Osprey Observer Riverview/Apollo Beach July 2020

Riverview/Apollo Beach

41 C E L E B R A T I N G

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Riverview-Opoly Is A Creative Twist On A Much-Loved Game That Helps Local Charities

By Gwen Rollings

Pass Go Collect $200 (Riverview 14); buy properties on Lumsden Rd., Providence Rd. or even Big Bend Rd. (you might want to rethink that); or land on Get Out Of Jail Free from a local attorney.

Riverview-opoly is still popular in 2020. There was a Riverview-opoly Release Party on June 25 at Four Stacks Brewing & Rosemary Grill with the event proceeds benefitting the Emergency Care Help Organization (ECHO). Donations to charities remain the main focus of events and sales.

Bryan said the price of games can vary according to the event. The price of a game not purchased at an event is $30.

He added, “We’re excited to hear the ideas that businesses and charitable organizations come up with, which allows Riverview-opoly to contribute to their success and the good of the Riverview community.”

Bryan and Marijean have a quote from the back of the 2020 edition of their game: “We dedicate this 2020 edition of Riverview-opoly and its predecessor, the original Riverview-opoly created in 2016, to the current and future residents of the Riverview community. We hope that they all will come to cherish this community as much as we do.”

Purchases can be arranged by contacting Bryan Reith at 426-2757 while supplies last.

PRSTD STD U.S. POSTAGE PAID TAMPA, FL PERMIT #2397

Riverview area residents have the chance to play a game for a great cause this month.

Monopoly, which is the bestselling privately patented board game in history, gained popularity in the United States Bryan and Marijean during the Great Reith originally Depression when created Riverviewan unemployed opoly as a fundraiser for local heating engineer charities sold the concept to Parker Brothers in 1935. Before then, homemade versions of a similar game had circulated in many parts of the United States.

A twist on that game, Riverviewopoly, gained popularity in recent years in the Riverview community with more altruistic rules in play. It is no longer only “What can I get?” but “What can I give?”

Bryan and Marijean Reith, Team Reith Re/Max Realty Unlimited, said recently, “We are so pleased to use Riverviewopoly proceeds to do good things in the Riverview community.”

Riverview-opoly was an original creation of this dynamic duo in 2016 when they ran together for the title of Honorary Mayor of Riverview hosted by the Greater Riverview Chamber of Commerce. Team Reith used Riverview-opoly in 2016 and again in 2019 as they ran together for Honorary Mayor(s) of Riverview for a combined total of over $25,000 for charity.

The Riverview-opoly board game is unique and quite a collector’s item. For example, you might land on Boardwalk Complex located in Gibsonton; As You

P O S I T I V E

C O M M U N I T Y

N E W S

Chamber Kicks Off #tasteofGRCC Campaign With 40 Area Restaurants

Staff Report

Riverview bers to area residents invite their looking for friends, some different family and food choices colleagues are in luck this to particimonth. pate in the The 2020 Taste Greater of GRCC Riverview and use our Chamber of hashtag, Commerce #tasteofgr(GRCC) is cc. Prize The The Greater Riverview Chamber of Commerce rolling out the (GRCC) is inviting residents to earn rewards for eating winners will at local restaurants this month. reimagined be posted 2020 Taste of GRCC event. Until on the Taste of GRCC Group by July Tuesday, July 21, community mem31,” said Kirkland. bers have the opportunity to support Further details can be found on local GRCC food and beverage www.facebook.com/groups/tasteofgrestablishments through dining in, cc2020/ or takeout or ordering delivery. www.riverviewchamber.com.

“In this initiative, our goal is to Participating food and beverage increase community exposure and establishments must be Greater social media engagement for our Riverview Chamber of Commerce local food and beverage establishmembers. If you own a food and bevments,” said Gabby Morford, GRCC erage establishment and you wish to event coordinator. become a part of the Taste of GRCC, Community members have the please contact Kirkland, GRCC memchance to win a wide range of fantas- bership director, at tic prizes by simply visiting the food debbie@riverviewchamber.com or and beverage establishments on the 234-5944. list provided. Community members can find the list of participating food and beverage establishments (more InThis than 60 are available) as well as the Issue list of prizes on the Taste of GRCC Facebook group page.

For the chance to win one of the PRINCIPALS ..........................................PG 3 dozens of prizes (minimum value of RELAY FOR LIFE....................................PG 4 $25), community members can post a picture of their purchase on the AB NATURE PRESERVES ...................PG 10 Taste or GRCC Facebook group HESS ORTHODONTICS & BUCS........PG 17 page and tag the selected food and beverage establishment(s).

SCOUTS MAKING MASKS.................PG 23 Community members can also leave a Google review for the selected food EYE ON BUSINESS.....................PGS 30­31 and beverage establishment(s).

SPORTS CONNECTION .....................PG 45 GRCC has an email available for submissions (taste@riverviewchamARTS & ENTERTAINMENT................PG 47 ber.com) for those who do not have a READ MORE LOCAL NEWS ONLINE Facebook page.

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Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

Volume 18, Issue 7

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Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

New Principals Take The Reins Of Ippolito, Giunta, Rodgers & Riverview Schools

By Taylor Wells

In June, the maintained and Hillsborough County stayed the best that School Board selectwe could be,” she ed 34 schools and said to the communiprograms for princity. pal reassignments, “For me, Ippolito which includes four is family. I enjoyed schools in the the teachers, the stuSouthShore area: dents and the comIppolito Elementary munity,” said Cindy Land, former principal of Greg Basham, new principal of Ashlee Mcnanamey, new Ivin Gunder, new principal of School, Giunta Bennett.

Giunta Middle Rodgers Middle Magnet principal of Ippolito Elementary Riverview High Middle School, “When I first got Rodgers Middle to Ippolito, we had a Magnet School and lot of work to do, and Riverview High I had individuals School. around me that Though they offimade that work cially took the reins easy. It’s a great on July 1, some of school. It sits kind of the new principals off to the side, actually started early, nobody knows it’s so they’re already back there off of Danielle Shotwell, former Nicole Bennett, former principal David New, former principal of Tiatasha Brown, new principal getting used to their Falkenburg, but the principal of Riverview High of Ippolito Elementary Rodgers Middle Magnet of Giunta Middle new positions. kids are just wonderclogger.

At Ippolito, Ashlee McManamey, pre- Shotwell has moved to the district level ful, so I really enjoyed my time there,” as the general manager of employee Nicole Bennett has been in viously working at Woodbridge she added. relations.

Hillsborough County for 16 years and Elementary School, has taken the reins Ippolito Elementary School is located Ashlee McManamey started in started her teaching career at Edison of principal from Nicole Bennett, who herat 6874 S. Falkenburg Rd. in Riverview.

Hillsborough County Public Schools Elementary School, where she stayed for For more information, call 672-5180 or self is heading to James Elementary seven years ago as an assistant principal four years, and next she went to Foster School as its new principal. visit ippolito.mysdhc.org for more informaat Tampa Heights Elementary, staying for Elementary School as an assistant princi- tion.

At Rodgers, Greg Basham, formerly three years, then she took a year off to pal for another four years. In 2012, she a supervisor in leadership development, Rodgers Middle Magnet School is care for her second child and work on took over as principal as Foster, then she located at 11910 Tucker Rd. in Riverview. has been reassigned as its principal in earning her doctorate in curriculum and began as the principal of Ippolito in place of David New. For more information, call 671-5288 or instruction.

March 2014.

At Giunta, Tiatasha Brown, who was visit rodgers.mysdhc.org.

“I’m really looking forward to meeting Now, Bennett is taking on the job as the principal of Middleton High School, Giunta Middle School is located at the students and increasing student principal at James Elementary, and she has become the principal in place of 4202 S. Falkenburg Rd. in Riverview. For achievement—in all, in reading, math and will greatly miss the community of Cindy Land. more information, call 740-4888 or visit science,” said McManamey.

Ippolito, but she believes the school is in At Riverview, Ivin Gunder, most giunta.mysdhc.org.

Her closest tie to the area before good hands and will continue to grow. recently the principal at Lakeside Junior Riverview High School is located at now was that she would go to Balm “Thank you for always being there High School, has taken over Danielle 11311 Boyette Rd. in Riverview. Call 671Riverview with a team as a competitive and being supportive, and seeing that we 5011 or visit riverviewhs.mysdhc.org.

Shotwell’s position as its principal, and

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Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

Relay For Life Continues To Fundraise Despite Pandemic

By Faith Miller

Ever since the shutdown caused by the coronavirus, fundraising organizations have been finding new ways to raise money and connect volunteers and donors.

The American Cancer Society’s (ACS) well-known fundraiser, Relay For Life, has found new, innovative ways to help those who need it.

At the beginning of the coronavirus shutdown, Relay For Life was on the verge of putting on hold almost all of their in-person events, including more than 30 regional events and fundraisers that raise money that ACS puts towards research and patient services throughout the year.

But that’s not the only downside the organization has faced during shutdown.

“The suspension of our events caused our volunteers and survivors a lost chance to connect face to face with the community,” stated Tammy Schoonover, an employee of ACS. However, with hard times comes growth. ACS has recently adopted a new mantra, “Cancer hasn’t stopped, so neither can we.”

“It’s this attitude that emboldens the effort and fueled our drive to utilize virtual possibilities” said Schoonover.

This pandemic has caused the organization to grow and adapt, gaining “a better sense of the resiliency” of the volunteers, partners and supporters. The company is continuing to provide “all the core objectives of [its] mission,” which includes the funding and support of

research and the ability to provide the services needed, despite COVID-19.

An example of this would be the East Coast Relay For Life, a virtual event that included ‘Relayers’ from Maine to Miami, that took place on June 26. The company personally called and invited 60,000 supporters to make sure the event was a success. ACS and Relay For Life have also held virtual dance parties, virtual 5K events and much more across the nation as fundraisers to replace the ones that were canceled. According to Schoonover, just recently in Tampa Bay, it held a “one-hour Facebook Live presentation in partnership with Tampa General Hospital” joined by a panel of medical experts where they offered advice on how to handle COVID19.

An event that is coming up is a nationwide event called ‘Share the Light’ and it is set to take place on Thursday, July 16. The organization is also currently mapping its plans for its fall events and is planning on making an announcement in the near future. It is closely paying attention and following all CDC guidelines because “the safety of our volunteers always will be paramount,” stated Schoonover.

For more, visit cancer.org or call 1800-227-2345. To keep up with what ACS is doing in Florida, visit the ACS Florida Facebook page at AmericanCancerFL.

Volume 18, Issue 7

Home Makers Of Hope: Warm Beds For All

By Dominique Asher

Saturday team so we can try to keep up with the additional referrals. We expect to see the list explode once we open it back up.”

Currently, Home Makers of Hope is having a queen-size sheet drive where anyone can help donate used or, if they are able to, new queen-size sheets to Home Makers of Hope. The increasing demand for twin and queensize beds has made them A volunteer posing with newly decorated room. the most common item Home Makers of Hope, a local charidelivered; however, there are zero queenty and faith-based ministry which aims to size sheets in the warehouse to be delivprovide furniture and household items for ered with the beds right now, so that item those struggling or returning from homeis the biggest necessity. lessness, is reopening its warehouse Over the past year, the ministry has after a hiatus due to the coronavirus and expanded after winning the Tampa Bay is starting to get back to providing families Lightening Community Hero Award, in with items. Pam Stamey, president and which it was awarded with a large donafounder of Home Makers of Hope, started tion of furniture from Innisbrooke Resort with the idea for Home Makers of Hope and was able to repair their trucks and after working on a church project in which increase the amount given to each family a family of five needed three twins beds, by a third. and after seeing their empty apartment, A great volunteer experience, those she wanted to help them cultivate a famiover the age of 16 can help drive the ly space and home. trucks, organize the warehouse, choose Unfortunately, due to the pandemic, decor and help set up homes. for the first time in 12 years, Stamey had Stamey expressed, “It is very importo shut down the doors to Home Makers tant to show the utmost respect to our of Hope on March 12, with around 80 families and fellow volunteers. We also plus families and people awaiting donahave many volunteers that are retired and tions of goods. However, the ministry is spend their extra tunes and talents to now slowly reopening and continuing with help families all over the country.” business while taking precautions. The If you are interested in learning more, loss of jobs and businesses closing left donating or volunteering with Home many struggling and displaced. Stamey Makers of Hope, go to http://www.homeclaimed, “We are even starting a makersofhope.com/.

July 2020

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Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

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Summertime Fishing Fun On Tampa Bay Summer is upon us.

With the increased temperature comes warmer water, storms, summer heat and targeting of different fish.

The heat of summer brings some new precautions. The sun can be brutal and if you’re not dressed properly and using sunscreen, the dangers are real. A sunburn is not only painful but can lead to skin cancers. The heat and humidity can also cause dehydration and heat exhaustion, so make sure you’re drinking plenty of liquid. With summer comes storms, so make sure you have some good weather and radar apps to track them. We captains have a saying, “Fear the thunder, run from the lightning.”

Bottom line is, using good judgement and common sense will allow you to enjoy the great summer fishing on Tampa Bay. The fishing continues to be fantastic.

Bait is all over the bay. Balls of threadfins can be seen everywhere. Whitebait is located at most towers and has also showed up on the grass flats. Nice-sized Spanish mackerel are following the bait.

Cobia are still being found on markers and towers. My great friend Dale was able to double up on these two nice cobia on a recent trip.

Blacktip sharks are still in the bay

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and willing to take any bait you put out there. Dawn and dusk are the best time to hook up on this great fighting fish. They are easy to target and create great fishing tales.

Tarpon seem to be everywhere this year and in great numbers. We have landed 12 so far and haven’t even targeted them. If your goal is to catch a tarpon, this is the year to do it. The juveniles have also showed up and are eating first thing in the morning and just before dark.

Gag grouper opened up on June 1.

Plenty of keepers are being caught right now. Here’s a picture of Yoseph with a nice 31 inches caught in 12 feet of water.

Snook and redfish are plentiful and being caught on every charter. Whitebait and cut bait are both working.

Last but not least, the mangrove snapper have arrived in large numbers.

They will eat shrimp, whitebait and cut bait. They have great eyesight, so go with lightest leader possible, a small hook and bury the hook in the bait. Stay Safe!

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Page 6

Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

Volume 18, Issue 7

Put Your Messages Up In Lights With New Tampa Theatre Marquee Program

Sparkling, Dusting, Giving...Online Groups Find Ways To Deliver Spirit Of Joy

In bright lights came as a hint of and large signs, relief when, in a the Tampa Theatre meeting disflashes messages cussing options of congratulations for fundraising, a along Franklin St. former employee Illuminated by LED asked if it were at panels, stylized in all possible to unique vogue antidisplay a conquated by flashgratulatory mesbacks to former sage to their son theater decades, for his graduathe Tampa Theatre tion.

The Tampa Theatre shows off Reid Wagner’s brightens the city “A lightbulb congratulatory message for his high school with its newly went off for us,” graduation. Be sure to get one too with a $150 donation to the Tampa Theatre. advertised said Witecki, as Marquee Messages program.

Tampa Theatre realized that, with its Because of the COVID-19 pandemic, newly installed and advanced marquee the Tampa Theatre shut down in-house boards, it could remotely display mesoperations in March, including its sages.

Marquee Messages program, causing So far, the program has attracted financial burdens for the company. But congratulations for high school graduaearlier this month, the theater reopened tions, birthdays, weddings and more. its Marquee Message boards in bright Most recently, a couple’s 58th anniverand colorful fashion. For donations of sary was stapled in lights with many $150, the Tampa Theatre will display more following. messages on its historic marquees for Though the shutdown has hindered one hour and offers three distinct time the Tampa Theatre in allowing moviegoeras for the message to be displayed in: ers to enjoy a good film and popcorn, it 1926, 1956 and 1996. These styles pull doesn’t stop them from pursuing ways on the Tampa Theatre’s historic roots, to participate in their community. with each one being a hallmark represenTo schedule a Marquee Message, tation of the theater’s episodic timeline. contact Tampa Theatre Box Office These donations help the Tampa Manager Dawn Kidle at dawn@tamTheatre to maintain costs, including rent patheatre.org to make your donation and staff payments, and avoid losing its and schedule your date and time. Digital signature, historic environment. To proofs will be provided prior to the disDirector of Marketing and Community play going live to ensure your special Relations Jill Witecki it was imperative message is camera-ready at the approthe Tampa Theatre stay afloat. So it priate time.

Have you ever been address if you choose to sparkled? Have you ever ‘sparkle’ them,” said seen a Wineicorn? If Scolaros. “You have to you’ve answered ‘No’ to ‘sneak’ up to their door, either one of these quesring or knock and then tions, don’t worry, run like crazy back to because if you live in the your car and leave.”

