Osprey Observer Riverview/Apollo Beach December 2023 by Osprey Observer

Riverview/Apollo Beach

December 2023

Volume 21, Issue 12

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If you have not heard worked closely with Dan the news, the forecast is since that time,” said Lacalling for a huge event Marre. “Dan is an amazat the end of December: ing meteorologist, trustthe retirement of Daniel ed colleague and friend, Noah from the National and the National WeathWeather Service (NWS) er Service has benefited office in Ruskin. Since greatly from Dan’s expe2002, Noah has been the rience at this office since warning coordination mehis arrival in 2002 as our teorologist and his NWS warning coordination career has origins back meteorologist.” to 1989 at the NWS ofLaMarre and Noah fice in Madison, Wisconhave shared many memsin. Noah has served as Riverview resident Daniel Noah ories over the years, is retiring after a long tenure of the liaison between the such as working together local forecast office and being the warning coordination on operational forecast meteorologist at the National the users of NWS prodshifts, presenting hurriWeather Service in Ruskin. ucts and services. He led cane and severe weather the effort to insure their safety information across evaluation, adjustment and West Central and Southimprovement. west Florida, attending the Although a longtime RivFlorida Governor’s Hurrierview resident, Noah and cane Conference and shelhis wife Janet moved here tering in place at the NWS years ago after enduring Tampa office in Ruskin. some harsh winters up “Hurricane Irma in 2017 north. and Hurricane Ian, 2022, “The temperature at my last station in are two memorable weather events when Bismarck, North Dakota was -46 degrees Dan and I worked together along with one morning,” said Noah. “My wife and the amazing team here at the NWS office I looked at each other and said, ‘We are to ensure public safety was the number moving to Florida and never living north one priority and people had information of Interstate 4.’” to help make decisions,” added LaMarre. Noah has already become nostalgic, Retirement won’t be just sitting around thinking back on his long history working for the active Noah and his wife of 35 with emergency managers, emergency years, Janet. responders and public/elected officials. “The first month will be the month of “They embody service above self, es- volunteering,” said Noah. “My wife and pecially during COVID and after hurri- I have a relationship with Metropolitan canes,” said Noah. “They plan ahead to Ministries in Tampa, and I will approach take care of their family, then leave to ECHO of Brandon.” protect the community and help surviHis tagline was “I am the only Noah in vors recover.” NOAA.” And although there are several Chiming in on the impact Noah has other people now at work with the first made in our local region, his supervisor, name of Noah, there will always only be Brian LaMarre, is already feeling the loss. one Daniel Noah. “I have been in this position at the For more information, visit www. NWS Tampa office since 2007 and have weather.gov/tampa.

WARREN HOPE DAWSON ELEMENTARY CELEBRATES BIRTHDAY WITH ITS NAMESAKE By Libby Hopkins Warren Hope At the beDawson recentginning of ly celebrated every school his 84th birthyear, Dawson day with the walks around students and to classrooms staff of Warren and greets the Hope Dawson students as Elementary they start the School in Rivyear. erview. The ele“He gives mentary school pep talks and opened in Aupumps them up Warren Hope Dawson recently celebrated his 84th birthgust of 2017 day with the students and staff of Warren Hope Dawson for success,” and was named Bates said. Elementary School, which was named after him. after Dawson, a “This year, he Tampa civil rights told administraattorney who tors he wanted was instrumental to come back to in the desegregacelebrate his big tion of the school day, the big 84. system in HillsHe wanted to borough County. walk around to “He turned 84 classrooms and years old and then celebrate wanted a celewith the staff afbration with the ter school.” kids and staff,” Bates and the said Adrienne rest of the staff Bates, a fourth at Warren Hope grade teacher at Dawson Elementhe school. “We tary were thrilled celebrated him they could be a by a clap-in when he walked into the part of Dawson’s birthday celebration. school and we sang ‘Happy Birthday.’ “During the day, students and staff The students were pumped during the went by and saw Mr. Dawson in the meclap-in. They were so excited to see the dia center,” Bates said. “The students man their school was named after. That made him cards, and some sang to him. is a core memory that they will never Mr. Dawson and his wife were both in forget. They sang loud in the courtyard tears. It was a great celebration. He truas they celebrated him. Mr. Dawson gave ly cares about his school and has always them a speech after they sang. He told been present when he can to show his them to keep working hard and doing gratefulness.” their best.” Dawson Elementary is located at Dawson visited classrooms to see the 12961 Boggy Creek Dr. in Riverview. children and staff. “After school, we had a staff party for him,” Bates said. “He told us in his speech at the staff celebration that he worked many countless hours on civil rights cases and often worked for free. He was passionate. We are thankful for the influences he has and our school being a keepsake of that time.” The premier destination for professional men’s cuts and grooming!

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Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

Volume 21, Issue 12

Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

December 2023

Page 3

CAMP DOROTHY THOMAS TURNS 75 BRIGHTENING THE HOLIDAY SEASON By Libby Hopkins FOR THE MILITARY COMMUNITY

Camp Dorowas acquired in thy Thomas in 1946 and the Riverview offers first overnight more than 220 guests were in acres of beauti1948 after the ful campgrounds, official opening,” and with the Rogowski said. longest zip line “The property is in West Central Camp Dorothy Thomas in Riverview celebrated its 75th 220 acres with Florida, this camp 55 buildings and anniversary. The one-day celebration welcomed the is a great place community and encouraged them to share their stories a sleeping caof Camp Dorothy Thomas serving to honor the past, to take your Girl pacity of 192.” Scout experience embrace the present and ignite the flames of inspiration Program amefor years to come. to new heights. nities include an In addition to archery area, a all the camp has pool, a volleyball to offer for a Girl court, a gaga Scout, the camp ball pit, two obcelebrated its servation decks, 75th anniversary a basketball this month. court, tetherball, “Girl Scout families [celebrated] 75 years campfire areas and an outdoor stage with of building girls’ outdoor skills at Girl Scouts seating. “There are more than two miles of of West Central Florida’s (GSWCF) iconic maintained hiking trails on the property,” Camp Dorothy Thomas at a free open camp Rogowski said. “The lodge has a seating event that was held on December 3,” said capacity of 208 and has a full-service comGSWCF’s chief marketing and communica- mercial kitchen. At the anniversary event, tions officer, Kristine Rogowski. “The cele- we unveiled the newly renovated retail area bratory event was open to families to enjoy located in the Ladybug building.” a tour of the camp, the viewing of a time Camp Dorothy Thomas has also earned a capsule, the grand opening of GSWCF’s ex- reputation as an animal sanctuary. panded Camp Dorothy Thomas Retail Shop, “Campers frequently view deer, gopher food trucks and refreshments, hayrides, tortoises, coyotes, bobcats and a large vamemorabilia and more.” Rogowski added riety of birds,” Rogowski said. “The camp that attendees also earned a free and exclu- annually serves more than 2,500 overnight sive Camp Dorothy Thomas 75th Anniversa- guests and nearly 3,000 day program parry patch. ticipants.” The one-day celebration welcomed the If you’d like to learn more about Camp community and encouraged them to share Dorothy Thomas, you can visit the Girl their stories of Camp Dorothy Thomas serv- Scouts’ website at www.gswcf.org/en/foring to honor the past, embrace the present girl-scouts/camp-and-outdoors/camp-propand ignite the flames of inspiration for years erties/camp-dorothy-thomas.html. Camp to come. Dorothy Thomas is located at 16119 Boyette “The Camp Dorothy Thomas property Rd. in Riverview.

Staff Report

(StatePoint) As military families in we enter the holthe holiday spiriday season and it wherever they Americans across are located. Other the country look seasonal programforward to spendming can include ing time with family, tree decorating, thousands of service arts and crafts, members deployed h o l i d ay - t h e m e d overseas — many to movie nights and the Middle East in (c) ipopba / iStock via Getty Images Plus ugly sweater comresponse to the Ispetitions. Through The holiday season can look very different for rael-Hamas war — service members and military families who must these activities, celebrate while separated from loved ones and will not have that service members home in all corners of the world. luxury and will be stationed far from spending the holidays far away from loved home can still make holiday memories. ones. 3. Connections to home: Staying connectHere is how USO Holidays programming ed to family during the holidays can be diffidelivers a piece of home to them, along with cult for service members stationed overseas, ideas for how you can get involved: particularly for those in or near regions in 1. Care packages: A care package might conflict, such as Eastern Europe or the Midseem small in light of the challenges of de- dle East. The USO Reading Program enables ployment, but for many service members, deployed service members to record themthey’re a reminder that they’re not forgot- selves reading a book to their child. Then, the ten by Americans back home. Aside from recording and a copy of the book are sent to standard USO Care Packages, which contain that service member’s family. snacks or toiletries, USO Holidays Care Pack4. Happy travels: As most people know, ages have festive treats and goodies, such holiday travel can be especially taxing. Thouas holiday candies, cozy socks and a warm sands of service members and trainees from beanie, that help bridge the gap between military installations across the country parhome and the front lines. This year, the USO ticipate in the Holiday Block Leave period, will deliver 50,000 holiday packages to over many traveling through some of the busiest 250 locations globally. airports in the United States to be with their 2. Holiday traditions: Giving up treasured families during the holidays. USO airport family traditions can be difficult. That’s why centers can alleviate some of that stress for USO centers and USO mobile teams host service members and trainees by providing holiday meals for service members and a place to relax and unwind before the next their families, complete with special treats leg of their journey, along with all the comranging from pumpkin and sweet pota- fort items they need. to pie to hot cocoa bars. Each December, Ffor ideas on how to reach out to the USO Holidays Cookie Week celebrates the military community to express your thanks time-honored tradition of baking and deco- during the holidays and throughout the year, rating cookies, putting service members and visit www.uso.org/campaign/holidays.

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Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

Volume 21, Issue 12

RIVERVIEW RESIDENT CROWNED MS. SOUTHSHORE CHARTER ACADEMY GULF COAST, COMPETING FOR MISS CELEBRATES SOCKTOBER BY UNITED STATES OF AMERICA CROWN COLLECTING 5,000 PAIRS By Kelly Wise Valdes

By Libby Hopkins

Riverview resident County Fair in Kentucky Hayley Franklin recentand I won; I was hooked,” ly won the title of Ms. said Franklin. “Truthfully, Gulf Coast 2024 and is I have lost more pagexcited to represent and eants than I have won. compete in in the Miss But those losses are what United States of Amerikeep me coming back, ca pageant in San Antowhat keeps pushing me to nio, Texas in July 2024. become a better human.” “Empower, Inspire and The Miss United States Uplift” is the motto for of America areas of comUnited States of Amerpetition include interview, ica Pageants. Through onstage question, evephilanthropy, hobbies, caning gown, state/region reers and platforms, each costume and swimsuit/ Hayley Franklin was recently contestant strives to lift crowned Ms. Gulf Coast and will be fitness. Franklin will be each other up and make a competing in the Miss United States training five days a week difference. for the physical fitness of America pageant in July 2024. “My platform is Big potion. Brothers Big Sisters “I will also be attendand I’ve had a ‘little’ ing every event that since she was 9 years I can to help get my old. She is now a Sename/title out there nior in high school,” said and gain awareness for Franklin. “We’ve been through a little bit of causes important to me,” said Franklin. everything together.” “I am excited about the interview segFranklin isn’t just another pretty face. She ment to show the judges truly who I am and was born and raised in Carrollton, Kentucky the state/region costume portion, where I and was the youngest female elected-offi- actually need readers’ help,” said Franklin. cial in the State. Franklin has also tried out “If anyone reading this has ideas for how for Survivor, American Ninja Warrior and I can properly showcase the Gulf Coast or The Voice. In addition, she’s an ambassador Florida as a whole, please reach out to me for Salvation Army and part of the Tampa and give me your ideas. It needs to be someBay Chamber of Commerce. Her day job thing unique and outlandish.” keeps her busy working as an account manIf you’d like to message Franklin or follow ager for Prolink Staffing, which helps com- along on her journey, you can find her on panies decrease pain points by finding the Instagram @hayleyfranklin. In addition, if right candidates. you would like for Franklin to be a guest at No stranger to pageants, Franklin has a community event or do a meet and greet, been competing since early childhood. reach out to her at https://linktr.ee/hayley“My mom put me in Little Miss Carroll franklin7.

Socktober is confident and an annual event resourceful to celebrated in Occreate a bettober every year. ter world for It is a nationwide themselves and movement to others. The collect socks for purpose of the people who are program is to currently experidesign educaencing homelesstional products Socktober is an annual event celebrated in October ness. Socks are every year. It is a nationwide movement to collect socks that change the most needed for people who are currently experiencing homelessness. youth’s lives by and least donat- Southshore Charter Academy recently held its Socktober helping them ed item to shel- event and collected 5,000 pairs of new socks for ECHO. become happiters. The holiday invites kids and grown- er, healthier and more confident. ups to start sock drives to benefit their “We have a lot of students whose parlocal homeless shelters. Since 2011, socks ents are military-related, so this program have been donated by participants on all is a perfect fit with our school’s mission,” seven continents. Sams said. Southshore Charter Academy recently ECHO was thrilled with the donation of held its Socktober event to benefit ECHO. socks from Southshore Charter Academy. “Southshore Charter Academy’s An“Amy Sams, the principal of SouthShore chored for Life team organized a sock col- Charter Academy has been a loyal sponlection to support ECHO,” said Southshore sor of ECHO for a few years,” said ECHO’s Charter Academy’s principal, Amy Sams. development manager, Steven McKinnon. “The annual event has students in each “She and her team of teachers, parents and homeroom bring in new socks to donate. In students held a Socktober sock collection exchange, students have the opportunity to drive for us that resulted in them collectwear ‘silly socks’ with their school uniform. ing some 5,000 pairs of much-needed kids’ This year, the school exceeded their goal socks. We can’t thank Amy and all involved and collected 5,000 pairs of new socks. enough with helping our neighbors in need Community outreach is an important part with these creative fun drives. We want to of the school’s mission and vision as stu- celebrate with Amy and her students who dents and staff strive for success in all en- just keep striving to make our community deavors. The students also got to celebrate a better place to live.” their success with an ice cream party.” Southshore Charter Academy is locatThe school’s Anchored for Life program ed at 11667 Big Bend Rd. in Riverview. If is for children whose parents are in the you would like to help ECHO during the military. The mission of the program is to upcoming holiday season, you can visit its provide proven resources and strategies website at https://echofl.org/ for various to children so they can become resilient, opportunities.

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2023 FORD MAVERICK PICKUP IS A RENEGADE OF SORTS! By Nitish Rele Last year, ish LED headlights the then-newflanking a black ly launched Ford mesh grille with Maverick sold dark surround/ 74,370 units in gray bars, door the United States. and tailgate hanAnd in 2023, the dles — and yes, compact pickup, boxlike windows also offered in hyfor excellent outbrid, has already ward vision. Ten MAVERICK XLT (FWD, 4X2) surpassed that figure and tie-down hooks in the Tires: P225/60R18 could well approach close to 4.5-foot-long bed can be Wheelbase: 121.1 inches Length: 199.7 inches 100,000 sales. useful. The 8-inch touch Width: 72.6 inches Of course, this should infotainment screen sits Height: 68.7 inches come as no surprise since atop the dashboard with Weight: 3,674 pounds most vehicles (pickups for simple knobs, cleverly Fuel capacity: 13.8 gallons sure) on the road cannot separated from temp City: 42 mpg beat the Maverick in value, controls by AC vents. Highway: 33 mpg price and fuel economy. The A huge bin under the Base price: $24,170 first full-hybrid compact flip-up rear bench is a Website: www.ford.com pickup in the United States wise use of space. Other starts around $23K, seats five comfortably standard amenities include single-way AC, in a spacious cabin and, best of all, touts 42 manual tilt/telescopic steering wheel, sixmpg in city. The only problem? Well, Ford way manual driver and four-way front-pascannot produce enough Mavericks since senger cloth seats, cruise control, Apple the demand, understandably so, is relent- CarPlay, Android Auto and a rotary dial. less. Standard safety features include dual The hybrid version is equipped with a front and side airbags, side curtain airbag, 2.5-liter Atkinson-cycle four-cylinder en- driver knee airbag, electronic stability and gine that puts out 162 horsepower at AdvanceTrac controls, regenerative brak5,600 rpm and 155 pounds-feet of torque ing, tire pressure monitoring system and at 4,000 rpm. Add a 94-kW electric mo- daytime running lights. Opt for the Co-Pilot tor to the mix for a boost in hp by 29. The 360 package, which will fetch you pre-colimpressive pickup is coupled with an im- lision assist with auto emergency brakes, a maculate electronic continuously variable blind-spot monitor with cross-traffic alert, transmission. An independent MacPherson lane keep assist, a rearview camera and strut front and a twist-beam rear suspen- auto high-beam headlamps. sion isolates occupants from road noise and Slotted under the Ranger, the Maverick rough bumps. The electric power steering is amazing value for the money. With gas is razor sharp with a consistent on-center prices still hovering over $3, it will lighten feel. You can effectively go well over 500 the burden on your wallet. And for a hybrid, miles in the Maverick, which offers normal, the truck moves quickly and quietly down eco, sport, slippery and tow/haul modes. the road with excellent ride and adequate Its tow capacity is good at 2,000 miles handling. with a standard payload of 1,500 pounds, So, the next time you are at the Ford affording 37 bags of 40-pound mulch. dealership and happen to come across this Boxy appears to be the theme with squar- renegade, snap it ASAP.

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Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

BOARD APPOINTS VAN AYRES AS SUPERINTENDENT OF COUNTY SCHOOLS

Staff Report

In a unanimous vote, the school board appointed Van Ayres as Hillsborough County Public Schools superintendent. Ayres’ contract is for a fouryear period, providing stability and clarity for the district’s leadership into the future. Ayres’ priorities for the school district include early childhood and literacy, graduation rates, strong organizational culture and fiscal and operational responsibility. Since taking over the helm as interim superintendent just four months ago, Ayres has focused on creating a supportive organizational culture. He also oversaw the successful opening of the 2023-24 school year with great enthusiasm and excitement from staff, students, parents and community partners. In addition, Ayres championed efforts to negotiate salary increases and employee contracts much sooner than in years past for teachers, education support professionals, administrators and all support staff in the areas of transportation, school security, student nutrition, maintenance and custodial services. He coordinated the opening of 10 schools as storm shelters with Hillsborough County Emergency Management officials to help community members evacuate from the potential impact of Hurricane Idalia. Upon his appointment as interim superintendent, Ayres selected the most culturally diverse executive team in district history — individuals who have a track record for student succes.. “I am honored to be named superintendent of Hillsborough County Public Schools. I look back fondly on my days in West Tampa as a Little League baseball player;

Expires 12/31/2023

up through my time at Jefferson High School, both as a student and the principal; and now as the leader of this great school district. Today’s appointment is not just about me; it is about the 24,000 employees in this district who come to work every day with one goal in mind — to give our students every educational opportunity to succeed in school and ultimately in life,” said Ayres. Ayres was born and raised in Tampa. He graduated from Jefferson High School in 1992. After receiving his bachelor’s degree in chemistry from the University of Tampa, he began teaching science at Blake High School in 1997. In 2003, Ayres was selected to become assistant principal for student affairs and later assistant principal of curriculum at Blake High School. In 2012, Ayres returned to his alma mater and was appointed principal at Jefferson High School. Three years later, he was promoted to deputy superintendent where he spearheaded the work to improve the district’s graduation rate — which increased 12.2 points over a five-year period. Ayres credits his parents for his love of education. His father and mother were both teachers in Hillsborough County Public Schools. His father, Van, taught at Leto High School for 33 years. His mother, Nuri Ayres, spent 35 years in Hillsborough County Public Schools as a math teacher at Webb Middle School and Jefferson High School and then a principal at both King and Sickles high schools. Ayres’ two children both graduated from Hillsborough County Public Schools, from Blake and Robinson high schools.

Volume 21, Issue 12

COME SEE THE ACTORS OF THE MISSING PIECE THEATRE COMPANY AS THEY BRING A HOLIDAY CLASSIC TO LIFE ONSTAGE By Kathy L. Collins The Missing Piece iconic TV special Theatre Company, to the stage. The a terrific all-volPeanuts gang will unteer community be on full display theater organizafor our younger aution, will be perdience members as forming the stage well as those young version of A Charlie at heart.” Brown Christmas. Bucko added, All of the perfor“We are all looking mances will be held forward to being at the Gem Theater a part of the wonlocated in Mulberry. derful slate of holA Charlie Brown iday celebration in Christmas is a Mulberry.” 30-minute stage Bucko further adaptation of the said, “In addition classic animated to the show, each TV special featurperformance will ing Charlie Brown, feature a commuSnoopy, Linus and nity choir to help the gang discover- The Missing Piece Theatre Company will perform get you into the ing the true mean- a 30-minute stage adaptation of the classic an- holiday spirit.” ing of Christmas. imated TV special A Charlie Brown Christmas The Missing Piece this December. You will not want to miss it. The show will be Theatre Compaperformed on Friday, December 15 and ny was just nominated for 14 Broadway Saturday, December 16 at 7:30 p.m. A World Tampa/St. Petersburg Awards. Sunday matinee will take place on Decem- Bucko said, “We are so thankful to the ber 17 at 2 p.m. amazing artists who have worked with us Tickets are $15 and can be purchased on and off stage this year, as well as our online by visiting www.themissingpiecet- wonderful audiences for their support.” heatre.org. The Gem Theatre is located at Bucko added, “We will be officially re118 NW 1st Ave. in Mulberry. leasing our shows for the year 2024 soon. A Charlie Brown Christmas Special is di- We will have four great shows to delight rected by April Golombek, artistic director people of all ages.” for The Missing Piece Theatre, and John The mission of The Missing Piece TheDavid Partain, a new director. The 11 ac- atre Company is to create immersive arts tors all come from Riverview, Lithia, Bran- experiences to stimulate curiosity and don, Plant City, Valrico and Lakeland. challenge audiences to join us in telling Steve Bucko, executive director of The the next story. Missing Piece Theatre Company, said, “The For more information, please visit www. cast is having a great time bringing this themissingpiecetheatre.org.

December 2023

Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

OVER 4,000 PARTICIPANTS SHOWED FOR THE 2023 YMCA TURKEY GOBBLE

Staff Report

More than donations 4,000 particthis year, ipants came more than together on doubling November 23, last year’s Thanksgiving fundraising morning, to run amount,” and walk the said Kita. ninth annual “We had Turkey Gobmany of ble road race, our LIVESwhich was the T RO N G The annual YMCA Turkey Gobble supports LIVESTRONG, a largest one to participants free program for those living beyond and through cancer. date, raising attend and over $110,000. The event graduate at the plaza bewas held by AMALIE fore the event and then Arena and presented by use the strength they AdventHealth. The race gained during their prosupported LIVESTRONG, gram to complete the a free health program race. Watching one of for those living beyond our graduates who has and through cancer. More a walker cross the finish than 150 volunteers were line with her coach cheeron hand to ensure the ing on her every step was event ran seamlessly. incredible. This is what With almost 260 teams in attendance, this race paves the way to make happen: many participants showed up in fun cos- people setting and achieving goals and tumes and turkey hats. The 5K and 1-mile supporting others to do the same.” fun run saw racers and walkers down Save the date for the 10th annual Turkey Channelside Drive at 7 a.m. The event also Gobble road race next year: November 28, saw graduates from the LIVESTRONG pro- 2024, supporting the LIVESTRONG program receive certificates. Dawn Kita, race gram. lead and its operations director of commuThe Tampa Metropolitan Area YMCA is nity health, was delighted with the turnout. a cause-driven, four-star charity that has “The 2023 Tampa YMCA Turkey Gobble been strengthening Hillsborough and East was our most impactful Turkey Gobble to Pasco communities for over 130 years date because of the combined efforts of through youth development, healthy living our sponsors, YMCA staff and the incred- and social responsibility. The Tampa Y has ible volunteers who came out the week of long-standing relationships and physical Thanksgiving to give back. Thank you all,” presence not just to promise but also to Kita said. deliver lasting personal and social change. “We focused on the fundraising compoVisit www.tampaymca.org for more nent and our racers raised over $22,000 in information.

