Osprey Observer Riverview/Apollo Beach November 2023

Riverview/Apollo Beach

6

November 2023

Volume 21, Issue 11

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CELEBRATING 21 YEARS OF PUBLISHING P OSITIVE COMMUNIT Y NEWS

NEW GREATER SOUTHSHORE CHAMBER

OF COMMERCE WILL SERVE SOUTHSHORE AND SOUTH HILLSBOROUGH COMMUNITIES

By Lily Belcher

Osprey Observer 2109 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. Valrico, FL 33596

PARTNERS WITH PEARSON CAPITAL IN 19TH ANNUAL TOYS FOR TOTS DRIVE

By Kayleigh Jones The holiday seathe opportunity to son is a magical time see Santa Claus of year that everyhimself and the milone looks forward itary alongside first to, and Christmas responder volunmorning can be the teers. Both Monamost magical time han and Hathaway for children. Howevhave witnessed the er, during challengtrue significance of ing times, Christmas the drive and its imcelebrations can bepact on their comcome a financial burmunity throughout den for some famthe course of their ilies. CENTURY 21 many years of inBeggins Enterprises volvement with it, is here to ensure that Monahan for four all families can expeyears and Hathaway rience the Christmas CENTURY 21 Beggins has taken command for 19 years. magic. Thousands of of Toys for Tots holiday drive from Pearson “If you can children will receive Capital and will celebrate the drive’s 19th brighten one child’s year in the community. something special Christmas morning, to open on Christmas why not?” stated Hamorning thanks to the thaway. work of CENTURY 21 Hathaway and MoBeggins Enterprises, nahan are certain that Pearson Capital and this event will continue their close-knit team to benefit their comof agents and volunmunity. Monahan emteers. phasized the efforts of CENTURY 21 BegCENTURY 21’s friendly gins Enterprises in and trustworthy team Apollo Beach will members, notably Joy host the annual Toys Byrnes, Susie Brush, for Tots drive on Saturday, December 9 and Chris Reade. from 9 a.m.-2 p.m. All are welcome to “When you volunteer, people thank drop off donations, both toys and mon- you for your time, but you have received etary, while enjoying coffee and dough- the greatest reward: helping your comnuts in the morning and hamburgers and munity,” Monahan explained when asked hot dogs for lunch. Also, Don Pearson of why the event is so meaningful to him.

Person Capital has generously agreed to For more information, please contact match 50 percent of all donations up to raymonahan@c21be.com. CENTURY 21 $5,000.

Beggins is located at 6542 N. U.S. Hwy. In prior years, the drive has managed 41, Ste. 101 in Apollo Beach. to collect and distribute around 5,0006,000 toys to local children. Ray Monahan of CENTURY 21 Beggins Enterprises and Ann Hathaway of Pearson Capital M. GILMORE BURGER ......................PG 3 are looking forward to this year’s event MOTORING TAMPA BAY ................PG 5 and anticipate a large turnout thanks WHITE CHRISTMAS......................PG 12 to their strong network of volunteers.

Aside from food and drink, the event will EYE ON BUSINESS ........................PG 45 have a variety of activities for the en- TURKEY TROT ..................................PG 49 tire family, including a 360 photo booth,

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The SouthShore Davis said she was and South Hillsglad to hear they borough chambers would be working of commerce are together again. set to merge as “I think one of the Greater Souththe most importShore Chamber ant things is to of Commerce on make the memWednesday, Nobers understand vember 15. that no communiSouthShore ty is going to lose Chamber executheir identity bePhoto courtesy of Lois Kindle. tive director Melacause of the mergSherell Bennett and Melanie Davis will work nie Davis will serve er, so you have to as the director for together to run the Greater SouthShore Chamber keep a strong presof Commerce. the new Greater ence in both comSouthShore Chammunities when you ber of Commerce. The merge,” Davis said. new 15-member board South Hillsborough will consist of eight chairperson of the board members of the South of directors Kyle Belz Hillsborough Chamber said members will not and seven members of feel too big of a change the SouthShore Chamand should expect the ber. same core events to conMerging the chamtinue through the Greatbers has been an idea er Southshore Chamber for years but was just of Commerce. recently made possible.