Greater Brandon area, Once the person who you may just get lucky has been sparkled soon. receives their gift, they Wine With Friends are encouraged to take a Florida is a local group picture and then pay it forspreading a little cheer to ward to another people in the community Wineicorn. “We love during the challenging when the ‘Minicorns’ (kidtimes of the COVID-19 ‘Wineicorn’ Chelsea Tossas dos) get involved too,” pandemic. delivers some joy with a spe- Scolaro said. “It sets such cial added flair as part of the an amazing example of “I love unicorns, cats Wine With Friends Florida! and long walks on the random acts of kindness.” beach, and just in case you couldn't The group also recognizes important guess, I also like drinking wine,” said Amy events such as birthdays or promotions.

Scolaro, organizer of the Brandon chapter “It's all about support and love,” of the group. “But most of all, I like helpScolaro said, “even in the darker times. A ing people, giving back and volunteering. mama lost her job and ended up homeIf it makes a difference to our community, less. Everyone rallied together to get her I want to be part of it.” immediate supplies to get through the A friend of Scolaro’s invited her to a days and nights outside. She ended up gift giving wine group that was based in with a place to stay, clothes and food in a Arizona. “I thought to myself, Florida mere 48 hours later; she was safe and would love this, especially amidst all the felt loved.” corona chaos; the world needs love more To learn more about Wine With than ever,” Scolaro said. “It also provides Friends Florida or to join the group, visit a safely distanced activity and a muchits Facebook page at needed pick-me-up. You don't need to www.facebook.com/groups/WineWithFrie drink wine. We have gifted ladies with ndsFlorida. In addition to this group, sevwater, lemonade, beer, soda, iced tea, eral neighborhood groups have sprouted etc.” up with a similar spirit of giving.

The group is very simple to join.

The concept is the same, spread “We have a questionnaire everyone some joy with a basket delivery and put fills out and they will send you their your name in for your own surprise!

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Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

La Septima Café Adapts With Family Meals And A Thriving To-Go Business

Team Continues Annual Rays Program To Encourage Summer Reading

flank steak that originates from Cuba and literally translates to ‘old clothes.’ The lore on how the dish got its unique name is that the man who created the recipe was so poor that people upon seeing the dish thought that he was feeding his family torn up old clothes. By ordering in from La Septima Café, you are choosing not only to support a local business but also taste Family meals are now available for $47.95 at La food with a rich and beautiful Septima in Brandon. history.

In light of COVID-19, local When the restaurant is set to restaurants are learning how to best open back up is “to be determined,” cater to guests without having the according to La Septima employee opportunity to serve them in person.

Sky Ray. If we can’t go into our favorite restau“When we do open it back up, we rants, how, then, can we best recrewant it to be done correctly and safeate that in the safety of our own ly,” said Ray. homes? Local favorite La Septima In order to serve customers who Café has cultivated a new way to do can’t make the drive to the restaujust that with family meals and a rant, La Septima has partnered with thriving to-go business.

Mobile Meals and Door Dash to offer With their dining room closed, the delivery. owners of La Septima Café, the Each family meal comes with Fernandez family, took matters into rice, the choice of tossed salad or their own hands and pivoted the black beans, Cuban bread with olive focus from delicious food in an butter and one 2-litter bottle of Coke, authentic Ybor atmosphere to bringDiet Coke or Sprite. Each family ing their food safely to their cusmeal serves four for $47.95 with the tomers. exception of the Bistec Milanesa Not only does La Septima Café (Cuban breaded steak), which is offer delivery and take out, but now $49.95. Orders can be made online they offer family meals. Diners can at laseptimacafe.com or over the choose from any of the restaurant’s phone by calling 685-0502. La signature dishes, including Ybor clas- Septima is located at 702 W. sic ropa vieja, slow-cooked shredded Lumsden Rd. in Brandon.

Even without a they reach the season, the Tampa home plate, they Bay Rays, partneremail a picture of ing with Suncoast the scorecard.

Credit Union and The Rays will the Tampa Bay send two tickets Times, will host the to a future home 13th annual game if the particReading with the ipant reaches the Rays to train home plate along Tampa’s rookie with the prizes readers. Through the program, Pre-K Willy Adames, shortstop for the Rays, through 12th grade reads with a student for Reading with students log their the Rays. reading hours throughout the summer to won for reachreceive prizes. ing first, secThe Rays began the free program in ond and third 2007 to encourage reading in order to base. avoid the typical summer learning loss by Shea recording up to 24 hours spent reading.

Bagley, a sec“Reading is a vital component to a ond grade teacher at Bevis Elementary child’s education and helps prepare them School, said, “I think it’s an awesome profor a bright future,” said Cindy Helton, gram. It gives children an opportunity to executive director of the Suncoast Credit read…[and] to find books they want to Union Foundation. “Helping to provide read.” students with educational tools is part of The program has hit it out of the park our DNA.” in each of its 13 seasons. More than The coronavirus pandemic forced 300,000 students across nine participatthis year’s event to begin early and proing counties have racked up two and a vided students with a motivation to read half million hours of reading. Reading with in their additional idle time that came with the Rays is an opportunity for parents to distanced learning and the cancelled get their kids excited about reading and school year. In past years, students could an opportunity for students to score a go to the library or the Rays’ website to homerun by hitting the books. pick up a score card, but this year, particiFor more information on Reading pants will have to download the scorewith the Rays or book recommendations, card from their homes visit www.mlb.com/rays/community/readAfter reading for the required hours, ing/ or contact students will ‘round the bases’ and, when reading@raysbaseball.com.

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Volume 18, Issue 7

Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

School District Uses Sales Tax Dollars For Air Much-Needed Conditioning Projects

By Kate Quesada

The Hillsborough will also be items County School upgraded with the new District (HCSD) is air units such as new using the student control systems and break to perform any mechanical or many much-needed electrical upgrades upgrades thanks to needed to accommofunds from the halfdate the new air units.” penny sales tax The school’s ESE approved by voters in center is also being late 2018. Schools painted inside, receivthroughout the couning new ceiling tiles ty, including three in and receiving new the SouthShore area, ADA automatic doors are receiving air conand the exterior of all SouthShore schools are benefitting from the money raised from ditioning, roof, classcampus buildings is room technology and Hillsborough County’s half-penny tax being repainted. with improvements this summer. safety and security “We want our stuimprovements. dents to have the best environment they “Thanks to the taxpayers of can,” said Stingone. “The new air units Hillsborough County, our district has and painting of the buildings will help stuinvested more than $121,000,000 to dents increase their feeling of pride in address essential needs in our schools,” their school and campus and remind said HCSD’s Erin Maloney. them that we want the best environment Twenty-six schools throughout the for them to learn in. You can see and county are receiving improvements this hear in the students the pride they have summer, including Eisenhower and when they see new paint, additions to Rodgers Middle Schools and Leto High campus and consistently working AC and School. Leto is one of the district’s largest they know people care about them and projects to date with a $13.8 million budg- want them to have the best environment et. they can. When they have pride, students According to Principal Robert help take even better care of their camStingone, Eisenhower is receiving 35 new pus and overall school culture stays posiair handling units across campus. tive and continues to grow in a positive Eisenhower’s projects have a budget of direction.” $5.8 million.

To learn more about the half-penny “Along with the new units, three build- tax and how it is being used by the ings are receiving new duct work and school district, visit www.sdhc.k12.fl.us. three others are having the ducts thorEisenhower Middle School can be oughly cleaned,” said Stingone. “There reached at 671-5121.

Longtime Brandon Resident Sells Vintage Area Map To Benefit ECHO

By Kate Quesada

Longtime ing a copy of the Brandon resident map, she decided Karen Waters to use her hard McGinnis recently work as an opportufound a way to bring nity to help raise a dose of nostalgia funds for ECHO, a to other locals while local nonprofit that helping out a great had helped her. cause.

“I chose Echo McGinnis, who of Brandon because moved to Brandon they helped me get with her family in the back on my feet 1970s, was able to when I was struglocate and replicate gling at a point in Longtime Brandon resident Karen Waters my life,” she a map of Brandon McGinnis tracked down a copy of a map explained. “I have from 1986 and is of Brandon from 1986 and is selling selling copies to copies, with the profits going to ECHO of recovered from that Brandon. other residents, with time and I am finally the profits going to the Emergency Care in a place where I am able to give Help Organization (ECHO). In less than back.” two months, she sold around 100 In just over a month, McGinnis met copies of map and donated more than with many residents who also grew up $1,500 to the charity, which is near and in Brandon and were eager to have a dear to her heart. piece of history in their homes.

“It turned into a quest for me,” said “Everyone was delighted to be able McGinnis, who remembered owning a to see what Brandon looked like in it’s copy of the map as a child. She posted prime,” said McGinnis, who attended on Facebook asking if anyone could Burns Middle and Bloomingdale High help her get a copy, and after a lot of schools. “It brought back so many great leg work she was able to track down a memories.” framed version of the map in Brandon’s Maps are still available to purchase iconic Bill’s Prescription Center. After through McGinnis’ GoFundMe page at finding that the map was too big to copy www.gofundme.com/f/1986-brandonat Kinko’s, she took it to a blueprint native-posters for $35, although company and eventually worked with a McGinnis encourages an additional professional art restorer who was able donation to ECHO at the time of purto digitally copy the print and give her a chase. Once ordered, maps can be file on a thumb drive. picked up at McGinnis’s business, Once McGinnis realized how many Florida Farmhouse Market and other locals were also interested in own- Collectables, opening soon in Seffner.

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Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

Hillsborough Parks & Rec Moves Programs To Online Format To Maintain Summer Fun

By Jadon Khor

As patrons leave Learning parks and libraries Experiences unoccupied, in line Manager Matthew with social distancing, David said that as Hillsborough County libraries move forhas worked overtime wards, it hopes to for the upcoming maintain the same summertime to stay level of engagement active in the commuand learning as prenity and at home. vious years. In fact, Gone are the he said, thanks to days of meetups in the flexibility of As Hillsborough Parks & recreational parks the online format, Rec. maintains social and playgrounds, Hillsborough distancing, frequent meetings online are now are the days of libraries are more made to ensure digital hunts and chalable to expand connectivity with the lenges for the proportionately community.

Hillsborough Parks & Recreation for adults and Department. As COVID-19 interrupts trafocus on older community members, ditional, physical location meetings, the whose tastes in entertainment might vary Parks & Rec. Department has made sure from younger age groups. to move and categorize its summer Despite disappointments among events into four distinct sections: Get community members about cancelations Active, Get Connected, Get Adaptive and of their favorite pastimes from previous Get Creative. years, there are a plethora of enjoyable Accessible through the Hillsborough events for Hillsborough’s online programs County website, virtual recreation comes this year. A few of such programs David as a certainly interesting change to the emphasized were its event for adults, Parks & Rec. team, said Media Relations ‘Creating A Powerful Presence With Representative Dana McDonald. Given LinkedIn,’ and reading campaigns on the social nature of the Parks & Rec. beanstalk.com for tracking one’s reading team, McDonald said it was disappointing achievements. moving online because they “love being “My favorite is Get Creative,” said with people” and having one-on-one sesMcDonald. “It’s really just a way for peosions, but they still understand the whole ple to stay active at home.” Projects goal is to get people interested in the include a pen pal program, where chilparks and recreational activities they offer. dren can write to seniors about their week In the Hillsborough County Public and the activity they completed for them.

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Page 10

Volume 18, Issue 7

Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

County Earns Recognition With Solar, LED Lights & Adopt-A-Pond Programs

By Brad Stager

Saving tax dollars things that are good and keeping the envifor the economy, the ronment in good shape environment and the are two benefits realcitizens.” ized through One local busiHillsborough County’s ness that illustrates a commitment to sustainconnection between ability and environmenthe environment and tally-friendly practices in commerce is Sage providing services to Cleaners, a clothing residents. Now that care business that Hillsborough County has been effort has received offi- recognized for its efforts to maintain uses what it calls cial recognition from the a healthy environment for a growing “100% toxin-free population.

Department of Energy’s cleaning” as an alterBetter Building Alliance and the Institute native to hydrocarbon-based dry cleaning for Market Transformation as a 2020 methods. The company’s owner, Cohen Green Lease Leader.

Wills, said the silicone-based solvent Some of the noteworthy initiatives Sage Cleaners uses does not become a reflecting the county’s work in promoting hazardous waste disposal problem. sustainability are its solar energy program “The solvent is run through activated that equips buildings such as the clay so that it can be reused over time,” SouthShore Community Resource Center Wills explained in an email. “This clay and with solar power capabilities, installing byproduct is not only not hazardous LED lighting in offices and facilities and materials, but we have actually grown converting about 25 percent of county flowers in this byproduct.” vehicles to alternative fuels such as comAccording to McNamara, pressed natural gas and electricity.

Hillsborough County is prepared to help Sheila McNamara is Hillsborough businesses operate sustainably.

County’s sustainability manager and said “Hillsborough County just started a that the recognition as a national leader in new series of workshops for small busisustainability is an accolade that also nesses, start-ups and entrepreneurs, in reflects the work of others in the commucollaboration with the Sustany nity such as TECO’s solar power farms, Foundation, to learn about sustainability neighborhood groups who participate in practices and resources,” she said. The the county’s Adopt-A-Pond program as Sustany Foundation is a Tampa Bay area well as business owners who include organization that promotes sustainable environmental considerations in their practices. business plans.

To learn more, visit the Sustainability “It takes the community to sustain the section of the county’s website, hillsborcommunity,” she said. “We’re looking at oughcounty.org.

Apollo Beach Nature Preserve Getting Improvements Including Tower

By Brad Stager

Unfortunately, the preserve has been closed due to COVID-19 restrictions and now for construction. A $360,000 improvement project is underway that includes an additional pavilion and a shell path, as well as refurbishing the sea wall and improving erosion control. A 40-foot observation tower is under construction to improve the view of Tampa Bay and the skylines of St. Petersburg and Tampa.

A new tower at Apollo Beach Nature Preserve will provide seaside and estuarial vistas.

“You’ll also be able to see the Throughout much of Apollo Beach’s restoration which is on the east side of history, the lure of a waterfront attraction the property that a lot of people don’t was elusive, with the beach that the know about because it was completed name implies being more like an uninvit- over a decade ago and it’s grown up so ing stretch of neglected Tampa Bay well that it’s hard to see,” said shoreline.

Dickerson. “This tower will let people get That has changed in recent years up high enough so they can look down with projects by Hillsborough County into the tidal creek and maybe see manand Southwest Florida Water atees and dolphins back there using the Management District (SWFWMD) restoration area.” improving a 2-acre portion that lies just Dickerson added that the panoramic southwest of TECO’s Big Bend Power views will be accessible for all to see.

Station with parking, shelters, toilets and “One thing unique about the tower landscaping to provide visitor access project is it’s going to be fully ADA and preserve natural habitat for wildlife. accessible. It’s going to be a ramp sysAs an environmental land manager tem so anybody will be able to get to the for Hillsborough County, Ross Dickerson top of the tower and look around Tampa has seen the changes for the better at Bay.” what is now a popular SouthShore destiAccording to Dickerson, Apollo nation known as Apollo Beach Nature Beach Nature Preserve should reopen Preserve. to the public by mid-to-late July with the “We did what we set out to do, we tower completed, but with work continubrought the beach back to Apollo ing on the pavilion beyond then because Beach,” he said. “Everybody out there the construction company building it loves that place, they treat it as their paused operations due to the COVID-19 own.” pandemic.

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Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

Homeless Women And Children Given Hope As Residents In New Mary & Martha House

By Gwen Rollings

“Everything is work. Finding food, clothes, finding a place to take a shower.

Those millions of little things that can be easy to take for granted just aren’t there,” Breanna Lathrop of Good Samaritan Health Center said, referring to women in Mary & Martha House is hoping to open the doors to a new, desperate situations. larger facility for women in desperate situations.

Everyone associated The name is derived from a story about with Mary & Martha House in Ruskin two sisters in Luke 10:39-42 of the Bible. knows this to be true.

Mary and Martha opened their home in According to a 2018 Point-in-Time the small town of Bethany survey, more than 216,000 women are near Jerusalem to give indihomeless on a given night in the United viduals on a spiritual journey States. As many as 8.5 million women with Jesus a place to stay are victims of domestic abuse each year. and food to eat. The personal Countless millions of children are connections with these travexposed to the effects of domestic abuse elers transformed the sisters’ and homelessness. lives forever.

The personal faces of these overMary & Martha House also seeks to whelming statistics arrive one at a time on be the catalyst to transform lives of the doorstep of Mary & Martha House. abused and homeless women and their Women of all ages over 18 years old and children in the small town of Ruskin near all racial and ethnic backgrounds, regard- Tampa for those in South Hillsborough less of socio-economic history, come, County. Providing shelter, support and often accompanied with children. Each success, women can reclaim their lives woman’s story and journey to healing is with strength, honor and dignity, one step unique, like Shannon’s, who said, at a time.