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FIVE THINGS WE LEARNED ABOUT ALZHEIMER’S DISEASE IN 2023 Staff Report (StatePoint) 2023 was a landmark year for Alzheimer’s disease research, including advancements in treatment, risk factors and diagnosis. Here are five significant discoveries made this year: • There are three new approved treatments for Alzheimer’s, with a fourth on the way. • In July, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) granted traditional approval for Leqembi for mild cognitive impairment due to Alzheimer’s and mild Alzheimer’s dementia. This treatment slows cognitive decline and can help people with early Alzheimer’s maintain their independence. • In June 2021, the FDA granted accelerated approval to Aduhelm for the same purpose. At the Alzheimer’s Association International Conference (AAIC) in July, Lilly reported positive results for a third similar treatment: donanemab. The company expects FDA action in early 2024. • In May, the FDA approved the first treatment for agitation in people with Alzheimer’s: brexpiprazole. Hearing aids could slow cognitive decline for at-risk older adults. In the largest clinical trial to investigate whether a hearing loss treatment can reduce risk of cognitive decline, researchers found that older adults with hearing loss cut their cognitive decline in half by using hearing aids for three years. The intervention included hearing aids, a hearing ‘toolkit’ and ongoing instruction and counseling. Though the positive results were in a subgroup of the total study population, they are encouraging and merit further investigation. Blood tests for Alzheimer’s are coming soon. Blood tests show promise for improving how Alzheimer’s is diagnosed. Advancements reported for the first time at AAIC 2023 demonstrate the simplicity and value to doctors of blood-based markers for Alzheimer’s. Blood tests are already being implemented in Alzheimer’s drug trials. And they are incorporated into proposed new diagnostic criteria for the disease. Blood tests — once verified and approved by the FDA — would offer a noninvasive and

cost-effective option for identifying the disease. First-ever U.S. county-level Alzheimer ’s prevalence estimates. T h e first-ever county-level estimates of the prevalence of Alzheimer’s dementia — in all 3,142 U.S. counties — were reported at AAIC 2023. For counties with a population of more than 10,000 people ages 65 and older, the highest Alzheimer’s prevalence rates are in: • Miami-Dade County (16.6 percent). • Baltimore City, Maryland (16.6 percent). • Bronx County, New York (16.6 percent). • Prince George’s County, Maryland (16.1 percent). • Hinds County, Mississippi (15.5 percent). Certain characteristics of these counties may explain the higher prevalence, including older age and a higher percentage of Black and Hispanic residents, which are communities disproportionately impacted by Alzheimer’s disease. According to the Alzheimer’s Association, these statistics can help officials determine the burden on the health care system and pinpoint areas for culturally sensitive caregiver training. Chronic constipation is associated with poor cognitive function. Approximately 16 percent of the world’s population struggles with constipation. This year, researchers reported that less frequent bowel movements were associated with significantly worse cognitive function. People in the study with bowel movements every three days or more had worse memory and thinking equal to three years of cognitive aging. These results stress the importance of clinicians discussing gut health with their older patients. To learn more about Alzheimer’s and dementia research, plus available care and support — and to join the cause or make a donation — visit the Alzheimer’s Association at www.alz.org. While there is still much to learn about Alzheimer’s, 2023 was a year of discovery, giving researchers and families impacted by the disease hope for the year ahead.

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Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

ROTARY SPOTLIGHT: ACTIVITIES, MEETINGS & MORE

Staff Report

Brandon The Rotary Club of Brandon celebrated Veterans Day with a special salute to the club’s eight military veterans. It honored each of them by showing a slideshow with pictures of their early military careers. The members had a lot of fun trying to guess which picture belonged to which veteran. Some of the pictures were over 60 years old, so it was indeed challenging. Each veteran was then presented with a special Rotary Armed Forces Veteran Lapel Pin and was given a standing ovation in appreciation for their service to our country. The Rotary Club of Brandon is thankful for all who have served and is happy to be able to honor and celebrate its veterans. The Rotary Club of Brandon is collecting new stuffed teddy bears for the Rough Riders to distribute to Bay-area children who are in the hospital. Collection boxes are located at the Rivard-Simmons Rotary Event Center, Reed & Reed, Integrity First Title, the HCA Florida Brandon Hospital gift shop and Kings Avenue Beef ’O’ Brady’s (stuffed bears only).

formation, visit its Facebook page or contact Chad Norgard at chad@ norgardinsgrp. com.

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Brandon Global Eco Interested in protecting the environment? Join Brandon Global Eco Rotary via Zoom on the second and fourth Mondays of each month at 6 p.m. For more information, contact Bruno Kazenas at bkazenas@comcast.net.

FishHawk-Riverview Join the Rotary Club of FishHawk-Riverview for its December guest speakers. On Monday, December 4, Rotarian Bryant Williams will share about the Waterset Oilers Youth Sports program, and on Monday, December 11, Tristan Mohagen, president and executive director of El Ayudante Mission, will share about their ongoing work to transform the lives of impoverished families in Comayagua, Honduras. Both Waterset Oilers and El Ayudante are 2023-24 FishHawk-Riverview Rotary Club Foundation Award recipients. All are welcome to the club’s meetings on Mondays at 12 Noon at Gasparilla Pizzeria & Growlers, located at 1028 E. Bloomingdale Ave., or on Thursdays from 5-6:30 p.m. at The Shrimp Boat, located Interact Club of Tampa Bay at 1020 Bloomingdale Ave. To learn more, The Interact Club is sponsored by the visit its social media channels or www. Brandon ’86 Rotary Club. For more in- fishhawkriverviewrotary.org.

Volume 21, Issue 12

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December 2023

Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

TAMPA HILLSBOROUGH EXPRESSWAY AUTHORITY UNVEILS TWO NEW SLIP

RAMPS TO ENHANCE COMMUTER EXPERIENCE Staff Report The Tampa Hillsborough Ex p re s sway Authority (THEA) is proud to announce the opening of two new slip ramps along the reversible express lanes (REL), marking a significant milestone in the ongoing efforts to enhance the transportation experience for Tampa Bay commuters. Slip ramps are additional access points/ internal ramps within the expressway; they are the on-ramps and off-ramps from the Selmon Expressway to the REL. The new slip ramps allow westbound drivers to enter the REL near I-75 (avoiding congestion at Faulkenburg Road and U.S. 301) and then exit the REL near IKEA and continue on the local lanes of the Selmon Expressway to destinations further west. This will reduce morning congestion on the westbound Selmon Expressway near I-75, avoid congestion near the I-4 Connector and reduce backup at the Twiggs Street and REL intersection. “We are dedicated to improving the daily commute for our community,” said Greg Slater, THEA executive director and CEO. “These new slip ramps are a testament to our ongoing efforts to optimize traffic management and ensure that the Tampa Bay region thrives.” The new slip ramps are part of THEA’s commitment to reinvesting toll revenue into the community, facilitating smoother traffic flow and a more efficient commute for Tampa Bay residents. Slip Ramp Benefits: 1. Seamless Transition: The new slip

ramps are strategically positioned along the REL, allowing drivers to make a seamless transition from the express lanes to the local lanes. 2. Continuous Journey: REL drivers can now continue their journey while enjoying an uninterrupted drive all the way to Gandy Bridge without unnecessary exits and reentries. 3. Reduced Congestion: By eliminating the need to exit at Twiggs Street in downtown Tampa, these slip ramps contribute to reducing cut-through traffic and congestion on city streets. “Time and time again our community leaders talk about our transportation challenges in the region and the potential for these challenges to negatively affect our growth and safety. All of us at THEA are proud to deliver a solution that addresses one of those challenges with congestion relief while addressing safety by reducing cutthrough traffic on neighborhood streets,” said THEA Board Chair Vince Cassidy. About THEA THEA is an award-winning and dynamic transportation agency that owns, manages and operates the Selmon Expressway, Meridian Avenue, Brandon Parkway and the Selmon Greenway. THEA processes 58 million toll transactions and serves almost 2 million customers annually, with an investment plan to deliver over $1.2 Billion in capital improvements to the community over the next 10 years. Visi www.facebook.com/ tampahillsboroughexpresswayauthority/.

Page 9

TAMPA BECOMES A WINTER WONDERLAND, COMPLETE WITH ICE SKATING, WINTER VILLAGE, SILENT DISCO & MORE

By Kathy L. Collins

Celebrate the park where riders holiday season this can enjoy the sights, year by visiting the lights and sounds of Winter Village and the Winter Village. its outdoor ice-skatBack this year is ing rink. It is a great the popular Winholiday activity for ter Village Express. the whole family. The family-friendly The Winter Village excursion takes you is in Curtis Hixon A visit to the Winter Village, located along the from Whiting StaWaterfront Park, lo- beautiful Tampa Riverwalk at the Curtis Hixon tion in downtown to Waterfront Park, will surely get you into the cated at 600 N. AshYbor City and back holiday spirit. You can enjoy holidays sights ley Dr. in downtown on the TECO Line and sounds, ice skating, Silent Disco Fridays Tampa. The Winter Streetcar. The oneand a 360-degree light show this year Village is open now hour trip features a through January 1, holiday sing-along, 2024. holiday trivia, milk Located along and cookies and addthe Tampa Rivered surprises along walk, Curtis Hixon the way. Waterfront Park is Also back this transformed each year is curling, year with the sights, which is available sounds and activiWednesday through ties of the holidays, Sunday on a firstwhich is great for come, first-serve children and adults alike. basis. Equipment will be Each year, a giant available in exchange for ice-skating rink is erected ID. Play is limited to 45 on the perimeter of the minutes. park. You must purchase There are several new and reserve tickets for ice and exciting additions to skating in advance. Tickets the Winter Village this are $17; the cost includes year. Silent Disco will be skate rentals. All hours are subject to offered every Friday from 7-9 p.m. Headweather and rink conditions. phones are available on a first-come, In addition to the 5,000-square-foot first-serve basis. Also, you can experience ice-skating rink, the Winter Village fea- a 360-degree light show powered by tures random Santa sightings, the Curtis TECO. The shows will take place nightly Hixon Choo Choo, shopping and snack and at 7, 8, 9 and 10 p.m. beverage options. The Curtis Hixon Choo For more information, please visit Choo offers a five-minute ride through the https://wintervillagetampa.com/.

Page 10

Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

Volume 21, Issue 12

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Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

December 2023

BIKES FOR CHRIST

STRUGGLING TO KEEP UP WITH THE DEMAND IN MULTIPLE WAYS

Page 11

KINGS AVENUE BAPTIST CONTINUES WALK THRU BETHLEHEM TRADITION

Staff Report Many individuals have At this time, Bikes For suffered this past year, Christ is asking the public finding themselves in sitfor donations of good, used uations they never could bicycles in ‘adult’ sizes. have imagined. Loss of a Simmons said 85 percent job, loss of affordable livof its partner organizaing — times are hard for tions’ orders are for men’s many right now. But a bibicycles, which are always cycle can be life-changing the most needed. Bikes do in many ways, so Bikes not have to be perfect but For Christ needs your help should be as close to ridethis Christmas season to able condition as possible continue to help those less Bikes For Christ was contacted by so repairs can be done McDonald Elementary School in quicker and the bikes can fortunate. Bikes For Christ current- Seffner about a mother and her be in the hands and feet son who recently came from Cuba. ly partners with over 100 of those who need them She had no transportation and organizations in Tampa sooner. The other issue was surprised with sheer joy on Bay by supplying bicycles her face as she was presented with hampering productivity is as transportation to the the lack of a much larger a bike at her home. clients with whom these agencies work. Its facility. main focus is veterans trying to overcome “We have been working out of a 12x30 hardships, underprivileged children and any- metal building for the past five years and one in need and trying to climb out of the outgrew it four years ago,” Simmons stated. grips of poverty or the situation they are Bikes For Christ has plans for a new facilin. Along with every bike it gives out, it also ity that will be almost 10 times as large but provides a Gospel of John, as it wants peo- is waiting on the funding to do so. ple to know that Christ cares for and loves Just this year alone, Bikes For Christ has them. received several accolades, including the folFounder Pat Simmons stated, “Christmas lowing: is always the time of year when we reach • Community Service Award — Plant City out to the community for that extra bit of Chamber of Commerce. help we need. Plus, we always try to do • Honored as one of only five nonprofits in something special as well. The past three the region for their work with children and years, we have had the opportunity to send families by Casey DeSantis and presented bicycles to children in Africa by partnering with a $10,000 check from the Hope Florwith The Tampa Bay Area Liberian Commu- ida Fund. nity Association, and we have close to 25 • Nonprofit of the Year — The Community more on their way there this year. However, Roundtable of Brandon. the need continues to be great here at home For more information or to make monein our own community, so we are reaching tary or bicycle donations, visit www.bikeout to ask for more assistance.” s4christ.com.

By Kelly Wise Valdes Kings Avenue Baptist ing taken back to the time Church welcomes the comof Jesus and getting to be munity to experience the a part of the story — gettrue meaning of Christmas ting to know what it was at its 37th annual Walk like to grow up back then Thru Bethlehem (WTB) and to see what all Jesus event. The awe-inspiring went through for us.” production brings the city As you can imagine, a of Bethlehem alive during production of this size and this free event that has on multiple days requires The community is invited to register brought this Christmas many hands. Kings Avenue to attend Kings Avenue Baptist tradition to the community Church’s 37th annual Walk Thru Baptist Church is grateful since 1986. Bethlehem event. New director Aus- for the over 350 volunThis family-friendly, im- tin Brown was baby Jesus during teers from various churchthe production 26 years ago (as mersive holiday experience es and organizations that pictured in the manger). transports guests back to help make this event a Bethlehem during the time of Jesus’ birth. success every year. With more than 20,000 Visitors will feel the sense of time travel square feet of this recreated holy city, volfrom the realism of the scenery, authenti- unteers and donations are always welcome. cally dressed townspeople, Roman guards, WTB is always in search of more volunteers. Temple scribes, inn keepers, shepherds and The Durant High School JROTC and Amerlive animals. During the 45-minute guided ican Heritage Girls have been a huge help tour, guests will be moved by the sights, with setting up, acting and cleaning up afsounds and smells of ancient Bethlehem. ter the event. Volunteers come from across The tour concludes at the Holy Manger with Florida as well as other states to help share Mary, Joseph and baby Jesus. the story of the birth of Jesus. Nicole Johnson is a guide director for Last year, more than 3,500 visitors atWTB and is excited to volunteer again. She tended WTB, and the reservation system loves being a part of giving families a mem- helped to streamline the tours. Reservaorable event that makes them want to keep tions can be made by visiting https://walkcoming back each year. thrubethlehem.com/. Walk-up spots are “People come to you wanting to hear available on Friday and Saturday only. about Jesus,” said Johnson. “It’s a generaWalk Thru Bethlehem takes place on Fritional event.” day, December 8 from 6:30-9:30 p.m.; SatWTB director Austin Brown has a partic- urday, December 9 from 4-9:30 p.m.; and ular fondness for WTB. Sunday, December 10 from 4-9:30 p.m. For “I grew up being a part of this event, as more information, call 813-684-1484. There I played baby Jesus 26 years ago,” said will be live entertainment this year on Friday Brown. “So, it’s always been an important and Saturday night. Kings Avenue Baptist tradition to me and my family. I love seeing Church is located at 2602 S Kings Ave. in all the people come through every year, be- Brandon.

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Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

Volume 21, Issue 12

TOAST OF TAMPA AND HERALDS OF MUSIC SHOWCASE AND FAOPA’S HARMONY CELEBRATE CHRISTMAS AT HOLIDAY OFFERINGS GIVE THE GIFT UNITED METHODIST OF SUN CITY CENTER OF MUSIC TO THE COMMUNITY Staff Report

Celebrate the music of Christmas with the Toast of Tampa and Heralds of Harmony Barbershop Chorus at the United Methodist Church of Sun City Center on Sunday, December 17.

The United Methodist Church of Sun City Center invites you on Sunday, December 17 at 3 p.m. to hear voices raised in harmony to celebrate Christmas in the barbershop harmony style with the beautiful sounds of the Toast of Tampa Show Chorus and the Heralds of Harmony Barbershop Chorus. Under the direction of Tony DeRosa, both choruses will help get you in the holiday spirit as they sing beautiful songs of Christmas. DeRosa is a 44-year member of the Barbershop Harmony Society. He shares the record for most quartet gold medals at four and still holds the record for being the youngest to win the quartet championship. In addition to performing, DeRosa directed the Heralds of Harmony from 1994-2002 and began again in 2012. In 2007, he began directing the Toast of Tampa Show Chorus. The Toast of Tampa Show Chorus is an award-winning barbershop a cappella ensemble of women who perform engaging harmonies in exciting styles. Founded in 1987, Toast of Tampa has performed for audiences around the US and abroad. Consistently placing in the top 10 of the Sweet Adelines International chorus competitions, Toast of Tampa won its first championship in 1993 and is the 2023 fifth-place international medalist chorus. Lasting

friendships, shared joy and the love of singing excellence are its members’ common bonds. The Tampa Bay Heralds of Harmony Chorus has been entertaining audiences for over 78 years. The Tampa chapter is part of the Barbershop Harmony Society and consists of more than 60 men who share in the enjoyment of singing. In the last 26 years, the Heralds have achieved national acclaim, winning district contests and placing near the top in international competitions. In 2023, the chorus won its first-ever international chorus medal, finishing third in the world, with its highest score ever. You won’t want to miss this concert, which has become a Florida barbershop tradition. Tickets are available at the Pages of Life Bookstore (Sunday through Thursday, 9 a.m.-12:30 p.m.) at the church’s office (Monday through Thursday, 8:30 a.m.-4 p.m., and Sunday, 8:30 a.m.-12 Noon) and on the church’s website (www.sccumc. com) under the “EVENTS” tab. For additional information about this and other concerts and recitals at the United Methodist Church of Sun City Center, please contact Larry Hirchak, concert series coordinator, at 646-831-4008.

By Lily Belcher Music Showactivities while case is hosting parents get the its annual holiday night off. programs and “With it being Parent’s Night Santa’s WorkOut ahead of the shop, we normalholidays. ly pick out some This year’s gifts that the shows by the kids get to make Florida Academy themselves and of the Performwe package them Photo courtesy of Paul Storm Photography. ing Arts (FAOup, wrap them up Music Showcase and the Florida Academy of the PA), located at Performing Arts host shows for students and adults and then they Music Showcase, get to give those of all ages. include The Music gifts to whomevMan from Friday to er they want to for Sunday, December Christmas,” San8-10 and 15-17. FAchez said. OPA’s Spotlight! program, which features Tickets will cost $30 for children not performers of all ages, will participate in currently enrolled in a FAOPA program, the performances. Matinee shows will be $25 for those who are enrolled and $15 hosted on Saturdays and Sundays in addi- for siblings. tion to evening performances. FAOPA’s Amplify student group will Each show will be unique with different sing at a number of Christmas events in performers rotating roles based on avail- the community to show off their skills and ability among the student and adult cast bring their Christmas spirit to areas outmembers. side of Music Showcase. “We actually double and triple-cast roles Music Showcase has offered instruso that way it gives a variety of different ments, accessories and printed music ages and people to have an opportunity to since it opened its doors in 1995. The be leads,” director Danielle Sanchez said. business hosts lessons, camps and perforTickets to see The Music Man are on mances for all ages. The partnership with sale for $15 for standard seating or $20 FAOPA allows Music Showcase to host for VIP seating. musical theater performances and classes The family-owned business will also for students and adults. host a Parent’s Night Out Polar Express To purchase tickets for this year’s Parand Santa’s Workshop on Friday, Decem- ent’s Night Out, visit https://faopa.org/ ber 1 from 5:30 p.m. until 10 p.m. Children parents-night-out/. ages 5-12 will have the opportunity to parTo purchase tickets for The Music Man, ticipate in crafts, games, music, a Christ- visit https://faopa.org/product-category/ mas pajama contest and more engaging purchase-tickets/.

December 2023

Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

Page 13

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Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

Volume 21, Issue 12

PLANT CITY ARTS COUNCIL HOSTS 36TH TAMPA BAY’S FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS ILLUMINATES SANTA’S AT HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS HOME TOUR By Kathy L. Collins ENCHANTING VILLAGE Staff Report The magic is back! ber 10 through Sunday, Tampa Bay’s Festival of December 17) and DenLights and Santa’s Vilnis Lee (Friday and Satlage returns to the urday, December 15-16), Hillsborough County providing a toe-tapping Fairgrounds, and it’s bigbackdrop to Santa’s Vilger and brighter than lage activities. ever. With an extended Making a grand en2-mile drive-through extrance this year are perience and the introdynamic dancers from duction of a convenient We Are Amplify! of the season pass, families can Florida Academy of Perimmerse themselves in forming Arts and Music their Hometown Holiday Showcase (WednesFestival from Thanks- Guests can bring their well-behaved, day, December 20) and giving Day through New leashed dogs and cats for a visit and Dancing for Donations photo op with Santa on Thursday, Year’s Eve. (Thursday, November December 14 for a $10 donation Enveloping guests 30 and Thursday, Deto the Hillsborough County Pet in more than 1 million cember 21). Kicking Resource Center. lights, Tampa Bay’s Fesoff December, Laura tival of Lights and SanJerkiewicz swings high ta’s Village brings back above the stage in her favorites such as the mesmerizing Aerial Holfearless Pirates of Tamiday Show (Friday to pa guarding the entry to Sunday, December 1-3). the 110 ft. drive-through The Hillsborough animated tunnel. A new County Fairgrounds section takes drivers on a dip ‘Under the continues its support of members of the Sea,’ sparkling with blue lights and popu- military, veterans and first responders lated with playful aquatic creatures. with $10 off each ticket with valid ID Santa’s Village is packed with tasty for Heroes Night on Thursday, December treats and activities, including holi- 7 from 6-9 p.m. Members of the military, day-themed rides, the bustling holiday veterans and first responders also receive market and the Hometown Hillsborough $5 off tickets for any night of the event Historical Village. Visits with Santa, San- with valid ID. ta’s Workshop with craft stations, Santa’s The Hillsborough County Fair 2023 Barnyard, camel rides, holiday movies and Harvest Queen Court hosts Paws & Claus live entertainment promise endless fun for Night on Thursday, December 14 from 6-9 the entire family. p.m. to benefit the Hillsborough County For the first time, live entertainment Pet Resource Center. Guests can bring will be presented every weekend of the their well-behaved, leashed dogs and cats festival. New to this year’s stage are musi- for a visit and photo op with Santa for a cal artists Jordan Denise Williams (Friday $10 donation. and Saturday, December 22-23), a fourSanta’s Village is open Thursday to Suntime ‘Best of the Bay’ winner for Best Pop day, November 23-26; Thursday, NovemAct and Best Dancer, and Big Time Juke- ber 30 to Sunday, December 3; Thursday box (Thursday, December 7 and 14 and to Sunday, December 7-10; and Thursday, Monday, December 18), a five-piece band December 14 to Monday, December 25. performing popular dance hits spanning All other dates are drive-through only. the generations. They join favorites Katie Visit https://hillsboroughcountyfair.com/ Lombardo (Friday and Saturday, Decem- tampa-bay-festival-of-lights/ for tickets, a ber 8-9), Aimee Carter (Sunday, Decem- calendar and event information.