“We all want what’s Davis explained, “The South Hillsbor- best for our members and are real excitough Chamber of Commerce Board of ed to present an organization that can be Directors approached the SouthShore more of a force for the business commuChamber Board of Directors as they were nity,” Belz said. exploring options for what their future He said the merge will allow the chamwould look like. A meeting was set for ber to reflect changes the community has the two boards to sit down and discuss seen over the past few years and offer what a merger would look like, if at all more support for members. possible.”

“We feel this merge best represents Davis said merging the two chambers the character of our business and surwas relatively easy since both operate rounding communities and allows us to under similar principles, budgets and advocate with one unified voice for the events, and they both communicated well Greater South Hillsborough County and during the process. the SouthShore commerce areas,” Belz She will be assisted by the South Hills- said. borough executive assistant, Sherell BenBoth offices (Ruskin and Sun City Cennett. Bennett and Davis served together ter) remain open for members and the at the SouthShore Chamber years ago, so community at this time.

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The Marie Gilmore, Osprey Observer Editor - BBQ Brisket Burger is a Black Angus burger with Tillamook® aged sharp cheddar cheese, bourbon barbecue sauce, hickory smoked brisket, applewood smoked bacon, red onions and crispy onion straws on a brioche bun. Based in Tampa, Ford’s Garage currently has locations in Florida, Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Ohio and Texas. Find this burger at Ford’s Garage Brandon. See full story on Page 3.

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Page 2

Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

Volume 21, Issue 11

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Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

November 2023

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OSPREY OBSERVER EDITOR NOW ON MENU WITH SPECIAL BURGER

By Jane Owen AT FORD’S GARAGE BRANDON in the classroom

BELL CREEK ACADEMY GRADUATE IS FIRST ALUMNUS TEACHER AND HEAD COACH In 2017, Chandler Elsner gradunext to his. He said ated as part of Bell Elsner’s leadership Creek Academy’s skills are evident (BCA) first graduatin the way he dediing class. Bell Creek cates himself to his Academy is a charter students and playschool in Riverview ers. that is recognized for Bell Creek Academy head basketball coach “Coach Elsner its high standards for Chandler Elsner inspires students on and genuinely cares. He academic achieveis organized and off the court. ment. BCA has an innovative academic knows how to make learning enjoyable environment that includes being part of for the students. I know there’s an addthe Cambridge program. By design, BCA ed layer of pressure when one returns to provides teaching techniques to meet the their alma mater to teach or coach, and individual needs of students. The focused coach Elsner is doing both well,” Leadingattention Elsner received in high school ham said. gave him the skills to follow his passions.

Elsner’s decision to teach evolved in He graduated from Florida College with a college while pursuing a history degree.

Bachelor of Arts in history in 2022. That Inspired by his aunt, teacher Deanna Insame year, Elsner returned to the school gram, he decided to apply his love of hisas the first alumnus to be on staff as a tory in the classroom. teacher. This year, Elsner took the helm as “I found in studying history there are the school’s head boys’ basketball coach, no shortcuts. You have to take time to taking over a program that won its first process the information you are given,” 3A District 7 championship in 2022.

Elsner said. “That has made its way into The principal of Bell Creek Academy, Dr. coaching basketball and my classroom. I Margaret Fahringer, said the milestone is adapt the lessons from the past.” both sentimental and profound. Elsner’s Elsner’s past at BCA includes being a academic success plays out firsthand on student and basketball guard. From bascampus and is as an asset to the school. ketball to the classroom, he embodies the “The great thing is, Chandler came academic rigor of the school and the pasthrough in our atmosphere of high ex- sion he learned from his favorite coach. pectations. We work very hard with our “The one coach I pull from the most is expectations. He was raised with it,” my dad. I pull motivation from him and Fahringer said. “He is one of our youngest getting kids to not only believe in you as teachers and he has a very good rapport coach but believe in themselves,” Elsner with the students. They respect him.” said.

Fahringer said Elsner’s roles as both Elsner is the first alumnus to return coach and teacher enable him to teach to the school as a teacher and head dedication to goals. BCA head girls’ bas- coach. His legacy will be his passion to ketball coach Charles Leadingham wit- work to the betterment of whoever is in nesses Elsner’s success on the court and front of him.