“I was broken and desperate for help.

Laurie Herring, executive director, The Mary & Martha House guided me on said the first step for women in crises is a path to healing through counseling and having the courage to walk away from training. I did not feel judged, I felt underabusive relationships. “Once the women stood. I don’t know where I would be show up at the Mary & Martha House, we today without them.” are committed to helping them put their Since 1982, Mary & Martha House lives back together, overcoming each barhas been about personal connections. rier.”

House will have: •Trained counsellors available immediately upon arrival to ascertain needs.

•All necessary clothing supplied for every family member.

•Personal hygiene items.

•54 beds available.

•Food allowances for individuals/families, if required.

•Personal refrigerators in the kitchen for each room.

•A fully supplied kitchen with stoves/ovens as each woman cooks for The Mary & Martha Thrift Store is one of the herself/family. main sources of revenue for Mary & Martha •Assigned kitchen cabinets to store House. their food and dishes.

Herring believes that the •Large commercial washers/dryers financial impact of pulling hunfor personal use of residents. dreds of families out of home•Budget counseling. lessness and rebuilding their •An education center with 15 computlives cannot be calculated. ers for education and employment assis“There is a huge multiplier effect tance. when you have families who can •Goals identification and pathway now send their children to school assistance to achieving them. and mothers who are confident and fully •And a light at the end of a very dark employed.” Arriving at that successful tunnel. destination requires much dedication, Completion of the 10,000-square-foot determination, support and vision. house saw cost escalations on certain The vision, after almost four decades, items due to COVID-19. Herring said was to replace the original 23-bed facility community involvement with financial on the same location with a much larger donations are essential. As Mary & 54-bed house. Construction began late Martha House’s doors swing open to prolast summer to make this a reality. vide food, clothing, showers and necessiJeanetta Taylor, program and housing ties most take for granted, consider a manager for Mary & Martha House, generous donation or give in honor of a beamed like a proud mother as she loved one and help reclaim lives. explained what the new home will provide For more information on how you for these women and children who can make a difference, call 645-7874 or deserve the chance for a better future. visit www.marymarthahouse.org/.

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Page 12

Volume 18, Issue 7

Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

School District Recognizes High School Students For Perfect Attendance

By Kate Quesada

cessful now and in the future as they move on to the next stage in their life. I am proud of the diligence and discipline shown by each of these learners to accomplish perfect attendance throughout their entire career in Hillsborough County Public Schools. I also want to congratulate their parents and families for Riverview High School graduate Jaylyn Bido was among providing a support system the 10 members of the Hillsborough County Public to make this achievement School’s (HCPS) Class of 2020 to receive perfect possible,” said attendance for their entire educational career.

Superintendent Addison A student from Riverview High Davis.

School was recognized with an amazing Two other local students, Julia Salvo accomplishment last month. Jaylyn Bido from Bloomingdale High School and was among the 10 members of the Alexander Dyer from Newsome High Hillsborough County Public School’s School received the same recognition.

(HCPS) Class of 2020 to receive perfect “This award means so much to me attendance for their entire educational because it represents all of the hard work career. and dedication that went into having 13 According to HCPS’ Tanya Arja, each years of perfect attendance,” said Salvo. student attended 2,340 consecutive “It is such an honor to be recognized for school days without logging one this achievement and I’d like to thank my absence. That is every school day from family, my teachers and the administrakindergarten through 12th grade. tion for the role they played in this To mark this achievement, the stuaccomplishment.” dents were guests at the school board Dyer, who was also Newsome’s meeting on June 9, where they were pre- Valedictorian, thanks all who have supsented with brand-new laptops courtesy ported him. of Toyota of Tampa Bay, along with $500 “I think the award is not only a validascholarships from Suncoast Credit Union. tion of all the hard work I have engaged “These students have demonstrated in over the past four years but also a tesa high level of commitment by attending tament to the support of my teachers, school every single day. It is important for friends, and families,” said Dyer. students to possess character traits such To learn more about Hillsborough as dependability and reliability to be sucCounty Schools, visit www.sdhc.k12.fl.us.

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Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

Family-Owned & Operated Gecko Floor Care And Carpet Celebrates Five Years

ONLINE & MOBILE APP ORDERING

By Michelle Caceres

are pet-friendly. “I don’t put anything on your floors that I wouldn’t want my sons handling every day,” he said.

MiraBay resident Christine Nargi, a Keller Williams SouthShore real estate agent, said Napoli is her go-to when she needs carpets cleaned, both her own personal home and for her clients’ homes.

“He’s been cleaning my own Gecko Floor Care and Carpet Owner Dennis Napoli is celebrating its fifth year in business. floors for years,” she said.

“He goes above and beyond to Gecko Floor Care and Carpet, a make his customers happy,” she said. “It’s locally-owned small business, is celebratbecause of this, and the fact that he is ing five years of helping its customers always on-time and dependable, that I maintain healthy homes and workplaces recommend him to everyone.” for five years.

As we all adjust our lives to the The company was founded by COVID-19 situation, Gecko Floor Care is Dennis Napoli, but when his sons, Kevin taking steps to ensure that its services and Eric, grew up they realized they are being delivered in the healthiest manwanted to partner with their dad in the ner to help customers clean their homes family business. “After they graduated from college, they decided that they want- and protect their families.

Several protocols and procedures ed to work for themselves, so joining the have been established to keep his family business was a natural fit,” said Napoli. “They love what we do because it employees and customers safe. Carpet technicians wear personal protective gives them ownership in something and the flexibility to spend time with their fami- equipment, maintain appropriate social distance, regularly wash hands and minily.” mize physical interactions. Technicians Gecko Floor Care offers a variety of steam and disinfect their equipment services for commercial offices and residential homes, including carpet, area rug, between each cleaning service to ensure that the equipment coming into homes is tile and grout, wood floor, concrete and clean and sanitized. upholstery cleaning.

“We’re just a family in the community Because carpet is a significant that wants to help other families maintain investment, Napoli works meticulously to healthy environments,” said Napoli. rid it of dust, dirt and unhealthy allergens.

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Page 14

Volume 18, Issue 7

Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

Solve Insurance Needs At Magruder Agency

By Michelle Caceres

One benefit of providing a high-qualibuilding a rock-solid ty service. “I really business is that satisenjoy helping people,” fied customers send she said. referrals or share testiLocated at 655 W. monials to endorse Lumsden Rd. in your service. In the Brandon, the case of the Magruder Magruder Agency proAgency and its client vides all lines of perMary Boor, she offers sonal coverage, both. including auto, homeBoor, the broker of owner’s, renter’s, life, Apogee Realty business, motorcycle, Services, has been in RV and boat, each taiPat and Stephanie Magruder at the Magruder Agency are the real estate busilored to meet each committed to working with their ness for more than two customers to get them the best client’s needs using a decades and first consultative, educational insurance at the best price. turned to Pat Magruder process. at the Magruder Agency in 2003 when Another way Magruder provides she needed a homeowner’s insurance high-quality service is by providing a safe policy for her personal home. work and business environment for her “I was so pleased with the excellent staff and customers. While the Magruder service she provided that I also asked Agency is open for business during this her to help with my business insurance time of COVID-19, all of its employees needs,” said Boor. have separate offices and maintain the 6Over the years, she has learned that foot rule, touch points are wiped frewhen she has a question or issue, she quently and masks and hand sanitizer can count on a quick response from have been provided to each employee.

Magruder. “I like that I’m talking to the Magruder follows the lead with each owner and she is top-notch responsive,” client based on their personal comfort she said. “She is also always working to level when it comes to personal interacget me the best rates on my policies.” tion. “The majority of our customers are Boor is so confident in her choice of happy to conduct their business online, insurance agent that she is quick to refer but we are happy to meet them in person the company to her family and real if they prefer,” she said. estate clients. “All my buyers I have sent As professional insurance agents her absolutely love her and she even and advocates, Magruder and her staff helped my brother-in-law with insurance are committed to being there for its when he purchased a business,” she clients when they need them most. said.

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Local Mom Starts A Business That Offers Nutritional Food While Social Distancing

By Libby Hopkins

Noreen Joy of paced life. We also offer Riverview is a nutrition meal plans to mother of two boys our clients if they so and has made it wish to work on their her personal mishealth goals as well.” sion is to bring Next Door Nutrition healthy treats to has gained quite a folthe community lowing on Instagram while social dissince the pandemic tancing during the current pandemic.

Joy is the owner of Next Door Nutrition and unlike so Noreen Joy is the owner of Next many restaurants Door Nutrition, offering delicious in the area that had energizing teas and protein donuts and coffee that she creates in her to shut down home. because of the threat of COVID-19, her business is because booming. so many of Joy’s customers Next Door Nutrition isn’t a brick and love that she offers curbside pickup and mortar local restaurant. It’s delicious ener- delivery. “Customers can send us a direct gizing teas and protein donuts and coffee message through Instagram,” Joy said. that Joy creates in her home. Customers “The doughnuts are baked fresh the day place their food and drink order via her of the pickup or delivery, so we do ask to Instagram page and she has their order order the day before. I love that I can help ready for curbside pickup on the very people satisfy their sweet tooth cravings next morning. without the guilt.”

“We offer energizing teas and protein Joy is thrilled her little business is doughnuts that are low in calories, low in thriving from all the community support. “It sugar and high in nutrients. Eating is important that we support our local healthy does not have to be boring,” Joy small businesses,” Joy said. “When you said. “I started Next Door Nutrition support a local small business, you supbecause I do not see a lot of healthy port a dream.” treats in the Riverview area. I have lost To learn more about Next Door 60 pounds following my nutrition program Nutrition or to place an order with Joy, and I have learned along the way to live a visit Next Door Nutrition’s Instagram page healthy and active lifestyle. Nutrition is www.instagram.com/nextdoor.nutrition, key and I know it is sometimes difficult to call 956-346-2388 or email mamagotfollow when everyone is living a fastgoals@gmail.com.

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Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

Hypnotic Engagements Has Tools To Help Community Feel More Relaxed

By Libby Hopkins

In these challengthose fields need a ing times of the COVIDbreak. It is an hour19 pandemic, people long Zoom session. are looking for ways to We are taking a relaxrelieve stress and anxiing trip, usually outety. Many are looking side, I let the group into hypnosis as a way decide the day-of and to relieve their stress. at the end, I’ll be Daniel Cyral is the teaching some selfowner of Hypnotic hypnosis/guided mediEngagements and he is tation practices.” here to help the comThere is a munity with their stress. Daniel Cyral is the owner of lot of imporHypnotic Engagements and “Hypnosis is a natural tant work to he is here to help the state of body and do when it community with their mind,” Cyral said. comes to hypstress.

“You’ll be guided into full relaxation. In this nosis and state, you’ll be able to implement the dementia. Cyral has additional training changes you’ve been looking for. We all and is the only Nightingale Dementia go in and out of trance every day.

Associate on the East Coast of the U.S. “I Hypnosis is a great tool for so many am currently working with dementia resithings. For those that truly embrace it, it is dents, caregivers and a support group at life-changing.”

Tessera of Brandon,” Cyral said. “Tessera Cyral has been practicing hypnosis is leading the industry in more ways than since 1998. He became formally trained hypnosis.” in 2008 after he went to a hypnotist. “In The weight loss session is going to 2008, I felt stuck in life, so I went to see a be a live, interactive weight loss group. professional hypnotist,” Cyral said. “A “For a monthly subscription, they’ll get a couple months later, I started my formal live, virtual session,” Cyral said. “They will training and built my own practice in also get a copy of the live recording. I will Michigan. When moving to Florida, I be adding ongoing support. I envision worked with one of the largest hypnosis most people being part of this program practices in Orlando, the Orlando for three months. The biggest difference Hypnosis Clinic.” is that this will be a living, breathing thing, Cyral is currently offering hypnosis opposed to an individual package.” sessions for weight loss, dementia and To learn more about the various sesdealing with stress. “I am doing a free sions Hypnotic Engagements offers, you session for those working in the medical can visit Cyral’s website at www.hypnotiand educational fields,” Cyral said. “It isn’t cengagements.com or contact Cyral at so much about COVID-19, it is more 248-941-4246.

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Page 16

Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

Volume 18, Issue 7

Hillsborough County's Conviction Review Unit Reviews Wrongful Convictions If you have ever watched The Innocence Files on Netflix and wondered whether there is a similar program for Hillsborough County, the answer is yes. Under the direction of Hillsborough County State Attorney Andrew Warren, the Conviction Review Unit (CRU) was established in 2018.

Since its inception, it has received 237 requests and has reviewed 177 cases.

The purpose of the CRU is to identify, remedy and prevent wrongful convictions. The CRU is led by Attorney Teresa Hall. The conviction must have been for a felony and must have occurred in the 13th Circuit of Florida (Hillsborough County). If someone believes that they or someone they know has been wrongfully convicted of a felony by trial or plea agreement, they must submit a petition.

Hall explained that the petition, which can be found by visiting www.innocencefilestampa.com, was drafted so that a layperson can prepare it. Hall stressed that if anyone has a question about whether they should submit a petition, “I welcome anyone to email me at cru@sao13th.com or call 274-1954.” The CRU cannot act as your attorney, but it will answer questions as best as it can. If you are represented by an attorney, the petition must be submitted by your attorney.

The claim must be supported by information or evidence not previously litigated before the original trier of fact (judge or jury).

Examples of grounds that would merit review would include information about an alibi witness or fact witness that was not called or not available and

By Kathy L. Collins

Andrew Warren (at the podium), the Hillsborough County State Attorney, created the Conviction Review Unit in 2018. Warren is seen here during the announcement of the creation of the CRU along with the Hon. Chris Altenbemd (L), Teresa Hall, the the State Supervising Attorney for the CRU, and the Hon. E.J. Salcines (R).

is now available. A second example would be misidentification of the petitioner as the perpetrator. False confession is another example. This is especially true for a youth. If you were coerced into making a confession or someone in authority lied and made promises that were never kept, this would be an example of a coerced confession. One more example would be if the conviction was based on junk science. At the time, an expert witness may have testified based on science that has since been shown to be unreliable. If that is the case, this would be an example of a reason why the CRU might agree to review the case.

The CRU consists of dedicated attorneys, investigators and support staff. An Independent Review Panel, composed of legal experts outside of

Attorney’s Office, collaborates with the CRU to provide additional analysis and evaluation of cases under review. If, following the review and investigation, the CRU identifies a wrongful conviction, the State Attorney’s Office will remedy the conviction, possibly by dismissing the underlying charges and convictions and will take appropriate measures to prevent similar wrongful convictions.

Reviews can take a very long time. The length depends on many factors, including the age and complexity of the case, the information available and the number of petitions to be processed.

This review is an extrajudicial process and there is no right of appeal from declination by the CRU. All decisions made by the CRU, including the

decision to accept a petition regarding reopening a case investigation as well as how the claim will be investigated and resolved, are at the discretion of the 13th Circuit State Attorney’s Office.

Locally, the CRU is in the process of reviewing a case where a robbery occurred in Valrico. Both the victim and the defendant reside in Valrico.

Hall came to Hillsborough County from Indiana. She was a prosecutor in Indiana for eight years and served as a judge for three years. Hall initially went to work for the Hillsborough County Public Defender’s Office. Hall explained, “When the CRU was created, I thought I would be a good fit for, given my experience.” Hall added, “This was Andrew Warren’s idea, but he has let me be creative. He is great to work for and is truly a leader in the state of Florida.”

For more information on the Conviction Review Unit, please visit www.innocencefilestampa.com. If you believe that you or a family member have been wrongfully convicted of a felony, please contact the CRU by emailing cru@sao13th.com or call 274-1954.

July 2020

Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

Page 17

Munzee: A Family-Friendly Outdoor Activity, Perfect For Quarantine

Hess Orthodontics Teams Up With Bucs’ Chris Godwin To Start ‘Stats 4 Smiles’ Program

During these hard your screen to get to times of quarantine the area of the and social distancing, Munzee. most people have felt When you are in cooped up in their the virtual bubble of home with not much to where the hiding spot do. The Abadi family could be, you begin found a fun and excitsearching for the physing way to get out of ical QR code. the house, get exerHunters receive cise and cure their points for finding each boredom.

Munzee, which are “At the start, I used to advance in thought this break levels. There are many would be very boring different types of and isolated,” said Munzees, each with Adam Abadi. “But then their own point value. we found Munzee and Greenie, the most it gave me something common type of fun to do outside.”