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The Plant City tending the tour Arts Council will this year. present its 36th The mission annual At Home of the Plant City for the Holidays Arts Council is Home Tour on to bring arts to Sunday, Decemthe Plant City ber 10 from community, to 1-4:30 p.m. The promote educaAt Home for tion in the arts the Holidays and to develop Home Tour will artists and arts feature five programs. Members of the Plant City Arts Council are proud to festively decThe high present the 36th annual At Home for the Holidays orated homes. Home Tour on Sunday, December 10. Ticket holders school scholarget to tour several festively decorated homes. Four homes are ships are given conveniently located to seniors from Duin Plant City and one rant High School, Plant is in Dover. Tickets for City High School and the event are $30 per Strawberry Crest High person. School. Applications In addition to the can be obtained from tour, the Plant City the school’s guidance Arts Council will offer counselor in March. refreshments at the Awards are made at Plant City Photo Arthe end of the year aschives located at 106 sembly at each school. S. Evers St. in historic In addition to the downtown Plant City. scholarships, the Plant Refreshments are inCity Arts Council sponcluded in the cost of sors a variety of comyour ticket. munity events. These Maggie Carlisle, include the annual chair for the 2023 At Seward sculptures, Home for the Holidays banners on light poles Home Tour, said, “This in downtown Plant is the Arts Council of City, Empty Bowls, Plant City’s 36th anyouth development, nual tour. All proceeds field trips for underare used for the Arts privileged children and Council projects. The the Reflections Projprojects are focused ect at Plant City High especially for scholarSchool. ships to graduating seFor more informaniors who want to contion on the 36th antinue their education in nual At Home for the the arts from three of Holidays Home Tour our local high schools.” and to get tickets, please contact CarlLast year, approximately 250 people isle at mcarlisle@trinkle-law.com or call toured the homes on view. I went on the 813-763-1686. tour. Every home had its own personaliFor more about the Plant City Arts ty and was decorated in the most festive Council, please visit www.plantcityfashion. I would highly recommend at- arts.com.

December 2023

Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

Page 15

CHRISTMAS TOWN, SANTA FEST, HOLIDAY PARADE & MORE Staff Report

Busch Gardens Christmas Town

The holidays come to life at Busch Gardens Christmas Town, the park’s award-winning holiday event. Celebrate the year with holiday cheer and create merry memories for the whole family during this seasonal event which is included with park admission. Guests can enjoy holiday traditions with a twist, from millions of sparkling lights throughout the park to holiday shows and visits with Santa and Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer. Busch Gardens Christmas Town runs daily now through January 7, 2024. Visit its website, www.buschgardens.com, for more information.

Church Street Christmas

Come celebrate the spirit of Christmas and enjoy the sights and sounds of this magical season. All are invited to experience this free annual holiday event along Dade City’s historic Church Avenue, where carolers, choirs, dancers and musicians perform along luminary-lit sidewalks and brilliantly decorated homes. The street closes to vehicular traffic from Thursday through Saturday, December 21-23, 7-9 p.m. For more information, visit its website at www.churchstreetchristmas.org.

Christmas In The Wild At ZooTampa

past years as well as new marvels that are sure to amaze. The Victorian Christmas Stroll will be available at the Henry B. Plant Museum, located at 401 W. Kennedy Blvd. in Tampa, starting now through Sunday, December 31, 10 a.m.-8 p.m. daily. Its website, www.plantmuseum. com, has more information.

day party and through the land of sweets where she will meet friends from all over the world and the Sugar Plum Fairy. The dancers performing are of all ages and abilities, including those with disabilities. Dancing for a DifferTampa-area Lighted Holi- ence is located at 1076 E. Brandon Blvd., Ste. 109 in Brandon. Tickets can be purchased at day Boat Parades Tampa’s largest lighted boat pa- https://dancestudio-pro.com/tickets/d4d. rade will take place on the Saturday before Christmas, December Jingle Bell Bazaar In Ybor City Come and enjoy a free, fun, festive holiday 23, along the Hillsborough River in event in Tampa’s historic Ybor City at the downtown Tampa. The parade beannual Jingle Bell Bazaar. The Jingle Bell Bagins at the southern tip of Davis Iszaar is Ybor City’s largest family holiday festiland, travels through the convention val with live music bands, entertainment percenter basin and up to the Heights, where the formances, food trucks, face painting, balloon boats will turn around and head to Sparkman artists as well as holiday-themed shopping. Wharf. Public viewing locations include ArSanta will be there, and children can get free mature Works, Water Works Park and Chanphotographs with him. The event nel Drive. takes place on Sunday, December The annual Apollo 10 from 12-6 p.m. at CentenBeach Lighted Boat nial Park, located at 1800 E. Parade takes place on 8th Ave. in Tampa. Additional Saturday, December 9. information can be found at its It will leave the south website, www.jinglebellbazaar. channel at 6 p.m. and com. proceed toward Lands End Marina before winding around Lake S’mores & Stores Event Sunrise Basin, back out In Rivercrest Commuaround Bal Harbor, then up Flamingo Canal nity before returning and going around Dolphin The Rivercrest community in Riverview House at the end of Gran Kaymen Way and is hosting its annual S’mores & Stores finally going up the canal leading to Sympho- event on Sunday, December 10 from ny Isles. Come and meet the members of the 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Come and shop from a wide Tampa Sailing Squadron before the parade at variety of local vendors while enjoying fresh its clubhouse, located at 1250 Apollo Beach food from food trucks and holiday music. Two Blvd. in Apollo Beach. special surprise guests will also be making an

It’s the most wonderful time of the year at ZooTampa with the return of Christmas in the Wild, featuring one of Tampa Bay’s largest light displays, delectable holiday treats, amazing wildlife and new festive adventures. This year is bigger, better and brighter than ever with entertainment that the whole fam- Winter Wonder Wharf At Channelily can enjoy, including festive realms, holiside day shows and a Sparkman Wharf in the visit with Santa. Channelside District of TamChristmas in the pa will be celebrating with the Wild runs on seWinter Wonder Wharf, an exlective nights Notravaganza of lights, music and vember through decorations. This year will inDecember. Visit clude a 35-foot Christmas tree www.zootampa. and a colorful forest on the lawn with oporg for more information. portunities for photographs throughout the area. Holiday-themed performances will take place on Saturday, December 9 and 16. Visit A Victorian Christmas Stroll The Henry B. Plant Museum in Tampa cel- https://sparkmanwharf.com/ for additional ebrates the warmth and spirit of an old-fash- information. ioned holiday with its Victorian Christmas Stroll. Allowing visitors a glimpse into the Dancing For A Difference Permagic of Christmas past, this holiday expe- forms The Nutcracker rience is a wonderful way to celebrate all the Dancing for a Difference will be performseason has to offer with a variety of delighting The Nutcracker on Saturday, December ful themes and displays in each exhibit room. 16. Join Clara and her friends at her holiDecorations include visitor favorites from

County Fairgrounds is located at 215 Sydney Washer Rd. in Dover.

Christmas Lane Returns To Plant City

Christmas Lane is returning to Plant City. Over 2,000 volunteer hours have prepared this winter wonderland full of the magic of Christmas at every turn. With more than 1.5 million lights adorning over 200 Christmas trees ranging from 4-40 feet tall, the displays are sure to delight. Make sure that you visit and write your letters to Santa, as well as decorate ornaments and have your face painted. There is also live entertainment on select nights. Christmas Lane is open 6-10 p.m. from Friday, November 24 through Sunday, December 24 at the Strawberry Festival Fairgrounds at 303 Berryfest Place in Plant City. Additional information can be found on its website at https://christmaslane.com/.

Enchant At Tropicana Field

Let Enchant light up your holiday season. Bring your friends and family for a magical evening with over 4 million sparkling lights, its story-themed walk-through light maze, ice skating and so much more. General admission includes access to the complete event, including the maze, Santa, Village shops and games. Ice skating though is an additional price. Enchant will be at Tropicana Field at 1 Tropicana Dr. in St. Petersburg and runs from now through Sunday, December 31. For additional information and to purchase tickets, visit its website at https://enchantchristappearance; can you guess who? The event is mas.com/. being held at 11560 Ramble Creek Dr. in Riverview. Proceeds from the event go to West Paloma Glade Christmas Lights Florida Foster Care Services. And Music Show This year, Paloma Glade in FishHawk Ranch Tampa Bay Festival Of Lights has almost 50 homes joining its Christmas The Hillsborough County Fairgrounds is lights and music show. The thing that realpresenting its upgraded ly makes Paloma Glade’s holiday light spectacular display special is how you at Tampa Bay’s Festival can tune in with your car of Lights and Santa’s Vilradio and have the display lage, opened on Thankssynchronized to the mugiving Day on Thursday, sic. The display started on s ± November 23 and running Thanksgiving day at 7 p.m.. through Sunday, Decem- Ŭ ů ů Ŷ s Ų ŵ Ų Ÿ Ū ū Ų Ÿ ű ŷ Ť Ŭ ŵ 4 Ŧ Ų Ű and will continue nightly ber 31. This year’s event until New Year’s Eve. Teenfeatures a nearly 2-mile agers in the neighborhood drive-through of continuous light features, will also be collecting nonperishable food followed by a festive walking visit to Santa’s items for local charity Seeds of Hope, such Village. Enjoy a visit with Santa’s favorite as boxed potatoes, canned veggies, desserts, animals, camel rides, face painting, holiday pasta and mac and cheese, so please bring an movies and holiday treats. The Hillsborough item to add to the collection. ± ±

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Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

COUNTY COOKING OIL, FAT & GREASE COLLECTION STATIONS SAVE DRAINS

Staff Report

It’s the end of the the holidays. year, and the holiday There are steps to season is upon us. Famtake to properly colilies will come together lect the cooking oil to to celebrate and spend be recycled. Carefully time together. They’ll expour cooled cooking change gifts and share in oil into a large, sturdy delicious meals, includplastic or glass fooding fried turkeys. grade container with But once the festivities a lid. Do not use conare done, what do you do tainers that have held with the used cooking petroleum products, oil, fat or grease? such as motor oil. If Don’t pour the cooking the container is not full, oil, fat or grease down close the container and the drain, even if you store in a cool, safe loadd hot water or soap. cation. Don’t mix the oil Pouring these down with any other liquids or the drain can cause products. Once the cona serious problem for tainer is full, bring it to Hillsborough County has numerous home plumbing and convenient sites where used cooking oil a Hillsborough County Hillsborough County’s can be dropped off to be recycled. Visit Cooking Oil Recycling wastewater collection Effort (CORE) station or www.hcflgov.net/core for locations. system. Cooking oil, fat or grease that is to a household hazardous waste collecpoured down the drain gels and solidifies tion center. inside pipes, sewage lines and sewage lift Along with not pouring cooking oil, stations, constricting water flow. It can fat or grease down the drain, don’t flush back up home plumbing and cause equip- cooking oil or grease down the toilet, ment to malfunction, leading to sewage don’t put greasy foods down the garbage spills, overflows onto streets and foul disposal and don’t place used cooking oil odors in homes and neighborhoods. in the recycling cart. The used oil can be collected and Additional steps that residents can take brought to a number of county collection to avoid clogging the pipes: stations to be recycled into renewable • Scrape leftover food into the trash beresources and environmentally friendly fore washing pots, pans and dishes. alternatives used in various industries. • Use a fine-mesh strainer in the sink to There are 24 locations throughout the prevent debris from going down the drain. County, including libraries, several county • Clean out leftover foods from the sink parks and recreation centers, solid waste and put it in the trash. transfer stations and a public utility serTo learn more about Cooking Oil Recyvice center. Used cooking oil, fat and cling Effort, visit www.hcflgov.net/core, grease are collected all year long at these email gotgrease@hcflgov.net or call 813locations. The program is not solely for 272-5977, ext. 43515.

Volume 21, Issue 12

WE ARE HILLSBOROUGH STRONG By Superintendent Van Ayres I am grateful that last our district’s strategic plan. month the school board A high school diploma opens unanimously approved my so many doors for students appointment as Superintenin life. Our graduation rate dent of Hillsborough County has steadily increased over Public Schools. I apprecithe past six years, and I am ate their confidence, and I committed to not just mainlook forward to continuing taining that trend but also to work with the amazing increasing it. team of educators we have It is also my job to overhere in Hillsborough County. see the fiscal and operationMy heart is, and always al responsibilities of the has been, in Hillsborough district. Our budget is near County. This school district ly $4 billion, and we are the is my second home. I grew largest employer in Hills6 !YRE up in Tampa and graduated borough County. I hold our from Jefferson High School. It was there staff accountable for every dollar spent I discovered my love for learning and to make the best use of our budget. I am science. In fact, when I graduated from proud of the recent negotiations with our the University of teachers and staff Tampa, I became a and ensuring they chemistry teacher. receive their raisMy parents, who es as early in the were both educayear as possible. tors in our district, Lastly, you may instilled my love have heard our for education. district motto this Now, to my priyear, which is Hillorities for this dissborough Strong. I trict, and for your am a big believer children. My priorities run the spectrum in culture. Strong culture, good teamwork from early childhood learning and litera- and a happy workplace are very importcy to graduation rates. Ensuring students ant to me. We have outstanding princiare in front of a high-quality teacher at a pals and administrators in our schools very young age is so important to their who make sure culture among staff is a education. Learning their letters and pho- top priority. I appreciate them for keepnics will get them ready for kindergarten ing culture at the forefront of their deciand put them on a path where they will sion-making. have the skills they need to be proficient We are Hillsborough Strong in this disby third grade. After third grade is when trict. Everybody matters, and every day kids go from ‘learning to read’ to ‘reading matters. And that is how we are going to to learn.’ keep moving Hillsborough County Public Raising the graduation rate is also a Schools in the right direction as one of priority for my team and is a large part of the best school districts in this country.

“Learning To Read” to “Reading To Learn”

Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

December 2023

WATER LAWNS LESS IN COOLER MONTHS AND ONLY ON YOUR DESIGNATED DAYS AND HOURS

Staff Report

Hillsborough Coungion, but the prety Water Resources is cautionary alert was asking residents and caused by the rainfall property owners to be deficit exceeding 5 mindful of their lawn inches in a 12-month watering days and rolling average. hours, as well as their All properties in unWith a higher-than-average rainfall water usage, especial- deficit, Hillsborough County Water Re- incorporated Hillsborly outdoors. sources is reminding residents to follow ough County follow Currently, there’s a designated lawn watering days and to year-round watering monitor water usage. rainfall deficit impactdays and hours. It’s ing Hillsborough County. While there are important to know your lawn watering no changes to the watering rules at this days and hours to avoid getting a fine. time and there isn’t a water supply issue These restrictions apply to most water yet, knowing your watering days, hours sources, including private wells, ponds or and rules is important to save money and lakes used as alternate irrigation supplies. to help conserve the region’s limited wa- Go to www.hcflgov.net/waterrestrictions ter supply. for additional information. With a deficit of more than 8.3 inches in Watering days and hours in unincorpothe region’s rainfall as of September, res- rated Hillsborough County: idents can reduce their consumption and • Street addresses ending in 0, 1, 2 or 3 be a part of the water shortage solution. can water on Mondays and/or Thursdays. As of September, average annual water • Street addresses ending in 4, 5 or 6 supply demands in Hillsborough County can water on Tuesdays and/or Fridays. have increased by up to 6 million gallons • Street addresses ending in 7, 8 or 9 per day when compared to the same time can water on Wednesdays and/or Saturlast year. Some homes use up to 70 per- days. cent of their water to irrigate their lawns Common areas with or without street and landscapes. During the fall and winter addresses, locations with no address and months, lawns go semidormant, and it is locations with mixed addresses (such as recommended that they be watered only office complexes and shopping centers) once every 10-14 days from now until can water on Wednesdays and/or SaturMarch, as grass needs less water during days. cooler months. All watering must be done either beTampa Bay Water recently declared a tween 12 Midnight and 8 a.m. or between Stage 1 water shortage under its Water 6 p.m. and 12 Midnight, and only once on Shortage Mitigation Plan. The plan works your designated days. to prevent water supply shortages driven Learn more about watering rules for by prolonged, below-normal water con- reclaimed water, new sod, landscaping, ditions. Tampa Bay Water has sufficient car washing and more by visiting www. drinking water supplies to serve the re- hcflgov.net/water.

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Page 17

VETERAN RALPH ABENANTE, 95, STARTS EVERYDAY WITH PICKLEBALL IN THE PARK By Jane Owen Ralph Abenante will retiring as a chief wartell you over and over rant officer in 1975. He again that he has had a skirted death more than wonderful life. a few times in the milBorn in 1928, itary. He served in the Abenante learned the Korean War and Vietvalue of hard work earnam war. He was in the ly in life. His school days 2 percent of the Navy included a before-school selected to be an explojob peddling bread and sive ordnance disposal an after-school job as a (EOD) officer. With his clerk at a soda fountain. EOD division, he travAbenante enlisted in the eled all over the eastern Navy at 18. hemisphere detecting, “When I die tomorrow Ralph Abenante, explosive ord- disarming and disposing nance disposal officer, 1961. or the day after, I have of explosive threats. He no regrets whatsoevwas on the diving team er. At 95, I don’t have that salvaged artifacts a pain in my body, I’m from Modern Greece, a healthy, I can do evscrew steamship used erything I want to do. during the Civil War. I have a good family,” He was on the recovery Abenante said. team after the Ohio RivAt 95 years young, er Silver Bridge collapse. Abenante plays pickle- Ralph Abenante earned the UnitAbenante wrapped up ball every morning at ed States Secret Service Director’s his Navy career assigned Honor Award in 1973. Bloomingdale East Park as Secret Service for and then works out at President Richard Nixon. the Campo Family YMCA. He was awarded the UnitHis day begins with cofed States Secret Service fee and exercise, stretchDirector’s Honor Award, ing and lifting weights the highest award given at home for half an hour. to a Secret Service memHe’ll listen to the news, ber, for saving the lives of have breakfast and work 11 Secret Service memon a crossword puzzle bers who were trapped in before heading to the a crashed helicopter. courts. Abenante described “The thing is, if there himself as an adventurous is something that is why Ralph Abnante, age 95, plays type and said he has been pickleball at Bloomingdale I am why I am, it is bevery lucky. He strongly East Park daily. cause I exercise every sinbelieves that family and gle day. I have never ever stopped. I love relationships are important and being in it,” Abenante said. the present moment is the best way to Exercise has been part of Abenante’s live. entire life. He started playing tennis “If you live in the past, you will never when he was young and didn’t stop un- make it in the present,” Abenante said. til he was 90. He was champion in the “I am not the originator of that, but it over-40 division in the Navy. In his 70s, is very true. People have a tendency to he was the No. 2 ranked tennis player in say I wish it was this way or that way. Florida. If you live that way, you’re not going to Abenante served 30 years in the Navy, make it.”

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Volume 21, Issue 12

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Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

Alzheimer Walk, Grinchmas, Christmas Comedy & More... Compiled by Jenny Bennett jbennett@ospreyobserver.com

Hillsborough County School Board Elects Chair And Vice Chair

Hillsborough County School Board recently voted on a new chair and vice chair. Karen Perez was unanimously voted in as school board chair and Jessica Vaughn was unanimously voted in as vice chair. Perez was elected to the school board, representing countywide, in 2018 and reelected in 2022. She holds a master’s degree in social work and is a licensed clinical social worker. Vaughn was elected to the school board in 2020, representing District 3. She is a graduate of the University of South Florida, where she earned her degree in elementary education.

missioner Michael Owen as vice chair during its annual organizational meeting. After choosing leadership positions, members of the BOCC selected positions on the various boards, committees and councils on which they serve. A complete list was posted at www.hcflgov.net/bocc.

Freedom Plaza Raises Money For Alzheimer’s Association

Freedom Plaza, a vibrant Life Care community in Sun City Center, recently participated in the South Shore Walk to End Alzheimer’s, which raised an estimated total amount of $40,000 to support the Alzheimer’s Association. Of that amount, Freedom Plaza raised over $6,000. Connie Lesko, an employee of the Retired Officers’ Corporation at Freedom Plaza, helped organize the fundraiser. “The South Shore 2023 Walk to End Alzheimer’s was an incredibly fun and successful event thanks to our amazing team,” said Lesko. “Never have I felt more passion, determination and camaraderie than this year within this committee.” Freedom Plaza’s participation in the South Shore Walk to End Alzheimer’s not only raised vital funds but also brought awareness to the Alzheimer’s Association and highlighted the community’s ongoing contributions and efforts in the fight against Alzheimer’s disease.

Hillsborough County Board Of Commissioners Appoint Positions On Boards Grinchmas At Kid’s Community The Hillsborough County Board of College

County Commissioners (BOCC) selected Kid’s Community College South will Ken Hagan to remain as chair and Com- be enjoying Grinchmas on Saturday, December 16 at 10550 Johanna Ave. in Riverview. Join them to enjoy Grinchthemed crafts and games, snacks and a visit from the Grinch himself. The

Volume 21, Issue 12

Donations Down At Our Lady’s Pantry

Tom Bullaro, director of Our Lady’s Pantry, would like to thank the community for supporting it. “We will soon be starting our 25th year of service and could never have kept our doors open all these years without the power of community,” he said. Today, Our Lady’s Pantry is serving more families than ever, and Feeding Tampa Bay is also serving many more food pantries so there is less food left for them. If you can help with food donations, operating expenses (gasoline and truck maintenance) or volunteer your time at Our Lady’s Pantry, it would really appreciate it. Our Lady’s event will run from 1-3 p.m. To register, Pantry is located at 16650 U.S. 301 visit https://forms.gle/jygrjgqajtsla4vs5. S. in Wimauma. To learn more, visit its website at www.ourladyspantry.com.

Christmas Lights At The Masonic Comedy And Laughter Coming Park Who doesn’t like to drive about and To Beth Israel In Sun City Cenlook at Christmas lights? This year, the ter

Masonic Park and Youth Camp will host Beth Israel in Sun City Center is hostits light show until Sunday, December ing an afternoon of comedy and laugh31. Drive through thousands of lights set ter with Rabbi Bob to music, a snow machine ¤ ò·ªx* ß æ Œ̗ȁ Ł·ďĀp * ¤ß Alper. His act will QŒ¾Ŝ¾ĚűŜ and interactive displays. feature his favorite The park will also have a stories and include vendor’s village with local current events. The úĚ űó¾ artisans selling their items, event will be held úææ¾Ŝű ċúæóű ŜóĦƢ ŒĦƆĚ±Ô 2?*?¤%?æ ͝ ə Ϩ͝ ĀϿȬαϐĶȬȁϐĀʡϿΚαǺ 2Ͽα˥ ʴ ̤ͱ̉ ̲Ι ª̲̗ʳßȫΙʴΰʠŒǂ˰ȫ food trucks on Fridays and Ȝ͝қ 2̲̗Œϖʴ̲̗ on Sunday, DecemcΚʵϐòŒϗϐòϿ̘Ǻ 2Ͽα˥ ʴ ͞қͱ̉ c̲̲ȁ 2̲̗Œϖʴ̲̗ ¤̳̘Ǻ *˱̳αȬȁ Saturdays and visits from ber 24 at 2 p.m. at 2æxĳ? Āpæď Āp·ďò ª2ò ·c xgpĀò ò?Ā Ā· ¤ďòx*ǻ ĳȫ̗ȁ̲Ιΰ Œ̗ȁ c̲̲ȁ Santa on Friday, Saturday Beth Israel, locat̲̗ cΙʴȁŒѾΰ òª·Ķ ¤ *pxª? ư Œ̗ȁ òŒϖϾΙȁŒѾΰɪ xªĀ?æ *Āxĳ? 2xòß Łòɪ and Sunday nights. A $10 ed at 1115 E. Del ͝ɉқɴқ ďò Ϩқ͝ ò̲Ͼϖʠ ͵ Ͼΰϖ ΰ̲Ͼϖʠ ̲ɮ òϾ̗ *ʴϖѾ *ȫ̗ϖȫΙͷ ɉ͝ϨʳϋϨɼʳ͝ϹϹқ Ϗ ѭѭѭ;¤Œΰ̲̗ʴǙßŒΙˤc˰̲ΙʴȁŒ;Ǚ̲̈ donation or a nonperishable Webb Blvd. in Sun food donation is suggested, which will City Center. Tickets are $25 and are resall go to local charities. Opening hours ervation only. Make checks payable to are Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday Beth Israel and send to Beth Israel, The from dusk to 9 p.m. and Friday, Satur- Jewish Congregation of Sun City Cenday and Sunday from dusk to 10 p.m. The ter, P.O. Box 5203, Sun City Center, FL Masonic Park and Youth Camp is located 33571. A meet and greet reception with at 18050 U.S. 301 S. For more informa- wine, cheese and crackers is available tion, visit www.masonicparkflorida.com. starting at 1 p.m. for an additional $10.