Staff Report

Community leaders and local chambers gather for the launch of the Marie Gilmore, Osprey Observer Editor - BBQ Brisket Burger at Ford’s Garage Brandon.

Ford’s Garage, an all-American, service-station-inspired gastro pub has a new burger on its menu named for Marie Gilmore, editor and publisher of the Osprey Observer Newspapers.

The BBQ brisket burger is now a member of the Burgers of Fame menu which names burgers after community leaders, including Tampa Sheriff Chad Chronister, Mayor Jane Castor and more.

Gilmore was honored with the naming, which includes her name on the Burgers of Fame menu boards throughout the restaurant and on every menu.

“This is such a huge honor,” said Gilmore during a launch event at the restaurant with local chambers of commerce, honorary mayors and dignitaries. “I am so proud to have been considered for such a distinct honor and to join the ranks of some amazing community leaders.”

General manager Bryan Saunders, who has been a reader of the Osprey Observer for more than 18 years, said, “When Osprey team member Kerrie Hoening brought up the idea of Marie as a Burger of Fame member, we thought it was a great idea. This pro-

gram is our opportunity to honor community leaders.”

Founded in 2012, the original Ford’s Garage opened in Fort Myers, less than a mile from Henry Ford’s winter home. Today, as an official licensee of the Ford Motor Company, the restaurant pays tribute to America’s most iconic automobile brand by offering a truly historic dining experience — right down to nostalgic auto shop uniforms and the hand-hammered copper bar top at each of its locations.

The Marie Gilmore, Osprey Observer Editor - BBQ Briskey Burger is a Black Angus burger with Tillamook® aged sharp cheddar cheese, bourbon barbecue sauce, hickory smoked brisket, applewood smoked bacon, red onions and crispy onion straws on a brioche bun.

Based in Tampa, Ford’s Garage currently has locations in Florida, Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Ohio and Texas.

Ford’s Garage’s sister restaurants include Yeoman’s Topgolf Swing Suite, Tiki Docks, Don the Beachcomber, The Firestone, Capone’s Coal Fired Pizza, Cabos Cantina, The Lodge, the Boathouse Tiki Bar & Grill, Downtown Social House, Izzy’s Fish & Oyster, all located in Florida.

Ford’s Garage Brandon is located in the Lake Brandon Plaza at 11105 Causeway Blvd. in Brandon. For more information, visit https://fordsgarageusa.com/ or www.23restaurants.com/company.

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Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

Volume 21, Issue 11

APOLLO BEACH’S DR. BRENDAN MALIK SPURLINO FAMILY YMCA HOSTS NAMED ST. JOSEPH’S HOSPITAL-SOUTH’S CHIEF MEDICAL OFFICER

Staff Report Dr. Brendan Malik, tal-South’s hospitala resident of Apollo ists in quality and Beach, is the new chief performance analysis medical officer (CMO) of patients with deep at St. Joseph’s Hospivein thrombosis and tal-South in Riverview. strokes. He’s been recThe appointment was ognized three times announced by Dr. John with physician awards Haffner, a BayCare by the hospital’s adHealth System vice ministration and staff president and chief during his tenure at From left to right: Karen Ray, a unit medical officer. Bay- support technician at St. Joseph’s Hospi- the Riverview hospiCare is the parent of tal. tal-South, and Dr. Brendan Malik.

St. Joseph’s Hospital-South and 15 other “His executive presence, professionalism hospitals in West Central Florida. and his significant involvement in mediAs CMO, Malik will assist St. Joseph’s cal staff leadership at St. Joseph’s HospiHospital-South’s doctors in providing safe, tal-South makes Dr. Malik the ideal person effective medical care to the public. His for this role,” Haffner said. responsibilities include training new physiMalik, his wife and their four children live cians on the hospital’s policies and keeping in Apollo Beach, close to the St. Joseph’s staff current on health regulations. He’ll Hospital-South campus in Riverview. also provide clinical oversight to physi“It’s an honor to serve the communicians, ensure regulatory compliance and ty where we live and raise our children,” evaluate quality of services. Malik will Malik said. “I look forward to advancing also represent the hospital at BayCare and the incredible, high-quality care we procommunity meetings. vide at St. Joseph’s Hospital-South, as well Malik is board-certified in internal med- as growing with the vibrant community icine and affiliated with BayCare Medical around us. I am equally eager to continue Group and BayCare Physician Partners. He seeing patients in a clinical role, which will has been at St. Joseph’s Hospital-South keep me directly involved in the joy of pasince 2015, the year the hospital opened, tient care.” and served as Department of Medicine Malik succeeds Dr. Christopher Bucciachair, chief of staff and associate medical relli as CMO. Malik received his Doctor of director.