Munzee, earns you The treasure hunt- Munzee, a virtual treasure hunt about 20 points. But a game, can be played throughout ing app known as the Eastern Hillsborough County diamond Munzee, a ‘Munzee’ has helped area. Here, Adam Abadi captures rare find, earns about a Greenie Munzee while biking 60 points if you capmany people get up around his neighborhood. and out of the house ture them. on real-life treasure hunts. The Abadi Adam said, “I think Munzee has family found Munzee from a Facebook changed these tough times of the post by a friend, and knew that it coronavirus because it gives us somewould help their family of four, with thing to do during the times where we their kids, Adam (12) and Alex (10), can’t interact with our friends due to during these tough times. social distancing. I think getting outHunters start by downloading a side and doing activities like Munzee free app called Munzee, found on the is beneficial during the pandemic App Store and Google Play. From because it takes you outside and there, you create an account by progives you something to do. You never viding your email and creating a userwant to stay inside and sit around, so name and a password. You then find Munzee is a good way to get out and Munzees close to you, which isn’t exercise.” hard considering there are 9.6 million To learn more about Munzee, visit to date, and follow the compass on Munzee.com.

Hess Sun Coast Dental Orthodontics in Center in Brandon is Riverview has teamed working with Hess up with Tampa Bay Orthodontics to pick a Buccaneers Pro Bowl child in need of braces. receiver Chris Godwin During the football seato start the ‘Stats 4 son, Godwin’s stats will Smiles’ program. be tallied up on Hess Every time Godwin Orthodontic’s social scores a touchdown, media pages in celeHess Orthodontics will bration of his success. donate treatment to It will also be posting a Chris Godwin with the Hess Orthodontics team. For every touch- picture of the child with an underprivileged down Godwin scores during the 2020 child. season, Hess will donate free treat- his or her new braces.

“Everybody is Hess Orthodontics ment to a child in need. extremely excited,” has locations in said Dr. Michael Hess.

Riverview, Lithia, Apollo “Everybody here is a Beach and Parrish. It huge fan of the Bucs. We offers a wide variety of were super excited when treatments, including trahe (Godwin) came in as a ditional metal and clear patient and when he partbraces, Invisalign and nered with us for the proInvisalign Teen clear gram.” aligners, Damon Q Self-Ligating Braces Hess Orthodontics has several proand Insignia. fessional football clients, including former Via its website, Hess Orthodontics Buccaneer and NFL Hall of Fame player shares a vision for its patients that is as Warren Sapp. Current clients include much about creating the healthiest and Bucs receiver Bryant Mitchell, Bucs most beautiful smiles as it is about creatbackup quarterback Ryan Griffen and ing an environment of comfort and hapColts running back Bruce Anderson. piness. It does this by viewing the pracHess expects the program to be a tice, team and patients as a part of its success with Godwin’s emergence as a own family. To it, orthodontics is more star receiver and the addition of six-time than just a job, it is a shared passion, Super Bowl champion Tom Brady throw- and it is grateful to all of the families for ing him passes in 2020. Godwin had a allowing it to become a part of their lives. breakout season during his second camFor more information, visit paign in 2019, as he found the end zone HessOrthodontics.com or its official nine times, earning a Pro Bowl appearFacebook page, Hess Orthodontics. ance.

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Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

GRCC And Riverview Woman’s Club Caravan Around Town To Celebrate Scholarship Winners Staff Report On June 17, be continuing Riverview their education.

Woman’s Club Allison Powers and Greater will be attending Riverview Florida Gulf Chamber of Coast University Commerce (FGCU) in Fort (GRCC) memMyers. Chanel bers joined Campbell will be together to caraattending Howard van through the University in Riverview area Washington DC. to celebrate the Willow Morgan Dr. Earl J. will be attending Last month, the Riverview Woman’s Club and GRCC members joined together to Lennard Florida Atlantic caravan through the Riverview area to Scholarship winUniversity (FAU) in celebrate the Dr. Earl J. Lennard ners and the Boca Raton.

Scholarship winners and the Riverview Woman’s Club Scholarship winners.

Riverview Ashley Aagaard, Woman’s Club Scholarship winners.

Gabriela Chitica, Gian Galarza and Bob Burmaster with Image360 Vivian Do will all be attending the Tampa-Ybor City led the caravan with University of South Florida (USF) in his big LED box truck recognizing each Tampa. recipient and their achievement.

“All of the scholarship recipients are “Each recipient was able to walk set to do great things,” said Morford. out of their home to cheering, honking “GRCC and Riverview Woman’s Club and pure celebration,” said Gabby are so proud of what they accomMorford, GRCC event coordinator. plished and look forward to their suc“Since the current circumstances hincess in their continued education.” dered these recipients from being recThe Riverview Woman’s Club and ognized in person, the Riverview GRCC want to thank the community for Woman’s Club and GRCC wanted to donating to these amazing scholarships do something extra special.” and making a difference in the lives of These scholarship recipients gradu- these successful students. If you would ated from high schools such as Bell like to make a contribution to these Creek Academy, East Bay High School, scholarships, please contact Riverview Lennard High School and Riverview Woman’s Club at riverviewwomanHigh School. sclub@gmail.com or call 340-6457. You With the school year completed can also contact the GRCC at and graduation nearing, the scholarship info@riverviewchamber.com or call recipients have chosen where they will 234-5944.

Simon Firearm & Family Safety Training Offers The Community Personal Safety Classes Firing a gun may be a new or an awkward experience or just uncomfortable because of a lack of practice for some people. Cora and James Simon want Cora and James Simon everyone who are the owners of Simon wants to fire a Firearm & Family Safety Training. gun to feel comfortable and safe doing it.

“It’s our mission to keep people safe and make communities safer,” said Cora, co-owner of Simon Firearm & Family Safety Training.

Cora and her husband, James, feel Simon Firearm & Family Safety Training is the reflection of their personal, career and business experience. “It is an organization whose concerns are heavily focused on prevention and avoidance of injury due to the acts of others, while training and preparing individuals for that ever-possible potential confrontation,” Cora said. “The development of the organization was started in stages as I recognized and became active in Damsel in Defense, whose goal is the nonlethal protection and women’s personal empowerment for self-protection, this experience plus my own career in real estate recognizes the vulnerability of these agents.” James, on the other hand, was raised in a firearm environment, so he had an opportunity to learn about guns throughout his growth years. “His

By Libby Hopkins

career, before retirement, as a CEO in hospitals put him in a 24/7 role of being responsible for the safety of patients, staff, physicians and visitors,” Cora said. “In some of his hospitals, he was also faced with external disasters that impacted on the hospital.”

Simon Firearm & Family Safety Training offers a variety of firearm training and concealed carry classes. In July, it will be offering its ‘Countering the Mass Shooter Threat’ class. This class will be held on Sunday, July 12. “This program is designed to address a newer and more troubling threat and that is mass or active shooting incidents,” Cora said. “Our course includes prevention, preparation and practice training for surviving an active shooter event. Our program is designed for houses of worship, businesses, healthcare and community groups.” If you would like to learn more about the various classes offered at Simon Firearm & Family Safety Training, you can visit its Facebook page at www.facebook.com/Simon-FirearmFamily-Safety-Training or contact Cora Simon by phone at 363-7576 or email at besafe@simonsafetytraining.com.

BEAUTIFUL HOMES START WITH BEAUTIFUL FLOORS

Page 22

Volume 18, Issue 7

Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

Boy Scouts Use 3-D Printing To Supply ‘Ear Savers’ To Community

Staff Report

As communities across the Tampa Bay area attempt to curtail the spread of COVID-19, Scouts with Troop 11 in Brandon and Pack 107 in Apollo Beach have found a creative way to pitch in while learning about 3D printing.

Cub Master Brian Holt of Pack 107, a systems analyst with BayCare Health System, initially created an entire lab of 3D printers for the hospital’s use, including one machine loaned by fellow leader Jay Glenn, committee chair of Troop 11.

“COVID-19 came around, and we started trying to print face masks and the ear savers,” Holt said. “Jay loaned me his 3D printer, and when demand at the hospital started dying down, we returned the printer.”

Among the files left on the printer from its stint in hospital service was one for producing ear savers. These strips of plastic are designed to alleviate the friction caused by wearing face masks for extended lengths of time.

Jay and his sons, Brice, 11, and Trevor, 13, determined that they could print their own ear savers and distribute them to essential workers in the community. With some savvy editing, they were even able to print “Thank You from Troop 11” along the backs of the ear savers.

“I’ve worn a mask for a couple hours before and it already wasn’t feeling good,” Life Scout Trevor said. “I couldn’t imagine what it would be like to wear them all day for days.”

Jay said that his printer is capable of producing seven to eight ear savers

every half-hour, and they can be printed in a range of sizes.

These printers are able to create three-dimensional products with molten plastic applied by a small, precise nozzle. The printer applies a succession of quick-drying layers until the desired product is formed.

“It was really interesting to watch,” Scout Brice said. “Normally, you think of printing on paper, but seeing a printer build 3D objects was really cool.”

Production began in late April. As Troop 11 conducts ‘show and sells’ outside of Publix locations each year for their annual popcorn fundraiser, they wanted to show their appreciation to the staff there first. As essential businesses, most Publix locations have

remained open for the full duration of the pandemic thus far.

“I personally thought that workers still going into grocery stores was such an amazing selfless act,” Jay said. “If they stopped doing that, I couldn’t imagine how things would have gone.”

In addition to grocery stores, some ear savers from Troop 11 were distributed to the staff still working at Mintz Elementary School, where some members of the troop used to go to school.

“They were really grateful for it and excited,” Trevor said. “They thought it was really kind and were thankful that they wouldn’t have the mask strap on their ears all day.”

With Holt and Pack 107 mirroring the efforts of Troop 11, ear savers are

being distributed throughout their respective communities. In addition to Publix locations, Pack 107 donated a selection of ear savers to the staff of a local Sam’s Club.

“It gave me a really good feeling,” Brice said. “It made me feel like I was doing my part to help the community during the coronavirus. It’s amazing to know that you’re helping so many people through a troubling time.”

In total, Jay believes his printer has produced around 250 ear savers since the virus began, and he said future batches may be required.

The pandemic has forced many units in the Scouting movement to adapt, but local District Chairman David Carlson said that this is one of several examples of Scouts adapting to face uncertain times while continuing to serve their communities. He said many units in Scouting’s Timucua District, which consists of the southern half of Hillsborough County, have transitioned to conducting virtual meetings and campouts.

“I think it’s fantastic how the Scouts have come together to help out the community in any way they can,” Carlson said. “They saw a need and did what they could to give a little back to the community.”

Troop 11 is chartered out of St. Andrew’s United Methodist Church in Brandon, while Pack 107 normally meets at the MiraBay Clubhouse in Apollo Beach. For information on how to join the Scouting movement, visit https://tampabayscouting.org/beascout.

Bruce Anderson - Colts

Warren Sapp - Bucs

Ryan Griffen - Bucs

Chris Godwin - Bucs

Bryant Mitchell - Bucs

July 2020

Page 23

Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

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Page 24

Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

Volume 18, Issue 7

Know Where And How To Vote: By Mail, Early And On Election Day Voting is a right and not a privilege.

In order to exercise this right, every voter in Hillsborough County must be informed and must know where to vote and how to do it. In Hillsborough County, there are three ways to exercise your right to vote: Vote By Mail, Early Voting and Election Day Voting.

In order to vote in the primary election, which is set for Tuesday, August 18, you must be registered by Monday, July 20. In order to vote in the general election, set for Tuesday, November 3, you must be registered by Monday, October 5. When you register, you are asked to select a party. The parties are Republican. Democrat or No Party Affiliation. You can also register as a member of a minor political party such as the Green Party of Florida.

Florida is a closed primary state. This means that for the primary election, your ballot will reflect the party that you have selected. In other words, you vote only for the candidates from your party as well as

non-partisan races such as the judge (county and circuit) and school board.

In the general election, your ballot is based upon where you reside.

You can view sample ballots for both the primary and the general election by visiting www.votehillsborough.org.

“Many people are focused on the upcoming general election in November, but please do not ignore the primary election. We have local school board and judge races on the primary ballot that are non-partisan, so everyone votes in these races. If you are a Democrat or Republican, you will also have a Requesting A Vote By Mail Ballot Is say in which state Easy: and local partisan 1. Online: Vote By Mail Ballot Request candidate moves on to the 2. By Phone: (813) 612-4180 general election,” said 3. By Fax: (813) 744-5843 4. In Person: at any of our Supervisor of Elections Supervisor of Elections Craig Latimer.

Offices

To Request Vote By Mail For Yourself, You Must Provide: 1. Your name and home address 2. Your date of birth 3. Your mailing address, if different from home address (Ballots cannot be forwarded. Be sure to provide your current mailing address.)

4. Your signature (for written requests)

VOTE BY MAIL

Vote By Mail is the most convenient method. You do not need an excuse to choose this option. If you request this method, you will receive your ballot in the mail (by Thursday, July 9 for the pri-

mary election and

by Thursday, September 24 for the general election), and you can take your time making your voting decision. The Vote

By Mail ballot must be received by the Hillsborough Supervisor of Elections Office by 7 p.m. on Election Day. You can mail it or drop it off in person at one of its offices or at an Early Voting site. The Supervisor of Elections is also offering curbside drop-off this year. You can request your Vote By Mail ballot and track its delivery by visiting www.votehillsborough.org.

“Election Day is your last day to vote, not your first. I encourage everyone to consider voting by mail.

During the March election, it was heartbreaking to get calls from voters who could not leave home and had planned to vote on Election Day,” said Latimer.

EARLY VOTING

Early Voting is set up before both the primary election and the general election.

Early Voting will take place from Monday, August 3 through Sunday, August 16 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. For the general election, it will be from Monday, October 19

By Kathy L. Collins

through Sunday, November 1 from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.

“In March, we had 23 Early Voting locations open, and we may have 24 for the August primary. We are just finalizing those details now. We will have drop-off ballot boxes at each of those sites for voters who want to drop off their Vote By Mail ballot,” said Latimer.

Early Voting is just like Election Day voting. You must bring one or two forms of identification with your photo and signature on it.

Acceptable forms of identification include a Florida driver’s license, state issued identification, U.S. passport, student ID, public assistance ID and more.

ELECTION DAY VOTING

Polling places or precincts, noted on your voter registration card, are open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Election Day. You can bring your sample ballot with you and use it while you vote. Latimer said, “We are taking great measures to ensure a safe and healthy inperson voting experience.” Social distancing and hand sanitizing as well as adjusted layouts will be utilized.

According to Latimer, “All of this will mean that in-person voting is going to be slower than in the past, but it will be healthy and orderly.”

Whichever method you choose, remember that your vote counts.

For more information, please visit www.votehillsborough.org.

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Jen McDonald (D) Scott Levinson (R) Tony Morejon (R) www.VoteJenMcDonald.com www.VoteTonyMorejon.com www.VoteLevinson.com

Hillsborough Tax Collector

Kevin Beckner (D) Cindy Stuart (D) www.KevinBeckner.com www.VoteCindyStuart.com

Bill Yanger www.YangerFor Judge.com

Scott Franklin (R) www.voteScott Franklin.com

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State House District 59

Nancy Jacobs www.NancyJacobs ForJudge.com

State Senate District 21

Group 39

Jeffery Alex James Johnson www.jefferyforschoolboard.com

Wendy DePaul www.WendyDePaul 4Judge.com

Steven Scott Stephens

July 2020

Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

Page 27

Page 28

Volume 18, Issue 7

Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

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From The Tee Box With Jason Blanchard “I want to kill it off the tee.” I can’t tell you how many times I have heard, “I just want to hit it farther.”

Golfers typically equate swinging harder with hitting it farther.

That actually couldn't be further from the truth.

Carry and total driving distance is based on swing speed, but that is just part of making the ball go farther off the tee.

Every driver has a ‘sweet spot’ on the club face and when you strike your ball against that ‘sweet spot’ you are on the right path to maximizing your distance. This is primarily the center of the face in both the woods and the irons. You can swing as hard as you want, but if you aren't hitting the center of the club face, you will never be able to get the maximum ball speed off of it.

Without getting too technical, the combination of a club hitting a ball is very similar to a trampoline. If you bounce in the center of the trampoline, you are able to jump much higher, as opposed to jumping by the edge and not really bouncing at all. Your golf club, especially your driver, creates the same effect, so if you hit the ball in the middle you can achieve maximum bounce (distance).

The real question is, how do you hit the center of the club face? The quick answer is, don’t swing so hard.

I know this sounds simple, but it’s true.

When you focus on tempo and control your body into a balanced finish, you’ll find that it would be the simplest way to hit solid shots.

Another great tool besides focusing on good tempo is to actually shorten your backswing. During the backswing, the farther away the club gets from the ball, the more room for error you have. I promise, 90 percent of amateur golfers swing too long into the backswing for their skill level.

