theatre program’s School has the largest performance of Disney’s classic The Little 7-8, and children can non-magnet theater Mermaid will take place on Thursday meet the characters and Friday, April 7-8 and children can program in Hillsborin person after a spe- meet the characters in person after a ough County, offering cial matinee on Satur- special matinee on Saturday, April 9 at mesmerizing scenery, day, April 9 at 1 p.m. beautiful music and a 1 p.m. This is the perfect valuable environmental show to make every lesson for our children. child’s first theater exThe Little Mermaid perience special. will be performed at “We’re prepared for Riverview High School the fact that some of at 11311 Boyette Rd on the kids there will nevThursday, April 7, 7 p.m., er have seen a show Friday, April 8, 7 p.m. before,” said Vaughan. and Saturday, April 9 at “Seeing a show will help 1 p.m. Tickets are $10 for kids feel like they can adults, $5 for children get involved in someand free to all Hillsborthing bigger than themselves, especially ough County School District Employees. for those that have had the majority of For more information on the Rivertheir entertainment come from a screen view High School Music Department, for the past two years.” call the school at 671-5011. Riverview Not only does this show have all of the High School is located at 11311 Boyette crowd favorites, but it packs an envi- Rd. in Riverview.
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Page 34
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
ECHO HOSTS ANNUAL BREAKFAST AT NEW EVENT CENTER AT NEW HOPE CHURCH IN BRANDON By Libby Hopkins
On Thursday, March 10, ECHO will host its sixth annual breakfast at New Hope Church’s new event center in Brandon and it will focus on its amazing volunteers.
On Thursday, March 10, ECHO will host its annual breakfast at New Hope Church’s new event center in Brandon. “Our first breakfast was held in October 2015,” Eleanor Saunders, current executive director of ECHO, said. “The ECHO Board of Directors and our former executive director, Stacey Efaw, envisioned an annual fundraising event that would showcase firsthand stories, a clear presentation of ECHO’s vision for the future and an opportunity for attendees to partner with us in creating a community of hope and stability for neighbors in crisis.” This is ECHO’s sixth annual breakfast. “ECHO does not hold multiple events a year,” Saunders said. “This is our most important fundraising event. We hold to exactly one hour. It is a time for the community to meet a few individuals who have been helped, our volunteers, our board of directors and our staff. It is truly a feel-good, rally-cry type event. There is the desperate need in our community and there is some concrete,
life-giving ways that all of us can be a part of the solution.” In the past breakfasts, ECHO has highlighted those who have helped, its staff and its board. This year, guests will be hearing from ECHO’s volunteers. “ECHO could not thrive without our committed team of volunteers,” Saunders said. “We are literally nothing without them. We will be hearing this year from a few of our faithful volunteers, what have they witnessed over the past year and why do they keep coming back, week after week.” Saunders hopes everyone who attends this year’s breakfast will leave inspired. “First and foremost, I want all participants and attendees to walk away encouraged, inspired and activated to do more,” Saunders said. “The last year has been one of substantial growth for ECHO and there is nothing but additional growth ahead. The breakfast provides unrestricted revenue for the organization. The funds will empower us to hire additional staff and expand our mobile back to work program.” ECHO has been a part of the Brandon community for many years, and Saunders is proud that her organization can continue to help those in need in our community. “ECHO is part of the very fabric of Brandon,” Saunders said. “Founded in 1987, the organization serves over 15,000 local residents per year, providing everything from emergency food and clothing to one-on-one job coaching and advocacy. When our neighbors are in crisis, they have somewhere to turn.” If you would like to learn more about ECHO, you can visit its website at www. echofl.org or call 685-0935. ECHO is located at 507 N. Parsons Ave. in Brandon.
Volume 20, Issue 3
March 2022
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
Page 35
PHOTO COURTESY OF WOLFPACK PRESIDENT AND HEAD COACH OF THE KNOCKOUT VARSITY TEAM MEGAN SWE.)
FISHHAWK WOLFPACK CHEER BRINGS HOME TWO NATIONAL TITLES; FIVE OVERALL FishHawk Wo l f p a c k Cheer, a local Pop Warner cheer organization, recently brought home two national titles. All three of their competitive teams advanced to the National Cheer and Dance ChamThe Hotshots Mitey Mite team (ages 7-9) won the Pop The Knockout Varsity team (ages 12-15) won the Pop The Legacy PeeWee team (ages 9-12) brought home a pionship this Warner Nationals as well. Warner Nationals this December. third-place trophy. past DecemThe two teams that won nationals ber. Each team came home with na- we started in 2007, and this is the tional titles this year make them fivetional trophies. The Knockout Varsity most successful season we’ve had as time national champions. will continue into the spring. Knockteam (ages 12-15) and the Hotshots a whole, as far as national accom“Our goal is to grow our program out will compete twice in March, and Mitey Mite team (ages 7-9) both won plishments,” said FishHawk Wolf- and have continued success at the re- Hotshots will compete once more at the Pop Warner Nationals in their pack Cheer Director Merideth Van gional and national levels while also the end of February. FishHawk Wolfpack Cheer always respective age divisions. The Legacy Auken. “Our coaches and cheerlead- improving our cheerleaders’ skills,” PeeWee team (ages 9-12) brought ers worked hard all season long, and said Van Auken. “It’s so rewarding welcomes new athletes, coaches and it showed.” to see the cheerleaders come back to board members to their program. home a third-place trophy. In 2020, the program didn’t com- cheer for us year after year because Registration for the 2022 season This is the organization’s fourth and fifth national championship ti- pete with Pop Warner. According to they enjoy it. We love having our old- opened on February 1 and practice tles overall. Knockout made it onto Van Auken, not counting 2020, 2021 er girls remain a part of our program starts on Monday, April 4. More inthe highlight reel focused on the Pop is the 11th consecutive year that Fish- as junior coaches to help teach what formation can be found on the webWarner Nationals that aired national- Hawk Wolfpack had teams advance they’ve learned to our younger cheer- site (fishhawkwolfpack.com) and ly on Fox Sports Networks. to compete at the nationals and bring leaders. We look forward to that con- Facebook page (www.facebook.com/ “I’ve been with Wolfpack since home national trophies. The two na- tinuing.” fhwolfpack).
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Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
SATIN & LACE BRIDAL BOUTIQUE OFFERS INTIMATE WEDDING DRESS APPOINTMENTS
By Libby Hopkins
Winthrop Town be together for Center is known for the whole findits cool restaurants, ing-the-perfectbeautiful homes dress experiand monthly pop-up ence.” market, but among Once the all this awesomebride-to-be ness is a true hidden chooses her gem. This hidden dress, she then gem is called Satin gets to do a brid& Lace Bridal Boual walk so her Winthrop Town Center is known for its cool tique, and Alison and restaurants, beautiful homes and monthly pop- family can see Peter Farnan own up market, but among all this awesomeness is her in her chosen a true hidden gem. This hidden gem is called it. “We’ve had varidress. “We put a ous businesses since Satin & Lace Bridal Boutique, and Alison and veil on her, give Peter Farnan own it. 2006, but we [got] her a bouquet of the bridal business from a previous own- flowers and even play her wedding song er in 2018,” Alison said. “It was original- as she does her bridal walk for her famly in another location, but we totally ren- ily to see,” Alison said. “No other bridal ovated it and brought it to Winthrop.” shop does this for a bride shopping for a Satin & Lace Bridal Boutique is Riv- wedding dress.” erview’s premiere bridal boutique. “We If you ask Alison what her favorite pride ourselves on making our brides part of her job is, she’ll tell you it’s workfeel special and making their dress shop- ing with the bride to find that perfect ping an experience they will never for- dress. “I love educating the brides on the get,” Alison said. “Each bride receives a perfect dress, and whether or not they personalized shopping experience with find their perfect dress at our shop, we her own private suite. We will share a make them feel like a princess on the celebratory champagne toast with them day they are looking for their wedding when they say ‘Yes’ to their dress. Our dress.” expert staff eagerly awaits our customIf you’d like to learn more about Saters’ arrival and are dedicated to making in & Lace Bridal Boutique, you can visit their experience private, stress-free and its website at www.satinandlacebridalfun.” boutique.com. You can also see some of The boutique has a dress for every the boutique’s beautiful dresses on its budget and style, and it will help its cli- Facebook page at www.facebook.com/ ents confidently say “Yes” to their dress. satinandlacebridalboutique. “Our customer service and our expeThe boutique is located at 11286 Sullirience is what makes us different,” Al- van St. in Riverview. If you would like to ison said. “We have two private fitting make a shopping appointment, you can rooms for the and her family so they can call Alison at 381-4110.
Volume 20, Issue 3
MASTERPIECE GARAGE OFFERS READERS $100 OFF MAKEOVER PROJECTS
By Amy Schechter
step process that uses a special chemical to seal your floor rather than a regular epoxy. Plus, they have over 20 color options available. W h i l e your floor may steal Founded in 2005 by father and son Ed and Jerrett Swing, Masterpiece Gathe show, Masrage is committed to bringing customers the highest quality garage solutions. terpiece Garage Are you tired of tracking dust and has a variety of custom-built cabinet and concrete into your home? Have you storage options so you can hide all of ever spilled a chemical and ruined your that garage clutter. Jerrett is confident garage floor? Do you want an outdoor their quality beats the competition: “We workspace that’s stylish and function- carry a line of garage cabinets designed al? Then you need to give Masterpiece for the humidity in Florida; they have a Garage a call. Mention this ad and you’ll solid back on them for added strength. receive $100 off. There’s never been a Plus, they are reinforced with aluminum, better time. so shelves and cabinets won’t bow.” Founded in 2005 by father and son Ed Masterpiece Garage has a reputation and Jerrett Swing, Masterpiece Garage that speaks for itself. Jerrett went on to is committed to bringing customers the say, “People will tell me one of the reahighest quality garage solutions. It offers sons they use us are we are family owned. a variety of flooring, cabinets and stor- We’ve grown through word of mouth; my age spaces to fit your needs and budget. employees are like family, and I take care Its liquid granite garage floor system of them like they’re family. The floor guys creates a combination of style and dura- are all trained personally by me. I go out bility customers rave about. Jerrett ex- and do all the estimates and work on all plained the benefit, “You’ll want to stay the projects. I’m involved in the process in the space. It’s just so clean after the from start to finish. I don’t have estimaprocedure, you’ll feel you can eat off of tors or subs, and I don’t do multiple jobs it.” Masterpiece Garage can finish your at the same time; I start one and I finish flooring in as little as a day, and it holds it.” If there’s a name synonymous with up to wear and tear. Unlike some painted trust, it’s Masterpiece Garage. floors that can lift up from the heat of For more information or a free ‘in-gatires, with proper care, these floors will rage’ estimate, call 541-0002 or visit last a lifetime. This is due to the multi- masterpiecegarage.com.