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December 2023

Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

Page 21

STUDENTS ENGAGE WITH CODING ATTORNEY PUBLISHES HEARTWARMING LAW AND FORTNITE AT LOCAL YMCA MEMOIR, THE OTHER SIDE OF THE By Kathy L. Collins By Makenzie Atkins Noel

The North Brancoding class, the Jr. don Family YMCA Developer program, has recently added where students two new events to who have preexits calendar: coding isting knowledge programs and Fortabout coding or nite Fridays. These have taken the beinitiatives offer ginners class at the unique opportuniY are offered more ties for skill develadvanced lessons. opment and peer Kids are loving Fortnite Fridays and parents love The program ofgiving their children a safe place to play with engagement. fers three package their friends and meet new kids. The YMCA is exoptions: Monday/ cited to support the Thursday, Wednesunderstanding of coding day/Saturday or a twoconcepts at a young age. hour Saturday class. The coding program The sessions are $150 aims to equip children for YMCA members ages 6-17 with these and $210 for nonmemcrucial skills, providing bers. knowledge that sets While a YMCA memthem apart in a technolbership is not mandatoogy-driven world. ry for enrollment of the “In today’s society, we use technology for coding classes, members do get benefits everything, and for a child to say they know like discounts and access to the rest of the the concepts of coding at a young age is ex- YMCA’s amenities. traordinary,” said Maya Sisarran, associate The second new program, Fortnite Friprogram director. “They can use these skills days, offers a fun and competitive gaming they learned here and apply it to their de- experience for children ages 7-17. Fortnite cision-making of what they would like their Fridays are on the first and third Friday of career to be as well as having knowledge of each month from 6-8 p.m. and give kids something that a lot of people do not know the opportunity to engage in a safe and about.” regulated environment for gaming comThe coding program is facilitated by Es- petitions. Classes cost $20 per night, and ports Players and Coding Club, which has children have the chance to win Fortnite donated the technology to the YMCA for V-Bucks each night. the classes. Using popular software, stuThe North Brandon Family YMCA’s new dents get to be a part of an engaging cur- programs provide a unique avenue for riculum that utilizes games like Roblox and child development, combining education Minecraft. In the class, students will create and fun in an inclusive and supportive their own mini worlds similar to the games environment. For more information, visthey love to play. it www.tampaymca.org/programs/chilThe YMCA also offers an intermediate dren-teens/computer-coding.

Paul Reed is a BranWhen asked why don attorney who was Reed wrote the book, born and raised in he stated, “I always Brandon. He has lived wanted to. My plan an eventful and sucwas to retire one day, cessful life. He recently go to a quiet little cabin published a memoir, in the woods and write co-authored with Crysthe book. Given the tal Crawford, called The world as we know it, Other Side of the Law, retiring to the woods, now available on Amaso to speak, was probzon. ably never going to Reed’s book is an inhappen, so I decided to Local attorney Paul Reed has published teresting one. The Othwrite the book now.” a book called The Other Side of the Law, er Side of the Law is the As to his co-author, which is available on outlets such as crazy, true story of how Reed explained, “CrysAmazon. someone became one tal is a friend of mine of the most successful who has prior writing lawyers in Tampa. In the experience. We started book, you will find stories writing the book in early about Reed, including how 2022 and it was published he got a black eye, was and ready to go November tossed from a cab and got 2022. On Fridays at 1:30 a kiss from a stranger all p.m., Crystal and I would in one night. Per the book, talk via Zoom. I would tell what happens at Mardi her the stories in the book, Gras stays at Mardi Gras, she would take notes, ask unless you write a book me questions, and that is about it. how it went.” Another time, Reed got Reed added, “I have lived chased by cops through an here for 59 years. A lot of orange grove. The moral: cop cars do not the community knows me and can corrobodrive well in sand. Reed also lived in a trailer rate many of the stories. Even though I have park because as the book points out, it was been blessed by the Lord above, I am the safer than the murder apartment. same old kid in the book. Still down to earth, When asked if all of these things really so to speak.” happened to him, Reed said, “Yes. There are Reed is a partner in the Reed & Reed law pictures to prove it in the book.” According firm in Brandon with his son, Ryan, and to Reed, “The book is simply a tale of one daughter-in-law, Jacquelyn. Its main office boy growing up in a small town with a single is located at 101 E. Lumsden Rd. in Branmom, two brothers and making a success of don. Visit https://needreed.com/ to make himself but growing up like everyone else.” an appointment.

Page 22

Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

OUTSTANDING VOLUNTEERS HONORED AT THE TAMPA YMCA COMMUNITY IMPACT CELEBRATION

Staff Report

T h e in our comTa m p a munity. MetropolG r e g itan Area Dooley YMCA hon— YMCA ored outC a m p standing Cristina . volunteers Dooley has at the AnFaith Burriss — Greg Dooley — YMCA c o a c h e d Andre Steadman nual Comevery sinSpurlino Family Camp Cristina. — North Brandon munity gle season of soccer since 2021 YMCA. Family YMCA. Impact Celebration. The event, presented for the 5 to 6-year-old age group. He and by Regions, was held on November 2 at the his family have been immersed in YMCA Tampa Theatre. An estimated 400 guests programs in the Riverview and Brandon enjoyed an evening showcasing the Tampa areas for years. He develops great relaYMCA’s robust impact on the community tionships with this young age group and as videos, testimonials and stories were demonstrates compassion 10-fold. shared. Gary Koch, Al Colby and 11 outThe Tampa YMCA presented Koch with standing Tampa YMCA volunteers received the 2023 Community Impact Award for awards. his dedication and positive impact on the The following local-area YMCA Center youth in the First Tee – Tampa Bay golf Volunteers of the Year were recognized for program. Koch’s list of accomplishments their unwavering commitment to helping is a story unto itself. He is a six-time PGA children, families and seniors reach their Tour winner, former ESPN/NBC Sports golf full potential. commentator and First Tee – Tampa Bay’s Andre Steadman — North Brandon board chair. Family YMCA. Steadman has worked with Colby, a lawyer, lifelong friend and supthe youth on the wellness floor. He inspires porter of the YMCA, as well as former discipline and commitment and champi- board chair, was presented with the 2023 ons their mental health. An incredible Y Tampa YMCA Red Triangle Award. The ambassador, he consistently shares the Y Red Triangle Award is given to a volunteer message and mission in the community and whose leadership and service reflect the beyond and is always eager to welcome countless lives transformed through their new members. generous contributions. Faith Burriss — Spurlino Family The Tampa Metropolitan Area YMCA is YMCA. Burriss joined the Spurlino Board a cause-driven, four-star charity that has in 2022 and instantly made an impact by been strengthening the Hillsborough and creating collaborative opportunities in the East Pasco communities for over 130 years community, as well as working hard on the through youth development, healthy living board’s social responsibility committee. She and social responsibility. For information has been critical in helping guide the board on the YMCA and local area centers, visit in tackling some of the biggest social needs www.tampaymca.org.

HAVE A FIN-TASTIC HOLIDAY SEASON!

Volume 21, Issue 12

RIVERVIEW REGENT IS IDEAL VENUE FOR EVERY OCCASION

By Kathy L. Collins

The Regent, confirst quarter of veniently located 2024. This event at 6437 Watson promises to be Rd. in Riverview, is an immersive exa stand-alone venperience for both ue which can host attendees and events from as exhibitors, celesmall as 50 guests brating the rich to extravagant afcultural heritage fairs for up to 800 of quinceañeras in guests. It is a prea grand, elegant miere venue right setting.” here in our comWhile The Remunity. gent provides a Shannon Keil, The Regent, located in Riverview, is a beautiful list of preferred venue that is great for any type of event, from CEO of The Regent, caterers resmall and intimate gatherings to large said, “The Regent nowned for their extravagant affairs. is more than just a exceptional servenue; it is a hub for unforgettable mo- vices, it understands the importance of ments. From elegant weddings to lively accommodating cultural and dietary prefquinceañeras and professional corporate erences. You have the flexibility to choose events, The Regent welcomes every event a caterer of your choice, provided the cawith open arms.” terer is licensed and insured, which allows Keil added, “Our venue ensures the per- you to curate a culinary experience that fect fit for any event, regardless of its size complements your event seamlessly. or scope.” The staff at The Regent make booking Since its establishment in 2007, the your event as effortless as it is exciting. venue has undergone continuous en- You can reach out at 813-571-2494, vishancements, ensuring that every event it The Regent’s user-friendly website at held there benefits from the latest ame- www.theregentfl.com or email to info@ nities, technology and aesthetic upgrades. theregentfl.com. Beyond being a splendid event space, Keil said, “The Regent is more than a The Regent plays a pivotal role in fos- venue; it is a testament to the dedication tering community engagement. It takes and passion of our team. With diverse pride in hosting numerous local chamber event offerings, community engagement meetings and galas, creating a conducive initiatives and commitment to excellence, environment for meaningful connections The Regent is the ideal choice for your and collaborations among local business- next celebration or corporate gathering. es and organizations. Experience the difference at The Regent, Keil said, “In an effort to continually where moments become memories and enrich the community experience, The celebrations are crafted with perfection.” Regent is thrilled to announce the upcomFor more information, please visit www. ing Quinceañera Expo scheduled for the theregentfl.com.

December 2023

Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

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Volume 21, Issue 12

SECTION Page 25 TWO

Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

December 2023

Celebrate The Holidays With A Good Meal And A Good Movie By Kelly Wise Valdes Two of my favorite holiday traditions are watching Christmas movies with my family and cooking a delicious holiday meal. My mother always loved having my sister and I in the kitchen baking Christmas cookies for all our neighbors. Then we spent countless hours watching films like Frosty the Snowman, A Christmas Carol and Santa Claus Is Comin’ to Town. I carried on this same tradition when I had children of my own. I have such fond memories of watching Elf, Home Alone and The Polar Express with my own children. However, I didn’t quite inherit the cooking/baking gene from my mother and always needed to refer to a good cookbook for help. If you are looking to start new holiday traditions with your family, below are some fun and inventive holiday cookbooks that are paired with some of the most popular and traditional holiday season movies. Complete with tips on entertaining and menu ideas for your merry gatherings, these cookbooks are the perfect companions to your holiday season.

The Christmas Movie Cookbook: Recipes From Your Favorite Holiday Films By Julia Rutland

The Unofficial Home Alone Cookbook Zuzu Bailey’s It’s A Wonderful Life Charles Dickens’s A Christmas Carol: By Bryton Taylor By Karolyn Grimes & Franklin Dohanyos A Book-to-Table Classic Relive the magic of the iconic mo- Celebrating one of the most beloved By Charles Dickens

Bring the merry festivities from the mov- ments with these 75 recipes inspired Christmas films of all time, It’s a Wonderful Charles Dickens’s A Christmas Carol: A ies with The Christmas Movie Cookbook by the cult-classic holiday movie Home Life, this book is brimming with movie lore Book-to-Table Classic is a deluxe, full-colthrough more than 65 fun recipes inspired Alone. Whether you’re fending off the and recipes meant to delight friends and or hardback edition of the enduring Christmas classic featuring a selection of by scenes from favorite Christmas films. Wet Bandits or just a hungry family families as well as entertain movie buffs - presented by the actress who played recipes for your holiday table from Giada Do you ever yearn for roast turkey while trying to snag the coveted last slice star Jimmy Stewart’s youngest on-screen de Laurentiis, Ina Garten, Martha Stewwatching National Lampoon’s Christmas of cheese pizza, this fun cookbook is daughter. From savory main courses to art and Trisha Yearwood. This clever Vacation? Or perhaps you want to try the here to keep hunger at bay. From apfestive desserts, this book contains 250 edition of Charles Dickens’ A Christmas roast beast from How the Grinch Stole petizers and main dishes to refreshing recipes inspired by fictional Bedford Falls, Carol shares delicious recipes from celebChristmas? ’Tis the season to recreate the drinks and holiday-worthy desserts, including Violet’s spicy chicken, Silver Bells rity chefs. Plan your perfect Christmas dishes from your favorite holiday mov- this book is perfect for nostalgicHome Christmas cookies, Henry Potter pot pie, feast with a carefully curated menu of ies with the help of The Christmas Movie Alone fans looking to recreate that “I fifty-cents-on-the-dollar chuck roast, Har- holiday dishes from succulent baked ham Cookbook. This season, you can indulge made my family disappear!” magic. ry Bailey hero sandwich, Mrs. Martini’s to smashed root vegetables and topped alongside Elf as you make special spaghet- The Unofficial Home Alone Cookbook creamy linguine and “Zuzu, my little ginger- off with fruitcake cookies and pecan pie. ti, or create the meatloaf from A Christmas has all the recipes you’ll need to make snap” cookies. As a bonus, the book con- It includes the full, unabridged text of A Story, broccoli and cheese soup from Ru- a meal worthy of Kevin McCallister tains bits of trivia from the movie, behind- Christmas Carol, interspersed with recithe-scenes anecdotes and reminiscences pes, food photography and special food dolf the Red-Nosed Reindeer or hot choco- himself. artwork. from the stars of the film. late from The Polar Express.

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Page 26

Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

Volume 21, Issue 12

UPCOMING FREEDOM PLAZA HOLIDAY EVENTS WILL ENGAGE By Ashley Abene COMMUNITY MEMBERS At-home traditions By Lily Belcher

CHRISTMAS TRADITIONS TO START FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY

The holiday season is quickly approaching. for the family include The busyness and fast spending December pace of Christmas can watching a Christbe overwhelming and mas movie each day exhausting. However, or baking cookies and taking a step back and bringing them to the enjoying Christmas neighbors together. Metropolitan Ministries’ annual Holiday traditions with family Gift Market helps reach the community in Another idea is makcan be a release. There ing simple, inexpensive need every year. are many traditions crafts, such as cards, kids can participate in that bring gift tags or presents from Dollar families closer and help them Tree finds. Finding items around remember the reason for the the house to recycle and make season. ornaments together can be fun, One fun tradition to do as a like turning an empty baby food family is to look at Christmas jar into a snow globe. lights. Besides local neighborChristmas countdowns are hoods, there are events in the also a great way to include the area that put on light shows. Tampa Bay YMCAs kids in preparing for Christmas. Plant City’s Christmas Lane Some Advent calendars have often participate in Angel Tree each (https://christmaslane.com/) a candy or flavor of coffee for Christmas season. and the Burton Family Light each day. Other Advent calenShow in Valrico (www.facebook.com/bur- dars focus on biblical Scriptures, suggesttonfamilylightshow) are such options. ing a Scripture a day for the month of DeThere is also the live nativity called Walk cember. Through Bethlehem (WTB) held at Kings Finally, to get into the spirit of giving, Avenue Baptist Church in Brandon. This there are many local volunteer opportunievent is only put on for a few days: Thurs- ties that the whole family can participate day, December 7 through Sunday, Decem- in. Metropolitan Ministries has events to ber 10. WTB is a live-action nativity telling volunteer at, like toy and food drives or givthe classic Christmas story. Reserve a spot ing out donations to families in need. Many at https://walkthrubethlehem.com/. local YMCAs participate in the Angel Tree A local realtor, Sarah Hart with the Hart program; when entering a YMCA location, Group, said, “I enjoy spending time with grab an angel off the tree and return the my family at Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park, requested gifts for that child. Reach out where the riverwalk is transformed into to your local YMCA for Angel Tree locaa Winter Village. This transformation in- tions. You can also call the Salvation Army cludes luxury decorations, ice skating, faux of Tampa for a list of Angel Tree locations snow and more.” throughout the county at 813-549-5303. More information for this event can be These are all great ways to encourage givfound at https://wintervillagetampa.com. ing in the heart of families.

Freedom Plaza residents are preparing for an eventful holiday season to celebrate with friends, family and neighbors. Freedom Plaza will host its annual Christmas tree lighting for its community on Monday, December 4. The lighting will kick off the holiday season at Freedom Plaza. Live carolers will offer entertainment at the event and holiday treats and beverages will be available. “We do events like this year around to showcase the active lifestyle we offer at our community,” marketing and sales coordinator Tiffany Hernandez said. Around 20 employees will work the events to bring the engaging and active events to attendees, Hernandez said. “The goal is to showcase of active lifestyle we have at Freedom Plaza, a continuing care retirement community,” she said. On Wednesday, December 13, Freedom Plaza will have a holiday Sip and Stroll Social. “Join us for this festive after-hours event celebration of Yuletide traditions featuring a variety of live holiday entertainment, savory and sweet treats of the season, holiday ‘cheer’ beverages, decked halls and more,” the event’s flyer says. Freedom Plaza will host the Jingle Bell Jubilee Concert on Tuesday, December

19 featuring singers from Martini Pop. Martini Pop is a seven-piece show band of singers who perform holiday carols and music. The community will also host an ugly Christmas sweater contest. Freedom Plaza is a life plan community located in Sun City Center for seniors. The community offers an active, carefree-living lifestyle with different residential options to fit every lifestyle. There are over 400 independent living residences and 83 assisted living residences available at the plaza. “By choosing our community, you’re assured of active senior living with a maintenance-free retirement lifestyle, resort-inspired services and amenities and a smart plan for care if it’s ever needed,” according to the website. The 140-acre grounds feature a private lake, a walking trail and an 18-hole executive golf course. Freedom Plaza offers activities and programs with a focus on socializing, learning and wellness. Reservations are required for all holiday events. Call 813-642-1257 to RSVP. For more information, visit https:// freedomplazafl.com/events/. To contact Freedom Plaza, email life@freedomplazafl.com. Freedom Plaza is located at 1010 American Eagle Blvd. in Sun City Center.

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Page 27

ANGEL FOUNDATION FL HOSTS SECOND ANNUAL LADIES CHRISTMAS COFFEE

By Kelly Wise Valdes

The Angel people and Foundation FL raised $5,637. is a local nonThis year’s profit organizaevent is protion that was jected to have formed in 2003 more than 200 and partners people in attenwith local busidance. nesses and comEvent chairmunity memman Lisa bers to provide Wheeler is exThe Angel Foundation FL is hosting its second annual resources for Ladies Christmas Coffee event on Thursday, December 14 cited about this families exyear’s Ladies from 7-9 p.m. at The Regent. periencing a Christmas Coflife-threatening illness or fee. catastrophic event. “My favorite part As part of its fundof the event is getting raising efforts, the Angel dressed up in ChristFoundation FL invites the women of the mas classic and seeing the excitement community to attend its second annu- on the ladies’ faces as they learn about al Ladies Christmas Coffee. During this what we do and how they can help,” said event, the Angel Foundation FL will collect Wheeler. “Plus, it’s really cool to see the gift cards to help Angel families through- husbands, brothers and sons volunteering out the year. as our coffee servers.” Each table at the event will have a table The Christmas Coffee is taking place on hostess who can decorate their table with Thursday, December 14 from 7-9 p.m. at a theme of their choice. The cost is $25 The Regent located at 6437 Watson Rd. which includes finger sandwiches, fruit, in Riverview. Some of the sponsors of this desserts, coffee and tea. Hostesses are year’s event are Churchill Mortgage, The able to invite seven of their friends whose Regent, Landscape Lighting Repair, Red admittance is a $25 Walmart, Target, gro- Scorpion Fabworks & Offroad, Regalitea cery store or Visa gift card. and Brandon Equine Medical Center. Guests will enjoy a wonderful evening If you would like to be a table hostess, to celebrate the holiday season with en- attend as a guest, donate an item for the tertainment, a silent auction and a presen- raffle or silent auction or become a busitation by Junior Angels, and they will hear ness sponsor, please contact Wheeler at inspiring testimonies from Angel families 813-967-3694, email lisa@lisa-wheeler. who have been served by the Foundation net, call the Foundation office at 813-689Angel program. 6889. For more information visit https:// Last year’s event was attended by 138 angelfoundationfl.com/.

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Page 28

Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

Volume 21, Issue 12

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Photographs are for illustrative purposes only, are not intended to be an actual representation of a specific home being offered and depict models containing features and designs that may not be available on all homes or in all areas or that may be available for an additional cost. Please see sales consultant for details. © 2023 PulteGroup, Inc. and/or its affiliates. All rights reserved. 11/23

Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

December 2023

HIT THE TRAILS WITH THE

HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY HIKING SPREE By Kathy L. Collins Fall in Florida and range brings cooler, from neighdrier air, which borhood is a perfect comparks, like bination for getJ.C. Handly ting outside. This Sports Comyear, make a plan plex in Branto participate don, to large in Hillsborough preserves Get out and experience the joy of hiking by participating in County’s annual with multithe 2023-24 Hillsborough County Hiking Spree. The theme Hiking Spree. The ple habitats, this year is ‘Discover Your Own Path’. Hiking Spree belike Edward gan on November 1 and Medard Conservation runs through Sunday, Park in Plant City, to March 31, 2024. You Florida State Parks, can find information on like the Hillsborough the Hiking Spree and complete your reg- River State Park in Thonotosassa. istration to participate by visiting www. Participants are encouraged to post hcflgov.net/hikingspree. photos from their hikes using the hashtag The annual Hiking Spree began in 2016 #TakeAHikeHC.” as a way to encourage people to exercise, There are a total 22 neighborhood explore the outdoors and experience na- parks, conservation parks, nature preture by visiting the many beautiful parks serves and state parks on this year’s and preserves located in Hillsborough list. The list includes several local destiCounty. The Hiking Spree has grown in nations, including Bullfrog Creek Wildpopularity each year and now draws life and Environmental Area in Wimauthousands of participants. ma, FishHawk Sports Complex in Lithia, This 2023-24 Hiking Spree trail list fea- Lakeview Village Park in Brandon, Stetures 25 trails. If you hike at least eight phen J. Wortham Park in Riverview and of the 25 trails between now and the end Alderman’s Ford Conservation Park in of March 2024, you can earn a patch, Plant City. a medallion for a walking stick or a pet The list of trails is higher because some bandana. One of the hikes can be at a lo- locations have more than one trail. cation anywhere on Earth. I have had the privilege to participate Residents are encouraged to bring and complete the Hiking Spree for the their leashed dogs on the hikes. last few years. It is something I look forThe trails are designed to offer some- ward to each year. Hillsborough County thing for everyone, from hiking rookies is large, diverse and beautiful, and the to seasoned outdoor enthusiasts, with Hiking Spree provides an opportunity for hikes rated easy, moderate or strenuous. everyone to get out there and experience Hikes range in length from 5 miles to less the beautiful area we all call home. than a mile. The environmentally diverse Please visit www.hcflgov.net/hikingsites are spread throughout the county spree to register and participate.

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Page 29

FUNDS NEEDED FOR UNITED FOOD BANK OF PLANT CITY’S NEW BUILDING TO BETTER SERVE COMMUNITY By Taylor Wells

A conceptual rendering of the United Food Bank of Plant City’s new home.

With its storage capacity too limited to serve the growing numbers of local residents in need, the United Food Bank and Services of Plant City (UFB) found itself in need of a larger facility to better serve them. Its Building Our Own Future Capital Campaign has raised $3 million, but there’s still much support needed to reach the $5 million necessary to fund its new home. The food bank is temporarily located at Hillsborough Community College in a freestanding building at 2001 E. Cherry St. in Plant City as it prepares for the transition. The UFB expects to break ground for the new building soon, and it will take six to nine months to be completed. The new home will be located at the same address as the UFB’s old home: 702 E. Alsobrook St. in Plant City. Once done, the food bank will have tripled in size, allowing it to have a larger warehouse and a loading dock that ensure acceptance of all food and supplies, whereas the limited space of the UFB’s old building forced it to turn away donations. It’ll also provide an education center and sustainability classes in English and Spanish as well as intake stations to find out what people really need and which places to refer them to if needed.