I promise, the feeling of a shorter backswing and a balanced finish is so much nicer than the feeling of trying to kill a tee shot.

Please reach out to me at golfguyosprey@gmail.com with any questions and check out our Youtube videos at https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCKORi1BixPjP_wCndPJ1ahA for some helpful tips ‘from the tee!’

Jason Blanchard, PGA manages the 18-hole Summerfield Crossings Golf Club as the COO/General Manager.

The course opened in 1987 and was designed by Ron Garl. Visit https://summerfieldgc.com/

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Page 29

Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

Tampa Theatre’s Movie-Maker Summer Camp Goes Virtual

By Lily Belcher

By Brian Bokor, Founder www.facebook.com/bokorscorner

With all the new construction around South County, we wanted to shed some light on just a few of the many projects coming to the area in this column. Some of these are in the early stages of development and others about ready to open, with each adding value to our ever-growing community.

Due to the events of the past three months, opening dates for several new stores, including the Cracker Barrel near the Riverview GDX Theater in Gibsonton, the Tractor Supply Company on Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd. in Seffner as well as the Bravo Supermarket in Brandon near Providence Rd. and Town Center Blvd. intersection, have been delayed.

Please check back with the Osprey Observer for the most updated information.

New projects in the construction phases include Alafia Brewing Company on US 41 in the Twin Oaks Plaza in Gibsonton. Brainchild of founding partners Dan Castanera along with George and Mary Taylor, the team looks to make their operation not just a brewery, but a destination.

Live circus acts will entertain guests daily and kids will help make their own flavored sodas.

The Big Bend area will be getting a Noire The Nail Bar in the Lincoln Bend Plaza near the recently opened ALDI. Two new 7Eleven stores are being built in Ruskin, one at NE 19th Ave. and 30th St. and the other at Shell Point Rd. and 24th St. as well as a four-story hotel near the College Ave. interchange at I-75.

Recently submitted plans include the Riverview Regional Park covering 25 acres located on the north bank of the Alafia River off Riverview Dr., west of US 301 and east of the I-75 overpass. Parking, pavilions, restrooms and a large walking path with a scenic overlook of the Alafia are just some of the features. A large community hospital is set to be built on the east side of US 301 between Boyette Rd. and Balm Riverview Rd. in Riverview with Apollo Beach slated for a large home improvement distribution facility at the southwest corner of Big Bend Rd. and US 41.

Want to know what is coming soon...email bsbokor@gmail.com.

Despite the corontor during the week of avirus pandemic’s best Monday, July 20. efforts to dim the lights “The instructional on Tampa Theatre’s portion includes game anticipated summer show-style quizzes camps, young direcand group discussions, tors will attract audibut even more imporences via virtual auditant will be the periods toriums to view the where campers are products of this year’s searching their homes A backyard movie-maker films his unique summer film for props, costumes guest star for Tampa Theatre’s summer camp. camp. The Backyard and settings,” said Movie-Maker summer camp, Tampa Theatre’s media conpartnering with the Florida tact, Jill Witecki. “The goal of Center for Instructional the Backyard Movie-Makers virTechnology (FCIT) and the tual camp is the same as our Tampa Electric Company for regular Summer Film Camp: to the 20th year, is part of Tampa foster creativity and teach chilTheatre’s Education and dren visual literacy.”

Outreach program and welThe camp gives future comes students in grades 3-12 Steven Spielbergs a chance to and their families to learn the put their ideas in the spotlight— basics of cinematography and teaching campers how to write a directing. The camp gives parscript, direct and edit short film. ticipants an opportunity to learn the While Stan Lee might not make a techniques needed to create an atcameo in the at-home movies, particihome film for only $125 per family each pants will create sets in their living room week. and cast their family as actors. Aspiring “When the ongoing COVID-19 clofilmmakers will need a computer or sure made it impossible to move forphone with a movie editing software ward with Summer Film Camp this program, such as iMovie (which is free) year, we all agreed immediately that we or Movavi (which offers a seven-day wanted to collaborate instead on a virfree trial), to create their at home movie. tual program,” said FCIT Assistant For information about the Backyard Director Nate Wolkenhauer.

Movie-Maker summer camp, visit After the success of June’s courshttps://tampatheatre.org or contact Jill es, participants will have the option to Witecki at jill@tampatheatre.org. For create a family documentary during the information on how to register, contact week of Monday, July 13 and create a Box Office Manager Dawn Kidle at scene in the style of their favorite direc- dawn@tampatheatre.org.

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Riverview/Apollo Beach

July 2020

Volume 18, Issue 7

Ph: 657-2418

See Inside

New Director Of Swim At BSAC

The Brandon Sports & Aquatic Center (BSAC) has named Sharon Finotti as director of swim education.

Finotti brings more than 22 years of experience in the fitness and swim industry. She received her license as a Teacher of Swimming and Water Safety (TSW) through AUSTSWIM, the industry standard for swimming and water safety in Australia and many countries.

Perfect practice makes perfect is foundational to the educational approach Finotti is stressing at BSAC. “Teaching proper techniques with consistent reinforcement, and not moving a child up to the next level before they are ready, prevents the forming of bad habits,” said Finotti.

BSAC’s Learn to Swim Program is the most comprehensive swim lesson program in the area, offering a progressive group lesson program as well as children and adult private lessons, parent/tot classes and adaptive (special needs) swim lessons. Along with teaching swimming techniques, lessons incorporate water safety and survival skills.

Hillsborough County ranks as one of the highest in the state for youth drowning of children 3 to 5 years of age. These numbers are on the rise as families are self-isolating and more children are at home during the day.

Children are restless and love to explore and pools and bodies of water are everywhere in Florida, and it only takes a few seconds for water accidents to happen. This leads to a higher risk factor for children who do not know water safety and how to swim.

BSAC is a community-based

Allegra Spa Cafe Celebrates Opening Of Holistic Therapies

Jean Pierre and Kimberly Velez, new owners of Allegra Spa Cafe, are excited to finally be able to welcome you. Allegra Spa Cafe has a relaxing atmosphere for both mind and body to recover and energize. Its holistic therapies are designed to make you feel great from the moment you walk in the door and it is the best place to work on boosting your immune system to stay healthy and well or maxi-

mize your training by rejuvenating your muscles to get back in the game stronger and capable of achieving more. The services offered at the location on 13454 Boyette Rd. in Riveview include: cryotherapy, infrared sauna, compression therapy and dry flotation, as well as others.

Allegra Spa Cafe is open Monday

662-4343.

10:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. To find out more, visit www.allegraspacafe.com or call

Navigator Academy Of Leadership Registering Students Navigator Academy of Leadership is a tuition-free Public Charter School in Valrico. Some parents find that traditional schools aren’t meeting their children’s needs and want their children to have the best chance to excel in school and in life. Your child deserves more from their school, and at Navigator Academy of Leadership, your children are its future. Its teachers are passionate in delivering its SMART (Science, Math, Art, Reading, Technology) curriculum in conjunction with its NASA collaboration. The Leader in Me school helps mold students to become tomorrows leaders.

To find out more, visit its website at navigatoracademyvalrico.com or call it at 603-9340.

New Fairfield Inn & Suites Tampa Riverview Hotel Opens In Riverview

The 108-room Fairfield Inn & Suites Tampa Riverview hotel at 10743 Big Bend Rd. in Riverview has opened with a new décor theme that provides guests with a feeling of warmth and calm. “Delivering both function and comfort, our new design and décor elevate the Fairfield brand.

At Fairfield, we provide an easy, positive and productive travel experience,” said Janis Milham, senior vice president of classic select brands at Marriott International. Additional amenities include an outdoor swimming pool, fitness center, business services, valet laundry and others.

For more information or reservations, visit www.fairfield.com.

Adam Bantner Named A Florida Legal Elite For 2020

Adam Bantner, a board-certified criminal trial law attorney with Valrico Law Group, was recently named as one of Florida Trend magazine’s Florida Legal Elite for 2020. This is the 17th year of Florida Legal Elite presenting a prestigious roster of attorneys chosen for recognition by their

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Page 31

Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

Business Column Continued................... peers. Bantner and the other attorneys chosen exemplify a standard of excellence in their profession and by so doing have garnered the respect and esteem of their colleagues.

Valrico Law Group can be contacted on 397-3965, or visit its website at www.ValricoLawGroup.com.

Lennar Announces New Community In Ruskin

By Michelle Colesanti Free Bankruptcy Phone Consultation Often when their income falls drastically, people fall behind on their bills or into a large amount of debt.

This causes a huge amount of stress.

It is important to discuss your financial situation to come up with the best strategy and to know your options. Gina Rosato Law Firm, P.A. is offering a free initial phone consultation with an attorney to analyze your situation.

To schedule a consultation, visit www.lawgina.com or call 463-8000.

Lennar announced its newest single-family home community at Shell Cove in Ruskin. The community is conveniently located near major Gina Rosato is offerthoroughfares US41 and ing free bankruptcy Tower Radiology Launches consultations.

Interstate 75 along with Virtual Registration recreation areas like Domino Park Tower Radiology is proud to Boat Ramp. Shell Cove will feature announce that it has begun rolling out a 160 single family homes ranging from ‘virtual registration’ process for patients at 1,267-3,326 square feet and priced the multiple locations throughout the from the high $100s, and community Tampa Bay area. This is a big step foramenties include a clubhouse and ward in Tower Radiology’s efforts to pool, cabana, basketball court, playdecrease contact with staff to adhere to ground, event lawn as well as a dog social distancing recommendations and park. “The Ruskin area is perfect for to streamline the completion of necessary first-time homebuyers and young fami- paperwork. The patient will be able to lies,” said Mark Metheny, division pres- complete forms on their phone or comident for Lennar in Tampa. “The locaputer and take a photo of their ID as well tion makes it easy to get to great as exam prescription. A reminder text shopping, dining and recreation message and instructions will be sent options in the area. Plus, the wide within 90 minutes of their appointment. variety of floor plans and incredible Once the exam is completed, the patient amenities allow for families to grow in can leave with no checkout necessary. a low-maintenance home.”

Virtual registration presents many efficienFor more information on Lennar cies, decreases contact with staff, homes in this community, call 478adheres to social distancing recommen5429 or visit Lennar in Tampa. dations, shortens lobby wait times and elevates the patient experience.

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Wimauma Pet Rescue Seeks Donations For Animals In Need During COVID-19

By Gwen Rollings

Angelite Bragg is selfears the rescue will no dom recognized as a hero longer to be able to for her daily efforts during take in more animals, the COVID-19 pandemic. which no rescue ever She doesn’t work in a hoswants. Rescues are pital, but she unselfishly filled to capacity with cares for those in critical animals being surrensituations, many of whom dered by owners no would be homeless and longer able to incur the probably not even survive expense of feeding without her help. The and caring for their unique difference in own pets.

Bragg’s ‘patients’ is they Valerie Beckett, Kittie Corral, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit all walk on four legs. owner of Pooch located in Wimauma Bragg is the founder Smooch Pet and president of Kittie Corral, a Services and a 501(c)(3) nonprofit located in Kittie Corral supporter, said, “Private Wimauma dedicated to rescuing and shelters rely heavily on donations, and saving the lives of sick, injured, and right now the donations have slowed to stray cats who have been abused, left a trickle.” Beckett has observed that homeless or neglected. Kittie Corral the people running the shelters are will also spay or neuter, vaccinate, pro- often depriving themselves financially vide necessary medical treatment and so they can care for and feed the anifind loving, adoptive, safe homes for mals. these stray and neglected cats.

The community can help by makUnfortunately, Kittie Corral has ing donations through the Facebook been critically and negatively impacted page @kittiecorral, https://www.petfindthrough decreased donations during er.com/member/us/fl/wimauma/kittiethe past months. Bragg explained, corral-fl1558/ or https://www.adop“COVID affected everyone financially. tapet.com/adoption_rescue/99587-kitThere were eight adoptions and tie-corral-wimauma-florida. The webfundraising events completely cansite, kittiecorral.org, provides many celled from February through May. links to items that can be purchased These events provide funds just to through Amazon, and choosing Kittie cover basic needs such as food, treats Corral on AmazonSmile to support, as and litter. Medical costs have also skya nonprofit costs the buyer nothing rocketed.” extra. Bragg said Kittie Corral will even According to Bragg, no veterinaripick up donations within a reasonable ans, animal hospitals, retails stores or distance by calling 634-5873 or 731distributors offer donations, and she 6303.

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Page 32

Volume 18, Issue 7

Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

Local Options Help Kids Get Crafty: Summer Art Opportunities For Kids

By Faith Miller

Multiple locations in the area are offering kids and their families several opportunities to get creative and have some fun this summer. AR Workshop and Art Monkey, two local art studios in the area, are offering everything from summer camps to candle making to get kids Art Monkey offers project workshops throughout the summer.

An AR Workshop summer camp featuring the tote bags the kids made.

do and each of them gets to personalize the project to make it their own.

Another option for crafty fun, Art Monkey, is located in Lithia in the Park Square Town Center and has many events happening throughout the month of July.

Each Friday, the business will host ‘Story Art’ where children are read a book and do a project based off that book. Once the children finish their artwork they receive a kiddie cup of ice cream. Art Monkey has begun offering candle making and is offering workshops on Thursday, July 2, Tuesday, July 7, Wednesday, July 8 and Friday, July 10 for different age groups, each

creative on their break from school.

AR Workshop is located in Brandon and is currently offering multiple activities and events for kids and families. Its summer camps currently run weekly from June to early August, and kids participate in a different project each day and are able to personalize the projects they make.

“It’s a really fun time for all the kids,” stated the owner, Stephanie Paxton.

The business also offers private birthday parties where the birthday kid picks the project for the group to

with their own special treat included. The business is also offering multiple varieties of workshops for kids, including a ‘Unicorn Plaque/Bubble Painting Technique Workshop’ on Sunday, July 12 and a ‘Be Gnarly (Gnarwhal) Canvas Workshop’ on Friday, July 31. For teens and tweens, the company is offering a ‘Happy Camper Plate

Workshop’ on Wednesday, July 29. The business will be hosting a ‘Christmas in July’inspired week from Sunday to Saturday, July 19-25 with fun Christmas-themed arts and crafts for kids.

During these uncertain times, it’s great to see businesses reopening and helping kids find their imagination and creativity this summer. All information regarding Art Monkey can be found at www.artandicecream.com and it can be contacted at 3159803. All information regarding AR Workshop can be found at www.arworkshop.com/brandon. Its summer camps can be found under the calendar and it can be contacted about birthday parties and events at 775-7109.

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Alvarez Runs For Judge In Group 30

Staff Report

Voting is a right. No matter how you do it, whether it is by mail, early voting or on Election Day, just remember that every vote counts and every citizen should exercise their right to vote.

The Primary Election will be held on Tuesday, August 18.

You can vote by mail. You can also vote during the early voting period from Monday, August 3 through Sunday, August 16 from 10 a.m. to 6

p.m. On Primary Election Day, you must go to your assigned precinct. You can vote on Tuesday, August 18 from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Make sure you are registered to vote in the primary election by Monday, July 20 and get out and vote.

Enjoy profiles about some of the local candidates on the next few pages and see why they are willing to serve the community as elected officials.

Law professor at the Daniel A. Alvarez, University of Tampa.

Sr. is a first-generation He created an American born and accounting company raised in to help disabled vetFlorida. Known to his erans and has a rare friends and clients as distinction of being Danny, he is a lawyer, a three-time Tampa community leader, vetBay Business eran, small business Journal Heroes At owner and currently Work honoree. serves as a member “My family of the Hillsborough Daniel A. Alvarez, Sr. is running for 30.

Group in Judge Court Circuit governescaped County Sheriff’s that system a ment persecution from Office. Alvarez is running for Circuit Court justice of tenants failed to honor the basic Judge in Group 30.

Alvarez law,” and faithfulness to the "This is not about a title. It is said. “I am dedicated to being impartial, about serving and making a difference.” said Alvarez. “I am committed decisive, fair and just. For me, there is not other way.” to the law above anything else and to the In 2015, Alvarez was named the fair and impartial treatment of all no matHispanic Man of the Year by Tampa ter their background or where they come Hispanic Heritage, Inc. and the Al Gallon from.”

After graduating college he was com- Ministries Community Service Person of the Year, which was chosen by a panel of missioned as an Infantry Officer in the United States Army. During his time in the 200 leaders in the African American Community. military, Alvarez was deployed to South Alvarez is a lifetime member of The Korea and later assigned to various leadVeteran’s of Foreign Wars, a perpetual ership positions within the US Army member of several Masonic organizations Airborne School. He understands the in the Tampa area and was a member of importance of honor and integrity.