March 2022
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
Page 37
LEANNE’S OLD FASHIONED COOKIES SERVES UP SMILES
By Amy Schechter
From hearing her ly built their social college professor say media presence and her idea would nevhelped put them in er work to running a good spot despite a successful famithe difficulties of the ly business, LeAnne pandemic. Now, she, Crabtree knew the under the direction of Lord had a hand in all Hopper, is writing a of it. “God put peobook about her fample in our lives. He ily’s story called God built our base before Has a Sweet Tooth. It I even knew it would tells the story of how be a company,” she an unlikely idea, when said. And if you want given over to God’s a taste of heaven, hands, became someher family’s secret thing so much more. fourth-generation LeAnne; her husband, recipe is close. Travis; and their famNow, LeAnne’s Old LeAnne’s Old Fashioned Cookies offers ily truly believe Lesix delicious flavors. Fashioned CookAnne’s Old Fashies boasts six ioned Cookies is delicious flavors: also a ministry, fudge spectacuand their story is lar, coconut chipset to come out a-roons, chocolate this year or late chip pecan, early next year. white chocolate Besides permacadamia nut, sonalized gifts, oatmeal raisin and peanut butter. Box- LeAnne’s Old Fashioned Cookies is hapes start at a dozen cookies and range all py to be a part of your next corporate the way up to its 72-cookie tower. It’s event. She’s looking forward to baking the perfect gift for a special occasion, a for the TASTE at The Straz on Saturholiday or a thank-you. Each tasty treat day, April 9, where supporting the arts is individually wrapped, so they’re per- is sure to taste amazing. Mother’s Day fect for sharing in office and education and graduations are soon approaching settings as well as at your next gath- as well, so you’ll want to get your order ering. in soon. It really is the perfect gift for Her daughter, Amanda, who just all occasions and celebrations. graduated with her bachelor’s degree, We don’t blame you if you cannot still does marketing. Also, LeAnne is so wait. To order online, visit leannescookvery thankful for her business coach ies.com or call 888-651-0045. and friend, Steve Hopper. He real-
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Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
Volume 20, Issue 3
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March 2022
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
Page 39
SCHOLARSHIPS AVAILABLE FOR WHAT’S HAPPENING AT CENTER PLACE: LOW-INCOME HILLSBOROUGH STUDENTS CLASSES EXPANDING & NEXT BINGO By Kathy L. Collins
of 2.0, reside in Hillsborough County and their household income must fall within 200 percent of the Federal Poverty Guidelines of the Community Services Block Hillsborough County’s Community Action Board offers scholarships for Grant (CSBG). low-income, eligible residents ages 16 to 24 who wish to pursue their postsecStudents ondary degree. The deadline to apply is seeking a masFriday, March 18. ter’s degree or Hillsborough County offers scholarships a second bachelor’s degree do not qualify. to students who wish to pursue their Eligibility guidelines are subject to postsecondary education. Students who change based on grant requirements. are Hillsborough County residents and The Community Action Board provides meet other requirements may apply for Hillsborough County’s Community Action recommendations for the development, planning, implementation and evaluation Board Scholarship. Applications are available now and may of Community Services Block Grant funds be accessed by visiting www.hcflgov.net/ and other programs that serve the low-ineducation. The deadline to apply is Friday, come residents and communities of Hillsborough County. March 18. Pat Simmons, a member of the board, The scholarships are worth up to said, “Of all the things we do, the schol$5,000. The scholarships can be used at trade schools, community colleges or arship program is the one that I am most four-year universities. The scholarships proud of by serving on the board.” It is highly recommended that applicants are awarded to students to help alleviate read through the full 2022 Community Acsome of the financial burden of tuition so tion Board Scholarship Application Packthey can focus on furthering their educaage before applying online to ensure all tion, not bills. documents are complete and requirements All applicants must meet certain criteare met. A full list of required documents ria to be eligible for a 2022 Community Action Board Scholarship. Applicants can be found in the application package. Students can apply online once all informust be between 16 and 24 years old, mation and documents have been collecthave a high school diploma or GED equived. For questions about online applications alent (16-year-olds may apply if they are a or missing information, please call 272graduating senior), have a minimum GPA 5074 ext. 55316.
By Libby Hopkins
Center Place is excit“When we first ed to see all of its new started this event, it classes and programs only had eight guests continue to grow in the and four artists,” new year. “Our street Hopkins said. “Now art and cartooning we are averaging classes with Alejan20-30 guest and we dro Algarin have been have six local artists growing in number in addition to three since it started in Januspoken-word poets. I ary,” said Center Place’s am so happy this free executive director, Libevent is getting bigby Hopkins. “His street ger and bigger each art is unique in the fact month. Center Place’s that the class consists new executive board of kids and adults. It’s president, Bernadette great to see kids helpPello of Livingstone ing adults and then the Many of Center Place’s new classes and Academy, believes in adults encouraging the programs are growing. The center will also Artist Night as much as kids if they don’t feel be hosting its first Designer Purse Bingo on I do, so she is helping Thursday, March 24. confident taking those me make it bigger and first artistic steps.” better each moth.” Justin White, Center Place’s abstract Center Place had huge success with its artist, will be returning to Center Place in first Drag Queen Bingo back in October March to start teaching his abstract art of last year, so now Hopkins and Pello are class he taught over the summer at Cen- planning the center’s next bingo fundraiser ter Place. He is now offering this abstract for Thursday, March 24 and it’s going to be art class to tweens and teens in addition to a Designer Purse Bingo. adults. “Justin is an amazing artist, and his “I’m thrilled that Bernadette and Livinguse of color is phenomenal,” Hopkins said. stone Academy are the presenting spon“We are also excited for Justin to do his sors of Center Place’s first Designer Purse first-ever gallery show at Center Place in Bingo,” Hopkins said. “We are working on March.” White’s work will be in the Mook having a variety of designer purses, like Gallery for the entire month of March. Hop- Marc Jacobs, Coach, Kate Spade and many kins encourages the community to come more, at the bingo.” and check out his show. Tickets are $60 and include bingo cards, Artist Night is a monthly, free event that wine and food. Keep an eye out on Center is hosted at Center Place on the first Fri- Place’s website at www.centerplacebranday of every month. This event started in don.com for tickets to the Designer Purse September of last year and allows local up- Bingo. Center Place is located at 619 Vonand-coming artists a chance to showcase derburg Dr., Ste. B inside the Brandon Retheir talents in a brick-and-mortar setting. gional Library.
Page 40
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
Volume 20, Issue 3
LOCAL RESIDENTS HAVE NEW FAMILY MEMBERS THANKS TO OPERATION LOTUS & DIAMONDCREST LITTLES By Kate Quesada
Four local families received new canine family members last month thanks to a special program with both Diamondcrest Littles and Operation Lotus.
It is no secret that a dog can be the heart of a family, especially a family that has experienced hard times. Thanks to a generous donation by a local breeder and coordination by charity Operation Lotus, four therapy dogs found new homes, for free, with families last month. FishHawk resident Melanie Brockmeier-Jordy started Operation Lotus after her husband, Leon, passed away in 2012. She has used the charity to help local families in crisis ever since, and the donation of the dogs was something she had always wanted to do. After receiving her own dream dog— Lennon, a King Charles cavalier—in October, Brockmeier-Jordy decided to make it happen. “My wish has been to have and train to be a therapy dog to visit hospitals and schools,” she explained. “Through the process of receiving Lennon, the breeder, Diamondcrest Littles, learned about Operation Lotus and our mission.”
Owner Heather Muzzey reached out to Brockmeie r -J o r d y and offered to donate two puppies from their latest Aussalier litter to Operation Lotus to give to two families who have experienced loss or tragedy and need the love that a dog could bring. “We were overjoyed to team with them in an effort to find such families,” she said. “When I lost Leon, the unconditional love and comfort that my dog Madisyn brought me is something I will never forget. Dogs know when we are in pain, and as I would cry and grieve, she would snuggle even harder. She just knew I needed her.”
Operation Lotus made a Fa c e b o o k post looking for nominations and received dozens of emails, all telling de-
serving stories. “It really seemed like an impossible choice to make,” explained Brockmeier-Jordy. “As the letters kept coming in, Diamondcrest Littles then told us they wanted to donate all four of the puppies left in the litter if they were cleared by the vet.” The four families were chosen by Brockmeier-Jordy and received their dogs on Valentine’s Day. “The families were all overjoyed, and she’s tears of joy as they held their pup for
the first time,” she said. The first dog, Gucci, went to the Baker family, who had recently suffered three stillborn pregnancies. Versace, the male pup, went to Renata Varnadore, a breast cancer survivor and school counselor who plans to bring the dog to school to help thousands of students. The McNeal family, who recently suffered the loss of their father, Matthew, to brain cancer at 34, received Fendi, and Prada was given to Billy Reese, who is medically retired from the U.S. Army and suffers from PTSD. He recently lost his 14-year-old dog, who provided him so much emotional support. “Donating these puppies to these families has made my heart feel so good,” said Muzzey. “This is as much as I gift to me to be part of this as it is a gift to you.” To learn more about Operation Lotus, visit https://operationlotus.wixsite.com/ website, and for more information about Diamondcrest Littles, visit www.diamondcrestlittles.com.
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
March 2022
GET THE DIRT:
Page 41
MAGNET CHOICE WINDOW OPENS By Michelle Caceres
HORTICULTURE EDUCATIONAL OPPORTUNITIES ABOUND
BY LYNN BARBER, FLORIDA-FRIENDLY LANDSCAPING™ AGENT Are you interested in gardening? What about recycling and composting? Want to save water or know more about drought-tolerant plants? Do you have an hour to learn something new that is beneficial to the environment? If you answered “Yes” to any of the above questions, we have a great suggestion for you: check out your county’s calendar of events. Each of the 67 counties in Florida has one. In your web browser, look up ‘UF find your local office.’ Upcoming programs are listed on the calendar with a link for registration. Many are free, and some have a small fee. Examples of upcoming events in Hillsborough County follow: Triple Workshops: Composting, microirrigation and rainwater harvesting workshops are offered monthly from February through October. Learn how to create your own soil amendments and save water by using a microirrigation kit and rain barrel. Attend one, two or all three workshops. Compost attendees receive a compost bin, kitchen bucket and compost thermometer. Microirrigation attendees will take home a traditional micro kit, rain gauge and hose timer. Rainwater harvesting attendees will receive a food grade barrel that has been drilled and spigoted as well as learn how to use the water and on which plant materials. Reference materials are provided to attendees for each of the presentations, and there is a drawing for giveaway items at the end of each class. Recycle Your Yard and Recycled Yard Art: See how much fun you can have creating and using items you are recycling in your landscape. Repurposing items will add humor to your life. This presentation will definitely give you ideas and make you laugh.
Vegetable Microirrigation: This kit is a great addition to your vegetable garden. You will learn how to connect the kit to a hose bib and appropriately water vegetables. Patio/Container Microirrigation: It works well for patio, container and hanging plant containers. This kit can connect several pots/containers on your patio, lanai or front porch. Tips to Help Your Yard Weather Dry Conditions: Gain useful ideas to help your landscape survive Central Florida’s dry spring season and conserve water in your landscape. This class will provide information to help you determine when, how and why you should take specific actions during our dry months. Vermicomposting (Composting With Worms): Find out how to create the bin, what these specialty worms eat and how to harvest the castings. The nutrient-rich worm byproduct works very well in any garden, and you can make your own worm tea for watering plants … not drinking! While not necessarily an upcoming event, we also offer in-ground irrigation evaluations (telephonic or in person) for high water users. Contact Paula Staples at staplesp@hcflgov.net. For more information on environmental horticulture, contact the University of Florida/Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS) Extension Hillsborough County at 744-5519, visit its office at 5339 County Rd. 579 in Seffner or check out its website, calendar of events and Facebook pages. Lynn Barber is the Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ agent for UF/IFAS Extension Hillsborough County. Contact her at labarber@ufl.edu.