Medicine at Northeast Ohio Medical UniMalik has been practicing at St. Joseph’s versity in Rootstown, Ohio. He completed a Hospital-South as a hospitalist. Hospital- residency and internship at the University ists are hospital-based and partner with of South Florida in Tampa. He also earned a patients’ doctors to share records and Bachelor of Science in natural science from communicate relevant information to the University of Akron in Akron, Ohio. them.

St. Joseph’s Hospital-South is located at Malik also has led St. Joseph’s Hospi- 6901 Simmons Loop in Riverview.

MONTHLY MISSION MARKET

By Libby Hopkins The Spurlino Family Community College, YMCA recently starta charter school loed the Mission Market cated in Riverview,” at its location. “The Guergawi said. “I love Mission Market bestarting a project gan with an idea of from scratch and witcreating a place for nessing its growth. families to come toAny new project like gether and buy local this carries a level wholesome products,” of risk, and my main The Spurlino Family YMCA recently startsaid Spurlino YMCA’s ed the Mission Market at its location. The concern initially was membership experi- Mission Market is held on the last Sunday whether we would atence advisor, Mathew tract enough vendors of each month.

Guergawi. “We wantand guests. I was ed to create a fun pleasantly surprised atmosphere for memby the attendance at bers and nonmemour first event. The bers to enjoy. Many of response from both our vendors are also vendors and guests YMCA members, so exceeded my expecwe wanted to create tations, and I am cona space for them to fident that the Misshow off their hard work and a place for sion Market will continue to grow.” them to sell their products or tasty creIn support of the market, the Spurlino ations.”

Family YMCA reduced the Y memberSpurlino Family YMCA did food truck ship joining fee to $0 for guests who join events in the past, but the events lacked during the market. “This is a fantastic opa diversity of options. “The Mission Mar- portunity for families to become a part ket is great because we offer a variety of of the Spurlino YMCA community while handpicked vendors from artists, craft- enjoying the Mission Market,” Guergawi ers, bakers, food and smoothie trucks,” said. “Donations from vendors go toward Guergawi said. “The Mission Market is our Annual Giving Campaign, which proheld on the last Sunday of each month. vides Open Door scholarship opportuniI am the organizer, with support from Y ties to those who need them most. Since staff members, including Athena Reed, its inception in 2019, the Spurlino Y has Tammy Hopkins, Jarrod Williams and Ken provided over $1.2 million in scholarship Trusty.” subsidies to ensure everybody had the The wonderful thing about the Mis- opportunity to reach their full potential.” sion Market is that it’s more than just a If you would like to become a vendor at market. “We have also hosted local non- the market, contact Guergawi at mathew. profits, such as Homegrown Hillsborough, guergawi@tampaymca.org. The Spurlino an organization dedicated to ending Family YMCA is located at 9650 Old Big food and nutrition shortages, and Kids Bend Rd. in Riverview.

Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

November 2023

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FORD TAKES F-150 UP ONE LEVEL WITH

By Nitish Rele NEW RAPTOR R This is not your by quad-beam grandpa’s Ford LED headlights.

F-Series truck. Not The R emblem on even close. 37-inch the grille, power tires, 700 horsedome and tailgate power, desert-race in Code Orange capable, Baja mode accent conveys for high-speed the extreme offoff-roading? That’s road prowess of what you get with the truck. Further F-150 (RAPTOR R) the all-new 2023 Ford F-150 sealing the deal are rear Tires: L37X12.50R17LT Raptor R. And much more. fenders that portray a all-terrain Wheelbase: 145.4 inches The fresh trim’s addition unique graphics wrap reLength: 232.6 inches will further boost the vast flecting a stark, cracked Height: 80.6 inches capabilities of the best-sellwilderness terrain.