La Casa Cuba de Tampa. In 2014, In May of 2011, Alvarez formed The Commissioner Sandy Murman named Alvarez Legal Group to help individuals him to the Hillsborough County Charter whose voices are often drowned out in Review Board. the legal system. While the Firm specialHis proudest accomplishment is ized in business law and litigation, perbeing a father. He has four children, Tony, sonal injury, a strong focus remains on Emery, Lincoln, and Elle. "I'm ready to Bankruptcy, Estate Planning, and serve and I humbly ask for your vote this Entertainment Law. At the same time, he election" said Alvarez. spent almost nine years as a Business

Tampa Native Michael Scionti Looks To Serve Community In Group 19

Helene Daniel Brings Experience To Group 30 County Judge Race

abroad.”

Michael Scionti is Scionti has held honored to serve as various positions of one of your circuit public trust as a court judges in the lawyer, soldier and Thirteenth Judicial judge and has a Circuit. proven record in A Tampa native maintaining the fair and lifelong resident of and impartial adminHillsborough County, istration of justice. he has served the “I have always community and counperformed my duties try for 25 years, and responsibilities upholding the rule of with the highest level law in and out of the Tampa native Michale Scionti is curof integrity, demoncourtroom, on and off rently running for re-election in strated a strong the battlefield and Group 19. understanding of the law and applied a throughout all branches of governfair-minded, common sense approach ment. to my decision-making,” he said. “I “I currently preside over both believe the depth and breadth of my Veterans Treatment Court and legal and judicial experience has given Juvenile Delinquency Court—two of me the necessary balance, perspecHillsborough County’s problem-solving courts for struggling veterans and tive and problem-solving skills to make me an effective judge.” at risk youth,” said Scionti.

He is currently running for re-elecA lieutenant colonel in the United States Army Reserve, he also serves tion in Group 19.

“As a judge, I serve as an instruas a commander in the Judge ment of justice and ensure that everyAdvocate General’s Corps. one is treated equally under the law,” “Over the course of my 20 years he said. “With your support, I promise in the military, I have served multiple to continue serving our community tours of duty in both Iraq and with integrity, compassion and fairAfghanistan and was awarded the ness.” He asks you to please vote for Bronze Star Medal,” he said. “As a Michale Scionti for Circuit Court military magistrate, I presided over Judge, Group 19 on Tuesday, August hundreds of military-commissioned 18 or before. war tribunals and as a judge advoVisit www.JudgeScionti.com for cate I helped advance the rule of law and uphold human rights in countries more information.

"I have the Helene Daniel has experience and practiced law in competence to be Florida for over 33 an effective Circuit years. A longtime resiCourt Judge,” said dent of Hillsborough Helene Daniel.

County, Helene Daniel “Circuit court is our is running for Circuit highest trial court Court Judge Group and it is a serious 30. job that comes with She has been rated AV Preeminent® Valrico resident Helene Daniel is running considerable for Circuit Court Judge Group 30. responsibility.”

by MartindaleHelene Daniel has been certified by the Hubbell®, its highest rating for legal abiliFlorida Supreme Court as a Circuit-Civil ties and ethics. This is a significant Mediator since 2001. The mediation achievement as it is based on peer process is an excellent way to prepare for review. judicial service.

“My campaign values are experiFamily and community are important ence, integrity and fairness,” said Helene to Helene Daniel. She is a past president Daniel who has extensive courtroom of the Hillsborough Association for experience, having tried cases in both Women Lawyers. Over the years, she civil and criminal law. has been active volunteer in the commuAs a lawyer, she has represented nity with Habitat for Humanity, Paint Your clients from every walk of life, including Heart Out, Great American Teach and pro bono clients. many more. She has also mentored high “Pro bono work is an important part of my community service and I enjoy rep- school, college and law school students.

A longtime resident of Valrico, she is a resenting clients in and out of court. I member of Nativity Catholic Church. believe it is essential, as a trial lawyer, to She has been married to her hushelp those in need of legal assistance band, Bill, for 32 years and they have two and represent them for free,” she said. children, Veronica and Will, who both After 33 years as a lawyer, Helene graduated from Newsome High School Daniel understands the practice of law is and attended the University of Florida. about people and compassion. The majority of her legal experience has been They love dogs and have three Labradors. “My proven trial experience in Circuit Civil Court, handling cases in and integrity will ensure I am a fair and areas of nursing homes, medical malimpartial judge,” she said. Visit practice, personal injury, insurance law, www.HeleneDaniel4Judge.com. healthcare law and commercial litigation.

Staff Report

Staff Report

EXPERIENCE MATTERS 30 Years as a Lawyer Proven Courtroom Experience

AV Preeminent® Rated

by Martindale-Hubbell® Past President HAWL Hillsborough Association for Women Lawyers

HELENE DANIEL

FOR CIRCUIT COURT JUDGE Hillsborough County | Circuit 13 Group 30

HELENEDANIEL4JUDGE.COM Paid by Helene Daniel for Circuit Court Judge Circuit 13 Group 30

Gary Dolgin, A Candidate For Circuit Court Judge In Group 31, Wants To Be Your Family’s Judge

Monique Scott Brings Versatility And Experience To Group 7 County Judge Run

practice in Tampa Gary Dolgin, a since 1993. Dolgin board-certified marital has experience not and family law attoronly in marital and ney, will use his over family law, as he 30 years of experience has served as an to serve the residents assistant state attorof Hillsborough County ney in Manatee as a circuit court County and as an judge. Dolgin is runassistant public ning for circuit court defender in judge in Group 31 and Hillsborough would like your vote Gary Dolgin helped save his client Tara’s on Tuesday, August daughters after they were abducted and County. Dolgin has taken out of the state by Tara’s suicidal handled juvenile 18. husband. delinquency and Dolgin has represented many citizens over the years. One dependency cases as well as a myriad of issues that a circuit court judge will be client, Tara, found herself in a distressful required to rule upon. situation when her suicidal husband “I have dedicated my professional abducted their two daughters and took career to helping families and children. I them out of the state. Tara said, “Gary look forward to putting my many years of Dolgin was the only lawyer who took my experience to work for the people of call and understood the urgency of my Hillsborough County,” said Dolgin. situation. He assured me that his top priDolgin is one of 28 attorneys in ority was getting my daughters back.”

Tara added, “Without him, our story could Hillsborough County who are board certified by the Florida Bar as a specialist in have had a different ending. Our story is marital and family law. In Florida, board just one of many where he has protected certification recognizes an attorney’s spechildren and families.” cial knowledge, skill and proficiency in a Dolgin said, “The most rewarding particular area of law. The minimum stanaspect of my practice has been reuniting dard to become board certified is quite wrongfully abducted children and reprerigorous. senting domestic violence victims.

Dolgin has lived almost all of his life Lawyers and judges can sometimes save in Hillsborough County. He is married to lives. The judge in Tara’s case knew to give her case top priority. I am going to do Wendi Towbin-Dolgin, R.N. for almost 30 years. They have 22-year-old twins, Cory the same as a judge for the people of and Mallory, and a 16-year-old son, Ari. Hillsborough County.”

Visit www.GaryDolgin.com.

Dolgin has run a successful private

Probation Division, Monique Scott is a Drug Division, Criminal former law enforcement Felony Division and officer, teacher, prosecuEconomic Crimes Unit. tor, first generation The versatility in American and Tampa Scott’s tenure as a native looking to share her prosecutor is exempliexperience as a fied by her experience Hillsborough County in prosecuting a variety judge. of criminal cases, Scott received her including DUIs, traffic, bachelor’s degree at the misdemeanor offenses, University of South Florida family/domestic vioand upon graduation lence offenses, white moved to Washington collar crimes, drug trafD.C., where she interned Tampa native Monique Scott is with the Public Defender’s running for Hillsborough County ficking, firearm judge. charges, violent felony Service. Upon returning to Tampa, Scott was recruited by the Tampa offenses and punishable-by-life felonies.

Scott is married to Justin Scott, also Police Department as a sworn officer. a Tampa native, and they have one son Scott’s career was cut short due to who currently attends Jesuit High School her medical disability, epilepsy. She then as well as two dogs. began a career in teaching while attendScott is active both within the legal ing Stetson Law School within the partcommunity and the Hillsborough County time program. She had the honor of community at large. She is a member interning with Judge Gregory Holder and completing two Certified Legal Internships and serves as a committee chair for the Florida Association of Women Lawyers, in both the Hillsborough and Polk County Hillsborough County Bar Association, State Attorney’s Offices.

Florida Bar, Criminal Law Inn of Court After graduating from law school, Scott began a career as a prosecutor with and Hispanic Professional Women’s Association and currently serves on four the Hillsborough County State Attorney’s boards: the Sheriff’s Hispanic Advisory Office. She successfully litigated numerCouncil, Hillsborough Association of ous jury trials, non-jury trials, depositions Women Lawyers, Tampa Hispanic Bar and argued countless motions. During Association and Epilepsy Services her tenure at the State Attorney’s Office, Foundation. To learn more, find Monique she practiced in a variety of divisions: the Scott For Judge on Facebook or visit County Criminal Trial Division, Domestic www.Scott4Judge.com.

Violence Trial Division, Violation of

By Kathy L. Collins

Staff Report

Ivanov Campaigns With Integrity, Impartiality And Service For Group 19 Circuit Court Judge

Green Seeks To Serve As Circuit Court Judge Group 31

numbers,” she said.

Integrity. Impartiality.

“These are real people Service. These are with real stories that more than words to matter.” nonpartisan judicial canIn her personal life, didate Ashley Willis Ivanov stays busy volIvanov. To her, they hold unteering with her value when they are church and taking her lived out. daughter to Girl Scout Professionally and events. “I try to lead by personally, Ivanov lives example and integrity is out these ideals. at the center of this,” As an attorney, she said Ivanov. has handled a diverse Impartiality is a corrange of cases, includnerstone of a judge’s ing litigated and non-litiresponsibilities in gated matters, repreadministering justice. senting both plaintiffs “It is not the judge’s and defendants. She Ashley Ivanov seeks to serve as a presently focuses her circuit court judge in Hillsborough role to legislate from County. the bench but to apply practice on probate and the law as it is, as created by the legisestate planning. lature,” commented Ivanov.

“Integrity in the practice of law is Service is a regular part of her life, important for the rule of law to be effecand she would not have it any other tively carried out,” she commented. way. She enjoys reading to children in Ivanov zealously advocates for her the Head Start program with her fellow clients, giving them straightforward Rotarians. She also gives back to the feedback. Sometimes this may mean informing a prospective client that he or community by assisting Gold Star families and first responders with estate she does not have much of a case or planning. that the legal fees in the matter could Ivanov is committed to upholding be higher than what the client may equal protection of the laws for all peohave initially anticipated. ple, impartially applying the law as writ“Transparency is part of being ethiten by the legislature and stand behind cal,” said Ivanov.

Her clients’ public testimonies attest the United States Constitution and Florida Constitution. to her professionalism.

Watch the Ashley Ivanov Campaign “My clients’ matters are more than video at www.voteashleyivanov.com. pieces of paper filed in court with case

ball coach at Attorney Greg Robinson High dedicated has Green School and mentor the serving to his life in the Big Brothers of people Big Sisters proCounty.

Hillsborough gram. born, was Green Seven generaeducated and raised of his family tions Hillsborough here in called have up grew He County.

Hillsborough servin a community County home. In ice-oriented family fact, Green fondly that him who taught refers to communihis serving Hillsborough as highest ty is the Attorney Greg Green is running for circuit his “forever individan that honor court judge of Group 31.

Green is home.” achieve. ual can daughters young two has and married community this for love Green’s in here right raised and born attended He life. in early came Hillsborough County.

Chamberlain High School, where he Green believes our legal system and student-athlete a as hard worked serve as the foundation that should he There, standout. basketball was a and guarantees our rights and protects prepateamwork, of value the learned Green chose to run for freedoms. with him providing fairness, and ration (1) to ensure all litireasons: three in him guide that principles important in court enjoy equal appear who gants today. the courtroom fair treatment receive and access Hillsborough to service Green’s continue the famito (2) law, the under profeshis through continues County and (3) to service public of tradition ly the in involvement personal and sional tangible and real a as serving continue have to honored is He community. will Green children. his for model role prosecutor a as county our in served is justice that ensure to tirelessly work where general, attorney and assistant Green impartially. and fairly dispensed justice ensure to tirelessly he worked has real experience, proven leadership in our courts every day. He is also a and the right temperament to serve as partner founding and owner business your next circuit court judge of Group P.A. Law, of Green 31.

Green profession, his of Outside For more information, our and community the also serves VoteGregGreen@gmail.com. visit footflag girls school high a as youth

Staff Report

Staff Report

GREG CIRCUIT COURT JUDGE GROUP 31 HUSBAND. FATHER. COACH. PUBLIC SERVANT. UNMATCHED EXPERIENCE

Established Trial Lawyer 21 Years of Courtroom Experience

STRONG COMMUNITY ROOTS

7th Generation Hillsborough Native Chamberlain High School Star Athlete

A COMMITMENT TO COMMUNITY AND SERVICE Attorney Ad Litem Volunteer High School Girls Flag Football Coach Big Brother in Big Brother Big Sister Program Pastoral Care/Biblical Counseling at The Crossing Church

ENDORSED BY:

VOTE AUGUST 18, 2020 LOCAL 2294

POLITICAL ADVERTISEMENT PAID FOR AND APPROVED BY GREG GREEN, FOR HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY CIRCUIT COURT JUDGE GROUP 31

As Circuit Judge, Group 9, John Schifino Will Treat All Honorably And With Compassion

Nancy Millan Ready To Use Experience To Hit The Ground Running As Tax Collector

civility and can John Schifino grasp complex grew up in a large, issues. He has been tight-knit family in awarded several Seffner. His father, an professionalism attorney, gave him awards, including advice to be humble, the Hillsborough compassionate and to Association of practice law with Women Lawyers integrity. Schifino has Professionalism lived by this advice.

Award in 2017 and Schifino is running to the Thirteenth become a circuit court judge in Group 9 and John Schifino is an experienced attorney Judicial Circuit who has earned a reputation as someone Professionalism would like your vote who practices professionally with civility Award in 2019. He on Tuesday, August and integrity. He will put these traits to use as a Hillsborough County circuit court has been selected 18. judge (Group 9). by his peers into the Schifino has been Super Lawyer Top 100 in Florida and Top a zealous advocate for his clients. He 50 in the Tampa Bay 2019. handles both trial and appellate cases “The court is a sacred institution. I involving business litigation, labor and admire it and will be humbled to be a part employment law and environmental law. of it,” said Schifino. “I am running for cirHe has been the lead counsel in numercuit court judge because I have the expeous cases and is a certified state court rience and understanding to run an effimediator. Now, after 25 years of practiccient and honorable courtroom. For ing law, Schifino believes it is time to live his dream of serving Hillsborough County almost 25 years, I have represented clients on both sides of the courtroom residents as a circuit court judge. and understand the lasting impact the “I believe the lessons I have learned court’s decision individuals and families,” from my parents, and the way I have explained Schifino. practiced law for 25 years, will make me Schifino is a member of the Greater a judge who is prepared, balanced and Riverview Chamber of Commerce. He is honest. I will always serve with integrity, married to Sara and they have two chilhumility and compassion. I will treat all dren, Jack and Eleanor. He has coached who come before me fairly and equally his children in various sports. He fondly no matter who you know or where you recalls playing in the South Brandon Little come from,” said Schifino.

Schifino has earned a reputation as a League.

Visit www.schifinoforjudge.com. lawyer who practices professionally with

becoming the next Nancy Millan, a Hillsborough tax collector.

30-plus-year veteran The Tax Collector’s of the Hillsborough Office is the funding County Tax Collector’s engine powering virtually Office is running to all local government and become the tax colleccollecting and distributing tor. Millan, a revenue for many other Democrat, will be on public entities, including the ballot on Tuesday, school boards, ports and August 18 and would mass transit systems. ask for your vote.

The Hillsborough Tax Millan started as With over 30 years of experience in Collector’s Office generan entry-level clerk the Hillsborough County Tax ates over $2 billion dolover 30 years ago.

Collector’s Office, Nancy Millan will lars annually and hanShe worked diligently need no on-the-job training. dles over one million and is now a member motor vehicle, vessel and mobile home of the senior staff as the director of comtransactions. munity relations. Millan said, “I know this Millan said, “I am proud of our initiadepartment and this department knows tive to establish self-service kiosks at sevme. I require no on-the-job training eral participating Publix locations in the because I have done this work for over greater Brandon area. Self-service kiosk 30 years, and as Hillsborough County’s is one way of making the Tax Collector’s next tax collector, I am ready to lead this Office more accessible to our residents.” office on day one.”