Hillsborough student is interested in this County Public school, you should definiteSchools’ second ly apply.” magnet, school For leaders at Hillschoice and choice borough County Public hardship applicaSchools, it’s all about tion window for choice. Parents can choose the 2022-2023 from various schools school year opens based on their child’s interon Wednesday, ests and way of learning. March 23 and runs Options can be based on through Saturday, location, interests, curricuApril 2, giving stulum or system of learning dents the opportu(either brick-and-mortar nity to enroll in eleor virtual schools). mentary, middle or “Magnet schools offer The second magnet, school choice and high school magnet students the opportuniprograms or schools choice hardship application window opens ty to explore and engage on Wednesday, March 23. outside their neighwith their education in borhood boundaries. ways they never have before,” said Cox. With 38 national and global award-winSchool choice enrollment for elementary ning magnet schools that boast more than and middle magnet schools is determined 80 programs for students, there’s something via a computerized lottery system that sorts for everyone, including science, technology, through all applications after the window engineering and mathematics (STEM); fine closes. Families will receive an email notiand performing arts; international studies; fication by late April indicating whether career and technical education; and world they’ve been accepted to a school of choice. languages. A 39th magnet school, Water- The magnet high school process is criteset’s soon-to-be-named pre-K-8 magnet ria-based. school with a capacity of 1,600 students, The first application window ran from is slated to open in August and will feature October to December. After the lottery, paran international studies program that will ents were notified of the results in January. infuse STEM as well as an arts program. A There is a brief period of time during which robotics lab, augmented reality lab and arts an offer must be accepted before it expires. and graphic design lab will provide hands-on “If you didn’t get an offer in the first aplearning to students. It will be the first mag- plication window, your application rolls over net elementary school in the SouthShore to the second window so you don’t have to area and first pre-K-8 school in Southeast- reapply,” said Cox. ern Hillsborough County. For more information about SouthShore’s “There are still spots remaining at this new magnet school, call 272-4692. To learn new school, but we expect to have more ap- more about Hillsborough County’s magnet plications than available spots,” said Super- schools, visit www.hillsboroughschools.org/ visor of Magnet Schools Bob Cox. “If your magnet.
EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES AVAILABLE
Saint Anne Catholic Church ~Masses~ Saint Anne Catholic Church Vigil Saturday 4:30 p.m.
~Masses~ Sunday 8 a.m., 10 a.m., & 5 p.m. (12:30 p.m. Spanish) Monday-Friday 8 a.m. Wednesday & Jueves 7 p.m. ~Lenten Mass Schedule~ Saturday ................ 10 a.m., Vigil ................... Saturday 4:30 p.m. Recorded Masses can be viewed on the St. Anne website Sunday ...................... 8 a.m., 10 a.m. & 5 p.m. (12 p.m. Spanish) (SaintAnneRuskin.org) and Facebook page. Monday - Friday .................................................................... 8 a.m. Reconciliation Tue. at 8:30am, Thurs. at 6pm, Sat. 12 at p.m. 3:15pm Monday, Wednesday, Friday .............................................. and By 7Appointment. Wednesday ........................... p.m. Jueves........................ 7 p.m.
For more information, please checkatthe St. Sat. Anne website. Reconciliation Tues. at 8:30 a.m., Thurs. 6 p.m., at 3:15 p.m. is now open for the 2021-2022 Faith Formation year. ForRegistration more information, please check the St. Anne website. Please call the office for more information.
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Page 42
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
Volume 20, Issue 3
PET ADOPTION FEES WAIVED FOR 100 DAYS TO HONOR BETTY WHITE
Staff Report
Actress Betty White’s legacy will continue to serve animals in need with 100 days of waived adoption fees in her honor at Hillsborough County’s pet shelter starting on February 1.
Actress Betty White’s legacy will continue to serve animals in need for almost 100 days at Hillsborough County’s pet shelter. When White died shortly before her 100th birthday, Hillsborough County’s Pet Resource Center waived adoption fees for 100 dogs and cats in honor of the actress, who had devoted much of her life to helping animals. The move was so successful in finding forever homes for dogs and cats that the shelter will waive adoption fees for all dogs and cats for 100 days, started at the beginning of February. Fees will be waived through Wednesday, May 11. Dogs and cats at the shelter are microchipped, vaccinated, registered and spayed or neutered. The Pet Resource Center, located at 440 N. Falkenburg in Tampa, is the only open-admission shelter in Hillsborough County, meaning it accepts dogs and cats regardless of breed, size or medical condition. Adoption hours are 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Monday through Saturday. The center also offers turn-in for
strays and owner surrenders, a pet fostering program, pet registration, a spay and neuter voucher program for income-qualifying residents, lost pet help and information on disaster preparedness for pet protection and sheltering. Volunteer opportunities are also available at the center with help needed regularly and as one-time group volunteers. Responsible volunteers are used to provide enrichment and extra care to the animals and to help keep the shelter running smoothly. Volunteers are accepted 18 and older and some limited Bright Futures shifts are available for students 16 years of age and older. Volunteer applications are available online and more information can be found by emailing prcvolunteer@hcflgov.net. Visit the center or search online at www.hillsboroughcounty.org to view hundreds of adoptable animals. The site features hundreds of animals ready for adoption with information on the pet and where it was found.
Cold fronts in the area here should be be- up to haul in. A heavy rod matched with a ginning to subside. With that, waters should 6000 series reel is a great setup. A 60 lb. be warming up and bringing in the Spanish test main line with 45-65 lb. steel leader will mackerel and king work great. Stingmackerel, or kingfish. er rigs, which can The water is very clear be handmade or right now due to the ready-made and drop in water temps. purchased at Coming in March, the bait shops. These only big issue will be comprise of a 3 finding a day with low ft. length of leadto moderate winds. er attached to Temperature of the a 4/0 bait hook. Jak and Greg with a nice king mackerel outside the water is key to findAttached to the Skyway. ing these great fighthook will be aning, pelagic fish. Start other 4-5 in. segwith a larger rod and ment of steel with real setup. For Spana #4 treble hook as ish mackerel, the trathe stinger. These ditional setup is sufare designed for ficient. Steel leader is trolling through and sometimes a go-to but around the bait balls can be cumbersome you will see getting to use and result in Jen had a great fight worked by kings and pulling this fine king Spanish mackerel. some leader-shy fish mackerel to the boat for Live bait is the best that won’t hit. Find Brian had three king a smoked fish dip. the big schools of bait, and are caught with mackerels to the boat, which will make their sabiki rigs, #6 or #8, jigged around the pilbut we decided to keep appearance first in ings, buoys or the bait school you will see. this monster. front of the Skyway Large threadfin and blue runners are the Fishing Piers. Greenies will be a great bet on baits of choice. Troll about four knots, and catching these fish but try to find some long be sure you set your poles in tight to the shank hooks, 1/0, at your local bait shops. rod holders as these kings hit that bait like This will reduce many of the cutoffs that al- a freight train. ways occur when fishing these toothy fish. Check your local bait shops, Bait and TackGotcha plugs, also at the local bait shops, are le of Apollo Beach, Palmetto Bait & Tackle a great cast-and-retrieve lure to catch many and Reel ‘Em In Bait &Tackle, for the latest of these fish. Fast, sporadic jerky on the re- news on the sights of bait pods. Outside and trieve is the best method. Silver spoons are inside the Skyway Fishing Piers for Spanish also a go-to. and outside the Skyway, all the way out to Kings are a much larger cousin of the Marker 1, Whistle Buoy, in the channel out Spanish mackerel and require a stouter set- of the bay.
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Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
March 2022
Page 43
LEAVEN BREWING BOTTLE CLUB IS A BIG HIT WITH FAMILIES
By Amy Schechter
KNOWLEDGE IS A USEFUL TOOL IN NAVIGATING ALZHEIMER’S DISEASE
By Kathy L. Collins
Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive dis- and is also available via text message at ease that destroys memory and other im- 646-585-5283. The web chat and text mesportant mental functions. It is very common sage features are available in over 90 differwith about three million cases per year. As ent languages. the population of the United States ages, The Alzheimer’s Foundation of America the number of people diagnosed with Alz- also offers educational conferences and weheimer’s disease binars and hosts daily will increase. It is a virtual therapeutic growing health issue. programming in the Until there is a forms of art, music, cure, caregivers need dance and fitness. to be armed with edIts National Memucation and the tools ory Screening ProThe Alzheimer’s Foundation of America to provide the best gram offers free, possible care for their offers a multitude of programs and ser- confidential, virtual vices for those who suffer from Alzheiloved ones and make memory screenings. A mer’s disease as well as for their caregivers sure that they and their memory screening is a and other professionals who care for loved ones are living a simple and safe evaluthose afflicted with the disease. high quality of life. ation tool that checks The Alzheimer’s Foundation of America memory and other thinking skills. It can is a nonprofit organization whose mission indicate whether an additional checkup is to provide support, services and educa- by a qualified health care professional is tion to individuals, families and caregivers needed. affected by Alzheimer’s disease and related It also offers dementia care training dementias nationwide and to fund research for professionals and research grants. for better treatment and a cure. Its services One important program it offers is careinclude a National Toll-Free Helpline (866- giver support groups. 232-8484), the National Memory Screen“Knowledge is a useful and powerful ing Program, educational conferences and tool that can help make any situation materials as well as ‘AFA Partners in Care’ easier to navigate, especially something dementia care training for health care pro- as challenging as caring for a loved one fessionals. with Alzheimer’s disease,” said Charles The Alzheimer’s Foundation of America’s J. Fuschillo Jr., president and CEO of the toll-free hotline is staffed by licensed social Alzheimer’s Foundation of America. workers trained in dementia care. The HelpFor more information that the Alzheiline is open from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., seven days mer’s Foundation of America has to offer, a week. The Helpline has a webchat feature please visit www.alzfdn.org.
When KJ and littles. Noland Jillian Lynch makes sure to started Leaven build a curBrewing they riculum your could not have littles will imagined how love though: soon their cus“I put out tomers became sensory toys like family. Jillian and items for said, “We’ve realthem to play ized quickly that with to keep we opened the them busy in brewery to make a stimulating beer, but somefashion. After times the beer icebreakers, takes a back seat we do some because it’s more sort of physabout the people Winter Lynch invites you to Leaven Brewing’s Bottle Club. ical activity, that come through the tap room.” With whether that be just [a] fun song with a booming mug club, they have a loyal movement. I’m also teaching the parents following of regulars eager for great con- some great resources and videos that you versations along with a great selection of can use at home.” beer. If you’re looking for something similar, However, with the birth of their daugh- you have to drive into Tampa, and Jillian ter, Winter, they found they were missing knew that just wasn’t an option. “The Rivout on something big. As new parents, erview community is not going to wake they realized how hard it is meet up with up with their 9-month-old, pack a diaper other new parents. “It only seemed fair bag, get themselves ready for the day that if Mom and Dad had a mug club, and trek themselves across the bay and Winter has her own club,” Jillian said. get back in time for nap time,” she said. Then, with the help of mug club member Now they have the option right in their Renee Noland, who is certified in early backyard. childhood education and has been teachAt only $25 per class, you won’t want ing for 10 years, Bottle Club was formed. to miss the next meeting scheduled for Specifically designed for moms and March. For more information and meetdads and their kids 2 and under, Leav- ing dates, you can check out Facebook en Brewing’s Bottle Club is a fantastic at www.facebook.com/leavenbrewing place for you and your baby to bond with or Instagram at instagram.com/leaveneach other and socialize. You can expect brewing. You can also call 677-7023 or 60 minutes of fun filled with music, ex- visit it online at www.leavenbrewing. ploration, reading and, of course, there’s com. Leaven Brewing Co. is located at a beer at the end—for the bigs, not the 11238 Boyette Rd. in Riverview.