Width: 90 inches ing vehicle in the United As soon as you step Weight: 5,757 pounds States for 32 years and the into the cabin, the mamFuel capacity: 36 gallons best-selling pickup for 45 moth centered 12-inch City: 14 mpg years. Indeed, it is an actouch screen for operatHighway: 26 mpg complishment that speaks ing phone, nav and infovolumes for this incredible tainment features draws Website: www.ford.com truck. Under the massive interest. Other treats inpower dome hood proudly sits a recalibrat- clude Recaro leather/suede seats, overhead ed 5.2-liter supercharged V8 engine bor- console, 60/40 rear bench, carbon fibers on rowed from the Mustang GT500 blasting doors, instrument panel, dual auto AC and a off 700 hp at 6,650 rpm and 640 pounds- leather tilt/telescopic steering wheel. Wellfeet of torque at 4,250 rpm. Ford engineers placed storage bins and cubbies are scathave put in a new pulley and stainless-steel tered throughout. exhaust manifolds to enhance power for Apart from dual front and side airbags, backcountry ability and confidence. Capa- side curtain airbag, front knee airbags, fourble of 13.1-inch ground clearance with ap- wheel antilock brakes, AdvanceTrac with proach angles of 33.1 degrees, departure of electronic stability control, antiskid system 24.9 degrees and breakover of 24.4 degrees, and tire pressure monitoring system, oththe 14th-gen pickup is mated to a smooth er standard safety features are auto high 10-speed gear box that shifts flawlessly. A beams, blind-spot monitor with cross-traffic double wishbone front and five-link coil rear alert, forward collision warning, locking rear suspension soaks obstacles with dexterity, differential, lane keep and hill start assists, sure-footedness and poise. The retuned FOX auto emergency braking, pedestrian detecshock absorbers assist with roll control. A tion and a rearview camera with dynamic rack-and-pinion, electric power steering hitch assist. system affords outstanding feedback. Tow Base-priced at $109,145, the pickup is capacity is 8,200 pounds and our crew cab undoubtedly heavy on the wallet for most had the 5.5-foot bed. You can also custom- folks. But off-road enthusiasts can quench ize drive (normal, sport, quiet, Baja), steer- their thirst to venture out and off the beaten ing and suspension modes as per liking. path in the highly capable rugged truck.

The fully boxed, high-steel strength frame Nevertheless, its all-terrain skills make shows off a “FORD” grille and front flared the Raptor R a remarkable and much-needfenders and bumpers, all in black, flanked ed addition to the F-150 roster.

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Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

Florida is home to six species of venomous snakes that are each native to the state. The largest is the eastern diamondback rattlesnake. Easily identifiable, these snakes are brown, black and tan in color with a large diamond pattern running down their back. They have a thick, broad head with a white-outlined, dark-brown stripe that runs diagonally across their face. Their most notable feature is their rattle-capped tail that can be heard as they shake it loudly in warning to any approaching threats. As adults, these snakes on average reach lengths of 3-6 feet long and weights of 2-5 pounds.

These cold-blooded reptiles are solitary creatures that prefer to lie coiled and wait for their prey in hidden, secluded areas.

They are effective and patient hunters whose diet mainly consists of small mammals, such as mice, rats, squirrels, rabbits and ground-dwelling birds. Eastern Diamondback Rattlesnakes can be found distributed throughout the state and prefer to live in dry places, such as pine flatwoods and longleaf regions. These snakes can also swim and often live on barrier islands around the state.

In Florida, mating season for the eastern diamondback rattlesnake occurs around late summer through the fall season. Males can travel, and often compete, to find a mate. Females give live birth to an average of 10-20 offspring after a gestation period of six to seven months. The

newborns will stay with their mothers for around a week and a half, at which point they will claim their independence and venture into the world alone. Eastern diamondback rattlesnakes have an average lifespan of 10 years in the wild, though they can live much longer than that.

Crucial to their survival, eastern diamondback rattlesnake populations are dwindling due to human interferences.

Habitat degradation, habitat loss, roadway mortalities and fear-based elimination of these snakes has had a significant impact on the numbers of these incredible animals.

It is important to remember that fear is a natural emotion but not a necessary catalyst to kill these important creatures.