“When I came, six or seven years ago, we were serving about 1,200 people a month; n o w we’re doing over 10,000 people a month. We distribute almost 4 million pounds of food a year, and recently our numbers are … about 12 people per day that are brandnew, never been here before, and the face of the people we’re serving is different. … The high inflation is really making it difficult for people,” said Mary Heysek, executive director of the United Food Bank of Plant City. The UFB will continue to support Plant City, Dover, Thonotosassa, Seffner, Bealsville, Brandon, Valrico, Lithia and Riverview. If you’d like to help fund the final $2 million, visit www.ufbpc.org/building-our-future and select “Donate Here.” You can use a pledge card to make a contribution as well. In addition, there are naming rights opportunities for donors of UFB’s campaign, ranging from over $2,500, which earns a plaque on its Donor Wall, to $2 million, which earns the right to name the building. To learn more, donate, or get a pledge card, please contact Heysek at mheysek@ufbpc.org, 813-763-4660 (cell) or 813-764-0625, ext. 5 (office).

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Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

GET THE DIRT:

HOLIDAY GIFT IDEAS FOR THE GARDENERS IN YOUR LIFE

Volume 21, Issue 12

DECADE OF CHANGE: FLORIDA IN THE 1920S IS NOW OPEN AT THE TAMPA BAY HISTORY CENTER By Kathy L. Collins

BY LYNN BARBER, URBAN HORTICULTURE AGENT With Christmas and the new year right around the corner, it’s time to ponder what to give your gardening friends. The classic holiday plant gift is poinsettia. However, this article will focus on two other great holiday plants, such as Christmas/ holiday cactus and Rosemary. Many grow holiday cacti (Thanksgiving/Christmas) inside their home. They provide colorful blooms of red, white, pink, purple and more during the holiday season. During fall and winter, days shorten and flower buds form. During the day, this plant should be in an area with bright, indirect light. If you allow artificial light after dark near your holiday cactus starting in October, it may not produce holiday blooms. Repotting every year works well, and be sure to use a well-drained potting medium. Bud growth is encouraged by pruning this plant throughout the year. Pruning in early fall encourages branch growth for holiday flowering. See: https://ffl.ifas. ufl.edu/resources/ffl-minute-radio/2020-archive/december-2020/christmas-cactus/. Rosemary is a fragrant herb that is easy to grow and works well in your landscape and kitchen. You can use it fresh or dried in dishes containing meats, breads and vegetables. It adds great flavor as a skewer for the barbeque. Not only is it attractive in the landscape, but it is also drought-tolerant and produces small pink, lavender or blue flowers in the winter and spring, depending on the cultivar. Rosemary thrives on welldrained soil and at least six hours of sun.

Don’t water it too often. See: https://gardeningsolutions. ifas.ufl.edu/plants/edibles/ vegetables/rosemary.html. The gardeners in your life may want nonplant gardening-related gifts. Consider giving items such as knee pads, a garden cart, a saw or pruner, gloves, seeds, bulbs, pots, mulch, potting soil, perlite, compost, plant hangers, a composting bin, composting worms, a microirrigation kit, a garden sculpture, garbage cans (I only have eight and could use more) or dozens of other items gardeners want or need. The University of Florida IFAS Extension Bookstore, http://ifasbooks.ifas.ufl.edu/, has an amazing selection of gardening, health and nutrition, home maintenance, health and nutrition, natural resources, wildlife and so much more. Logo items include clothing, umbrellas, key chains, hats, children’s books, toys and more. What a place! Offer your labor for a specific number of hours or tasks to perform for your friends who may not want or are not able to do them. Tasks could include weeding, planting, pruning, watering, propagating, fertilizing, mulching, relocating plants and more. Get outside and garden so you can check things off your list, enjoy the outdoors and frolic with nature. Visit our website at http://sfyl.ifas.ufl. edu/hillsborough/, and check out our calendar of events at www.eventbrite.com/o/ ufifas-hillsborough-extension-8606873308. Contact Barber at labarber@ufl.edu.

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Do you ever wonida, with intriguder what Florida ing items such as a was like during the pro-Prohibition Polk 1920s, when bootCounty newsletter leggers, flappers and photographs and more helped of Tampa judge shape our culture? Leo Stalnaker, a Then you need to staunch Prohibition make a visit to the The new temporary exhibit at the Tampa Bay champion. History Center, Decade of Change: Florida Tampa Bay History in the 1920s, features many interesting relics The 1920s marked Center, located at the rise of the moincluding photographs of young women 801 Water St. in toring tourist, and enjoying a day at Miami Beach. This photo downtown Tampa. the exhibition sheds comes to the museum courtesy of the State Decade of light on this transArchives of Florida. Change: Florida in formative trend. the 1920s is a new With approximatetemporary exhibit ly 2.5 million tourat the history cenists visiting Florida ter. The exhibit is in 1925 alone, the available for viewdisplay showcasing now through es the evolution of July 14, 2024. transportation and Decade of The new temporary exhibit at the Tampa Bay the establishment Change: Florida in History Center features many interesting relics, of motorist camps, the 1920s is curat- including photographs of Tin Can Tourists by including Tampa’s ed by Brad Massey, the Burgert Brothers. This photo is a part of the historic DeSoto Tampa Bay History Center Collection. Ph.D., Saunders Park. Foundation curator There is even of public history. something for The exhibit transsports enthusiasts ports visitors back who will love exto an era marked by ploring the popularbootleggers, flapity of baseball, golf, pers and a transand tennis during formative wave of the 1920s. The exsocial, political and hibit features a cultural shifts. The look into the thrivexhibit provides a ing sports culture, snapshot of what from the Davis IsThe new temporary exhibit at the Tampa like was like in Bay History Center features many interesting lands Tennis Club Florida during the relics, including photographs of the Pepsi-Cola hosting the Dixie Giants, a ‘Negro League’ team that played in Cup in 1925 to the 1920s. “One of the inter- Florida and Cuba in the 1920s and beyond. emergence of FloriThis photograph of the Giants in front of their active elements in da as a premier golf bus was taken in 1940 and is a part of the the show will teach destination with Tampa Bay History Center Collection. visitors how to do legends like Babe the foxtrot while Zaharias, Bobby boogying to ‘You Jones, and Walter Better Keep BabyHagen gracing the ing Baby,’ a 1920s newly constructed hit,” said Massey. courses. Another highlight The exhibit conof the exhibition cludes with a is a collection of thought-provoking swimsuits that encapsulate the revolu- examination of Jim Crow politics, archition in beachwear during the era. The tectural transformations and the rise of daring departure from the conservative religious fundamentalism and PentecosBathing Suit Regulations of 1917 is told talism during this tumultuous period. through the stories of innovators like The Tampa Bay History Center is open Jane Fisher, who played a role in intro- daily from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. ducing fabric-light suits to the beaches If you would like more information of South Florida. Alongside bathing at- about tickets or exhibits, please visit its tire, Decade of Change features artifacts website at www.tampabayhistorycenthat tell the story of Prohibition in Flor- ter.org.

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Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

December 2023

Page 31

HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY PRESENTS YOUTH EXCELLENCE AND ACHIEVEMENT AWARDS By Kathy L. Collins On October 18, the Hillsborough County Board of County Commissioners recognized six outstanding young people for their contributions to the community through leadership in academics, community service, athletics, performing arts, conservation and other areas. The 2023 Youth Excellence and Achievement Awards, also known as the YEA! Awards, were presented at the October 18 regular meeting of the Board of County Commissioners. The YEA! Awards recognize three middle school and three high school students in Hillsborough County who display initiative, innovation and commitment to themselves and others while pursuing leadership excellence. Specifically, the YEA! Awards categories include Success Despite Difficult Odds. Eligible students must show the ability to persevere through challenges to make a positive impact on others. The second category is Leadership. Here, students must demonstrate 21st-century skills, including critical thinking, communication, collaboration and creativity in how they lead others academically, in extracurricular programs or in service to the community. The third category is Volunteer or Community Service. In this one, students who dedicate substantial time to serving their community are recognized. This year’s YEA! Awards recipients in the Success Despite Difficult Odds are Gavin Shreeve from Randall Middle School and Caitlin Conrad from George M. Steinbrenner

High School. In the Leadership category, the winners are Nathaniel Freeman from Williams Middle IB School and Hunter Anderson from Durant High School. In the Volunteer or Community Service category, the recipients are Gabrielle Lee from Farnell Middle School and Jayen Patel from Hillsborough High School. Shreeve, despite serious and significant health issues, has maintained excellent grades and uses his spare time to give back to the community. Specifically, Shreeve fundraises for the Tampa Bay Chapter of the Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation. He was also named the 2024 Children’s Miracle Network Champion for John’s Hopkins All Children’s Hospital for his efforts in an annual toy drive. Shreeve said of the award, “I was surprised and very happy to learn that I would be receiving the YEA! Award.” Anderson, a senior from Durant High School, was selected for his leadership skills in leading the school’s Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) chapter. He is the consummate team player who collaborates with his peers and other organizations. He recently persuaded the Valrico FishHawk Chamber of Commerce to sponsor 44 students to be able to attend the FBLA’s conference in Orlando. Anderson said of the award, “This is an honor to receive.” The YEA! Awards were created in 2010. For more information about the YEA! Awards, go to www.hcflgov.net/yea.

ICE THE DICE CASINO NIGHT

Friday, November 17 from 7pm - 11pm at The Regent in Riverview! Visit High5inc.org for tickets & sponsorship opportunities.

Wishing you a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

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Page 32

Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

Volume 21, Issue 12

PULTEGROUP IS COMMITTED TO THE BETTERMENT OF EVERYONE Staff Report Established in 1950, PulteGroup is one the next two years. of America’s largest and most respected PulteGroup’s philosophy is that homehomebuilding companies in the country. building is a wonderful business that can With operations in more than 40 markets have a profound impact on others’ lives. throughNot only out the has it crePulte builds homes with the homeowner top of mind. We focus on what’s U.S., Pulte ated an important; building beautiful, quality has proven employee designs that bring families together. Our insightful Life Tested® design features time and culture fomake everyday moments easier time again cused on and more enjoyable. that it uninspiring derstands one anpulte.com/tampa the needs other and of homeserving buyers and its homebelieves in innovative solutions, consum- buyers, but PulteGroup also embraces er-inspired homes and beautiful commu- the communities where they live. In fact, nities that make homeowners’ lives bet- PulteGroup’s West Florida division was ter. named a One Tampa Bay honoree by the PulteGroup builds new homes in the Tampa Bay Business Journal for the third Tampa Bay area through popular brands consecutive year for its work in going such as Pulte Homes, Centex and Del above and beyond to give back to the Webb. Pulte’s commitment to homebuy- community. PulteGroup has been awarded ers is clear and undeniable: exceptional as a Top Place to Work by the Tampa Bay customer experience, superior operation- Times for five consecutive years. Whether al execution, foresight into the future and its individual and group volunteerism, holinspired employees. iday events like the annual Turkey Drive or Nothing reflects PulteGroup’s repu- the eighth annual ‘Building to Make Lives tation for overall quality more than the Better’ Golf Tournament that recently expansion and success of its West Flor- raised a record-breaking $358,770 for ida division. Throughout the Tampa Bay the Children’s Home Network, PulteGroup region’s quickly growing counties, in ad- is more than willing to step up for the betdition to Parrish/Manatee County to the terment of everyone. south, Ocala/Marion County to the north Such inspiration requires the time, dedand Lakeland/Polk County to the east, ication and effort needed to consistently Pulte Homes, Centex and Del Webb cre- deliver exceptional customer experiences ate, plan, build and deliver communities and quality homes for its customers in of well-built homes with industry-leading highly desirable communities that cuswarranties in highly desirable locations. tomers are excited to call home. In fact, just in the last two years, PulteFor more information on PulteGroup’s Group has opened more than 15 commu- award winning homes and communities, nities with plans to open another 21 over visit www.pulte.com/tampa. Using your mobile camera, scan here to see current availability

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December 2023

Page 33

JINGLE BELL BAZAAR AT YBOR

ECONOMIC STUDY SHOWS ARTS HAVE STRONG IMPACT IN WELCOMES THE COMMUNITY TO A HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY FESTIVE HOLIDAY EXTRAVAGANZA Staff Report

By Kathy L. Collins

From Boys 2 Men Inc. and cake enthusiasts is thrilled to announce are invited to showcase the return of the Jingle their culinary talents in Bell Bazaar at Ybor. Set a friendly competition. to take place on Sunday, Judges will select the December 10, the event most mouthwatering, will once again transvelvety creation, and the form Historic Ybor City’s winner will receive a covCentennial Park into a eted title and a special holiday wonderland of prize. Visitors can also family-friendly activities, sample these delicious live entertainment and an creations, making it a array of seasonal delights. delightful treat for cake The fifth annual Jingle connoisseurs. Bell Bazaar at Ybor in- The fifth annual Jingle Bell Bazaar at The Jingle Bell Bazaar vites attendees to expe- Ybor City returns on Sunday, Decem- at Ybor is also excited rience a day filled with ber 10 with fun for the whole family, to announce the ‘Fosterjoy, laughter and holiday including face painting, Santa’s Vil- ing a Dream Young Enlage, live entertainment and more. cheer. The event will featrepreneur Scholarship,’ ture live bands, captivating live performers, generously sponsored by the Grow Financial delectable food trucks and an abundance Foundation. This scholarship offers financial of holiday vendors offering unique gifts and assistance to young entrepreneurs who are treats perfect for the season. pursuing their entrepreneurial dreams and Santa’s Village, a central attraction at the striving to make a positive impact in the bazaar, will host holiday-themed activities, business world. including Santa’s Workshop of Arts and “We are thrilled to introduce the Red VelCrafts, free face painting for the little ones, vet Cake Contest and the Fostering a Dream a video gaming truck for all ages and the Young Entrepreneur Scholarship this year,” chance to capture the magic of the season said Archie. “These additions add an extra with free pictures with Santa himself. layer of excitement and community involve“Our aim with the Jingle Bell Bazaar at ment to our annual event, emphasizing our Ybor is to create an unforgettable experi- commitment to creativity, talent and fosterence that brings our community together in ing the dreams of our young entrepreneurs.” the spirit of the season,” said Linda Archie, The event is open to the public and free event coordinator. “We’re excited to provide for all to attend, offering a day of family-oria day filled with festive entertainment and ented activities and delightful experiences. unique shopping opportunities that highlight For sponsorship opportunities or further the essence of the holidays.” information about the event, please conOne of the highlights of this year’s Jingle tact Archie at info@jinglebellbazaar.com Bell Bazaar is the Red Velvet Cake Con- or visit the event’s website at www.jingletest. As part of the festivities, local bakers bellbazaar.com.

The arts are organizations an economic and their audriver in comdiences. The munities that main takeembrace the aways from arts. Hillsborthe study inough County clude the total is such a comarts industry munity. This spending, the was revealed impact of that in the Arts & spending by Economic Prosarts organizaperity 6 (AEP6) tions and their Study. In partaudiences and The Arts & Economic Prosperity 6 (AEP6) Study was nership with event-related presented by Randy Cohen, vice president of research at national nonspending by auprofit Ameri- American for the Arts, on October 18 at the Tampa Theatre. diences. cans for the Arts, the Hillsborough County The results from the study include the Arts Council has released the findings for following topics and economic impacts: the local results of the Arts & Economic Total industry expenditures for fiscal year Prosperity Study. 2022 were $387,463,290. Personal income The study was presented by Randy Cohen, paid to residents working in the arts was vice president of research at American for $260,142,550. Local tax revenue, includthe Arts, on October 18 at the Tampa The- ing city and county, was $11,242,603. atre. Dozens of residents and arts stakehold- Total event-related expenditures were ers attended the event including David Cox $234,390,974. of the Gasparilla Music Foundation. The results put the role of the arts in Cox said, “I think the presentation was Hillsborough County as an economic drivvery enlightening, and it was great to have er into perspective. The $53.68 per person such a respected economist as Randy Co- per event spent is 40 percent higher than hen in Tampa to present the findings.” the national average of $38.46 and helps He added, “The Gasparilla Music Founda- show that arts and culture drive commerce tion was founded in 2011 (at the tail end of to local businesses. Additionally, the arts the Great Recession) with the premise that create livable communities and are crucial the arts can be a vital economic engine and for the local economy, jobs and businesses. are critical for making the county a more The full results of the study can desirable place to live. It was very reward- be found by visiting www.hillsboring for our efforts to be validated by this o u g h c o u n t y. o rg /e n /m e d i a - c e n t e r/ very comprehensive study.” press-releases/2023/10/18/new-studyThe study measures the economic and arts-is-a-strong-local-industry-that-cresocial impact of nonprofit arts and culture ates-jobs-and-boosts-the-economy.

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Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

Volume 21, Issue 12

GET INVOLVED WITH HONORING AMERICA’S HEROES ON NATIONAL WREATHS ACROSS AMERICA DAY

By Taylor Wells

“ Re m e m b e r ning at 10 a.m., the fallen. Honor followed imthose who serve. mediately by Teach the next wreath placegeneration the ment. value of freeAbout the dom.” This is the local support yearlong misfor WAA, Kalyn sion of Wreaths Dukes, family Across America service coun(WAA), a 501(c) Scouts in front of Mission BBQ’s mobile catering truck at selor at SerenSerenity Meadows Memorial Park. (3) nonprofit ity Meadows, started in 2007 as an answer to the call for said, “It’s good. I mean, we’re in a military sponsored wreaths to honor our veterans. community here, a lot of veterans are here. This year, National Wreaths Across Ameri- There’s a lot of support. We have…a lot of ca Day, during which volunteers will lay over Scouting troops, Mission BBQ, several air 2 million live balsam wreaths, is Saturday, patrol, some VFW, different groups like December 16. that.” WAA’s theme for 2023 is ‘Serve and SucShe added that it’s looking like hundreds ceed.’ of people will be attending, and attendees “There are many ways to serve your com- will have a chance to lay a wreath or two. munity and country, and just as many defiSerenity Meadows is still accepting volnitions of success. We hope through focus- unteers. For anyone wanting to find out how ing on those stories of success we will help they can help, please call 813-677-9494 and change the dialogue around what it means ask for Dukes, who is coordinating National to serve your country,” said Karen Worces- Wreaths Across America Day at Serenity ter, executive director of Wreaths Across Meadows. America. Serenity Meadows has actually surpassed Nationwide, over 4,000 locations and its goal of 600 sponsored wreaths for more than 2 million volunteers are partici- Wreaths Across America Day, but additionpating this year. Alongside them are trans- al donations are always appreciated and will portation companies and their drivers who be used next year. And, of course, other lowill help deliver over 650 truckloads of cations hosting the day might need wreaths. sponsored wreaths. It’s a massive coordina- Sponsoring a wreath costs only $17. tion effort for the good cause of honoring To learn more about Wreaths Across America’s heroes. America or how to get involved, visit www. One location in our area that’s taking part wreathsacrossamerica.org. For Serenity is Serenity Meadows Memorial Park, Funer- Meadows’ WAA page, visit www.wreathal Home & Crematory. National Wreaths sacrossamerica.org/social/flsmfh-sereniAcross America Day at Serenity Meadows tymeadowsmemorialparkfuneralhomeandstarts at 9 a.m. with the ceremony begin- crematory?sid=45982|17920|0|1.

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December 2023

Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

FLORIDA MUSEUM OF PHOTOGRAPHIC ARTS FINDS NEW HOME IN YBOR CITY By Kathy L. Collins The Florida Museum In the second galof Photographic Arts, lery, FMoPA will host or FMoPA, is a unique its annual Members’ museum founded in Show from Tuesday, 2001 and conveniently December 12 through located in Ybor City. Its January 14, 2024. mission is dedicated to O’Dell said, “Our exhibition of important Members’ Show feaThe Florida Museum of Photographic photographic art as Arts (FMoPA) opened the doors to its new tures photographs by central to contempo- space in Ybor City on September 14. The the very talented phorary life and culture. It newly renovated space is dedicated solely tographers from our collects, preserves and to the exhibition of photographic art and community. All memfeatures exhibits of photos from locally, exhibits historic and bers are encouraged to nationally and internationally renowned contemporary works participate.” photographers. by nationally and interFMoPA’s home in nationally known photographic Ybor City began in September. artists. It had spent many years in Moreover, it serves the comdowntown Tampa, but the curmunity by operating outreach programs to rent location feels just right. educate children and adults. O’Dell said, “In our 3,000 square feet of FMoPA is one of a handful of museums newly renovated space, we are busy scheddedicated exclusively to exhibiting photo- uling exhibitions, classes and events that will graphs. engage, entertain and educate our visitors.” Robin O’Dell, executive curator for FMoO’Dell added, “FMoPA is dedicated to PA, said, “As one of less than 10 museums in being a place of gathering and delight for the entire country dedicated solely to photo- everyone, as well as actively looking for graphic arts, we want our museum to be a ways to engage within the community. We place of inspiration and delight to people of actively go into classrooms, senior centers all ages and backgrounds.” and recreation centers offering ways to O’Dell added, “Our main gallery features learn both about photography and ways to national and internationally prominent explore creativity and self-exploration. We artists and changes every three months. welcome everyone to become a member Our second gallery focuses on artists and and participate in making Tampa a better outreaches reflecting our community and place to live.” changes every month.” FMoPA is located at 1630 E. 7th Ave. in The next exhibit, which opens on Thurs- Ybor City. It is open Tuesday to Saturday day, December 7 and will run through March from 11 a.m.-7 p.m. and on Sunday from 12 17, 2024, will feature the photographs of Noon-5 p.m. General admission tickets are Carlton Ward and is called Carlton Ward: $12 for people 54 years and younger and The Path of the Panther. Ward is a Nation- $10 for seniors, students and military peral Geographic photographer who chronicles sonnel. the natural habitats of Florida and the wildFor more information, please visit www. life within. fmopa.org.

Page 35

FINANCIAL FOCUS

CAN YOU MAKE CHARITABLE GIVING LESS ‘TAXING’? Once again, it’s the season of generosity. In addition to considering gifts for your loved ones, you might want to think about charitable gifts as well. But what should you know before making gifts to charities? And what impact might these gifts have on your financial and tax situation? First, you may want to create a gift budget by deciding just how much you will give to charitable organizations over the rest of the year. Next, look closely at the groups to whom you wish to contribute. You can find many reputable charities, but some others may be less worthy of your support. One of the red flags of a questionable organization is the amount of money it spends on administrative costs versus the amount that goes to its stated purpose. You can check on the spending patterns of charitable groups, and find other valuable information about them, on the well-regarded Charity Navigator website (charitynavigator.org). Once you’ve established a gift budget and are comfortable with the groups you choose to support, you might turn your thoughts to another key issue connected with charitable giving: tax benefits. A few years ago, changes in the tax laws resulted in a large increase in the standard deduction, which meant that many taxpayers found it more favorable not to itemize — and lost the ability to take charitable deductions. But if you still do itemize, your charitable gifts or contributions to tax-exempt groups — those that qualify as 501(c) (3) organizations — can generally be deducted, up to 60% of your adjusted gross income, although lower limits may apply, depending on the nature of your gift and the organization to which you’re contributing. Other, more long-term avenues also exist that combine charitable giving with potential tax benefits. One

This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor. Article 11 – Nov. 27, 2023

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such possibility is a donor-advised fund, which allows you to make an irrevocable charitable contribution and receive an immediate tax deduction. You can give cash, but if you donate appreciated assets, such as stocks, your tax deduction would be the fair market value of the assets, up to 30% of your adjusted gross income. Plus, you would not incur the capital gains tax that would otherwise be due upon the sale of these assets. Once you establish a donor-advised fund, you have the flexibility to make charitable gifts over time, and you can contribute to the fund as often as you like. Another possible tax benefit from making charitable contributions could arrive when you start taking required minimum distributions, or RMDs, from some of your retirement accounts, such as your traditional IRA and 401(k). These RMDs could be sizable — and distributions are counted as taxable income. But by taking what’s called a qualified charitable distribution (QCD), you can move money from a traditional or Roth IRA to a qualified charitable organization, possibly satisfying your RMD, which then may be excluded from your taxable income. You must start taking RMDs at 73 but you can begin making QCDs of up to $100,000 per year as early as age 70½. (This amount will be indexed for inflation after 2023.) Establishing a donor-advised fund and making qualified charitable distributions are significant moves, so you’ll need to consult with your tax advisor first. But if they’re appropriate for your situation, they may help you expand your ability to support the charitable groups whose work you admire.