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Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
THE BABY SUITES AT HCA FLORIDA BRANDON HOSPITAL SEEKS VOLUNTEERS By Tatiana Ortiz When a baby enters the the Auxiliary. In world for the first time, addition, certain this creates a special mocriteria must be ment for the mother and met in order to her newborn that will last become a voluna lifetime. HCA Florida teer. For instance, Brandon Hospital’s Baby you must be 18 Suites invested in a mulyears of age or timillion-dollar refresh, older. The Baby which included a new, conSuites plans to temporary welcome desk have volunteers and reception area for seven days a for their pregnant paweek from 8 a.m. tients to ensure their jourto 8 p.m. with an ney is memorable as well array of shifts. as comfortable. The space These shifts are is approximately 36,000 broken down sq. ft. As part of this refrom 8 a.m.-12 fresh, the Baby Suites Noon, 12 Noon-4 need a new group of p.m. and 4-8 p.m. volunteers to assist HCA Florida with welcoming and Brandon Hospiguiding the pregnant tal’s Baby Suites The Morales family with their newborn at is its full-service mothers and their HCA Florida Brandon Hospital. support person to their dedelivery and labor sired location. unit in The Women’s Center. Since openJill Lansky, director of business devel- ing, more than 100,000 babies have been opment at HCA Florida Brandon Hospital, delivered there. The childbirth team is explained the importance of having vol- dedicated to providing patients and their unteers in the Baby Suites. families focused and compassionate care “Volunteers will allow us to greet our during the childbirth experience throughpregnant patients, their support per- out their postpartum stay. son and visitors with a warm smile and “All in all, our need for volunteers will [create] a great impression and experi- be ongoing,” Lansky said. ence while they are with us in the Baby For questions or more details, contact Suites,” Lansky said. Lansky at jill.lansky@hcahealthcare.com Prior to volunteering, one must com- or send a text to 712-0064. The link to plete a volunteer membership applica- the volunteer membership online aption under the Auxiliary Membership. At plication can be found here: https://bit. no charge, the individual can be part of ly/332EqFD.
Volume 20, Issue 3
ALL AMERICAN DOG TRAINING ACADEMY
REACHES ITS 50TH ANNIVERSARY By Tatiana Ortiz Those considerpartnered with All ing getting their American Dog Traindogs trained by ing Academy, and experienced cerDave became the vice tified dog trainers president before they could reach out to both took over the All American Dog company in 2011. Training Academy. As a family-owned Since its establishand operated busiment in 1972, it has ness, it ensures that provided dog trainclients get the best ing in Tampa, Clearcustomer service as water, St. Peterswell as the best trainburg, Bradenton er that they and their and the surrounddog need. The trainers ing areas to more there have obtained Dave Springs, president, evaluator and trainer than 50,000 dogs at All American Dog Training Academy, with many years of experiand their owners Frankie, a cane corso after performing his lesson ence and knowledge to within their neighmake sure clients get on protection. borhoods, homes the skills needed to efand businesses. This year, fectively train their dog. All American Dog Training All American Dog TrainAcademy is celebrating its ing Academy offers a mil50th anniversary. itary style of dog training Valrico resident Hope utilizing a positive and negSprings, vice president and ative approach. It provides office manager at All Amera full range of obedience ican Dog Training Academy, courses for one’s pets. The shared what is in store for types of services that intheir 50th anniversary. dividuals can select from “We are putting special 50th anniversary include protection training, puppy training, stickers on every diploma each client re- advanced obedience, service training and ceives at completion,” Hope said. “We also much more. do plan to offer specials throughout the Hope mentioned how it feels knowing year,” she added. that the business reached being in operation Glen White and his family founded All for 50 years. American Dog Training Academy. He had a “It is an amazing feeling that we can still gift for dog training, and White turned that serve the Tampa Bay area with quality and passion into a reality after he retired from professional training for their pets,” Hope the Army. In 1999, Hope’s husband Dave said. Springs, became a trainer there and worked For more information, visit https://allamhis way to training supervisor. The Springs ericandog.net or call 685-6666.
The Doors of The Church Are Open Church Services 10am Sunday Youth & Teens Church School 9:00 a.m. Kingdom Builders 10:00 a.m. (Children’s Church 2-10) Bible Study 7pm Tuesday (Teens) 5920 Robert Tolle Drive 7pm Wednesday (Adults)
Riverview, 33578 813-337-7457 Office Hours: Mon - Thur 10am- 3pm www.Mtzionriverview.com FACEBOOK: Mt Zion AME Church Riverview
Community Food Pantry 2nd & 4th Thursday 11:00 -2:00 Monthly Second Chances Job Training Mon.-Thurs.
Karen J. Sims, Pastor and Roy Sims (brother)
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
March 2022
KRAZY KUP TO OFFER CLEAN COMEDY SHOW THIS MARCH Krazy Kup, an old-world, authentic cofKrazy Kup is owned and operated by feehouse located at 101 E. J. Arden Mays Frank, Wenda and Joshua Trunzo. The Blvd. in historic downtown Plant City, is Trunzos believe in community and are at it again with some great entertain- naturally committed to always being family friendly to all ages, young and old. Whether it is foot-stompin’ music, laughpresents ing out loud or showing off an e your talent, a visit to Krazy $20 Cl Kup on any day might just make your day. What makes this place reAs seen On ally unique is the variety of entertainment the Trunzos present. They offer a monthly open mic night, bluegrass jam, trivia night, retro movie night and local up-and-comPlant City’s own Krazy Kup, located at 101 E. J. Arden Mays Blvd. ing bands of all genres. They in Plant City, will offer area residents the chance to see some occasionally slip in a funreally unique and funny comedy when it presents Clean Comedy filled lip-sync night that is on Saturday, March 19 at 7 p.m. in the Loft always very entertaining. In ment for the local community. This time, addition, there are great prizes at many Krazy Kup will present Clean Comedy on of their events. Saturday, March 19 beginning at 7 p.m. in On top of Krazy Kup’s award-winning the Loft at Krazy Kup. coffee drinks, the ambiance and welKrazy Kup’s Clean Comedy, hosted by come feeling match the quality of what Gordon Davis, will feature comedians it serves. You can get great hot and cold Rodney Norman and Donnie Stopa. Nor- drinks, freshly baked pastries, gourmet man has been delighting audiences for wraps and salads. You will not want to over 20 years. He has a unique and sur- miss the largest selection of biscotti prising presence and is a former Marine found anywhere in the world. who has a Bachelor of Science degree in The Trunzos said, “If you have not yet philosophy. Stopa started doing comedy heard about Krazy Kup, which is locatat an early age. He formed his first come- ed one block from the train museum in dy band in the fifth grade and his style is downtown historic Plant City, you are observational yet engaging, so he always missing out on one of the really fun and connects with his audience and delivers friendly coffeehouses in the Tampa Bay the laughs. area.” Both Norman and Stopa have been For more information on Clean Comeseen on Dry Bar, Roku, TikTok, Prime Vid- dy and on Krazy Kup’s offerings, please eo and YouTube. follow them on Facebook and Instagram. Tickets to the show start at $20 and For the event’s page on Facebook and can be purchased through Eventbrite or ticket purchasing, visit www.facebook. at Krazy Kup. com/events/291522299741261/.
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THE VILLAGE PLAYERS PRESENT THE SOUND OF MUSIC The Village Players will present The Sound of Music in the historic James McCabe Theater, located at 506 N. 5th St. in Valrico, this March. Despite many obstacles, the biggest being COVID-19, The Village Players is ready to wow the audience with its rendition of The Sound of Music. The Sound of Musicwill be presented on Friday, March 11, 18 and 25 and Saturday, March 12, 19 and 26. The doors open at 7:30 p.m. and the curtain is at 8 p.m. The Village Players will offer two matinees at 3 p.m. on Sunday, March 13 and 20. Regular admission tickets are $18. For children, students, seniors and military with ID, tickets are $15. For groups of 10 or more, seating reservations must be prepaid and are available by calling Chris at the box office at 480-3147. To purchase tickets in advance, call the box office or visit www.thevillageplayersvalrico.com. The Sound of Music is a Rodgers and Hammerstein’s Broadway musical. It is based on a 1949 memoir written by Maria August von Trapp, The Story of the Trapp Family Singers. The book describes the life of the von Trapp family, from their beginnings in Salzburg, Austria to their adventures in America, where they escaped from Nazi-invaded Europe. The story reflects on family tragedies, victories and the kindness of strangers who soon became friends to the young family.
Gail Pierce, producer for The Village Players, said, “This is our second attempt to breathe life into this classic. We, like so many others, had to close until COVID was under control. I believe
The Village Players will present the classic musical The Sound of Music, featuring the seven von Trapp children, this March at its theater, located in the historic James McCabe Theater at 506 N. 5th St. in Valrico.
our patrons will find it worth the wait.” Pierce added, “The cast are all ‘in’ and have given this show 100 percent.” Domin Pazzo, director of The Sound of Music, is a veteran of the stage and The Village Players. “We were three weeks away from opening in April 2020, then COVID hit, so this show was two years in the making. I have some new cast members but a lot of my original cast members from 2020 came back. I am so glad to finish this journey with them,” Pazzo said. Pazzo added, “The audience will see a lot of hard work paying off. My seven von Trapp kids are so good and ready to perform in front of people.” For more information, please visit www.thevillageplayersvalrico.com.
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Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
Volume 20, Issue 3
HESS ORTHODONTICS MAKING SMILES BRIGHT IN THE COMMUNITY
DREW’S RV TECHS OFFERS SERVICE & SALES THAT CAN’T BE BEAT
looks forward to their appointment, that’s a win in my book.” “We really are a family here at Hess,” Hess said. Dr. Laura Rey joined the Hess Orthodontics team. “The team Dr. Michael Hess, owner and loves spending founder of Hess Orthodontics, has time with each other, and we been an orthodontist since 2004. always have the best time.” “I was born and raised in Florida,” If you ask Hess what he Hess said. “I graduated from the likes most about his job, he’ll University of Florida College of tell you that he loves changDentistry, where I received my ing his patients’ lives. “I have doctorate of dental medicine and had some really amazing pagraduated as the valedictorian tients and have heard endless of my class. I earned my master’s stories about how their new degree in orthodontics from the smile changed their life,” Hess University of Michigan. I was exsaid. “A child who was bullied cited to return back home after because of their teeth, or a graduating to begin practicing in young couple getting Invisalign the Sunshine State. I most enjoy together right before their spending time with Julianna and wedding, or an older adult who my son Jackson. I owe much of my success has had problems eating and chewing their to my family and to the best team ever.” whole lives but never had orthodontic treat“When we first started, we [had] just one ment—you name it, I’ve heard it, and I can location in Riverview,” Hess said. “Now we never get over the fact that I have a direct have five locations scattered across three impact on people’s lives..” counties with four doctors.” This past FebHess Orthodontics recently started ofruary, Dr. Laura Rey joined the Hess Ortho- fering professional Zoom whitening in the dontics team. office. “This is something we are offering to When Hess started his orthodontics busi- past and current patients as well as nonpaness, he wanted to create something innova- tients,” Hess said. “Patients can see years of tive and professional but still fun and family stains brighten up to eight shades lighter oriented. with just one appointment.” “We’ve tried to create an experience for If you would like to learn more about Hess our patients so coming to the orthodontist Orthodontics, you can visit their website doesn’t feel like a chore or your average at www.hessorthodontics.com or call 645doctor visit,” Hess said. “If you or your child 4377.
Do you own a recger. That way, you reational vehicle (RV) can try it out beand want to keep it fore you buy a unit. driving for years to Whether it’s for an come? Are you thinkawesome tailgate ing about purchasing or a cross-country or renting an RV? adventure, if you’re Drew’s RV Techs has ready to rent, trade what you need to keep in or buy, they have making memories and upfront pricing and having adventures. financing options to Family-owned and fit your budget. operated, Drew’s RV Drew’s RV Techs Techs boasts an exis also a business tensive inventory of sponsor with Critter pre-enjoyed RVs for Adoption and Ressale plus knowledgecue Effort (CARE), able and experienced Drew’s RV Techs offers a wide selection a local dog and cat technicians. Check rescue. Anklin, an of vehicles for sale and rent as well as out its competitive on-site repairs. Drew Anklin, owner and animal lover, doprices and person- operator, has over 30 years of experience nates much of his working on RVs. alized service that spare time and enbig-box stores ergy to support cannot compete their efforts in with. Drew Anproviding loving klin, owner and homes for resoperator with cued animals. He over 30 years and his shop cat, of experience Tux, would love working on and to see you and around RVs, will answer all your take on nearly questions about any repair. “We RVs. fix things other For more inpeople won’t. People come in with vehi- formation call 645-7870 or visit www. cles for which the manufacturer no lon- drewsrvtechs.com and www.cruiseamger makes the part. We make parts work erica.com/rv-rental-locations/florida/ and fabricate things so we can complete tampa. Drew’s RV Techs and Cruise the repair,” he said. America are located at 1601 S. U.S. Hwy. Plus, Drew’s RV Techs is perfect if 41 in Ruskin. It is open on weekdays, 8 you’re considering an RV. You can rent a.m.-5 p.m., and Saturdays, 8 a.m.-12 a unit for a day, a week, a month or lon- Noon.