Snakes play a critical role in our ecosystems and are generally not a threat to humans when left alone. We can reduce our conflict with snakes by over 90 percent if we adhere to the rule of never feeding, threatening, approaching or handling wildlife. With all our combined efforts, we can keep Florida’s abundant biodiversity plentiful and protected for generations to come.

11/30/2023 9/30/2023

11/30/2023 9/30/2023

Ali Holton is currently director of FishHawk TNR Inc. She has a master’s in biodiversity, wildlife and ecosystems and 20 years of experience specializing in animal behavior and conservation. To reach her, email fishhawktnr4@gmail.com.

Volume 21, Issue 11

ZIP ON BY FOR SKY-HIGH NATURE TRAILS, SCENIC BYWAYS AND THRILLS IN CENTRAL FLORIDA

By Jeff Hoening

Forests and canbridge, 90-minute yons are likely not tour guided by two things you’d two skilled and expect to visit in attentive guides.

Central Florida, but You’ll experience drive from Daytona a breathtaking zip Beach and you’ll across the 85-foot find the expansive deep Lost Spring 67 3 - s q u a r e - m i l e Lake. The guides Ocala National Forare engaging, enest, also known as tertaining, safethe Florida Black ty-conscious and Bear Scenic Byway, ensure their guests denoted by numer- The canyons of Ocala offer mountain-like eleva- are safe, smiltions and breathtaking views. ous bear crossing ing and flying the signs along State Route 40. whole way! If you’ve never been zip linThe Ocala National Forest boasts hik- ing, it’s fun, smooth, fast, safe and exhiling trails, canoe runs, over 600 lakes arating, and the perfect way to literally and even 19th-century homesteads to harness your fears. explore. Florida fisherman can enjoy the If you have the time and need a litRodman Reservoir, one of the best large- tle more adrenaline, the Big Cliff Canmouth bass lakes in Florida. yon tour is for you. With nine zip lines Drive further, through the lovely, can- up to 1,150 feet long, two sky bridges opied roads, and you’ll end up at the (one bridge is 100 feet in length and will ultimate destination: Canyons Zip Line challenge your resolve) and a rappel off and Adventure Park. Built atop a flood- of the final platform, you’ll be flying high ed limestone quarry, this 100-acre park and zipping at heights of over 130 feet. with 100-foot elevation changes, sits Zip line participants must weigh bein Big Cliff Canyon and offers multiple tween 70-270 pounds. Reservations are treetop zip lines above and through the required, and don’t forget your closedtree canopy. Choose three, five or nine toed shoes and your sense of adventure. zip packages, or even a full moon night- Photo packages and even GoPro rentals time tour. Closer to the ground, park-go- (the camera is mounted on your helmet) ers may choose horseback riding, kayak are available. For more information and tours or gem mining. to make reservations, visit www.zipthThe most popular tour is the Tree- ecanyons.com or call 352-351-ZIPS top Express, a five-zip-line, two-sky- (9477).

Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

November 2023

HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY HOLDS

INAUGURAL PUBLIC WORKS ACADEMY

By Brian Bokor On October 16, Hillsbring to everyone’s atborough County Public tention two very useful Works held its inauwebsites that allow gural Public Works residents to research Academy program at and resolve many isthe Water Resources sues related to the Attendees are welcomed to the Public Customer Service Censervices it provides.

Works Academy (Bianca Hatten). ter, located at 332 N. At the CIP Viewer, Falkenburg Rd. in Taminformation can be pa 33619. Assistant found about all of the County Administrator improvement projects Kim Byer and her team planned for your speof representatives from cific area, and there is areas including capiAt Your Service HC, a tal programs, engineering and operations, portal where residents who have concerns, infrastructure, transportation, road main- complaints or questions can find the approtenance, and flood and mosquito manage- priate party to speak with based on the isment hosted the invitation-only event. sue at hand.