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Page 36

Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

Volume 21, Issue 12

VINE VEGAN’S HOLIDAY MENU WILL HCPS HOSTS RIBBON-CUTTING FOR NEW SCHOOL BUILDING WITH A FIRST OF REMIND CUSTOMERS OF HOME By Lily Belcher Vine Vegan’s holiHowever, Stevens day menu features a said Vine Vegan can range of vegan meals fulfill a catering orto offer a healthy and der of any size for delicious alternative the holidays. to holiday dining. Vine Vegan’s Owner Danielle Christmas menu will Stevens is offering have a similar look, two choices for enbut Stevens said trees: a sage mushcustomers can look room nut roast and forward to exciting a Vine Vegan house new dishes after meatloaf. Both enthe start of the new trees are also gluyear. ten-free. In 2023, Vine “These dishes are Vegan was voted Danielle Stevens will offer holiday meal inspired by all the the best vegetaroptions at Vine Vegan. dishes we all grew up ian restaurant by on eating during the holidays. Restaurant Guru after being They just feel like home,” Steopen for just one year. vens said. In December of 2022, SteIn addition to the choice vens opened Vine Vegan to of entrees for Thanksgivoffer tasty vegan meals to ing meals, customers can the Brandon area. Her meals pick four sides, from mac range from healthy choices and cheese to maple walnut to vegan comfort food, offersweet potatoes to sage sausage stuffing. ing an option for all customers. The cafe Other sides include mashed potatoes and also offers a beautiful dining room degravy, roasted balsamic Brussel sprouts signed by the architectural designer and and a green bean casserole. founder of Bellevida Design. “It was difficult to narrow down the Stevens found a way to connect her ones we chose, there are so many good culture and heritage to the menu at Vine ones,” she said. “It came down to talking Vegan, where she works to set an examto my staff and asking, ‘Which one of ple for improving the world one plantthese would you want to see on your based meal at a time. Thanksgiving plate?’” Vine Vegan is located at 2080 BadStevens said she would love to provide lands Dr. in Brandon off Brandon Park100 meals to local customers. In addition way. to offering individual plates for its meals, To view the menu or sign up for the Vine Vegan offers trays to share. Shar- newsletter, visit https://vinevegan.com/. able options include a six to eight-portion For more information, call 813-939-8463 tray and another 15 to 18-portion tray. or email eat@vinevegan.com.

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ITS KIND DESIGN IN THE STATE

Staff Report Hillsborough Counengage in rigorous ty Public Schools is standards-based inexcited to officially struction in all core open the new Dorothy curriculum areas, but Thomas Exceptional they also participate Center — a beautiful in elective offerings, new facility that the such as family and builders and designconsumer science ers took meticulous courses, a complete time and detail to enTV production stuHillsborough County Public Schools re- dio, music courses, sure student success. Dorothy Thomas Ex- cently hosted a ribbon-cutting and tour lab science courses of the new Dorothy Thomas ceptional Center was and art courses,” exExceptional Center. first opened in 1974. plained Principal KelDistrict leaders made the decision to ly Simmons. modernize the school to better serve the Guests were able to tour the facility, student population. The design is the first including the Family Consumer Science of its kind in the state and now a model classroom, where students will be bakfor future Exceptional Student Centers in ing, and a classroom space that has colthe district and across Florida. or-changing lighting. Students have been learning in the new The design is organized as wings conbuilding since school began in August. nected through ‘sensorial nodes,’ with On November 28, leaders with Hillsbor- special lighting and texture that helps ough County Public Schools hosted a rib- sooth and calm students. On the west bon-cutting and tour of the new facility. side, the new building is angled to follow The goal of the new design was to pro- the canopy of the existing trees. On the vide a space that meets the needs of stu- east side, the design is organized around dents who learn best in a supportive and a U-shaped courtyard with a sensory safe environment, free of auditory and garden embracing additional existing visual distractions. The school’s principal, trees but also creating a safe zone for ESE specialist and teachers were instru- students. mental in the design of the school, shar“I think it is so important that we meet ing what would best help students thrive the needs of our students and provide with the architect. them with spaces that will encourage “Our students now benefit from a ther- their growth, both emotionally and acaapeutic day school with a complete stu- demically. This is one of the projects you dent service suite, a multisensory room can walk away from and say the students with ambient lighting, and therapeutic are in a better place because of this projplay options for when they may become ect,” said Chris Farkas, deputy superintenoverstimulated or need to work through dent of operations. a difficult time. Our students that we The Dorothy Thomas Exceptional Center serve in grades K through 12 not only is located at 3215 Nundy Rd. in Tampa.

Expires 12/31/2023

December 2023

Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

THE THREE B’S MINISTRY

CONTINUES TO GROW AND HELP THOSE IN NEED By Libby Hopkins

The Three B’s Miniscleaning products try provides food, clothto over 60 famiing, shoes and other lies every week as vital necessities to famwell as 60 grocery ilies and individuals in boxes every other need in our community. week.” “Our mission is to feed Last year, the people in our commucommunity’s need nity who have a need quickly surpassed for food,” said Melanie The Three B’s Ministry provides food, clothing, what Diaz was able Martin of The Three shoes and other vital necessities to families and to provide from the individuals in need in our community. B’s Ministry. “We limited space in her believe no one should go hungry. Our non- home. “Prayers were answered earlier this profit has two main focus areas: homeless year when La Iglesia La Esperanza stepped outreach and family outreach. The nonprofit up to help provide the much-needed storwas officially established in December 2021, age space as well as distribution space for and 501(c)(3) status was received in Febru- this growing ministry,” Martin said. “Every ary 2022.” Wednesday at this church location, the minMeals for the homeless are prepared and istry offers free grocery pickup, fresh foods, distributed every weekend and weekly gro- children’s clothes and toys.” cery pickups are organized each Wednesday Recently, the ministry was presented with before being distributed from the ministry’s the opportunity to purchase a box truck. partner church, La Iglesia La Esperanza on Having a box truck is a necessity, as multiSt. Cloud Rd. in Valrico. More than 1,000 ple pickups are made throughout the week people in the Tampa Bay area are assisted from various partners around town in order through The Three B’s Ministry each month. for The Three B’s Ministry to have the sup“In addition to homeless outreach, the min- plies needed for distributions. “At present, istry also provides free groceries, hygiene the ministry pays weekly to rent a box truck, items, clothing and small household items and unfortunately the funds for this recureach Wednesday at a church in Valrico as ring rental are running out,” Martin said. well,” Martin said. “During COVID, there “Having our own box truck purchased and were also families asking for help with gro- readily available for the various pickups will ceries. Martha Diaz, our director, discovered greatly increase the efficiency of the minthere was a huge need for food and that istry as well as the budget, allowing funds many families were struggling. She began to to be used for other necessities instead. The partner with different organizations to ac- community can help greatly in donating tocess more food and started making grocery wards the purchase of this box truck..” boxes each week for families in need. We If you would like to donate to The Three now provide fresh fruits, vegetables, meat, B’s Ministry, visit www.paypal.com/donate?dairy products, bread, sweets, drinks and campaign_id=NEEJLPNUHU5XA.

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Page 38

Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

Volume 21, Issue 12

FLURRY OF FAMILY FUN AT THE HOLIDAY FUN ON A BUDGET WITH FLORIDA AQUARIUM’S SNOW DAYS BAKING, SKATING & MORE By Ashley Abene

Staff Report

Prices have skythey can be cost-efrocketed for everyfective. Some ideas day items, so finding are baking a favorite affordable gifts and sweet, making perfood for the holidays sonalized ornaments can feel like an imor crocheting a baby possible task. Howhat. ever, there are plenty Next, buy useful of easy ways to save stocking stuffers. Every year, the Burton family of Valrico money this holiday Rather than purchasputs on a magnificent light show. season. ing expensive items First, set a spending as stocking stuffers, goal for the season. buy necessities inWhether budgeting stead. Some examfor gifts or hosting a ples of necessary dinner, planning a set stocking stuffers are amount to spend can socks, toothbrushes, help with meeting fideodorant or crayons nancial holiday goals. for the kids. Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park is transTurn that holiday Look for sales on formed into the Winter Village from now meal into a potluck. gifts and food. Many until January 1, 2024. Every family member stores offer holiday or friend can bring a main dish and side. sales and incentives to entice people This way, the full cost of the meal isn’t the through the doors. Also, grocery rebate sole responsibility of the host. applications (Ibotta or Fetch) can help Limit gifts to four or less for immedi- with the cost of food since the user gets ate family. Budgeting for Christmas with cash back to favorite stores. children is difficult, but following the Finally, check out local holiday events ‘four-gift rule’ can help. The ‘four-gift rule’ that are free to the community rather is buying something wanted, something than taking an expensive trip out of town. needed, something to wear and some- One event is the Winter Village at Curtis thing to read. Hixon Waterfront Park in Tampa, which Implementing Secret Santa with ex- features light shows, ice skating, pretend tended family can help ease the burden on snow and Christmas festivities. Visit the that pocketbook. With the Secret Santa Winter Village website for more informaapproach to gift-giving, instead of buying tion at https://wintervillagetampa.com. gifts for 20 people, every person choosFor a light show in the Valrico area, the es a special gift for one person within a Burton family puts on quite a display and specified price limit. are even contenders in the 2023 Great Handmade gifts from the heart can be Christmas Light Fight. Find out more deworth more than store-bought gifts. An tails about this show at www.facebook. added benefit to handmade gifts is that com/burtonfamilylightshow.

Who says you can’t the North Pole. Be have snow in Florida? sure to bring a camA wintery wonderland era to capture the is in the forecast at memorable holiday The Florida Aquarium’s moments. Photos Snow Days, a cherished with jolly old Saint annual holiday event. Nick are free for The icy excitement members and inruns every weekend in cluded with general December along with admission. a full week of fun from Guests can grab a paintbrush and show Santa’s schedule: Tuesday to Sunday, De- off their creative side with snow as their Saturday and Suncember 26-31. day, December 9 and cool canvas. Guests are encouraged to grab their 10, 16 and 17 from 11 a.m.-3 p.m. gloves to immerse themselves in a variety of Volunteers are still needed for the event snow-packed activities. The ‘Sno Fly Zone’ to help bring Snow Days to life. Volunteer will feature a snowball toss and the popular this year and have a ball as you watch snowball slingshot. The young and young- guests of all ages touch snow for the first at-heart can let their creative side shine time, grin as they hit the targets at the through with snow painting — where the snowball slingshots, dance in the snowfall snow becomes their canvas. There will be and so much more. For more information dashing through the ‘snow’ maze, snowball about volunteering, the event (including cornhole, dancing on the rooftop terrace, the schedule of activities) and to purchase live entertainment and more. tickets, visit www.flaquarium.org/events/ Snow Days is included with membership attend-an-event/snow-days/. The Florida and general admission, with advanced tick- Aquarium is located at 701 Channelside Dr. et purchase required. The days include: in Tampa. • Saturdays and Sundays, now through The Florida Aquarium actively particiSunday, December 24, plus New Year’s Eve, pates in and promotes stewardship of the 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m. natural environment as part of our mission • Daily from Tuesday to Sunday, Decem- of conservation. As a 501(c)(3) not-forber 26-30 with extended hours: 9:30 a.m.-7 profit organization, The Florida Aquarium p.m. provides an opportunity to see thousands The aquarium will be hosting a senso- of aquatic and terrestrial animals, explore ry-friendly Snow Days event on Thursday, complex ecosystems, look for wild dolphins December 21. Held between the hours of in Tampa Bay, play at the Splash Pad and 5:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m., lights and sounds more. More than a must-see attraction, The will be adapted accordingly throughout the Florida Aquarium is focused on saving maevent for individuals with sensory differenc- rine wildlife through conservation research es. Tickets for the event are $10 per guest and rescue efforts that help restore Florida’s and free for members. sea turtle and coral populations. To learn Santa will be making several stops at The more, follow it on social media at @florFlorida Aquarium before he heads back to idaaquarium and visit www.flaquarium.org.

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Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

December 2023

Page 39

SLAYING TAMPA BAY HIGHLIGHTS LOCAL WOMEN MAKING A DIFFERENCE

By Kelly Wise Valdes The much-anticipated education to the real estate Slay the USA book series industry,” said Stinson. has launched in Tampa and Eventually, Stinson marfeatures several incredible ried an Air Force member, women making a difference embraced the opportunity in the Tampa Bay communito live in South Korea, and ty. Best-selling author Leigh travelled while learning M. Clark highlights the perabout the harsh realities sonal lives of successful of generational poverty, women in her book, Slaying exploitation and lack of acTampa Bay, which is now cess. “This experience ignitavailable on Amazon and ed a deep passion for advoBarnes & Noble. cacy and a desire to make Several local women are feaSlaying Tampa Bay pays tured in the new book Slaying a difference in the lives of accolades to several ex- Tampa Bay. The book highlights women and families facing traordinary women who women who are inspirational adversity in resource-poor continually demonstrate and making a difference in our and developing countries,” community, including Lithia their commitment to excelsaid Stinson. resident Jennifer Stinson. lence. It highlights several This led Stinson to start Tampa women and their stories of success her own business in partnership with Noonand inspiration. day Collection, whose business model is a Clark and her team looked for women to vehicle for good, fair-trade fashion with a feature who were leaving their mark and commitment to social entrepreneurship. legacies in the Tampa Bay community, and Through her business, Stinson has created there was no shortage of incredible women a marketplace for more than 2,500 global here. artisan partners (71 percent women) where One woman chosen was Lithia resident she shares the powerful stories of impact Jennifer Stinson, a Noonday ambassador, behind the pieces in the fair-trade collecauthor and fair trade advocate. tions. “I received an email from Leigh in the “Being a co-author of Slaying Tampa Bay spring asking for an interview for a proj- serves as a testament to my dedication to ect,” said Stinson. “I took a chance and the leading a life of purpose, passion and impact 15-minute Zoom interview turned into over and commitment to inspiring others,” said an hour and my ‘yes’ to becoming one of the Stinson. “It provides me with a platform to authors.” amplify my advocacy efforts, contributing to Stinson’s story involves a journey of the positive representation of Tampa Bay’s self-discovery and a commitment to making influential women I am among in the book. a positive impact on the world — “leading a I hope it inspires others, especially women, life of purpose, passion and impact.” who may read about my journey and find Her childhood dreams included becoming motivation to pursue their own passions a teacher and having a family. with purpose and meaning.” “My life took unexpected turns, including For more information, visit https://jennia shift from an initial dream of a career in ferstinson.noondaycollection.com/.

BONNET SPRINGS PARK…NOT JUST FOR KIDS

By Jeff Hoening

Opened in October Once outside, you 2022, Lakeland’s beaucan exercise your way tiful 168-acre Bonnet through the park, by Springs Park is dewalking, running or cyscribed as an ‘urban cling through the plethoasis,’ the perfect green ora of paved pathways, sanctuary for people of stopping at the two staall ages. There are plentionary exercise stations ty of activities for kids, to enhance your workincluding a variety of out. Or, for a more leiCrenshaw Canopy Walk is a shaded path that allows visitors to walk multilevel playgrounds surely experience, jump among the treetops. and climbable trees, but aboard the free electric Bonnet Springs is also a cart that whisks visitors great place for adults to along a 1.8-mile path, enjoy a nice day outside. stopping at key mustUpon entering the sees along the way. park, you’ll be impressed Covered picnic areas with its aesthetic and and shaded benches alcleanliness, as visitors low park-goers to relax, can still smell the fresh eat and socialize with paint and feel the ‘newfriends and family. There ness’ of everything of- Treks up the North Mountain brings are even grass-covered stunning views and breathtaking fered. Even the Givewell ‘mountains’ that allow sunsets. Community Foundation you to ‘hike’ along conScience Center, boasting with exhibits and crete pathways, to the top, for a great view. fun facts about Florida’s ecosystem, hous- For a change in scenery, you can walk along es an incubator where cocoons are still the Lagoon Boardwalk or the elevated Crengrowing future residents of Zoey’s Butterfly shaw Canopy Walk set among the trees. House. End the day by watching the sunset over Begin at the visitor center and venture up- the Western horizon while enjoying a draft stairs to the Watson Clinic Gallery and Mu- beer and some tasty chicken wings, and seum to learn the history of the area and the maybe an ice cream cone, from the Depot pioneering public/private partnership that Café’s rooftop, garden and bar. made Bonnet Springs Park a reality. Once Visit Bonnet Springs Park at 400 Bonnet you’ve visited the gift shop, complete with Springs Blvd. in Lakeland. For more inforbranded apparel, you can enjoy a caffeinat- mation, visit the park’s equally impressive ed beverage in the quaint, cozy coffee shop and informative website at https://bonserving signature Starbucks beverages. netspringspark.com/.

Saint Anne Catholic Church Church Saint Anne Catholic

Saint Anne Catholic Church ~Masses~

Vigil Sunday Vigil 8 Monday-Friday Sunday Wednesday &

~Masses~

Saturday 4:30 p.m. 8 a.m., 10 a.m., & 5 p.m. (12:30 p.m. Spanish) Monday-Friday 8 a.m. Vigil.....................................................................Saturday 4:307p.m. Wednesday & Jueves p.m.

MASSES

Sunday........................ 8 a.m., 10 a.m. & 5 p.m. (12 p.m. Spanish) Recorded Masses can be viewed on the St. Anne website Monday - Friday......................................................................8 a.m. (SaintAnneRuskin.org) and Facebook page. Wednesday............................7 p.m. Jueves.........................7 p.m. Reconciliation Tue. at 8:30am, Thurs. at 6pm, Sat. at 3:15pm The Masses will be streamed uploaded to the St. Anne website and Byand Appointment. (SaintAnneRuskin.org) and Facebook page.

For morewill information, please check thebetween St. Anne The church be open weekdays for private prayer 7 a.m. website. and 3 p.m. Registration is now open for at the6 2021-2022 Faith Formation Reconciliation Tues. at 8:30 a.m., Thur. p.m., Sat. at 3:15 p.m. andyear. by appointment. Please call the please office forcheck more information. For more information, the St. Anne website.

U.S. Hwy. 41 • 106 11th Ave NE • Ruskin SaintAnneRuskin.org • 813-645-1714

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Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

Volume 21, Issue 12

TIPS TO EASE THE STRESS OF HOLIDAY TASKS Staff Report

Florida is home to an abundant and diverse array of species. This is especially true for the number of unique bird species that we can encounter throughout the state. One of the most interesting and adorable birds you may observe is the killdeer. Killdeer are fascinating birds because they are shorebirds that you can find thriving away from the ocean and within inland communities instead of strictly near the water. In fact, killdeer are one of the least water-associated of all the shorebirds. Similar to the snowy and piping plovers who are often found running around the beach, the killdeer are equally a joy to view. These year-round residents are widely distributed across North America and can be found throughout Florida. A portion of the state’s population is also considered migratory. Killdeer prefer habitats that are on open ground spaces with low vegetation, sand or gravel. When inland, they often choose to live around buildings, golf courses and in parking lots. They also frequent wetlands, mudflats, pastures and grasslands. They are small white birds with brown, black and tan plumage. They have a round head and beady, black eyes encircled with a red hue. They are slender in shape with a short bill that is similar to other plovers. They average a length of 8-11 inches long. Killdeer are also identifiable by the double black bands around their neck. They have

short, fast-moving legs and take flight quickly with their wide wings when threatened or disturbed. Killdeer are very cautious, shy yet inquisitive animals. They are opportunistic ground foragers and have a diet that consists almost entirely of insects and small crustaceans, but they will also eat berries and seeds. After killdeer have mated, the pair will often scoop out a shallow nest on the ground made of rocks and sticks. The female killdeer will then lay an average of four to six eggs. Both parents participate in incubation of the eggs. Killdeer may have up to two broods together a year and can find new partners in the following year. It is crucial to their survival that we are aware of ground-nesting and ground-dwelling species. Killdeer and their fondness to live in human-modified habitats make them vulnerable to suffering from habitat loss, degradation, traffic incidents and pesticide poisoning. Remember to help keep Florida wild by respecting wildlife and keeping their habitats free of unnecessary chemicals that are a danger to our treasured biodiversity. Ali Holton is currently director of FishHawk TNR Inc. She has a master’s in biodiversity, wildlife and ecosystems and 20 years of experience specializing in animal behavior and conservation. To reach her, email fishhawktnr4@gmail.com.

(StatePoint) From greeting cards to seasonal to-do lists, there’s a lot to write down and keep track of during the holidays. Use these tips and recommendations to reduce stress while you complete these important tasks: • To-do lists: Whether you’re listing the gifts you must buy for loved ones, the groceries you need to prepare a holiday feast or the tasks you must complete before your guests arrive, writing and referencing a lengthy to-do list can be anxiety provoking. However, choosing the colors of your stationery and writing utensils wisely can ease these feelings and spur you to action. The colors in the G2 gel ink pen’s limited-edition Harmony Collection were formulated to create an oasis of calm. Color psychology suggests that gray represents neutrality and balance; iris blue is meditative with a touch of magic; apricot orange balances energy and is relaxing; salmon signifies hope, health and happiness; grape connotes harmony; and rose pink inspires grace, gratitude and joy. Choose colors according to your mood, then keep your lists posted prominently, such as on your desk or at eye level on the fridge so you stay on top of tasks. After completing an item, cross it out for a sense of immediate accomplishment. • Calendars and planners: Plans can change quickly during the hectic holiday season, so be prepared to adapt to evolving schedules while keeping everyone in the family updated. When entering such seasonal events as holiday office parties, cookie swaps and school plays into your cal-

endar or planner, be sure to use ink that erases cleanly so you can revise repeatedly as needed. Pilot’s FriXion line of erasable pens comes in a variety of hues, making them a great choice for vibrant and easy color coding. • Gift tags: Sometimes, it’s the littlest details that count the most. To ensure loved ones find their names clearly on all the items they receive from you this holiday season, be sure to use a rolling ball pen, such as the Precise Deco pen, to allow for clean lines, even on small gift tags. To personalize gift tags a bit, draw a cute little doodle or cartoon specific to each gift recipient, such as their favorite seasonal symbols, animals or abstract designs. • Holiday cards: The holiday season is the perfect time to catch friends and family up on the events of the past year. While all that note writing is a beautiful way to stay connected to the people that matter most, it can lead to writing fatigue. To write and address your greeting cards with more ease and less stress, use a tool such as Dr. Grip, a wide-body ergonomic pen with a comfortable rubber grip. Its smooth-writing ink dries quickly to help avoid smears, so your sentiments won’t get muddled. To prepare envelopes in bulk, use a wet cotton ball to moisten the glue seal, then press firmly down on each envelope. Post your notes using fun, festive seasonal stamps. For more seasonal tips and inspiration, visit https://powertothepen.com/. As your holiday to-do list grows, you may be feeling a bit frazzled. Having the right tools on hand can help you complete all your tasks with ease.