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By Libby Hopkins
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March 2022
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
CUSTOM HAIR TAMPA BAY HELPS CUSTOMERS REGAIN SELF-CONFIDENCE AFTER HAIR LOSS By Michelle Caceres Things often get ‘hairy’ the hair in place for at Custom Hair Tampa four to six weeks. Bay, but for this business “Wake up every that’s precisely the goal. morning with hair,” Owned by Dan and Lori said Lori. “Wash it, Younkman, Custom Hair swim with it and just Tampa Bay offers nonlive your life.” surgical solutions for men Her favorite part of and women with hair loss the process is when as a result of male and the hair system comes female-pattern baldness, in and customers see chemotherapy, transthe total transformaplants and burn scars, altion. opecia, autoimmune disFor Apollo Beach eases and other hair loss resident Jim Klein, his conditions. new hair has given him Located at 117 N. Kings increased self-confiAve. in Brandon, solutions dence. “I have the hair Owned by Dan and Lori Younkthat the Younkmans ofI used to have and man, Custom Hair Tampa Bay fer include 100 percent look so much younger,” Remy human hair wigs, offers nonsurgical solutions for men he said. and women with hair loss. toppers and custom hair Brandon resident solutions for men and women. Expert and longtime customer Susan Saylors, staff members are available to assist whose hair started thinning as a result of clients in choosing from its selection of lupus, echoed Klien about the increased wigs or one of its hair systems. self-confidence from her hair replace“We’re here to advise you every step of ment system. the way and walk you through the entire “Stylists at Custom Hair have given me process,” said Lori, who is not just the long hair, shorter hair, have changed the owner but also a customer. color,” said Saylors. “What’s great is it’s She understands exactly how a thick such a high quality that nobody knows head of hair can restore confidence. it’s not my own hair unless I tell them.” Customers meet with technicians in Custom Hair Tampa Bay has been private consultation rooms where their helping customers enjoy long, thick and heads are measured, hair color and tex- healthy hair worthy of a Pantene comture are matched and hair systems are mercial for more than 50 years. created to make each person look their Custom Hair Tampa Bay is open Tuesbest. day-Friday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m., and Saturday, Hair replacement systems are light- 10 a.m.-4 p.m. weight, breathable and secure thanks to For more information, visit www.custhe surgical-grade adhesive that holds tomhairtampabay.com or call 651-9484.
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Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
Volume 20, Issue 3
March 2022
Osprey Observer
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SUMMER CAMPS OFFER MANY OPTIONS TO KEEP KIDS ACTIVE AND ENGAGED Have you got the calendar ready? Summer is just around the corner and camps are gearing up for an active and busy camp season! The staff at the Osprey Observer has collected the top recommendations for local summer camps and created this special pullout section. We asked local camps what they are doing to keep students engaged and active this year! Buckhorn Springs Racquet & Pool Club Tennis Camp Do you have a budding tennis player in your home? If so, Buckhorn Springs Racquet & Pool Club camps might be the place for you. Camp Osprey, LLC For a fun, traditional camp experience, check out Camp Osprey which is located on 204 acres of beautiful woodlands alongside the Little Manatee River in Wimauma. Camp activities include high ropes courses, ziplines, horse back riding and much more. Hurricane Volleyball Academy Volleyball players should check out the camps offered at Hurricane Volleyball Academy (HVA) owned by Riverview residents Victoria and Brian Adams.
Patel Conservatory The Patel Conservatory at the Straz Center is hosting a variety of week summer camps for rising actors, musicians, and dancers starting May 31 and running through August 5. Weekly camps will take place Monday through Friday. Trilogy Dive This summer, Trilogy Dive Center is hosting scuba camps for 10 to 17-yearolds: the Open Water Camp, for noncertified scuba divers, and the Advanced Open Water Camp, for those already scuba certified. Kids R Kids With locations in Valrico and Lithia, Kids R Kids has been offering summer camps since cians. 2004. This summer, the With a variety theme is Camp Boomerof camp options in full ang and students can sign and half-day experiences, there’s up on a weekly basis or for something for every young entertainer. the whole summer. Mathnasium of Riverview and Brandon Have your child’s math skills been impacted by the last school year? Have they fallen behind? Music Showcase The Florida Academy of the Performing Arts at Music Showcase offers summer camps for aspiring actors a n d musi-
High 5, Inc. Brandon’s High 5 Inc. is inviting students to sail away for the best summer of their lives, kicking off on May 31. YMCA All camps begin on May 31 and run through August 5 with ten separate sessions available Monday-Friday. TLC’S Gypsy Haven TLC’s Gypsy Haven offers weekly themed riding camps, ages 8-99, focusing on riding and grooming. The camps take place from 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Sidekicks Summer Camp Sidekicks Martial Arts is gearing up for its Summer Camp 2022 program with Martial Arts, field trips & more. Watch for our Summer Camp Sweepstakes link where the Osprey Observer will buy your child a week of camp at the summer camp of your choice! Or, enter now by emailing (subject line ‘Summer Camp Free’) contest@ ospreyobserver.com. Did we miss a great summer camp option? Let us know by emailing (subject line ‘Summer Camp’) to kquesada@ospreyobserver.com and we will be sure to add it to our full listing online. Have a great summer of fun!
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Osprey Observer
TRILOGY DIVE CENTER HOSTS SUMMER YOUTH SCUBA CAMPS
By Lily Belcher
This summer, Trilogy Dive Center is hosting scuba camps for 10 to 17-year-olds: the Open Water Camp, for noncertified scuba divers, and the Advanced Open Water Camp, for those already scuba certified. Successful students will earn their scuba certification as Open Water Diver or A d va n c e d Open Water Diver. “ [ T h e goal of the Trilogy Dive Center is hosting camp is to] two scuba camps for 10 to 17-year-olds this summer. have fun, meet new friends, explore our underwater world and get scuba certified,” said Scuba Instructor and Owner Mike Massaro. Each camp is offered every week this summer. No camps are held on the week of Wednesday to Sunday, July 4-8. Each week of camp will last Monday through Friday from 8 a.m.-5 p.m. at the Trilogy Dive Center on E. Columbus Dr. in Tampa. For the weeklong certification camp, campers will participate in 40 hours of dive instruction and leave with their scuba certification. The Open Water Camp is for those with no prior scuba certification. The camper will participate in the classroom, pool and open water checkout dives to earn
their Open Water Scuba Certification. “The camper starts off their week with classroom academics and pool work. This happens Monday-Wednesday. Thursday and Friday are spent at dive sites with the divers putting their newfound skills to work,” explained Massaro. “To become certified, they must attend every day, successfully pass all of the water skills in the pool and successfully complete four checkout dives that we conduct at lakes and springs.” Every diver starts with Open Water Scuba. Trilogy Dive Center’s instructors are military veterans, health care professionals and educators. They have extensive experience training young adults to scuba dive. Each camp is limited to 10 campers and will be led by an adult scuba instructor. Equipment, drinks and snacks will be provided, so the only things campers have to bring is lunch, sunblock and a towel. The Open Water Camp is $595, and the Advanced Open Water Camp is $695. Register now and give your child an adventure that will last a lifetime. Visit trilogyscuba. com, call 425-3500 or email scuba@triologyscuba.com.
Volume 21, Issue 3
THE PATEL CONSERVATORY AT THE STRAZ CENTER HOSTS SUMMER CAMPS
By Lily Belcher
The Patel Conservatory at the Straz Cen- basics and skills to showcase in their final ter is hosting a variety of week summer performances. Showstoppers: Broadway Incamps for rising actors, musicians, and tensive is available for teen students at the dancers starting on Tuesday, May 31 and end of the summer as well. Musical theater running through Fricamps are an option for day, August 5. musically inclined acWeekly camps tors and actresses to will take place combine their dancMonday through ing, acting and singFriday, with preing talents on stage. and post-camp Music camps and available for an intensives are availadditional $30 able throughout the each or $50 for summer, with focuses both extensions. on different genres in The Patel Coneach camp. servatory offers sum- The Patel Conservatory offers dance, “Summer music offerings mer dance camps and theater and music camps throughout the at the Patel Conservatory summer. intensives for beginallow students to experience ner and advanced dancers. The advanced singing in a choir, discovering a new instruand intensive camps, which vary in price, re- ment or playing in a chamber ensemble. Inquire prior experience, but its beginning jazz strumentalists and vocalists of all ages have dance, tap dance and ballet camps are open fun while developing their talents,” accordto elementary and middle school dancers for ing to the brochure. $145. Group classes for violin, piano, singing and For aspiring actors and actresses, theater chamber music are offered over the summer students can register for the Patel Conser- and allow students to fine tune their musical vatory’s production camps. talents with a teacher. Private lessons and “The Patel Conservatory Theater De- music theory classes are also available. partment offers training in musical and Information on the camps offered as nonmusical theater through productions, well as specific dates, times and pricing are performance camps and technical theater available in the 2022 Summer Camps and programs,” explains the summer camp bro- Classes brochure on the Straz Center’s webchure. site at strazcenter.org. For more information Young actors can participate in shows like on specific details of the camps, contact the Disney’s 101 Dalmatians and Shakespeare’s admissions staff at 222-1040 or 800-955As You Like It, where they will learn theater 1045 (toll-free).
Osprey Observer
March 2022
YMCA CAMP INSPIRES DREAMS AND SUPPORTS CHILDREN By Amy Schechter Whether you riding, canoeing, need childcare visual arts and over the summore. mer or just want Besides many your kids to esconvenient locacape the house, tions in the Branthe YMCA has don, Riverview what kids crave and Apollo Beach at one of its area, including many summer the North Tampa camp locations. YMCA, Campo Camp CristiFamily YMCA and na Operations Spurlino Family That feeling when you’re ready for YMCA Summer Director Meagan YMCA at Big Bend Camp! Springer spoke Rd., the community with joy when she described is lucky to have Camp Cristina, summers at the YMCA: a 65-acre campus in Riverview “Camps provide an experience complete with many outdoor where kids have an opportuoptions, including a rock wall, nity that’s very unique. At the ropes course, horseback riding, heart of what we do, we are and water activities. always thinking of ways we All camps begin on Tuesday, can stimulate and support May 31 and run through Friday, kids through recreation while August 5 with 10 separate sesthey are out of school.” sions available from Monday to The American Camp Association (ACA) Friday. Book one weeklong session or book recently announced that the Tampa Met- them all. Camp programming runs from 9 ropolitan Area YMCA Summer Camps re- a.m.-4 p.m. with free early morning care ceived ACA-Accredited Camp status for the beginning at 7 a.m. and free afternoon ex2022 season. After a thorough review of tended care until 6 p.m. Prices start at only nearly 300 standards, the ACA found that $169 per week for YMCA members and the YMCA camps’ staff qualifications, train- are open to the public. Discounted rates for ing and emergency management reflect members, early registration, siblings, multithe highest standards in the industry. Plus, camp sign-ups and early-bird registration YMCA camps offer an array of fun where are available. activity specialists lead campers through For more information on specific lovarious experiences each day, including cations and pricing and to register, visit swimming, science, high ropes, outdoor tampaymca.org/programs/camp/sumeducation, nature encounters, horseback mer-camp.