Millan added, “The Hillsborough County “As a senior leader in the organizaTax Collector’s Office also opened a tion, I have been a part of modernizing Brandon area branch that includes a and transforming the way we provide road-testing range and is an important service to our customers. Our hard work to remake the organization resulted in the asset to the community.”

“When I am elected, I will hit the Tax Collector’s Office becoming an ground running. My vision is to build upon award-winning organization that is a role the success of my predecessor to ensure model for government agencies in our office becomes a more accessible Hillsborough County and throughout the and more efficient, thus remaking the state of Florida,” added Millan. gold standard in government and cusMillan is a certified Florida collector tomer service,” said Millan. assistant and has worked with the city, For more information, please visit county and state agencies. She is well https://www.votenancymillan.com. prepared to take on the responsibility of

By Kathy L. Collins

By Kathy L. Collins

Kelly Ayers, Candidate For Hillsborough Circuit Court Judge In Group 9, Wants To Be The People’s Judge

By Kathy L. Collins

has the legal experiKelly Ayers is a ence necessary to candidate for make her an effecHillsborough County tive yet compassionCircuit Court Judge ate judge. “If you (Group 9). She will be come before me, on the ballot on regardless of the Tuesday, August 18 case, I will make and would like your sure that the court vote. experience is fair Ayers is a secondand honest,” said generation Tampa Ayers. native. Her dad, Steve Kelly Ayers, shown here with her extend“I am most Ayers, served as a ed family, is a candidate for Hillsborough proud of the expertfirefighter and later circuit court judge (Group 9). Ayers has owned Ayers-Sierra always put family first, and she wants to ise I have gained be the people’s judge. She will be an over the years. This Insurance. approachable and solutions-oriented has allowed people She has practiced to have a great attorney represent them for 26 years and owns three law firms.

Despite the high demands of her job, she regardless of their income. It always warms my heart when I can do right by has always put family first. Now that her my clients, especially children,” said youngest child is off to college, Ayers Ayers. believes this is an ideal time to give back “When my clients are happy, I am to the community by serving as a circuit happy. I want everyone who comes court judge. before me to feel that way when they Ayers will bring a unique perspective leave my courtroom. I want to be people’s to the bench. “I am a people person. I judge,” added Ayers. want to be accessible and approachable.

Ayers is active in several community I will always strive to work towards a resservice organizations. She has volunolution. I want to do things the simple teered with Bay Area Legal Service, way. I will always ask what can we agree works with high school interns and sponupon. If the parties agree on issues, then sors Buddy Baseball. we can work towards a solution. This is She is married to Attorney Dan what I want to bring to the bench if you Crowe, a retired Air Force Senior Master vote for me for Hillsborough circuit court First Sergeant. Ayers has three grown judge,” said Ayers. children, Mitchell, Kaelee and Carson.

Ayers has extensive experience in For more information, please visit civil and criminal litigation as well as in www.kellyayersforjudge.com. family law and dependency cases. She

KELLY AYERS HAS THE MOST EXPERIENCE FOR JUDGE

Experience • 26 years of legal experience in private practice, beginning at Fowler White • •

Handles cases in federal, appellate,

• •

dependency Re-wrote the Baker Act Statute professionals

Vote August 18th

Circuit Court Judge Group 9 Education • Stetson University College of Law – P.O. Box 172151

Tampa, Florida 33672 Phone: (813) 440-7142

KellyAyersforJudge@gmail.com www.KellyAyersforJudge.com

•

Paid by Kelly Ayers for Circuit Court Judge, Group 9

Vote For Scott ‘Mr. H’ Hottenstein Ready To Service In Florida House District 57

By Sean Crumpacker

57th District in the Scott Hottenstein, Florida State House known as ‘Mr. H’ by of Representatives. his students, is a canWe at VoteVets are didate for Florida always so proud to House District 57. He see veterans like is passionate about you committed to serving the public by continuing their advocating for the service after the unihealth, education and form,” wrote Jon safety of his communiSoltz, Iraq War vetty. Hottenstein takes eran and chairman pride in his original 24year career in the Scott Hottenstein, known as ‘Mr. H’ by his of VoteVets PAC, students, is a candidate for Florida House regarding United States Navy, District 57.

Hottenstein’s camwhich began when he paign. “In these turbulent political times, was 17 years old, and in his second our veterans, communities and country career as a Hillsborough County Public need leaders like you who will continue to Schools civics teacher. He has literally serve the nation and put the country first.” been in public service his entire adult life.

Alongside his endorsement from A 1992 graduate of the U.S. Naval VoteVets PAC, he has also received an Academy and 2019 Hillsborough County endorsement from the Everytown for Gun Teacher of the Year finalist, he seeks to Safety Action Fund, the largest gun viotranslate the values he learned during both careers into much-needed legislative lence prevention organization in the country. As a trained volunteer, Hottenstein change. has led several Be SMART presentations Hottenstein retired from the Navy in throughout the community. The program 2012 after numerous deployments and focuses on the open discussion of gun leadership positions, with a highlight of safety hazards, the proper securing of leading 450 sailors in a combat zone and firearms and gun suicide and accident bringing them all home safely. Now, he prevention. has set his sights on serving in a new Hottenstein understands the imporway: by representing his community in tance of putting his country and commuthe Florida legislature. Hottenstein has nity first. After an outstanding military received endorsements from multiple career and passionately educating the national organizations, such as VoteVets community’s youth, he seeks to serve a PAC. third time. Vote for Scott Hottenstein for “I am honored to support your camFlorida House District 57. paign to serve your fellow citizens of the

Bob ‘Coach’ Henriquez Wants To Continue To Serve As Hillsborough County Property Appraiser

A Call To Serve As A County Court Judge Group 7 Was Drawn From Tragedy For Bill Yanger

first took office, but Bob ‘Coach’ there is still so much Henriquez is running more we can do for for re-election as the people of this Hillsborough County county,” said property appraiser in Henriquez. “New the general election on technologies and Tuesday, November 3. new ideas are When Henriquez was always being introelected to the position duced and we in 2013, his mantra should never rest on was to “Rethink, what we have Reinvent and Bob Henriquez, Hillsborough County achieved so far.

Reinvigorate.” This property appraiser, is active in the comHenriquez required a detailed munity and often speaks to groups about look at how his office property issues (shown here speaking to brings years of a group of realtors in South Hillsborough experience to the performs all of its County). job of property statutory duties and appraiser. He served in the Florida State responsibilities.

Legislature as a state representative for Henriquez has done this and has four terms. completed multiple tasks, including Moreover, his work with the adding internationally recognized appraisHillsborough Planning Commission has al staff to his senior staff. He completed given him a unique insight on the needs an overhaul of the office’s website to of residents who live in unincorporated ensure greater transparency of real and rural areas of Hillsborough County. estate and tangible property data. He “As a result of that experience, and what I reduced the cost of property assessment have learned since, I know how to fairly by implementing software that utilizes and equitably apply property valuation to aerial images. He reviewed all business those areas,” explained Henriquez. processes to achieve the most cost effiInterwoven within his public service is cient and responsible practices. his tireless work to help mold the lives of This process of rethinking how his young men as a football coach. He office operates is a neverending one. served as Tampa Catholic’s head football Through new technologies and practices, Henriquez wants to continue in his role as coach from 1990 to 1999 and again from Hillsborough County property appraiser in 2005 to 2012.

Henriquez is married to Carrie and order to better serve the taxpayers of they have one son and two daughters.

Hillsborough County.

Visit www.vote4coach.com.

“We have achieved so much since I

Since 2001, The call to serve Yanger has manthe community comes aged a successful to people in different law practice. His ways. When a lawyer extensive experidecides to run for ence has taught him judge, it might have a lot. “I have learned been a lifelong dream something from or because of a perevery court appearsonal experience. ance I have had in Bill Yanger, who the last 34 years,” is a candidate for said Yanger. county court judge in Yanger was Group 7, decided to Bill Yanger is running for county court run for judge after the judge in Group 7 on Tuesday, August 18. born and raised in Yanger brings both professional and life Tampa to parents tragic loss of his 22experience to the bench and as such year-old daughter, believes he will serve as a compassion- who were also born ate and empathetic judge. here. He raised his Rose. “We lost Rose on August 24, 2016 to a violent homicide three children in Tampa. He is a member of several area Chambers of Commerce, in Broward County, a case that remains open and uncharged to this day. I tell this including the Greater Brandon Chamber of Commerce. “As a member, board story not for sympathy but for context. member and chair of the South Tampa Rose’s loss was a clarifying moment, a Chamber of Commerce, I have been desperate and heartbreaking moment that focused my attention on what I want- active in many collaborations with area chambers, including the Greater ed and needed to do with my life,” Riverview Chamber of Commerce, parexplained Yanger.

Yanger has practiced law for over 30 ticularly between our respective military affairs committees,” said Yanger. years. “I have been practicing for 34 “We want our judges to be capable years all over the state. I have fought in of the mechanics of the job. Voters criminal, family and state federal civil deserve a say in selecting a judge with court trenches for teachers and profesempathy forged from life's joys as well as sors, single mothers and desperate its heartaches. Voters deserve the perfathers, injured and broken workers, son in the black robe to have lived an world boxing champions, teenage rockexpansive life. I have lived one,” said ers and small business owners,” said Yanger.

Yanger. “I am prepared to wear the robe For more information on Yanger, in whatever capacity I am asked to serve please visit www.yangerforjudge.com. by the Chief Judge,” added Yanger.

By Kathy L. Collins

By Kathy L. Collins

Nancy Jacobs Will Use Life Experience As A County Court Judge 7 To Serve The People

Business Acumen & Experience Makes Sally Harris A Great Choice For School Board District 7

patient and fair tem“I believe a perament,” said county court judge Jacobs who adds should be a true that she has all of public servant,” these characterissaid Nancy L. tics. The life experiJacobs, who is runence to which she ning for county refers includes havcourt judge in ing family members Group 7. If you who have dealt with want a true public alcoholism and servant, then vote mental health for Jacobs on issues. “All of these Tuesday, August Nancy Jacobs, who is running for county are things that often 18. court judge in Group 7, believes that a bring people to Jacobs lives judge’s seat belongs to the people. court. In order to be her life by the above quote. She served as a prosecutor empathetic to someone who has these issues, you need to have lived with them for Hillsborough County from 1985-1993. and not just read about them,” added She has incorporated pro bono services Jacobs. for active military and veterans in her priJacobs is someone who will use her vate practice since opening in 1993. She was recognized for her service in 2019 by legal and life experience to provide an empathetic look at the circumstances of the Florida Supreme Court. Her private practice consists of criminal defense, fam- each case to determine what would be the best outcome within the boundaries of ily law and estate planning.

Jacobs said, “Tampa has allowed me the law. She also understands that people need to get on with their lives and that to attain a successful law practice and the court system needs to move forward. has been a great place to live and raise my children. I am now at a point in my life “If you cannot get a court date, that is not access to the court and therefore not due where I can really give back to the community. That is why I am running for coun- process,” said Jacobs.

Jacobs is also passionate about anity judge.” mal rights. She has volunteered with the According to Jacobs, there are four Humane Society of Tampa Bay and main characteristics that a person has to serves on a committee for the SPCA of have in order to be a good judge. “A Tampa Bay and has rescue dogs of her judge needs to possess extensive legal own. experience and life experience as well as Visit www.nancyjacobsforjudge.com. a lifetime of community service and a

said Harris.

Sally Harris is Harris’ running for a experience position on the will allow her Hillsborough to bring a difCounty School ferent perBoard, District 7. spective to This is a countythe school wide seat. She board. Harris would like your explained, “I vote on Tuesday, Sally Harris (shown in the center in black) is a parent, am a busiAugust 18. foster parent, teacher and business owner who will ness owner, Harris, or bring her vast business and life experience to the so I treat the ‘Miss Sally,’ as position of Hillsborough School Board Member, District 7. position just she is known by like a business owner and look at everyhundreds of children and families, is the owner of Circle C Ranch Academy. Harris thing with a microscope.” These are not just empty words. When Harris was on previously served on the Hillsborough School Board from 2014 to 2018 and was the school board, she asked questions like “Who turns out the lights?” The the chair in 2017-2018. superintendent at the time did not know.

As a parent, foster parent, teacher As a result of the inquiry, timers and LED and business owner, she knows that the lights were installed and the district saved public schools must have the children as their primary focus. Her three main issues 1.2 million dollars in energy savings.

Harris said, “I am good listener. I am in her campaign are higher academics, open-minded and look at both sides. I am vocational training in middle and high also kind. I have 40 employees, some of schools and the safety of the children. whom have been with me for 15 to 20 “I want the Hillsborough County years.”

Public Schools to be the cream of the Harris has led a well-rounded life. crop. We need to get them not only to a She is the matriarch of a large family that higher level of academic achievement so includes a son who is a Hillsborough parents do not feel they need their chilCounty Sheriff Deputy and lives in Valrico dren to attend other schools, but also a and a daughter who lives in Seffner. place where all children learn and graduHarris is a longtime member of both ate with a skill. This is why vocational the SouthShore Chamber of Commerce training needs to be put back into the and the Sun City Center Area Chamber middle and high schools, so that children of Commerce. For more information, who do not go on to college have a skill please visit www.votesallyharris.com. and can prosper once they graduate,”

By Kathy L. Collins

By Kathy L. Collins

July 2020

Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

Page 41

Rainwater Harvesting: Now’s A Good Time To Get Ready, Set And Capture!

By Lynn Barber, Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ Agent

Did you know that 1 inch of rain on a 1,000-squarefoot roof will yield 623 gallons of water? Yes, that’s hard to believe…until you attend a workshop, receive your rain barrel, take it home, hook it up and it rains. With an average annual rainfall of approximately 50 inches, each household can save more than 31,000 gallons a year if they had sufficient storage capacity.

We offer rainwater harvesting workshops one Saturday a month via Zoom currently through the Extension office in Seffner for a cost of $5. By participating in this workshop online, you will learn how to collect rainwater for landscape irrigation, the benefits of capturing rainwater and how set up and create additional barrels. Information is shared on creating an overflow, connecting multiple rain barrels, maintenance needed, painting if desired and mosquito control. Harvested rainwater can be used on ornamental plants, but not edibles, and this will also be fully explained during the workshop.

Did you know that we offer triple workshops (rainwater harvesting, composting and microirrigation) nearly every month of the year, currently via Zoom? These educational programs

are $5 per household per workshop, attendance one time only, as a Hillsborough County resident. If you have not attended, think about this: after the rainwater harvesting workshop, you will receive one rain barrel that staff and Master Gardeners have drilled and spigoted. After composting, you receive a compost bin, kitchen compost bucket and compost thermometer.

After microirrigation, you receive a microirrigation kit, hose nozzle and rain gauge. Prior to the workshop, registrants will receive information about workshop item pickup locations and times. Pre-registration is required. Check out our website, which contains the calendar of events, at http://sfyl.ifas.ufl.edu/hillsborough/upcoming-events/.

For horticultural assistance, contact the UF/IFAS Extension, Hillsborough County at 744-5519. We do hope that we will soon all be able to again stroll through the Bette S. Walker Discovery Garden, our perennial garden and Girl Scout Troop-created Pollinator Garden. We hope to ‘see’ you via Zoom at our upcoming workshops, and remember to reduce, reuse, recycle and repeat. Thanks, and be well!

Expiration: 7/31/2020

Expiration: 7/31/2020

Expiration: 7/31/2020

Page 42

Volume 18, Issue 7

Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

G ET THE DIRT WITH FLORIDA YARD EXPERT

813.433.4047

www.ajwestfallco.com

Lynn Barber, Hillsborough County Extension

licensed bonded insured In Business Over 20 Years

A Favorite Heat-Seeking Annual - Coleus

Annual flowers provide a great opportunity to color up your landscape, front porch and lanai, whether in the ground or in containers. Most Florida annuals last one season, not one year. There are both warm and cool season annuals.

I selected coleus as a favorite warm season annual that does well in central Florida. Coleus is a fast-growing plant that can reach a height and spread of 1-3 feet. Coleus has low drought tolerance. It prefers full sun and performs well in partial shade/partial sun. Propagation from cuttings is very easy.

Consider your site conditions: sun, shade or part of each; soil type; and the size of the landscape bed, then you can make good plant selection decisions.

Purchasing plants first and then making these determinations later will cost you time and money.

For plant selection, access the University of Florida website, http://edis.ifas.ufl.edu, and select specific plants. Or, order a free copy of The Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ Guide to Plant Selection and Landscape Design.

Go to https://www.swfwmd.state.fl.us/, click on ‘Resources,’ then ‘Free Publications,’ select the ‘Florida-Friendly Landscaping’ topic and you will find the

guide.