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Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

December 2023

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The weather is changing, and the fish and their habitat are also changing. The grass has receded, and the bait has shifted to the towers. Most of the target species we look for have shifted into the backwater areas and residential canals to escape the colder water temps. Our offshore species have moved into the 40 ft. ranges and are easier to get to on the calmer days. Sheepshead should be moving into the reef areas inside Tampa Bay and will readily eat a live or dead shrimp. Fiddler crabs are ideal but are sometimes hard to come by. Trout, redfish and snook will be in the seasonal haunts of canals and backwater areas. Artificial baits can be key to fishing this time of year. The waters get very low and the fish will school up in the deeper water bend areas. Try a little flyfishing in these areas

also. A green deceiver fly on an 8-weight setup is a great approach plan. Nearshore fishing, with the fish moving in closer with the season, should be on fire. Do some homework and locate the drops and ledges on Google Maps, the Navionics app or something similar. Pinfish, shrimp or greenies will be spot-on for these fish. Grouper are closed for the year, and coming months after, but there are many other types of fish to hook up with in the gulf. Snapper, grunts, porgy, hogfish and many others will avail themA recent charter brought in some nice selves for the fish on the line for kitchen tathese residents. ble. Inshore setups with a half to 1-ounce weight and a 1/0 hook will be the best bets. Be wary of the low and falling tides this time of year in the inshore waters. You may get stuck for a while if you fail to pay attention.

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Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

Volume 21, Issue 12

BRANDON BAND NASTY SAVAGE CELEBRATES 41 YEARS WITH OVERSEAS TOUR

By Kelly Wise Valdes

Brandon band Nastraveled from Germaty Savage is excited ny, France, Russia as to celebrate 41 years well as other Europeof playing together. To an countries. memorialize this epic “We enjoy playing milestone, the band is our music, being with touring Belgium and the guys, seeing old Holland to play for friends, making new their many fans overones, media coverage, seas. The band has rephotographers’ imagleased five albums and es, the travel, the chalhave toured all over the lenge to deliver the world. music and the stage Brandon band Nasty Savage, still bringing The band has previshow,” said Galletti, energy and excitement to the heavy metal ously toured Europe, who is turning 62 in stages more than 40 years later. including their time in December. 1988 with shows in PoThe band consists of land behind the iron curtain. Galletti, also known as Nasty When they were beginning, Ronnie; Scott Carino on bass Nasty Savage toured with 60 guitar; Jim Coker on drums; as shows in 65 days across the well as Pete Sykes and Dave United States. A few years Orman on guitar. ago, they headlined music fesGalletti explained that their tivals in Lima, Peru; Santiago, stage show has always been Chili; and Mexico. However, they found they an extreme and true performance. had loyal fans across Europe. “Nasty Savage is a mix between pro “It’s always exciting to continue and to wrestling meets Jim Morrison meets a mogo back to something you created years tivational speaker meets Slayer,” said Galago and play to hard-core loyal fans but to letti. “We take people on a trip like a roller also capture new fans of younger demo- coaster of emotion and it will burn images graphic,” said lead singer Ron Galletti. “To in people’s brains.” travel to Holland and Belgium with Nasty Nasty Savage is lining up future dates in Savage in 2023 is a marvelous experience, 2024 to play their popular heavy metal mu100 percent.” sic in Tampa. The Heavy Metal Maniacs Festival was “The music is the power. It’s the most held just outside Amsterdam, Holland. important thing on that live stage,” said The band headlined this two-day event Galletti. that drew more than 1,000 fans. While in For more information visit www.nasBelgium, the band headlined a club full of tysavage.com or Facebook search for Nasty long-time Nasty Savage fans. Concertgoers Savage.

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December 2023

Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

TAMPA’S MAJESTIC MOVIE PALACE CELEBRATES THE SEASON WITH CLASSIC MOVIES AND A VISIT FROM SANTA It is almost the most No holiday season wonderful time of the would be complete year. You can get into without a showing the spirit of the holiday of It’s a Wonderful season by visiting TamLife (1946). You can pa’s most historic thesee this classic beater, the Tampa Theatre, ginning on Friday, and participating in its December 15 at 7 Holiday Classics Movie p.m. There will be Kick off the holiday season with a visit with Series. This started on showings on SatSunday, November 26 Santa as the Tampa Theatre kicks off its annu- urday, December and runs through Jan- al Holiday Classics Movie Series on Sunday, 16 and Sunday, November 26. You can get a free photo courtesy uary 7, 2024. December 17 at 3 of series sponsor Bank of America. Jill Witecki with and 7 p.m. on both Tampa Theatre said, days. Then, you can “When you visit Tampa see the film at 7 p.m. Theatre, you are not just from Monday, Decoming for a movie, you are coming for an cember 18 through Thursday, December 21. experience.” Tampa Theatre will offer a sing-along Witecki added, “One of the brightest and White Christmas on Sunday, December 24 most beloved of those experiences is the tra- at 3 p.m. Ring in the new year with a showdition of sharing favorite holiday films on the ing of Rent on Sunday, December 31 at 3 big screen with family and friends and sing- p.m. The Holiday Classics Movie Series will ing along to holiday carols with the Mighty end on January 7, 2024, with a sing-along Wurlitzer Theatre Organ before the show.” Frozen at 3 p.m. The Holiday Classics Movie Series kicked Tickets for the sing-alongs are $14.50 off on November 26 with the 1947 classic ($11.50 for members). All others are $10 Miracle on 34th Street at 3 p.m. Before the ($7 for members). You can get tickets at film, guests were invited to meet Santa the Franklin Street Box Office or online at Claus himself and take home a free 4-inch https://tampatheatre.org/. by 6-inch commemorative photo. The opporTampa Theatre is also partnering with the tunity to see Santa started at 2 p.m. in the Junior League of Tampa this holiday season. beautifully restored Tampa Theatre lobby. You are asked to bring disposable diapers, On Sunday, December 3, guests watched wipes and diaper cream to families in need. National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation You can also purchase items off the Junior from 1989 at 3 p.m. Then, The Grinch (2018) League of Tampa’s Amazon Wish List. will be on the big screen on Sunday, DecemThe Tampa Theatre is located at 711 N. ber 10 at 3 p.m. Franklin St. in Tampa.

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THE VILLAGE PLAYERS WILL PRESENT

THE TRIAL OF EBENEZER SCROOGE THIS DECEMBER The Village Players of Scrooge encounters his Valrico will present The dead partner, Jacob Marley, Trial of Ebenezer Scrooge in his door knocker and his this December. The play is bedchamber. Marley also a humorous continuation shadows Scrooge around, of Charles Dickens’ classic and as Scrooge sees it, it is for the holiday season and downright stalking on Maris great entertainment for ley’s part. the whole family. The Trial Pierce said, “The cast of Ebenezer Scrooge was and crew of The Trial of written by Mark Brown. Ebenezer Scrooge are not Gail Pierce, director of just talented. In fact, they this production and presare a unique, all-volunteer The Village Players will ident/producer of The ensemble of spirited indiVillage Players, said, “Bring- present The Trial of Ebenezer viduals who bring an amazing The Trial of Ebenezer Scrooge this December. This ing energy and humor to humorous continuation of Scroogee to our community the stage. Each member has Charles Dickens’ classic is is a joy and a privilege. We inpoured their heart into ungreat for the whole family. vite everyone to join us for an derstanding the nuances of evening that celebrates the enduring spirit their characters, ensuring that every laugh of Dickens’ message, with a comic twist that and twist is delivered with precision and only writer Mark Brown could envision. It warmth.” will leave you laughing as you realize there The Trial of Ebenezer Scrooge will be peris more than one way to look at Ebenezer formed on Friday, December 8 and 15, and Scrooge.” on Saturday, December 9 and 16 at 8 p.m. The Trial of Ebenezer Scrooge is a humor- Matinees will be offered on Sunday, Decemous and inventive sequel to Dickens’ A Christ- ber 10 and 17 at 3 p.m. mas Carol. In this comedic reimagining, Tickets are available now for purchase. Ebenezer Scrooge takes the three Christmas General admission is priced at $18, with disSpirits — past, present and future — along counted rates of $15 for seniors (ages 60with his departed business partner, Ja- 65), military personnel and students with cob Marley, to trial. They are charged with ID. Reserved seating is available for groups kidnapping, trespassing, bodily endanger- of 10 or more. ment and even breaking and entering, just To secure your seat, visit https://thevilto name a few. As the trial unfolds, it casts lageplayersvalrico.com/. For more personthe spirits as self-professed do-gooders who alized service, please call the box office at only approximate the future. 813-480-3147.

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Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

Volume 21, Issue 12

Beyond what we give our families and friends, this holiday season offers so many opportunities to brighten the lives of others through charity. The Anonymous Angel or Secret Santa programs at various churches and other nonprofits are great places to start. If you’re interested especially in kids, here are a few organizations that make it easy for you:

A Kid’s Place of Tampa Bay Holiday Gift Drive www.akidsplacetb.org or 813-381-3839

Toys For Tots Tampa

Annual U.S. Marine Corps gift collection tampa-fl.toysfortots.org or 813-510-0701

Metropolitan Ministries Food & toy donations www.metromin.org or 813-209-1000

I give free ad space to groups or events that improve our community. Call me with your ideas! — Ann Marie

East of FishHawk near Alderman's Ford, the wait is over for this custom-built, 4,000-SF pool/spa home that blends country farmhouse roots with breathtaking design & amenities on 5 acres in a gated, exclusive, equestrian enclave! You'll love the lifestyle in this 1-of-a-kind property surrounded by other executive manors! With 5 bedrooms & 4.5 baths (including 3 en suite), plus a front office or den & a 3-car garage, it can handle almost any size family plus guest or multigenerational options. Quality finishes from quartz counters & soft-close wood cabinets to 8-foot doors, 8-inch baseboard & wood-look tile floors. Gas heat for the pool/spa & tankless water heater. New to market at $1,369,000.

In Mariposa, a gated enclave of executive homes at the edge of Riverview, this 3,400-SF beauty offers a private pool in a fenced, corner yard of 1/3 acre with a rear view of trees instead of another neighbor! The Meritage Homes Royal design makes multi-generational living easy with 2 suites suitable as primary bedrooms & baths -- 1 downstairs overlooking the pool's open patio & 1 upstairs with an extended sitting room over the pool's roof-covered lanai. There are 5 beds & 3.5 baths overall, a central great room under a 20-foot ceiling, plus a 3-car tandem garage of more than 760 SF. (That’s right; it only looks like a 2-car from the front.) Soon for sale at $775,000 or for monthly rent at $4,450.

On more than 2 acres with 264 feet along the Alafia River, this custom-built pool home is ready for new owners with new ideas! The original owners' multi-level design includes 4 bedrooms & 2.5 baths under a large gambrel roof. Its central feature is a 2-story great room with stone fireplace, 6 windows & double sliders to a wraparound wood deck overlooking the water. The riverfront entry is wheelchairaccessible with a ramp extending beyond the detached & screened pool lanai, while a door above the ground-level garage & carport opens from the back deck into the kitchen. A barn-style outbuilding adds storage & workshop space. An old boat ramp & dock platform are among items needing attention. Debuting at $749,900.

Beyond recent upgrades from roof to floors, you'll find a backyard haven here that exceeds expectations! A big lanai, with screened & roof-sheltered portions for all-weather enjoyment, surrounds a beautiful pool in a stamped concrete deck. Flowering plants, a double-door storage shed, paved walkways & an open patio are shaded by large trees. It's all vinyl-fenced for privacy, gated each side, on 1/4 acre in no-fee Boyette Springs. Updates to this 2,245-SF 4/2/2 include new luxury vinyl plank floors in almost every room during the last 3 years, a dimensional-shingle roof in 2018, & before that the AC, water heater, doublepane windows, granite counters, etc. Available with incentives at $469,900.

Over $20 million in sales in 2022 RE/MAX Hall of Fame, Top 1% among all agents across Tampa Bay Certified Luxury Home Specialist 31-year resident of Riverview “I live here. I love it here. And I sell here like no one else!”

Email: annmarievaughan @verizon.net Web: annmarievaughan. realtor

Riverview/Apollo Beach

December 2023, Vol. 21, Iss. 12

SCHEDULE ON PAGE 43

St. Joseph’s Hospital-South Earns Top Grade For Eighth Consecutive Time

St. Joseph’s Hospital-South has earned the top grade of ‘A’ eight consecutive times from The Leapfrog Group, a national organization that sets a standard for excellence in patient care and safety. The Riverview hospital received its latest A in the fall 2023 safety grades. “This recognition shows a complete and thorough effort by each medical staff and team member to attain this lofty status. I’m confident that we will continue to achieve these results, as patient safety is inherent in everything we do at St. Joseph’s Hospital-South,” said Patrick Downes, St. Joseph’s Hospital-South president.

pa, Riverview, Brandon, Gibsonton, Ruskin and Wimauma areas, offering transportation to the center. For more information, call 813458-2859.

Cuenelli’s Rotisserie Chicken & Grill Opens Second Location In Riverview

Cuenelli’s Rotisserie Chicken & Grill is a family-owned restaurant specializing in Peruvian-style rotisserie chicken that has recently opened a second The Pavilis Center location at 3834 U.S. 301 in Riverview. Along with For Hope the delicious chicken, it The Pavilis Center for also offers a variety of Hope is an adult day other dishes, including training center which the Cuenelli’s special, a provides support serpalomilla steak served vices to people who with rice, beans, a fried have developmental egg, fried yucca, plandisabilities. It provides tains, salad and a quarfun and creative indoor ter of dark meat chicken. and outdoor activiHomemade desserts are ties, including Spanish also available and include class, employability skills, nature walks and a variety of arts flan, tres leches, milhojas and alfajores. and crafts. The Pavilis Center serves Tam- Visit its website at www.cuenellis.com

The Riverview Woman’s Club assembled 50 blessing bags for ECHO (Emergency Care Help Organization) with donations secured from the community, providing a happy Thanksgiving for those in need. For more information on the club, visit www.riverviewwomansclub.org.

to view the menu. Take-out orders can be placed on its website, with free delivery for orders above $30 within a 5-mile radius.

Mira Med Spa Sip And Shop Event

Mira Med Spa, an upscale boutique medical spa based in Valrico, is hosting a holiday Sip and Shop event on Thursday, December 14 from 2-6 p.m. Stop by to win raffles and shop for skincare products at a 20 percent discount. Along with skincare products, Mira Med Spa also offers facials, massages, lash services, chemical peels and more. Its goal is to make you feel refreshed, confident and beautiful by providing the most advanced treatments and natural looking results. Mira Med Spa is located at 1082 E. Bloomingdale

Ave. in Valrico. For additional information on services offered, visit its website at www.miramedspa.com or call 813654-6472.

Gun Craft Inc. Fulfills All Your Firearm Needs

Gun Craft Inc. has been family-owned and operated for over 30 years. It has a beautiful, multibay outdoor range in a park-like setting and is the only professional outdoor gun range in Hillsbor-

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Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

EYE ON BUSINESS.....CONTINUED FROM PAGE 25 By Jenny Bennett in Riverview. Appointments can be made by calling 813-922-9327 or visiting its website at https://nbsfacialsuite.com/.

ough County. It also offers a retail shop with firearms, ammunition and accessories. Classes and private lessons are also available, and it hosts several types of competitive shooting clubs each month. Gun Craft Inc. is located at 2102 24 St. SE in Ruskin. Additional information can be found on its website at https://guncraftinc.com/ or by calling 813-645-3828.

NBS Facial Suite

The GOAT Plumbing Company

Tina Delgado, owner of NBS (New Beginnings Skincare) Facial Suite, is a Florida licensed facial specialist who specializes in pro-aging and rosacea. NBS Facial Suite offers facials utilizing professional products and equipment. Each treatment is unique and customized to meet the client’s skin care needs and medical concerns on the day of the appointment. Each client must complete a thorough questionnaire, and a complimentary skin analysis is performed prior to treatment. Delgado accomplishes results by using professional products and offering services such as LED light therapy, peels, dermaplaning, facial massage, etc. Following a fire at its previous location, NBS Facial Suite is now located at 10621 Tucker Jones Rd.

Sponsoring Teacher Of The Month:

According to Alex Harrison, owner of The GOAT Plumbing Company, his residential business is “the greatest plumbing company of all time serving Hillsborough County.” It prides itself on its service, honesty and reliability that sets it apart from the competition. The company’s team of skilled professionals goes above and beyond to ensure that customers receive the highest quality plumbing solutions. Whether it’s a routine maintenance task or an emergency, The GOAT Plumbing Company is dedicated to providing exceptional service. It serves all of Hillsborough County. Call 813-438-4628 or visit its website at www.thegoatplumbingcompany.com for more information.

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Volume 21, Issue 12

CHRISTMAS TOWN AT BUSCH GARDENS: THE BIGGEST AND BRIGHTEST HOLIDAY CELEBRATION IN TAMPA BAY Staff Report It’s that time of the to a soundtrack of year for thrills and holiclassic holiday tunes day cheer at Busch Garwill take place on the dens Christmas Town, Festival Field on select the biggest and brightevent nights. est holiday celebration Christmas Town ofin the Tampa Bay area. fers an abundance of Now through January festive flavors to sat7, 2024, the park transisfy the holiday cravBusch Gardens Christmas Town returns forms into a bright winings on your visit. In with all-new displays and returning fater wonderland of sea- vorites like Santas North Pole Experience, addition to traditional sonal entertainment, hot cocoa, which will presented by Coca-Cola, now through unique and up-close enhave a dedicated cabin January 7, 2024. counters with animals, with options to choose culinary masterpieces from, guests can imas well as attractions merse themselves in like Serengeti Flyer and a seasonal culinary the award-winning hyjourney throughout the brid coaster Iron Gwapark, including dishes zi. Iconic and beloved such as chicken coqentertainment options au-vin served with red will take over the entire bliss mashed potatoes; park and be available The jolliest and brightest train around, the holiday poutine, served through the 58 consec- Holly Jolly Express, will transport guests with gravy, cheese into the celebration as it loops around utive days of the event, curds and cranberall included with regu- the park with passengers singing along to ry relish and smoked their favorite songs of the season. lar park admission. turkey with stuffing, All-new this year, cranberry relish, gravy guests can celebrate and Texas toast; and the season with light the festive cheese and displays that will berries, a brie tart with take over the Jungala blackberry jam and area, extending all the sliced almonds. way though Pantopia There will be signafeaturing a light-up ture Christmas Town walkthrough dragon. cocktails to sample Located in the Bird Gar- Guests will experience a marvelous light as well, including the dens area of the park, mistletoe margarita, tunnel, presented by Coca-Cola and guests are sure to step composed of thousands of glimmering ginger snap mule and into wonder through a LED lights seamlessly synchronized to candy cane lane, which holiday tunes. marvelous light tunnel, consists of vodka, Mopresented by Coca-Cola and composed of nin peppermint, grenadine and a splash of thousands of glimmering LED lights seam- lime. lessly synchronized to a symphony of holiday Guests looking for an extra dose of holiday tunes. Also, a brand-new 40-foot pixelated cheer can opt to enhance their Christmas tree will deck the halls at Cheetah Plaza. Town experience by selecting from a nice list Celebrating the holidays for more than a of jolly upgrades. For Santa’s North Pole Exdecade, Christmas Town returns with some perience, presented by Coca-Cola, and meet of the fan-favorites that guests hold near and greets with Rudolph and Friends, a Sanand dear, such as Santa’s North Pole Expe- ta/Rudolph Priority Access Line is available rience, presented by Coca-Cola. Also return- for purchase. And for a merry memorable exing is Storytime with Mrs. Claus and Ru- perience, guests can book a Christmas Town dolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer and Friends VIP Tour, which will include front-of-the-line at Rudolph’s Winter Wonderland, where access to Santa’s House and Rudolph’s Winguests get to meet and greet the most fater Wonderland, a complimentary souvenir mous reindeer of all. mug, reserved seating to the Christmas on Other returning entertainment options Ice show, an opportunity to feed flamingos are Christmas on Ice at the Moroccan Pal- and more. A Christmas Town Elite Tour is ace Theater, Elmo’s Christmas Wish, Three also available, including everything the VIP Kings Journey and the Holly Jolly Express. tour offers plus a meet and greet with Santa The evening sky comes to life with ‘Holiday and reserved seating for the fireworks show. in the Sky, a Nighttime Spectacular,’ preTo be the first to know about event desented by Bad Boy Mowers. This colorful tails and special offers, visit www.christdisplay of festive fireworks choreographed mastown.com.

Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

December 2023

Your Well-Being Is Our Top Priority We understand the importance of swift medical care when you’re injured. Whether it’s a pickleball mishap or any other injury, the dedicated team at the ER at Sun City, an extension of Manatee Memorial Hospital, can provide assistance 24/7. In an emergency — we are here for you.

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Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

FIRST BAPTIST GIBSONTON’S MINISTRY IS GROWING THROUGH CHRISTIAN WORLD TV

By Jane Owen

The first services at “Services are livesFirst Baptist Church treamed on Sunday of Gibsonton were morning, Sunday held in 1930 under night and Wednesa tent on land that day night on Facewas donated for the book. Christan World church. The first TV shares Christian worship building was programming, inbuilt nine years later. cluding preachers From the very begin- Pastor Malcolm Clements in the studio of and teachers. We are ning, the church fo- First Baptist Church Gibsonton’s Christian going to launch kids World TV. cused on ministering programming, probato others while sharing the good news of bly in January,” Brady said. the Bible. Ninety-three years later, First Clements shared that Christian World Baptist Church of Gibsonton has ex- TV is a growing ministry. It has been panded its ministry beyond Hillsborough watched in 119 cities in America and County through the online programming other countries. There are 291 YouTube of its Christian station, Christian World subscribers, and streaming is watched TV. in around 300 homes. There are regular Pastor Malcolm Clements has been listeners, and local viewers have started pastor of First Baptist of Gibsonton for attending the church on-site. 48 years. He found that the COVID-19 “We are just starting. We are growpandemic challenged the church’s ability ing into this. But the potential of what to reach members and stay in contact we are doing is unlimited. For a midsize with them. church in South Hillsborough County to “I said, ‘What can we do?’ We had just be able to have a ministry that literally is finished a building program with remod- not only touching all of America but the eling here. I was by myself and the Lord world — it’s amazing,” Clements said. spoke to me and said, ‘What is your next The mission statement of Christian project?’ I hadn’t thought that far, but World TV is: “To fulfill the great commisGod was pushing me. Then, I had the vision of reaching every person around the sion of the TV station,” Clements said. world with the gospel of Jesus Christ The church built a studio, hired and through social media and technology.” trained staff and invested in high-qualFor more information about Christian ity equipment, including Sony 4K cam- World TV, visit https://christianworldtv. eras, a PreSonus sound board, MacBook com/. Christian World TV videos can Pros and Mac minis. Christian World TV be found on YouTube at www.youtube. launched in May of 2022. com/@christianworldtvfbg. First BapSteve Brady is the internet director of tist Church of Gibsonton is located at Christian World TV. 9912 Indiana St. in Gibsonton.