Contact us today to schedule a risk-free assessment and learn about our summer specials. TWO LOCATIONS TO SERVE YOU Mathnasium of Brandon 813-655-6284 1048 Bloomingdale Avenue Valrico, FL 33596 mathnasium.com/brandon
Mathnasium of Riverview 813-565-1102 Coming 1388 US 301 Soon! Riverview, FL 33579 mathnasium.com/riverview
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FOR THE LOVE OF VOLLEYBALL, HVA IS HERE By Libby Hopkins Victoria and Brian Adams are both edu- ni go off to play volleyball at the collegiate cators. Combined, they have taught in the level,” Victoria said. “We believe in providing district for more than 25 years. “We live in a home for all levels of athletes to achieve Riverview, Florida and love it here,” Victoria their personal goals.” said. “Together, we The mission of HVA is to cultishare a passion for vate an environment of compethelping the youth itive learning through innovative in our communicoaching techniques and high ty, whether that is standards of performance. “HVA through education, is a volleyball club dedicated sports, community to player development both on service, you name it.” and off the court,” Victoria said. Brian won coach “HVA’s customized practice seof the year in 2012 at quences enable us to East Bay High in the maximize individual Western Conference skills training through for volleyball. “Brian a unique format.” The mission of Hurricane has been coaching for Volleyball Academy (HVA) HVA will offer vol14 years in Hillsbor- is to cultivate an environleyball summer camps ough County,” Victoria ment of competitive learning this year. “We have said. “I won teacher of through innovative coaching techniques camps that run all through the year at East Bay and high standards of performance for summer,” Victoria said. ages 8-18. High School in 2016.” “We will be offering bunBrian grew up playing competitive beach dles where people can pick and choose the volleyball and has always had a love for skills position they want to focus on. We will sports and coaching. “He is currently teach- have $10 open gym time where they get ing physical education at Riverview High some upfront instruction, then get to play School,” Victoria said. “About six years ago, some games in the gym. We will be offering he decided to begin the journey of fulfilling college camps as well. Our last college camp a personal challenge of starting his own vol- with Warner University resulted in a player leyball club. I jumped right on board.” And receiving a college scholarship to play volfrom there, Hurricane Volleyball Academy leyball. We target ages 8-18, both boys and (HVA) was born. girls, all skill levels.” HVA started in 2016 and has grown from If you’d like to learn more about HVA or a 15 to 18-year-old girls club to expand into their upcoming summer camps, you can a club for both 8 to 18-year-old girls and visit its website at www.hurricanevolleybalboys. “We’ve had dozens of Hurricane alum- lacademy.com or call Brian at 220-0905.
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Buckhorn Springs Racquet & Pool Club Tennis Camp Do you have a budding tennis player in your home? If so, Buckhorn Springs Racquet & Pool Club camps might be the place for you. Located at 2721 S. Miller Rd. in Valrico, camps take place Monday to Thursday from 9 a.m.-12 Noon, with Friday as a rain day. Camps, which boast a 6:1 student-to-instructor ratio, cost $185 a week, but if you register before Friday, April 15, you qualify for the early bird price of $170. New players get a free beginner racket when registering for more than two weeks. Additional discounts are available with inquiry. Snacks and meals are not included. To learn more, call 502-5160 or visit www.buckhornracquet.com.
Camp Osprey, LLC For a fun, traditional camp experience, check out Camp Osprey, which is located on 204 acres of beautiful woodlands alongside the Little Manatee River in Wimauma. Camp activities include high ropes courses, ziplines, horseback riding and much more. Camps take place every week starting on Sunday, June 5, and campers can sign up for a week or the whole summer. Day and overnight options are available, with
Osprey Observer
day camp costing $325 a week and overnight being $645. Meals are provided and snacks can be purchased in the camp canteen. The camp is located at 18050 U.S. Hwy. 301 S. in Wimauma and can be reached at 941-928-6860. For more information, visit www.camposprey.com.
Mathnasium Of Riverview And Brandon Have your child’s math skills been impacted by the last school year? Have they fallen behind? Are there gaps in their learning? Do they need a greater challenge? If so, consider a summer math program with Mathnasium. But don’t wait too long because spots are filling up fast. Mathnasium’s personalized learning plans are proven to improve grades and give them a head start going into the new school year. With live faceto-face instruction, either in-center or online, its summer programs are designed to work in tandem with the other summer camps and activities. Just two or three one-hour sessions per week are all kids need to help keep their math skills on track for the upcoming school year, and your child will continue to enjoy summer because Mathnasium makes learning math fun. Call today for a free assessment. Mathnasium of Brandon (mathnasium.com/brandon) is located at 1048 Bloomingdale Ave. and can be reached at 655-6284, and Mathnasium of Riverview (mathnasium.com/riverview) is located at 1388 U.S. 301 and can be reached at 565-1102.
Volume 21, Issue 3
Arts at Music Showcase offers summer camps for aspiring actors and musicians. With a variety of camp options in full and half-day experiences, there’s something for every young entertainer. T h e traditional camp exposes campers to music and more. You can sign up for one weeklong camp or you can sign up for multiple camps. Camps are structured by age, ability and interest. Its other camp option is a musical theater camp, where campers work together over the course of a few weeks to put on a show. Camp registration opens in mid-March. For further details, visit www.faopa.org or call 490-2787. Music Showcase is located at 402 Oakfield Dr. in Brandon.
Hurricane Volleyball Academy Volleyball players should check out the camps offered at Hurricane Volleyball Academy (HVA), owned by Riverview residents Victoria and Brian Adams. HVA started in 2016 and has grown from a 15 to 18-year-old girls club to expand into 8 to 18-year-old for both girls and boys with camps that will run throughout the summer. Options will include The Patel Conservatory bundles The Patel Conservatory at the Straz Cenwhere peoter is hosting a variety of week summer ple can pick camps for and choose rising actors, the skills musicians position they want to focus on and $10 and dancopen gym time, which will include instrucers starting tion and games. College camps will also Tu e s d a y, be offered. May 31 and To learn more, visit www.hurricanevol- Music Showcase running The Florida Academy of Performing t h r o u g h leyballacademy.com or call 220-0905.
March 2022
Friday, August 5. Weekly camps will take place Monday through Friday, with pre- and post-camp available for an additional $30 each or $50 for both extensions. Information on the camps offered as well as specific dates, times and pricing are available in the 2022 Summer Camps and Classes brochure on the Straz Center’s website at strazcenter.org. For more information on specific details of the camps, contact the admissions staff at 222-1040 or 800-955-1045 (toll-free). Trilogy Dive This summer, Trilogy Dive Center is hosting scuba camps for 10 to 17-year-olds: the Open Water Camp, for noncertified scuba divers, and the Advanced Open Water Camp, for those already scuba certified. Successful students will earn their scuba certification as Open Water Diver or Advanced Open Water Diver. Each camp is limited to 10 campers and will be led by an adult scuba instructor. Equipment, drinks and snacks will be provided, so the only things campers have to bring is lunch, sunblock and a towel. The Open Water Camp is $595, and the Advanced Open Water Camp is $695. To sign up for the camp or for more information on Trilogy Dive’s camps, visit trilogyscuba.com, call 425-3500 or email scuba@
Osprey Observer
t r i o l o g ys c u ba . and camp costs $160 a week per child. com. To learn more, visit www.high5inc.org or call 689-0908. Kids ‘R’ Kids Friday, August YMCA 5. Weekly camps Tampa Metropolitan Area YMCA has will take place Monday through Friday, with what kids crave at one of its many summer pre- and post-camp available for an addi- camp locations. tional $30 each or $50 for both extensions. YMCA camps Information on the camps offered as offer an array well as specific dates, times and pricing of fun where acare available in the 2022 Summer Camps tivity specialists and Classes brochure on the Straz Center’s will lead campwebsite at strazcenter.org. For more infor- ers through varmation on specific details of the camps, ious experiences contact the admissions staff at 222-1040 each day, includor 800-955-1045 (toll-free). ing swimming, science, high High 5, Inc. ropes, outdoor education, nature encounBrandon’s High 5, Inc. is inviting stu- ters, horseback riding, canoeing, visual arts dents to sail away for the best summer and more. of their lives, kicking off on Tuesday, May All camps begin on Tuesday, May 31 and 31. run through Friday, August 5 with 10 sepCampers will be able to choose dif- arate sessions available from Monday to ferent activities based on a cruise ship Friday. Book one weeklong session or book theme, including swimming, diving, them all. Camp programming runs from 9 games and activities, a scavenger hunt, a.m.-4 p.m. with free early morning care bedress-up days, various tournaments, ginning at 7 a.m. and free afternoon extendbounce houses, a slip and ed care until 6 p.m. Prices slide, water slides and start at only $169 per week gaming tournaments. for YMCA members and are Camp is offered Monopen to the public. Discountday through Friday from ed rates for members, early 7 a.m.-6 p.m. at High 5, registration, siblings, multiwhich is located at 405 camp sign-ups and early-bird Beverly Blvd. in Brandon. registration are available. Campers can sign up for For more information on weeks throughout the summer or the entire specific locations and pricing and to regissummer, with registration opening in April. ter, visit www.tampaymca.org/letscamp. There is a $40 registration fee per child
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TLC’S Gypsy Haven Located at 4325 Keysville Rd. in Lithia, TLC’s Gypsy Haven offers weekly themed riding camps, ages 8-99, focused on riding and grooming. The camps take place from 9 a.m.-2 p.m. from Monday, June 6 to Friday, August 5. Students pack their own lunch, snacks and drinks and are encouraged to wear light pants or leggings, but boots are a must. The camp boasts one teacher, one aide and one volunteer per 10 students. For more information, visit tlcsfarms. com, call Tammi at 842-4236 or email TLCS2867@aol.com Sidekicks Summer Camp Sidekicks Martial Arts is gearing up for its summer camp 2022 program with Martial Arts, Amazing Field Trips, Educational Lessons, Arts and Crafts and So Much more... Your Child Is Going to Have a BLAST! (Rising Kindergartners - Rising 6th Grade) Visit www.fishhawksummercamp.com or text 813-308-0368. Sidekicks is located upstairs Park Square in the heart of FishHawk Ranch.
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Osprey Observer
Volume 21, Issue 3
KIDS ‘R’ KIDS OFFERS SUMMER FUN & FIELD SAIL AWAY WITH HIGH 5, INC. SUMMER CAMP FUN By Kate Quesada TRIPS AT TWO LOCATIONS By Kate Quesada
“Kids ‘R’ Kids and water play. Learning Academy Other themes offers a safe, well-suwill include ‘Depervised, educational, cade Dash’; ‘Natengaging and thrilling ural Talent’; where summer camp experistudents will draw ence for children K-5,” inspiration from said Owner Ben Ferthe earth, and nandes. ‘What’s Cookin’,’ With locations in which will allow Valrico and Lithia, campers to cook Kids ‘R’ Kids has been up a ton and give offering summer them the chance camps since 2004. to learn how our This summer, the taste buds work theme is Camp with regard to Boomerang, and sweet vs. sour vs. students can sign salty foods. The up on a weekly baweek ends with a sis or for the whole potluck dinner feasummer. turing a favorite “Camp Boomerdish from each of ang will show- Registration is now available for camp at Kids ‘R’ our campers. Kids in Lithia and Valrico. case unique weekly According to Ferthemes designed to make your campers nandes, field trips will include a Rays game, smile, think, explore, collaborate and grow Sea Screamer in Clearwater, the Ringling in exciting new directions,” said Fernandes. Museum, a tour of the Bucs stadium and The summer camp will feature Australian more. themes, including ‘Down Under,’ which will “We even go to the River Hills Country take campers to explore what makes Aus- Club pool,” he explained. tralia special; a movie-themed week called The camp includes all meals and field ‘KidFlix’; and ‘Reef Creatures,’ where camp- trips, and space is limited. ers will pay a virtual visit to the beaches Kids ‘R’ Kids Valrico is located at 4321 in Australia, including a deep dive into the Lynx Paw Trl. and can be reached at 657Great Barrier Reef and a chance to learn 6200, and Kids ‘R’ Kids Circa FishHawk is about a variety of ocean creatures that call located at 5815 Kids Crossing Dr. in Lithia it home. The week will include beach games and can be reached at 654-7000.