To prepare the site, add 2-3 inches of organic matter to the soil surface and mix into the soil. Top the organic matter with a controlled (slow)-release fertilizer according to the label and mark your calendar when the next application will be needed.

Dig the hole for the plant so 10 percent of the container size is above ground level. Water the plant before and after it is planted. Space the plants according to their mature size, not how they look the day you plant them. Water as needed until the plants are established, which means you can see shoot growth. Microirrigation works well for watering annuals, and be sure to direct the water to the roots and soil, not to the leaves or flowers.

Mulch the area so it is 2-3 inches deep when settled and pull the mulch away from the base of the plants. Mulch retains soil moisture, and this moisture next to the stem of the plant could cause damage and attract insects or disease.

Mulch moderates the soil temperature, reduces runoff and erosion, improves the soil structure, suppresses weeds and enhances the beauty of the landscape.

For more info, contact our office at 744-5519, and https://sfyl.ifas.ufl.edu/hillsborough/upcoming-events/.

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Page 43

Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

A Callout On Facebook And Social Media Brings Meals To Parents Of Newborns In NICU

Love First Opens Drive-Thru Food Pantry In Riverview For Tuesday Pick Ups

tem is placed at desigWhen parents are nated bed spaces and preparing for the birth of allows parents, family their child, people often and friends to view their say with knowing infant in real-time and smiles, “Your life will helps families develop never be the same that bond with their preagain.” After COVID-19, emie or hospitalized many people shake infant even when they their heads and say, can’t be in the NICU with “Life as we knew it will them. never be the same Parents were not again.” These propheLocal restaurants, including allowed to leave the unit sies have proven espeNékter and Davenport’s Daily Delights, provided meals and to eliminate their possicially meaningful to treats for parents of children in ble exposure to COVIDmany new parents in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit extraordinary ways at Tampa General Hospital while 19 in the public areas of they stayed with their babies. the hospital. Team memsince the second week bers such as Angie Mangiapane, Lauren of March at Tampa General Hospital’s Mishos and Laurie Marino reached out Jennifer Leigh Muma 82-bed Neonatal via social media and Facebook seeking Intensive Care Unit (NICU). variety for parents’ hospital meals. The Tampa General (TGH) is one of just response was great from Greater 12 Regional Perinatal Intensive Care Centers designated by the state of Florida Brandon and Tampa restaurants, includto deliver the highest level of medical care ing Jai Ho Indian Cuisine, Nékter, Davenport’s Daily Delights, D’Angelo’s, to critically ill newborns premature and Culver’s, Shells Seafood, Wright’s sick infants and to women with high-risk Gourmet, Outback Steakhouse, pregnancies. Before March, both parents Carrabba’s, Entenmann’s bakery, were welcome to visit their infants 24 Caspers McDonald’s and Jack and Jill of hours a day. COVID-19 necessitated America donated cookies from Alessi changes in the visiting policies in the Bakery. Meals were often provided for NICU, but TGH’s highly-trained team of NICU team members as well. Gofer Girl professionals found innovative ways to Scout Troop donated snack bags, cards make the best of a challenging situation. and activity books.

Brenda Bugbee, NICU manager, In the midst of all the changes our explained the changes, “Each baby was nation has recently endured due to the allowed one family member, usually the pandemic, the staff of TGH’s Jennifer mother, to stay. Others could see the Leigh Muma NICU proved the spirit of baby on the NicView camera, providing charity remains unchanged, alive and access 24 hours a day.” well.

This innovative small camera sys-

and we bring the food Thinking outside of safely to each car.” the box is nothing new In addition to the grofor Pastor Jomo ceries, the church is also Cousins, lead pastor at distributing gallons of milk Love First Christian that it’s receiving each Center in Riverview. With week as a donation from the continuing rise in Borden Milk. Some famiCOVID-19 cases in lies request multiple galHillsborough County, lons of milk and Pastor coupled with rising food Jomo takes any prices and children stayunclaimed gallons of milk ing home for the sumLove First Christian Center in mer, many families may Riverview is holding a drive-thru in the church delivery van food pantry each Tuesday and distributes them to be struggling. Pastor beginning at 10:30 a.m. families in Wimauma.

Jomo saw this overThe groceries are currently not whelming need and wanted the church to donated to the church, in fact, the church be part of the solution. is using its own funds to purchase the Prior to the church closing due to the food from Feeding America Tampa Bay, quarantine, Love First Christian Center Walmart and Dollar General. The church had a small food pantry that was able to lives by the saying on the side of its delivserve a limited number of people due to ery truck, “We Live To Give.” storage capacity. However, now that the “We want to always be part of the church is not being filled with parishsolution. God has really blessed us, and ioners, Pastor Jomo knew this meant the we want to bless others in our communiunused space could now be used for ty,” said Pastor Jomo. “Just like the story expanding the food pantry. of the Good Samaritan in the Bible, God “I was thinking of ways we can be uses us to bless others.” effective to our community in our current The drive-thru grocery takes place environment,” said Pastor Jomo. “We each Tuesday from 10:30 a.m.-6 p.m. may not be holding church, but we now Supplies are limited and are distributed have space to hold food.”

The church lobby has now been con- on a first-come, first-serve basis. Each family receives approximately two to verted to the food pantry, holding pallets three grocery bags filled with dry and of canned and dry goods and a packing canned good as well as at least 1 gallon area where church staff and volunteers of milk. pack the food each Tuesday for the hunLove First Christian Center is located dreds of families to come pick it up. at 12847 Balm Riverview Rd. in “We are practicing safely with our Riverview. Follow on Facebook, visit masks and gloves,” said Pastor Jomo. www.lfcc.tv or call 671-2009.

“And the drive-thru is set up with cones

By Gwen Rollings

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Saint Anne Catholic Church All public Masses and services are cancelled until further notice.

The Church will be open weekdays for private prayer between 9 a.m.-1p.m. and Sundays 9 a.m.-1 p.m.

The Masses will be streamed behind closed doors and uploaded to the St. Anne website and Facebook page.

Please check the St. Anne website and e-blasts for further information.

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Page 44

Volume 18, Issue 7

Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

ket r a M o Valric s, Firearm Returnng & Mnonrette TrCoamipnileid byreJyeonbnsyerBveer.com

about Col. Fletcher, Chief Judge Ron Ficarrotta said: “Col. Fletcher is a true patriot and hero in every sense of the word. He continues to serve with honor and distinction in our Veterans Treatment Court and has been a driving force and key to the success of the court. I am proud to have Col. Fletcher as part of our court family.”

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Valrico Sunday Market Returns At Chill Cawfee

Chill Cawfee is excited to relaunch the Sunday market under the new name, Valrico Artisan Faire. It is a twice a month event, every 2nd Sunday and 4th Sunday under the grandfather oaks outside Chill Cawfee at 3704 Lithia Pinecrest Road.

Have fun in the sun as you shop local artisans and enjoy a place for families and friends to bond. Jewelry, artwork, craft food, organic soaps, health and beauty products, crafts, pet products will all be available with the spotlight on local talent and artists.

Hillsborough County Bar Association Honors Veterans Advocate With It’s Liberty Bell Award

The Hillsborough County Bar Association has selected a local veterans advocate and volunteer, Col. Jim Fletcher, to receive it’s 2020 Liberty Bell Award. This annul award recognizes outstanding non-lawyer citizens whose community service strengthens the effectiveness of the American legal system. This years winner, Col. (USA Retired) Jim Fletcher, is an active and tireless volunteer in our community, serving with the Veterans Treatment Court and several veterans organizations. He was one of the original mentors with the Veterans Treatment Court and is the Task Force team lead and a senior veteran mentor with the court. This volunteer work includes actively recruiting prospective mentors for the growing docket of veteran participants; constant follow-up with other mentors on needs of the Court; checkingin with his own assigned veteran participants; serving as a liason to judges, elected officials, and other community leaders; and other administrative tasks. Speaking

Free Online Stress Release Class

Hypnotic Engagements is offering a free event to help you unmuddle your mind and de-stress during this pandemic period. Although the session is primarily geared towards educational and medical professionals everyone can benefit from it. The zoom sessions are held regularly, the next one is on August 4, 6:30 p.m.

To find out more visit hypnoticengagements.com or check their facebook page, Hypnotic Engagements LLC.

Nothing is Library Curbside more important Pickup now Available to you than the Contact-free curbsafety and proside pickup is now availtection of the able at Riverview, ones you love.

Ruskin and SouthShore Damsel in regional libraries. It is by defense can appointment only and available Col. Fletcher, Liberty Bell Award help you Monday-Saturday from 10 a.m. winner. achieve that until 6 p.m. Simply select your items with their many training classes with certionline at HCPLC.org, wait until the library fied instructors, these include, concealed notifies you that your hold is ready and carry and home defense, children’s gun then schedule your appointment online. safety and countering the mass shooter Bring your library card number with you threat. Simon Firearm and Family Safety and follow the confirmation email instrucalso provides protective devices for purtions to pick up your items. chase including stun devices, pepper sprays and concealed Virtual Career Services Available To carry purses.

Job Seekers The next concealed Career Source Tampa Bay, is launchcarry and home defense ing an innovative way to provide virtual classes are being held services and engagement to unemployed on July 12 and August 1, job seekers. CSTB has contracted with a call 465-4328 or visit web based platform to deliver virtual servSimonsafetytraining.com ices to individuals of all ages. The Career for more details.

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Mary Martha Home Goods Store Reopens

The Mary Martha Home Goods store is very happy to announce that they have reopened. The store is located at 1009 1st Street SW, Ruskin and is open Tuesday, Thursday and Friday 9a.m. to 3:30p.m. and Saturday 9a.m. to 2p.m.

Donations are accepted Tuesday, Thursday and Friday 9a.m. to 2p.m.

For more information visit www.marymarthahouse.org or call 645-7874. Shop here or donate to make a difference.

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Bloomingdale Adult Day Care Center would like to remind everyone that it is still operational even though the center itself is closed to the public. The Aging Caregiver Support Group Meetings are continuing to take place every Thursday via teleconference, go to HCFLGov.net/Aging to find out more. All sessions are free.

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July 2020

Page 45

Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

Sports Connection Photos courtesy of the Riverview Ice Sharks club

657-2418

By Nick Nahas

www.ospreyobserver.com

Riverview High School Forms New Ice Sharks Hockey Club, Joins LHSHL League The Lightning High School Hockey League (LHSHL) has made an addition, with the newly formed Riverview Ice Sharks club joining the league. The team will consist of students from Riverview, Spoto, Armwood and Robinson High In 2000, Schools.

Clarks took up The club coaching when his recently hired Corey Assistant Coach Wes Goldberg (left), Head friend needed help Clarks as their head Coach Corey Clarks and Assistant Coach teaching classes to coach. According to Matt Furbeck are excited for the upcoming young hockey season.

Clarks, he moved to players. He was Canada when he was younger when his later offered an assistant coaching posimom remarried and became interested in tion by the same friend when another the country’s national sport. He played assistant coach left the team. “I got into youth hockey, all the way up to 16 years coaching by a fluke or luck, and I’m very old, and at 17 started playing junior hock- thankful that I did,” said Clarks. “I’m kickey for three seasons. He took a four-year ing myself. I wish that I got into it earlier in break from the sport and later started my life when I was a little bit younger.” playing college club hockey in Clarks is currently relocating to Washington State, just across the border Florida from Dallas. He will be fully of Vancouver, where he was living. moved in by mid-August. He will also be

coaching a 16U club hockey team located in Oldsmar called the Tampa Bay Junior Lightning. The coaching hire for the Riverview team was made by the board members of the club in late February.

“Coach Clarks brought all the qualifications we were looking for in a coach within a brand new team in the league,” said Team Manager Michele Ellington.

“What he is bringing to the table, with his years of experience and the expectations he has for the hockey players, is what we are looking for to bring forth to a successful team, but more importantly their development and success as hockey players.”

According to Ellington, in the past, players from Riverview High School played with the Bloomingdale Ice Bulls Hockey Club, but they now have enough players to form their own club. The Ice Sharks will practice in the Lakeland Ice Arena on Wednesday nights at 8 p.m.

Clarks looks forward to getting to know his players. “It’s very intriguing, it’s a brand-new team,” he said. “I like that whole concept of a brand-new team and being at the helm for the very beginning, shaping the program as we (the coaching staff) move along and molding it to the way we see fit is the best way to help a brand-new organization. Player development is going to be crucial with this team moving forward.”

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Page 46

Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

Volume 18, Issue 7

July 2020

Page 47

Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

With Arts & Entertainment Editor Kathy L. Collins

Museum For All Program Grants Access To Local Museums For Those Who Receive SNAP Benefits

America’s Wildest Drive-In Experience Comes To Tampa With The Parking Lot Social

Museums For All Museum of Art in is a national, brandSarasota. ed access program The program that encourages indioffers museums a viduals of all backway to broaden grounds to visit their visitor base museums regularly and it allows underand build lifelong served communities museum habits. It is a way to visit museopen to participation ums, by any type of musewhere um, including art, the visihistory, natural histo- Local museums, includtors can ing the Tampa Museum ry/anthropology, gen- of Art, participate in a be eral museums, chil- program called Museums inspired For All. It is an initiative dren’s museums, and have their creativithat allow members of the community science centers, who receive SNAP benefits free or ty ignited. reduced admission at several area planetariums, nature The program is an museums. centers, historic initiative of the Institute houses, sites, zoos, aquariums, botaniof Museum and Library Services. It is cal gardens and arboretums. administered by the Association of The program allows individuals and Children’s Museums. families who receive SNAP benefits Since its launch in 2014, Museum (food stamps) free or reduced general for All has served more than 2.5 million admission to many museums simply by visitors nationwide. showing their active EBT card at the There is no limit to the number of admissions desk. Cost of admission times an individual or a family can visit should never be a barrier to someone the museum. They can get admission visiting a museum. for 43 or less for up to four people per In the state of Florida, there are 22 one EBT card. At the Tampa Museum participating venues. Within the Tampa of Art, for instance, families receive free Bay area, there are several, including admission thanks to funding from PNC the Museum of Science and Industry Bank.

(MOSI) in Tampa, the Tampa Bay A representative from the Tampa History Center in Tampa, the Tampa Museum of Art said, “We are so proud Museum of Art next to Curtis Hixon to offer this national program to the Park in downtown Tampa, the Tampa Bay community during this critiExplorations V Children’s Museum in cal time.”

Lakeland, the Great Explorations For more information on the Children’s Museum in St. Petersburg, Museum For All program and to find out the Morean Art Center in St. Petersburg about participating museums, please and the John and Mable Ringling visit www.museums4all.org.

The Parking installation is a Lot Social is blend of art and coming to technology and Tampa’s consists of a fully Raymond covered stage, James Stadium two 40-foot beginning on screens, a 52Thursday, July foot-tall rainbow16 and running shooting fire through Sunday, hydrant and two July 19. This larger than life, event moderninflatable Parking izes the tradiLot Social gorilRaymond James Stadium in Tampa will host The Parking Lot Social, a new immersive and las. Not only does tional drive-in interactive event featuring Car-A-Oke, experience Headphone Disco DJ Battle, Midnight Movies the space look through a and more. Get your tickets now as each event amazing, it is is limited to 250 cars. supersized, capable of commultisensory attraction. Guests will fortably hosting up to 250 cars at each enjoy ‘Car-A-Oke,’ silent disco, live event. In a unique twist, audio will be bands, interactive trivia, stand-up transmitted directly from the stage to comedians, food, drinks and more. custom-made wireless headphones, The Parking Lot Social offers an which will be supplied to all guests. exciting mix of classic and cutting edge If that is not enough, there will also concepts to help guarantee a unique be a dedicated food village. Social disand unforgettable night out with the tancing protocols will be in place for all emphasis on the interactive and the food ordering, delivery and handling. immersive.

The event was the creation of The Parking Lot Social will also be Grahame Ferguson and Cameron hosting two dedicated family events Craig, founders of XL Event Labs. going by the name of Social Kids.

Ferguson said, “The Parking Lot Social These will run through the day on has been designed with a special Saturday and Sunday and will feature emphasis on the event being immerall the same entertainment but adapted sive and interactive. Given that people for a family audience. There will be a will be restricted to their cars, this strong parents versus kids theme runaspect of the event becomes super ning throughout the Social Kids events important. Think of it like a mini festival and a fun, safe day out for the entire that takes place right inside your very family is guaranteed. own car.”

At the event’s core, and setting it Tickets start at $29 and must be apart from a traditional drive-in experipurchased online. For a completer ence, is its unique, custom-designed schedule and to purchase tickets, visit performance space. This spectacular https://theparkinglotsocial.com/.

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Page 48

Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

Volume 18, Issue 7