Volume 21, Issue 12

RIVERVIEW RESIDENT IS ONE OF FEW LIVING WWII VETERANS By Jane Owen Angelo C. Barnello thing he did in his life, Sr. is among the 1 perhe’s quick to answer: cent of Americans alive “Best thing I did? Got who served in World married!” War II. Angelo served At 21, just after he four years in the Magot out of the service, rine Corps, from 1940Angelo married his 1944, all during WWII. high school sweetheart, Born on August 4, Gloria. He recalls plan1928, Angelo loves to ning to run away to share stories from his get married if Gloria’s 99 years. He is legally dad didn’t give them blind, but he has a clear his blessing. They were memory. Angelo readmarried from 1944 ily recalls choosing to Angelo C. Barnello Sr, 99, is among the 1 until Gloria passed enlist in the Marines at percent of Americans alive who served in away in 2012. World War II. 17 years old. Angelo lived on his “You don’t want to go to school no own until two years ago when he moved more? Get a job or go into the service. So, from New York to Florida to live with his I went into the service,” Angelo said. daughter, Angela Barnello. Angela said Joining the Marines at 17 required the her parents’ marriage and love of family signatures of his parents, who were immi- is inspiring. grants from Campobasso, Italy. His mom “They adored each other, and you could didn’t speak much English and he knew see it in their eyes,” Angela said. she didn’t understand what she was signAngelo and Gloria had six children, 15 ing. grandchildren, 34 great grandchildren “I was in boot camp when the war broke and three great grandchildren. out. It took them five minutes to ship me Angelo loves to spend time talking to out. I will never forget. We had a forma- people, and his granddaughter, Melanie tion, and the guy says, ‘We’re leaving for deVilliers, said spending time with him is overseas. They just bombed Pearl Harbor.’ a true pleasure. I says, ‘Who’s Pearl Harbor?’ That’s how “We have looked to him for words of young I was,” Angelo said. wisdom, guidance and for approval. His Angelo has dedicated his life to his sacrifices and experiences are beyond infamily and serving others. He is a lifetime credible. He asks for very little and yet still member of American Legion Post #1650, appreciates routines. He is a simple man; where he was post commander several kind, with strong values such as being on times. After the service, he held several time, being present and for standing up jobs to support his family. He worked for for what he believes in,” deVilliers said. a sign company hanging neon signs for 17 “I led a good life. I like things that I years and then worked as an electrician did.” Angelo said. “I tell you the truth, I’d at a VA hospital in New York until he re- like to make it to 100. I don’t know if I will tired in 1983. If you ask Angelo the best or not, but I hope so. I feel alright.”

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December 2023

Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

Page 49

THOUGHTFUL HOLIDAY GIFTS BEYOND GADGETS: A GUIDE FOR TEENS AND COLLEGE KIDS

By Cameron Clark

As the holiday season apsocks paired with accessories such proaches, many find themas headphones, a stylish water botCooking Class selves pondering the perfect tle, a cozy blanket or a gift card. gifts for the hard-to-buy-for Avah Armour, a student athlete at teenagers and college students the University of Central Florida, in their lives. While tech gadshared her perspective: “Socks used gets are often at the top of to be an annoying gift, but at this wish lists, considering alternaage, I could always use more socks tive options can add a personal in my drawer. I’m always wearing touch to your holiday giving. mismatched socks. It all makes From experiences to traditional sense now.” Bonsai Class presents, here’s a quick guide Top Tech Gifts: to help you navigate the world For those still interested in tech, of holiday gifts for the younger explore gadgets that go beyond the generations. ordinary. Virtual reality experiencExperiences Over Tech: es, smart home devices (Alexa and Instead of the latest tech Google Home paired with smart gadget, consider giving the gift lights) or even personalized tech acof experiences. There are many cessories can be both practical and things in the state of Florida we exciting. Headphones go a long way take for granted beyond theme in college, and some cheaper opparks. Find some nearby musetions that get the job done are ApTrack Personal Rainbow River ple’s older AirPods, or you can opt ums of interest, take a tour of Items Kennedy Space Center, take an for nicer ones like Bose QuietComEverglades swamp boat advenfort 45 Wireless or Apple AirPods ture, go tubing down the RainMax. A very popular and unique bow River, explore the Florida new tech gift is the ChromaComfort Keys (not just Key West) or Bathroom Exhaust Fan with Sentry swimming with manatees. sonic Bluetooth Speaker and LED Concert tickets to see a favor- Think outside the box when shopping for your teen and always consider options tailored to their specific passions. A gift lights. For forgetful teens, consider of a unique experience for your teen (and maybe a friend) will create memories that last. ite performer are always a hit, Tile’s Bluetooth tracking devices. so pay attention to whatever music your or maybe a class at an area nursery? For tools for the DIY enthusiast, an outdoor In the spirit of the holiday season, student is blasting in their room or show- the fashion-forward, a curated clothing adventure like sky diving, a new gam- make your gifts more than just material er. Surfing lessons, movie passes or even subscription or a unique piece of jewelry ing chair or a subscription to a niche possessions — make them expressions cooking classes can all provide memora- might be the perfect fit. A Tiffany heart streaming service, personalized gifts of thoughtfulness and consideration. ble moments that last a lifetime. Offer to necklace or the Prada tag necklace are show that you’ve put thought into their Whether it’s a memorable experience, a have a friend tag along for the fun too. on the pricier side but meaningful and dedicated interests. Inflatable loungers unique tech gadget or a traditional gift Experiences not only entertain but also timeless. Lots of college girls love captur- or hammocks are a fun option for a col- with a twist, show that you know and apoffer opportunities for personal growth ing the moment, so find a cheap digital lege kid, and retro vinyl record players preciate the recipient’s individuality. This and skill development. camera or buy a few disposable cameras are also popular right now. And a lot of holiday season, let your gifts reflect the Top Girl Gifts: for some fun memories for her. guys would also appreciate a nice chain joy of giving with a personal and unique Ditch the clichés and consider gifts Top Guy Gifts: or watch. touch. that cater to individual passions. If she Move beyond generic gifts for guys Traditional Presents with a Twist: loves plants, why not a beautiful little by focusing on their hobbies and preferPut a creative spin on traditional gifts. Clark is a Freshman student at the plant or cactus for her dorm or bedroom, ences. Whether it’s a set of high-quality Consider gifting classic holiday gifts, like University of Central Florida.

Page 50

Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

Volume 21, Issue 12

STRAZ CENTER OFFERS WORLD-CLASS PERFORMANCES FOR ALL AUDIENCES

APOLLO BEACH RESIDENT WRITES BOOK AFTER DISCOVERING HER FAMILY HISTORY

By Kathy L. Collins

The Straz from January Center for the 9-14, 2024. Performing Then, pop the Arts (The Straz) champagne and is a venue locatenjoy Moulin ed in downtown Rouge!, which Tampa. It sits won 10 Tony on a beautiful Awards. Moulin 9-acre parcel Rouge! comes right on the to town from banks of the February 7-18, Get into the holiday spirit with a performance of The Hillsborough 2024. River. With- Nutcracker by Next Genernation Ballet at The Straz this A mesmerin The Straz, December. If you miss this show, be sure to check out all izing new prothat The Straz has to offer. you have Carol duction of the Morsani Hall, Ferguson Hall, Jaeb The- iconic musical Jesus Christ Superstar ater, the Hinks and Elaine Shimberg will celebrate its 50th anniversary with Playhouse and the TECO Theater. The a run in Tampa from March 5-10, 2024. Patel Conservatory, which provides arts Girl from the North Country, which training in dance, theatre and music, is features 20 legendary songs from Bob also housed at The Straz. Dylan, will be performed from March 27December through June is an excit- 31, 2024. ing time at The Straz and for anyone You will not want to miss everyone’s who loves first-rate entertainment and favorite Scottish nanny in Mrs. DoubtBroadway shows. There will be shows fire from April 2-7, 2024. After that, the featuring The Florida Orchestra, ballet musical comedy Book of Mormon will be and numerous Broadway hits. in Tampa from April 16-21, 2024. FolFirst up, get into the holidays with a lowing up will be the high-flying musical fantastic holiday show featuring The Peter Pan, which has been delighting auFlorida Orchestra as it presents Holiday diences of all ages for close to 70 years. Pops on Friday, December 15. This is a Peter Pan comes flying to town from fantastic show that makes for a great April 30 through May 5, 2024. traditional family trip to The Straz. Next up is murder and mystery with From Thursday through Saturday, De- the musical Clue, which will be in Tampa cember 21-23, you can enjoy The Nut- from May 28 through June 2, 2024. cracker courtesy of Next Generation And finally, you will not want to miss Ballet. The Nutcracker takes audienc- Les Misérables, which will be on stage es into a fantastical world of dazzling from June 11-16, 2024. dancing sweets, sword-fighting rodents For specific information on dates, and timeless ballet music. times and prices for tickets to each Company, a Broadway hit and winner show, please visit www.strazcenter.org of five Tony Awards, will be performed or call the box office at 229-7827.

Apollo Beach resident other genealogy sourcTheresa L. McGoldrick es. The book is infused is a descendant of John with news, local events Alden and his wife, and stories stretching Priscilla Mullins-Alden, over 100 years. It all of the Mayflower. She begins in the 1850s and learned about this hisfollows the lives of three torical connection in pioneer families and 2010, and this led Mctheir descendants after Goldrick to do in depth their arrival in the logresearch on her famging and lumber town of ily. It also led to the Stillwater, Minnesota. publishing of her book, McGoldrick said, “I Unspoken Words: A Denamed my book Unscendant of Stillwater spoken Words: A DePioneers Discovers Her scendant of Stillwater Ancestors. Pioneers Discovers Her McGoldrick is an apAncestors because of An interesting historical fact took proved member of the the way the ancestral Theresa McGoldrick on a genealogy General Society of May- research trail and led her to writing records and very old flower Descendants. newspaper articles I her book, Unspoken Words: A She is also a member Descendant of Stillwater Pioneers found on microfilm, at of the Society of Maylibraries, historical soDiscovers Her Ancestors. flower Descendants in cieties or online had sithe State of Minnesota. When she moved lently spoke to me during my research to Florida in 2015, she became a member about my family, their acquaintances of the Society of Mayflower Descendants and the goings-on in their towns and our in the State of Florida. country throughout the centuries and McGoldrick explained, “Since I had so decades while they lived. That is why the much information on my ancestors, due designer of the cover put a background to several years of research, I decided to of a newspaper behind the picture of my begin writing my book. My book took on great-great grandfather.” a life of its own. It became more than As to genealogy and research, McGoljust an ancestry book due to the snippets drick said, “For those people who realof newspaper articles I incorporated. ly enjoy family history or history itself, Once I decided to write the book, I be- I would recommend it. If they are not lieve from start to finish it took about a interested in doing full on ancestry reone and a half years to write and pub- search, I found vintage newspaper artilish.” cles to be fascinating.” Unspoken Words: A Descendant of You can find Unspoken Words: A DeStillwater Pioneers Discovers Her Ances- scendant of Stillwater Pioneers Discovtors is inspired by details found within ers Her Ancestors online at Barnes & newspaper articles, ancestry records and Noble and on Amazon.

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December 2023

Page 51

MOBILE SHOWER OUTREACH

NEXT GENERATION CONTINUES LAUNCHES IN HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY TNT TERMITE & PEST CONTROL’S By Kelly Wise Valdes EXCEPTIONAL SERVICE Although taking a hot working to add additional shower and doing laundry locations as well.” is a common occurrence Ultimately, ShowerUp for most people, there is a will establish full-time rising homeless population operations in Tampa Bay in Hillsborough County and hopefully purchase a that doesn’t have that opnew mobile unit that will tion. Fortunately, there is a have showers and a mosolution. Paul Schmitz and bile laundry. ShowerUp is a mobile shower his wife, Rhonda Schmitz, outreach that has recently launched “Our costs to purchase in Tampa. launched ShowerUp in the equipment and opthe Nashville area in erate for the whole first 2016, and it is available loyear full time is $228,000,” cally. ShowerUp is a mobile said Paul. “Until we reach outreach that provides hot that goal, we have been able showers and laundry services to start part-time operations to people in need. In most cities, there are with a mobile shower unit that we had been resources for those experiencing homeless- using in one of our other cities. It doesn’t ness to receive meals, clothing and other have mobile laundry, but it does have three necessities, but the Schmitz family realized private shower suites, air conditioning and that there are very few places to get a hot unlimited hot water.” shower and take care of basic hygiene. ShowerUp has raised 30 percent toward “Like most of the cities that we launch in, its full-time goal. As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, it we were invited to come to Tampa Bay by relies on individuals, families, churches, busisomeone who has seen the need and reached nesses and local foundations for support. out to us,” said Paul. “Tampa Bay is a similar “We are looking for collaborative partners size to our first city, Nashville. There’s also a who we can come alongside,” said Paul. “We sizable number of people who are experienc- love to team up with other groups and noning homelessness and who don’t have access profits who are doing amazing things like to a shower on a regular basis.” providing meals, clothing, haircuts, etc. One ShowerUp held two events last month of the things that we love is involve as many where it provided 30 showers and supplied people as we can in our outreach. Whether toiletries, hygiene and other needed items. it’s through financial support, volunteering, “Sometimes, the biggest need is just for taking care of needs on our Amazon Wish friendship, relationship and community,” List or building shower kits for us, we love to said Paul. work with the community.” Because ShowerUp is mobile, it is able Donations can be made at https:// to go to multiple locations throughout the showerup.org/ and can be designated for course of a week. The goal is to establish a ShowerUp Tampa Bay. The shower location regular schedule with multiple locations. schedule can also be found on the website. “As of right now, we have locations set Follow ShowerUp on Facebook at ShowerUp up at Bread of Refuge in Brandon and with Tampa Bay and Instagram @showeruptamFeeding Tampa Bay,” said Paul. “We are pabay.

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Many families while expanding have things they their involvement in pass down throughthe community. out generations, of“I never would tentimes a piece of have envisioned furniture, vintage working in a career jewelry or maybe involving insects, family traditions. For but it’s a lot of fun this local couple, it is and I learn sometheir family-owned thing new about and operated busi- Ed and Bonnie Tekampe are thrilled to be bugs every day,” able to pass their business on to their son, ness. said Grace, “I was Andy Tekampe, as they know he will be Ed and Bonnie obsessed with bugs a great leader for the TNT Termite & Pest Tekampe founded when I was a little Control team. TNT Termite & Pest girl, so I guess I Control in 2011 and have been serving came full circle.” Eastern Hillsborough County ever since. TNT Termite & Pest Control offers a Now, they are ready to pass it along to wide range of pest solutions, including their son, Andy Tekampe, and his wife, treatments for ants, wasps, roaches, Grace Tekampe. silverfish, spiders, and subterranean Andy has been working in the family termites. The company primarily serves business since 2012 and has since be- Eastern Hillsborough County, covercome a certified operator in both pest ing areas such as Lithia, FishHawk, and termite control. As the years went Bloomingdale, Valrico, Riverview, Apolby and his parents began considering re- lo Beach, Brandon, Seffner, Dover, Gibtirement, they knew they would want to sonton, Wimauma, Sun City Center and pass along their company to him. Ruskin. “I look forward to working with cus“Customers will still feel that sense of tomers more and further expanding ed- familiarity knowing it was passed down ucation on native Florida insects,” said to their son,” said Grace, new co-owner Andy, now co-owner of TNT, who aims of TNT. “They still get that comfort with to gain more experience as a leader for the familiar Tekampe name.” his team and make sure that everything The Tekampe family is looking forward operates smoothly. to the future of TNT and are excited to In addition to Andy’s expertise, continue community engagement, exGrace’s background in customer service pand their educational initiatives and enand her passion for writing and commu- sure that the business continues to thrive. nication make her a valuable addition to For more information, please contact the TNT team. As residents of FishHawk Grace at grace@tnttermiteandpestconthemselves, the two aim to continue pro- trol.com or visit https://tnttermiteandviding exceptional pest control services pestcontrol.com/.

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Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

Volume 21, Issue 12

VALRICO FATHER WANTS TO SHARE JOURNEY OF EMPATHY AND CONNECTION AFTER LOSS

By Kelly Wise Valdes

Sometimes life large crowds, Mejia throws curve balls at is determined to stop us. No one knows this teenage suicide. Mejia better than Valrico advocates that parents resident Alvaro Mejia. make an effort to listen Years ago, while sitwith empathy and unting at the kitchen taderstanding. ble, he embarked on a “This is a mistake life-changing conversathat I wish to change tion with his son, Danny. by helping others un“Dad, I’m gay,” Danny derstand that bigotry told his father. Mejia did Valrico resident Alvaro Mejia is spread- has no place in faminot handle this news lies.” ing the word of parental compassion and communication in an effort to stop well. It took three years “My relationship with teenage suicide and honor the memory of for Danny to break his son, Danny. my child plummeted through his father’s when Danny told me he was gay,” said Mejia. defenses. “I disowned him.” Fortunately, Danny continued to use paToday, Mejia is on a mission to help others tience and persistence to educate his father. learn from his mistake. “I would like to share “I lost three years of my life with Danny my story. My example offers many people a because of my stubbornness,” said Mejia. chance to mend what might be broken and “My son taught me so much more than my give hope to those who feel hopeless,” he limited mind could fathom. He taught me said. how to accept people who are different than “I still tremble, filled with shame and re- me.” morse. How can a loving father reject a son A few short years later in March 2011, that adores you? This irrational rejection is Danny was diagnosed with a brief illness totally unacceptable,” said Mejia. that took his young life. Mejia found out later that Danny attempt“If I knew our time together would not ed suicide. Heartbroken by the recollection, continue forever, I would have made differMejia continued, “I didn’t understand that ent decisions. I don’t want anyone else to Danny’s sexuality was not one of choice.” suffer as I do now,” Mejia said regretfully. According to the American Academy of He continues to tell his story in hopes it Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, suicide is resonates with other families. He has spothe second-leading cause of teenage death. ken to groups around the country as well as Teenage suicide is often attempted because internationally, telling his story of hope and parents reject their own children, and gay reconciliation. For more information about a children are rejected at a very high rate. public speaking engagement, contact Mejia Recently, Mejia launched a business that at alvaro@alvaro-mejia.com or call 813aims to spread the message of reconciliation, 444-9575. You can also find him on Facehope and love. Speaking in front of small and book by searching ‘Alvaro Mejia Valrico.’

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December 2023

Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

Page 53

PALM TREE SANTAS OFFERS SPECIAL VISITORS FOR HOLIDAY EVENTS

Schedule Your Tour Today!

By Jane Owen ’Tis the are hiring s e a s o n a trained for perprofessionfect beach al with a weather, background festive boat check, liabilparades and ity insurance decorated and a Santa palm trees. who abides While it is by a code of true that ethics,” said holiday traElkin. ditions in The numFlorida are A group from the Palm Tree Santas met for dinner in October ber of Sanat The Shrimp Boat in Valrico. unique, most tas in the everyone agrees a visit from Santa is a organization varies from year to year, highlight of the season. but it is between 125 and 150. In HillsIf you are looking to see Santa or hope borough County, there are currently 26 he will make a special visit, the place to Santas. On the Palm Tree Santas webstart your search is with the Palm Tree site, Santas can be located by county. Santas Inc. You will find a Santa and Santas are listed with a picture and peace of mind. biographical information. They can be The Palm Tree Santas is an organi- emailed and, in many cases, called or zation of professional Santas and Mrs. texted. There is a place on each Santa’s Clauses who are all required to submit page to request a quote from a Santa an annual background check, carry a for a public event. In addition, there is a professional entertainers liability in- Santa coordinator who will send a quote surance and maintain a membership in on whichever Santa is available. the International Brotherhood of Real It’s been 30 years since Elkin porBearded Santas (IBRBS). trayed Santa for the first time, and his Bob Elkin, known as ‘Santa Bob,’ is passion for the role has grown every the president of the Palm Tree Santas. year. In 1993, Elkin first spread joy as a San“Each time a child sees Santa, they ta at his granddaughter’s preschool. He seem to light up. The love, the hope and soon became passionate about sharing the joy that shows in their eyes and in the traditions of Santa in a profession- their smiles warms your heart. I am so al way; Elkin even has a Ph.D. in Santa very blessed to portray Santa Claus,” ElClausology. He started Palm Tree Santas kin said. in 2006, and the organization was incorFor more information about the Palm porated as a nonprofit in 2011. Tree Santas, email Santa Bob at san“Hiring a member from our website ta@santatb.com. To find a Santa, visit means the client can rest assured they https://palmtreesantas.com/.

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Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

HARD WORK PAYS OFF: MAISI SIGLER COMMITS TO WEST POINT SOFTBALL PROGRAM By Nick Nahas Maisi Sigler, first the Army, and with baseman/outfielder a West Point educafor the Academy of tion, she will be able Holy Names, has been to be commissioned a softball standout for in the Army upon the school since she graduation as an ofwas in eighth grade. ficer. She wants to She got her start playmajor in computer ing in the FishHawk science and join the recreational softball cyber branch of the league as a kid. The Army. She’s been game has opened the coding since sixth door for the Riverview grade. resident to pursue her The softball star lifelong goal of servwas inspired by her Photos courtesy of Melissa Moss. ing in the Army. grandfather, Louis W. Maisi Sigler went on a visit to West Point Johnson, who served She committed to with her mom, Becky Sigler. the West Point softin the Army for more ball program and will than 32 years. Sigler officially sign in Februnever got to meet him, ary 2024 once she has but her family has told her official acceptance her for her whole life to the school. Sigler has that she embodies his her letter of assurance spirit and energy. and nomination but is Sigler wants to make still going through the the most of her last long process of admithigh school softball seatance to the prestigious son, especially since she school. won’t be able to play in “I met the Army the summer because of coaches, and they were Softball star Maisi Sigler was inspired basic training. She beamazing. I feel a lot by her grandfather Louis W. Johnson, lieves that softball has more at peace now that who served in the Army for more than helped her grow from a 32 years. I am committed,” said leadership perspective Sigler. “I’ve always wanted to join the and will carry on into her military career. Army. It just made sense that I would go “My goals for softball in college are to somewhere that is not only a prestigious keep getting stronger, keep getting betuniversity but also somewhere I could ter, work well with my team — things meet my end goal of joining the Army that I can use in the Army that will beneand put me in a good spot.” fit me in the future,” said Sigler. Sigler was always planning on joining

Volume 21, Issue 12

Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

December 2023

Page 55

THE GIFT OF GIVING THIS CHRISTMAS SEASON By Ashley Abene Inflation has made it diftoys during the Christmas ficult financially for many season. There are many families this year, making drop-off locations for toys, the need across the nabut exact locations can be tion staggering. Thankfulfound at https://tampa-fl. ly, there are many ways to toysfortots.org. help those in the communi- Metropolitan Ministries has For over 50 years, Metrobeen providing toys for kids in ty, as several organizations politan Ministries has been need every Christmas season. are hosting charity supporting families drives this Christmas in need throughout season. the year. This holiday ECHO (Emergency season, MetropoliCare Health Ortan Ministries is ganization) is a expected to suplocal organization port over 30,000 that supports families through families in crisis its various drives with emergency and holiday tents. food, clothing and Learn more about other resources. ECHO partners with local the ways to help at www.metromin.org/ churches every holiday season to provide holiday-central/ways-to-give/. toys and food through The Brandon Gift Meals on Wheels is an organization that of Hope. There are many ways to give to supports the homebound, elderly and disthis drive, such as monetary donations, abled within the community. Each Decemshopping for the wish list and volunteer- ber, Meals on Wheels delivers holiday gift ing. More information about how to par- bags to those within the program. Volunticipate can be found at https://echofl.org/ teers are needed to help deliver these gift holiday-assistance/. bags. More information can be found at Salvation Army’s Angel Tree is a way to https://mowtampa.org/programs/holiday/. donate a toy to a local child this ChristFinally, The Give Joy Collective is made mas. To participate, head to an Angel Tree up of local foster moms, who have a heart location, grab an angel off the tree, pur- for children in the foster care system. In chase gifts for that child and return with a combination effort of local churches and the unwrapped gifts. For a list of all Angel The Give Joy Collective, it hosts Christmas Tree locations, call 813-549-5303 or go for Fosters which helps foster children to https://salvationarmyflorida.org/holi- have a lovely Christmas. This year, 900 day-assistance/. foster children are expected to be sponToys for Tots, a U.S. Marine Corps Re- sored through this program. Christmas serve program that collects toy donations for Fosters needs monetary donations or for children of all ages, has been collecting sponsoring a foster child. More informadonations for the last 76 years. In 2022, tion on this program can be found at www. Toys for Tots was able to distribute 131,855 christmasforfosters.com.

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10018 Park Place Ave • Riverview (just off I-75 & Gibsonton Dr • Exit 250)

400 Frandorson Cir., Apollo Beach

Page 56

Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

Volume 21, Issue 12

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