Summer camp is “We will have a DJ sure to be a hit at at the start of the Brandon’s High 5, Inc. week to do the ‘MunThe camp, which inster Drill,’” added Nelvites students to sail son. away for the best Camp is offered summer of their lives, Monday through Friwill kick off on Tuesday from 7 a.m.-6 day, May 31. p.m. at High 5, which According to High 5 is located at 405 BevRegional Director Ererly Blvd. in Brandon. ica Nelson, campers Campers can sign up will be able to choose for weeks throughout different activities the summer or the based on a cruise ship entire summer with theme. sessions starting on “We will have a Tuesday, May 31 and Summer camp at High 5, Inc. will have a cruise itinerary for registration opening in cruise theme this year. each day, but the April. campers will have the There is a $40 regisopportunity to make tration fee per child and their own choices as camp cost $160 a week well,” said Nelson. per child. Camp will consist of High 5, formerly Bran‘The Stern,’ which will be don Sports and Aquatics outside games; ‘The Lido Club (BSAC), has been Deck’ which involves part of the Brandon time in the location’s community since 1963 pool; field trip ‘Excursions’; ‘Creative and was the area’s first multipurpose Cover’; ‘The Plank,’ which are diving facility, dedicated to making positive boards; and ‘Encounters,’ which will in- impacts on the lives of residents in the volve pickleball, swimming and other region and beyond. The site also offers sports and recreation activities. a competitive swimming program, OlymOther features will include a scaven- pic-level diving as well as swimming lesger hunt, dress-up days, various tourna- sons from beginners to adults. ments, bounce houses, a slip and slide, To learn more, visit www.high5inc.org water slides and gaming tournaments. or call 689-0908.
Osprey Observer
March 2022
THE BRANDON BALLET PRESENTS PRINCESS TEA PARTY FEATURING CINDERELLA
By Kathy L. Collins
The Brandon Join Cinderella Ballet, estaband her fellow lished in 1993, is princess friends a nonprofit, preas they perprofessional balform excerpts let company that from Cinderella develops and prowhile you and motes opportuniyour guest saties for aspiring vor cupcakes young dancers. As from Sweetie’s a part of its misDelights, finsion, the Brandon Don’t miss the fun of the Brandon Ballet’s annual ger foods and, Princess Tea Party. Ballet provides of course, tea. the community with a number of events There is something for every member of and performances. One of its most popu- the family to enjoy, including immersive lar events is the Princess Tea Party. game time, appearances from your favorThe next Princess Tea Party will fea- ite princesses, raffles and prizes. If you ture Cinderella and will be held on Sun- are looking for a lively, Sunday afternoon day, March 27 at 3 p.m. at The Regent, family outing, look no further than the located at 6437 Watson Rd. in Riverview. Brandon Ballet’s Princess Tea Party. Tickets are $17.50 plus tax for adults and Hannah Townend with the Brandon children if purchased in advance or $20 Ballet said, “For ballet lovers of any age, plus tax at the door. If tickets are sold the Princess Tea Party is sure to be a out online prior to the event, tickets will Sunday Funday treat.” not be sold at the door. Tickets can be Masks are optional for all Princess Tea purchased by visiting www.brandonbal- Party guests. In order to ensure a safer let.org/events/. gathering, tickets will be limited, so reThere are lots of exciting events and serve your tickets now before it is too performances throughout the Brandon late. Ballet season that bring in audience memAfter you meet Cinderella and her prinbers and supporters alike, but by far the cess friends, make plans to attend the most popular among its young patrons is Brandon Ballet’s presentation of the balthe annual tea parties. The Brandon Bal- let, Cinderella, on Saturday, April 30 at let staff and dancers revel in the pleasure Riverview High School in Riverview. of providing such sweet events for young For more information, visit www.Branballet lovers and their families. donBallet.org or call 684-4282.
Ages 8 - 18
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GET READY TO ROCK YOUR SUMMER WITH THE FAOPA AT MUSIC SHOWCASE
By Amy Schechter
Want the perfect place to make memories and music? The Florida Academy of Performing Arts (FAOPA) at Music Showcase offers a magical summer camp experience for aspiring actors and musicians. With a variety of camp options in full and
FAOPA summer camp sign-ups start soon.
half-day experiences, there’s something for every young entertainer. Debbie Evans, director of accounts, cannot stress how wonderful the experience is: “It’s more than just learning about music or learning how to sing. Kids are gaining self-confidence and self-esteem. They blossom into performers who like music and like being on stage.” The traditional camp exposes campers to music and more. Every few hours, students can learn an instrument like guitar and drums, take vocal lessons, take acting and improv classes and do arts and crafts. You can sign up for one weeklong camp or you can sign up for multiple camps. Camps are structured by age, ability and interest.
Their other camp option is a musical theater camp. Campers work together over the course of a few weeks to put on a show. They will memorize lines, music and choreography. This summer, depending on the camper’s age, they will perform Newsies Jr. , Oklahoma! Youth Edition, Bye Bye Birdie Youth Edition, Big the Musical, High School Musical 2 Jr., Fiddler on the Roof Jr. and Broadway Boot Camp. Sanchez went on to say, “If you do the musical camps, you’re learning about teamwork in an ensemble. A lot of parents are always so surprised. They had no idea their child had it within them when they see them perform.” Campers must bring their own lunches, drinks and snacks, with snacks also available for purchase. The Florida Academy of Performing Arts is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that was established to support the performing arts through programs at the academy and in the community. Camp registration opens in mid-March. For further details, visit www.FAOPA.org or call 490-2787. Music Showcase is located at 402 Oakfield Dr. in Brandon.
Summer Camp Options Competitive Girls and Boys Teams
Summer Boot Camps (June/July)
Several skill specific sessions to hone a current skill or come to ALL and learn all aspects of volleyball positions. For beginner/intermediate and advanced players. This is a low commitment but high energy and fast paced skill building. A great way to learn or to continue to improve over the summer.
College Clinics (June/July)
Last year we welcomed both Webber International University and Warner University head coaches to host a college clinic for players in our area. This was for girls and boys and had beach and indoor volleyball opportunities.
Open Gym (June/July)
$10 Open Gyms- both beginner and intermediate advanced. If you want to have some fun give volleyball a try, make some friends in the process this is a great start for you. This open gym also gives you an opportunity to meet our amazing coaching staff and learn some quick basic skills.
High School and Middle School Dust off (Late July)
This is a targeted clinic designed to refresh and remind players of what High School and Middle School volleyball coaches are looking for. From skills, techniques even body language. Let us help you dust off your skills as you prepare for your schools volleyball tryouts.
Your One Stop Shop for all things VOLLEYBALL! Summer Camps • Fall Leagues • Team Camps • Skills Clinics Positional Trainings • Training for ALL Skill Levels
Visit Our Website For More Information!
813-220-0905 | HurricaneVolleyballAcademy.com
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Osprey Observer
DISNEY CHARACTERS RETURN TO TAMPA IN MARCH FOR LET’S CELEBRATE
Staff Report
The celebration of the century comes alive in Disney On Ice presents Let’s Celebrate, and this monumental ice-skating spectacular visits AMALIE Arena from Thursday to Sunday, March 24-27. Audiences will be a part of the magic of Disney as Mouse-ter of Ceremonies Mickey Mouse leads a parade of more than 50 beloved characters starring Minnie Mouse, Donald Duck and Goofy and featuring an ensemble of Disney Princesses, including Cinderella, Rapunzel, Ariel, Snow White and Tiana. The wintry wonderland of Disney’s Frozen also comes to life with Anna, Elsa and the hilarious Olaf as they discover that true love is the greatest magic of all. Exciting moments from Disney Pixar’s Finding Dory, Disney’s Aladdin and Beauty and the Beast will leave the whole family with memories to last a lifetime. The legacy of Disney is displayed through 14 classic and modern stories in this production that features an international team of award-winning figure skaters, high-energy choreography and a breathtaking set. With over 30 melodious masterpieces such as “Let It Go!,” “You’ve Got a Friend in Me” and “Hakuna Matata,” Disney On Ice Let’s Celebrate is the ultimate Disney fan experience. Families will join the fun in an exciting opening number that salutes Mickey Mouse
and Minnie Mouse as the original hosts of Disney On Ice in an unforgettable experience in your hometown. While delivering the same magical experiences guests expect from Disney On Ice, Feld Entertainment is continuing Guest Wellness Enhancements to help keep families safe at its live events. Feld Entertainment is working closely with venue partners to establish and follow COVID-19 health and safety standards in accordance with all federal, state and local guidelines. Full details on Feld Entertainment Guest Wellness Enhancements can be found at https://www.disneyonice. com/guest-wellness. Guests looking to purchase Disney On Ice souvenirs will find the process easier than ever thanks to a new contactless shopping experience with touch-free payment and digital purchasing options. Guests can preorder items prior to arriving at the venue. Once ordered, guests can pick up their purchases at a convenient, contactless pickup station during the show. Additional information can be found at www.disneyonice.com/tickets. The shows will take place on Thursday, March 24 and Friday, March 25 at 7 p.m.; Saturday, March 26 at 11 a.m., 3 p.m. and 7 p.m.; and Sunday, March 27 at 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. at AMALIE Arena, located at 401 Channelside Dr. in Tampa.
Volume 21, Issue 3
DANCING FOR A DIFFERENCE CELEBRATES NEW LARGER LOCATION
By Tatiana Ortiz
Since its estabA local dance studio lishment in May in Brandon had a fresh 2017, Dancing for start to the year with a Difference has and space its new grown, hence the name. Riverview resneed of this new ident Sara Battaglia, space. The former who is the president studio was 1,500 and director of Dancsq. ft. This new ing for a Difference, one is double that held a grand opening size. for the new studio Some of the Dancing for a Difference students wearBattaglia stat29. on January ing shirts with the new logo. the reason for ed Dancing for a Difhow it will and studio new the ference is a nonprofit organibe beneficial for the organizazation with a mission to make tion. dance more available to all ages “We have over 200 students and abilities within the Tampa and could not grow much Bay area as well as give back to the community. Prior to the name change, more due to limited size in space,” Battathe organization was called Dancing for glia said. “With the new space it provides us Donations. Battaglia felt that the time was room for more students,” she added. Dancing for a Difference offers a wide appropriate to move forward with the revariety of classes, such as ballet, jazz, tap, branding. The organization received a $13,000 voice, piano and moråe. Battaglia said that grant from the Mabel and Ellsworth Sim- they love to meet new people and welcome mons Charitable Foundation, Inc., which them to their dance family. Those who are helped with the funding of Dancing for a interested can register for these classes. “Overall, thank you to the community, Difference’s new studio. In addition, through with the dance families, for supportalong Comof the Valrico FishHawk Chamber merce, Dancing for a Difference was the ing us all of these years,” Battaglia said. For more information about classes, vis2021 Charity of Choice. Battaglia is also involved in other chambers, such as the Great- it https://www.dancing4donations.org. It er Riverview Chamber of Commerce and the is located at 1076 E. Brandon Blvd., Stes. #108 and #109 in Brandon. Call 601-3009. Ybor City Chamber of Commerce.
(Ages K-5)
March 2022
Osprey Observer
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20 YEARS SINCE SIGHTS WERE SET ON FORMING FISHHAWK YOUTH BASEBALL PROGRAM By Taylor Wells
Twenty years ago, on page lot of work, and three of the Osprey Observer’s a lot of effort put March 2002 FishHawk edition, into it, they’ve one of our first newspapers, we done a great job published a story about local resbuilding a great ident Vincent Guarcello trying to foundation for open a little league for his comwhat I inherited munity. Though he is no longer and what I’m trya direct part of it, Guarcello’s ing to build, and I efforts later led to the league hope I leave it in officially forming in 2008 under Two of FishHawk Youth Baseball’s concession a little better spot One of FishHawk Youth Baseball’s camps the name chosen in the original stand volunteers. Its volunteers are all a big when I eventually held in December 2021. part of making the league great. story: FishHawk Youth Baseball step down.” (FYB). FishHawk Youth “My son’s a 12-year-old don’t have the money to play,” said now and he’s one of the big“We’ve got over 550 kids in Baseball has been our league, and we do two seasons a Murphy, “It’s not about money for this ger kids up there, and it’s built up by its volyear. And we’ve been growing; COVID organization at all. Anybody can play.” fun to watch him around unteers; its partslowed us down a little bit … but we He added, “We want the kids to have the younger ones and help The Osprey Observer’s first news story nerships with the about the little league that would have been growing exponentially ever a place to come and make friends. It’s a them,” he said. county, local high become FishHawk Youth Baseball. since COVID let down a little bit, and fun, competitive environment at times, The group is entirely run schools and its we’re able to put the kids back out on but, more importantly, anybody can by volunteers. Be they board members, sponsors; and all the people involved. the field,” said Tom Murphy, president play and feel like they’re a part of it.” coaches, managers, cleanup crew or It’s a tough job when there’s so many Murphy joined the board because he concession stand operators, everyone people, but it’s easy when everyone has of FishHawk Youth Baseball. saw the amazing job it was doing with is a qualified volunteer. This includes the same goal, and Murphy wants to Children ages 4 to 18 years old can the kids and in managing all the work the kids’ parents, who are required to thank everyone for making FYB what join, and no prior baseball experience involved, and he is glad to lead and be volunteer if their kid wants to be a part it is today. is required. In this large league of local a part of it. Some of the things he loves of FYB, along with paying a registra- “We’re creating a sense of communikids with about 120 volunteers making most are the opening day ceremonies tion fee for each season. the experience a joy for all, FYB has ty around the baseball field, and I think where the kids are amped up in their Of course, if you want to volunteer, that’s a really cool thing that has hapcreated a great community. “We want to provide a place for uniforms for the first time; end-of-sea- you don’t need to have a kid in the pened over the years,” said Murphy. all kids of any skill to be able to play son tournaments where they have fun, league. Volunteers are always welcome. For more information about Fishbaseball. Also, it does not matter what compete, get a big trophy and get their About the people who started it all, Hawk Youth Baseball, including how their economical abilities are, we have picture on Facebook; and seeing them Murphy said, “The initial board obvi- to register your child or volunteer, visit scholarships available for kids that progress and become leaders. ously set the way for us. While it’s a www.fishhawkyouthbaseball.org.
(Take Out Only)
YBOR Room
Now OPEN!
27 Years in Brandon!
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Osprey Observer
THE CHILDREN’S BOARD SUMMER PASSPORT PROGRAM RETURNS FOR THE FOURTH YEAR By Tatiana Ortiz
Kids at the Straz Center for the Performing Arts camp during the Children’s Board Summer Passport Program.
With the school year ending in just a few months, some may be searching for summer activities to bring their children to. Through funding of the Children’s Board of Hillsborough County, its Summer Passport Program will return for the fourth year. The Children’s Board Summer Passport Program allows children that are members of the Children’s Board Family Resource Centers to apply for one to two weeks of camp at no cost to their families. Children can select to attend camps at the Glazer Children’s Museum, MOSI, ZooTampa at Lowry Park, The Florida Aquarium, the Tampa Museum of Art, the Straz Center for the Performing Arts, the Tampa Theatre and the Lightning/Vinik Sports Group. Depending on the camp, children ages 6 to 14 will get to participate in a variety of activities such as robotics, playing sports and more. Dexter Lewis, director of public relations at the Children’s Board of Hillsborough County, stated what the overall goal of the
program is: “The opportunity to participate in the program makes a significant impact in children who have not traditionally attended a summer camp.” The program started in 2019 after Board Chair Andrew Mayts identified a problem and presented it to the Children’s Board. Local Family Resource Center parents were surveyed regarding preferences for special summer programs. Since its inception, a total of 606 youth have participated in the Children’s Board Summer Passport Program. Members can register at any of the seven Children’s Board Family Resource Centers from Saturday, March 5 to Saturday, March 12. People can register on Monday and Saturday from 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Tuesday and Thursday from 9 a.m.-7 p.m. and Wednesday and Friday from 9 a.m.-6 p.m. “All in all, we strongly encourage members of the Children’s Board Family Resource Centers to register for the program,” Lewis said. “To add, the Resource Centers offers other programs throughout the year, such as language classes and more,” he stated. To become a member to take advantage of all the programs and services, please visit familysupporthc.org or visit your neighborhood center.
Volume 21, Issue 3
HCC KIDS’ COLLEGE YOUTH SUMMER PROGRAM RETURNS FOR ITS EIGHTH YEAR Staff Report Kids’ College at Hillsborough Community College (HCC) is returning this summer for its eighth year. Kids’ College offers a variety of fun, engaging, learning-based summer programs for youth ages 8-15. The Youth Summer Program will begin the week of June 6 and run through the week of July 25. All programs will take place at HCC’s Corporate Training Center - Davis Islands, located at 39 Columbia Dr. in Tampa. For youth ages 8-11, there will be a wide range of options ranging from STEAM 3-week summer series, game design, coding, streamers & gamers, sign language, chess, hip hop dance and young entrepreneur’s class. For youth ages 12-15, Kids’ College will offer a 4-week series on youth empowerment, digital design and babysitting certificate class. “Our high-quality camps help children and teens develop new skills and interests outside of their usual routines,” said Ronkel Williams, Business and Community Development Officer of ICCE. “We strive to make the experience exciting and educational for every camper.” Full-day classes start at $175 per week and will run from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Half-day classes will run from either 9 a.m. to noon or from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. Discounts and payment plans are available. Early bird discount
Kids’ College at Hillsborough Community College (HCC) is returning this summer for its eighth year.
ends March 1. For a complete listing of classes, dates and times, please visit TampaTraining.com/Kids-College. The Institute for Corporate and Continuing Education (ICCE) is Hillsborough Community College’s corporate training arm that provides customized business solutions for local companies and individuals. Hillsborough Community College serves more than 42,000 students annually at its five campuses located throughout Tampa Bay. For more information, visit hccfl.edu. Hillsborough Community College is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) to award associate degrees. Parents with questions on the summer programs can email kidscollege@hccfl.edu or call 259-6010. The program is also hiring and looking for volunteers. Apply for part-time assistants and seasonal camp leaders positions at jobs. hccfl.edu. To learn more about volunteering, contact kidscollege@hccfl.edu.
March 2022
Osprey Observer
THE BAY AREA RENAISSANCE FESTIVAL RETURNS FOR ITS 44TH YEAR By Libby Hopkins The Bay Area Area RenaisRenaissance Fessance Festival tival returns for brings some of its 44th season the most unique from February entertainment, 19 to Sunday, shopping and April 3. The feseducational tival is open on opportunities,” weekends from Whipps said. 10 a.m.-6 p.m., “Each weekend rain or shine, features a difand is located ferent theme at Withlacoochwith specialee River Park in ized entertainDade City. “Join ers, vendors King Henry the and artisans 8th and the Vilwho help bring The Bay Area Renaissance Festival returns for its 44th lagers of Fittlethe theme to worth as they season from Saturday, February 19 to Sunday, April 3. life. This year’s The festival is open on weekends from 10 a.m.-6 p.m., invite one and all theme weekto the magical rain or shine, and is located at Withlacoochee River Park ends are Wine, in Dade City 16th-century EuRomance & ropean village featuring 15 Song, Highland Fling, Pirates & Pups, Barstages of exciting entertainment, in- barian Brew Fest, Shamrocks & Shenanicluding musicians, magicians, jugglers and gans, High Seas Adventure and Wonders more,” said the festival’s corporate compli- of the World.” ance and communications director, StephJousting is the one of the festival’s most anie Whipps. “More than 100 artisans will popular attractions, and it happens three fill the festival marketplace to display and times a day during the festival. The first sell their handcrafted goods for a truly match is at 1 p.m. and then the second is fabulous and endless shopping experience. at 3 p.m. The final match of the day is at 5 Our guests will interact with memorable p.m. The jousting matches are free to atcharacters and enjoy full-contact, live, ar- tend with your purchased festival ticket. mored jousting, seven theme weekends Adult tickets are $22.95, seniors are and fabulous food fit for a king or queen.” $18.95, children ages 5-12 are $14.95 and The first weekend of the 2022 Bay Area children ages 4 and under are free. Visit Renaissance Festival kicked off on Febru- the festival’s website at www.bayarearenary 19 and will run for seven weekends fest.com or call 1-800-601-4848 for more (Saturdays and Sundays) through April 3. information. Withlacoochee River Park is “A festival tradition for 44 years, the Bay located at 12838 Auton Rd. in Dade City.
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SUN ‘N FUN AEROSPACE EXPO IS ‘WHERE IT’S AT’
Staff Report
The SUN food options ‘n FUN Aeroand daily live space Expo entertainis once again ment across taking to the 2,000 acres skies over of fun. Lakeland The SUN from Tuesday ‘n FUN Flyto Sunday, In Style PiApril 5-10, lot Program c e l e b ra t i n g is new for the annual 2022 and comradery of will recogaviation. This nize and reyear’s expo ward pilots will be also that fly their c e l e b ra t i n g aircraft to the 75th anthe event, niversary of including the U. S. Air pilots flyForce, which ing right will be highseat, with lighted by a deals and d e m o n s t ra discounts tion from the throughout USAF Thunthe week. derbirds in The SUN ‘n FUN Aerospace Expo will take place in Lakeland For this from Tuesday to Sunday, April 5-10. their first year’s milia p p e a ra n c e tary air show since 2016. Marking component, it its 48th year, this will be a U.S. Air event is the primaForce trifecta. ry fundraiser for the The USAF Air Aerospace Center Demonstration for Excellence, which Squadron Thunenables the delivery derbirds will take of STEM-related and flight in their aerospace education premier multiprograms and scholrole fighter jet, arships engaging over the F-16 Fight50,000 local youth ing Falcon. The each year. aggressive USAF The SUN ‘n FUN A-10 Warthog, a Aerospace Expo is a six-day, aviation-nir- primary low-altitude, close air support vana event for 225,000 attendees plus aircraft, will be showing off its unique millions more via the power of social me- combat capabilities. If you prefer heavy dia. Touted as the largest annual conven- metal, the C-17 Globemaster III, aka ‘The tion in the State of Florida as well as the Moose,’ will be part of a multi-aircraft second largest general aviation event in static display. the world, attendees are encouraged to In addition to the daily high-adrenatake advantage of the training forums, line air shows, there are two-night shows hands-on workshops and aircraft demon- with lights and fireworks flying their roustration showcases. There’s plenty of en- tines to music and an artistic drone show. gaging activities for the public of all ages There are many ticket options available to enjoy. The activities are scheduled including Florida resident, senior and milfrom sunrise until after sunset and most itary. On-site camping is also a fun way are included with the ticket purchase. to never miss a minute of the excitement. In keeping with this year’ theme of The SUN ‘n FUN Aerospace Expo is be‘Where It’s At,’ the expo has over 500 ing held on the south side of the Lakeland exhibitors, many plane manufacturers, Linder International. For more informaa three-day career fair, a National STOL tion, including ticket prices, visit flysnf. Competition and more. There is lots of org.
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Osprey Observer
Volume 21, Issue 3