The exclusive two-and-a-half-hour preThe Capital Improvement Program covsentation was highly interactive with the ers larger long-term investments in facilities 20 participants, including community lead- and infrastructure adopted by the Board of ers and HOA representatives, engaging in County Commissioners. These projects adseveral role-play scenarios centered on the dress the system needs for improvement, many services provided by the Public Works expansion, maintenance, rehabilitation and department. One of the events had partic- renewal. Examples include the construction ipants acting as county transportation en- of transportation, stormwater, water and gineers suggesting options on how best to wastewater projects, along with buildings resolve traffic bottlenecks at various inter- like fire stations, libraries and recreation sections located throughout Hillsborough. centers. These investments often take years Topics covered by department leaders to build, and their costs may be distributed included project timelines and why some over time. If you have questions or comprojects take longer to complete than oth- ments about a project, submit your inquiers, project selection criteria, process for ry by using the At Your Service portal or investigated resident concerns that become through the Online Public Comment Form. future projects, budget information and For more information, visit www.hillhow projects are funded and community en- sboroughcounty.org/en/government/ gagement, among many others. county-projects/county-capital-improveWhen asked specifically about the Durant ment-projects.

Road at Little Road/Dover Road intersecThe At Your Service portal allows resition improvements (CIP 69679043), San- dents to make Hillsborough County online dra Gonzalez, planning and design manager service requests 24 hours a day, seven days for capital programs, replied, “Construction a week. Your request will be routed directly is currently funded in Fiscal Year 2024. The to the team responsible for providing that land acquisition phase for this project is service. Requests are monitored during regstill underway and has taken much longer ular business hours. For best results, sign to complete than anticipated, which has up for a new customer service center accaused a shift in the project’s construction count so that you can track the progress of schedule not a reassignment of funds.” your requests. Some of the services offered In the transportation program, project include animal services, building and conpriorities are assigned to meet county trans- struction, permits, licensing, zoning, mosportation infrastructure needs in a strategic quito control, parks, code enforcement and and efficient manner. Projects are measured trash/recycling, along with many others. and ranked based on several factors, inFor more information, visit www.hcflgov. cluding cost-benefit analysis, safety, future net/atyourservice and www.hcflgov.net/ maintenance and the availability of funding mosquito. (including restricted funding sources such The Public Works department also wantas bonds, grants the Community Invest- ed to mention the Hillsborough County Enment Tax, impact fees and certain gas tax- gagement & Education Hub, the county’s es which are limited to use only on certain online home for public education, outreach types of capital improvements by statute or and listening efforts that help county leadother legal restrictions). ers make decisions which influence the fuEach year, the Capital Improvement Pro- ture of the community. The site has already gram (CIP) is updated, removing completed accumulated over 50,000 subscribers and projects, adding new needs and reprioritiz- logged over 2.2 million responses. ing the list of capital improvement projects.

For more information, visit www.hcflgov.

The Public Works department wanted to net/hcengage.

Page 7

CROSS BAY FERRY BEGINS SEVENTH SEASON

By Kathy L. Collins

The Cross Bay you can catch it Ferry, which conin Tampa at 11:30 nects downtown a.m., 3 p.m., 6:15 Tampa and downp.m. and 11 p.m.; in town St. PetersSt. Petersburg, the burg, has begun times are 10 a.m., its seventh season.

1:30 p.m., 4:45 The ferry began p.m. and 9:45 p.m. running on OctoOn Sundays, you ber 15 and will can get it in Tamrun through June pa at 11:30 a.m., 3 2024. This is part p.m. and 6:15 p.m.; of a long-term plan in St. Petersburg, The Cross Bay Ferry, a twin-hull catamaran, to run the ferry the times are 10 year-round and ex- began its seventh season on October 15. The ferry a.m., 1:30 p.m. and will run between downtown Tampa and downpand.

4:45 p.m. town St. Petersburg through June 2024.

The Cross Bay When the Tampa Ferry offers residents and visitors alike Bay Lightning are playing at home, there a unique and enjoyable way to travel will be service on Mondays and Tuesdays between the two Tampa Bay downtown following the Wednesday and Thursday areas of Tampa and St. Petersburg. It is schedules. also a great way to avoid the congested The twin-hull catamaran vessel can roadways and enjoy not only the local at- carry a maximum of 149 guests, who can tractions but Tampa Bay itself. bring a bike, up to two pieces of luggage Tickets for the Cross Bay Ferry are $12 and one small personal item on board for one way for adults and $10 one way for no additional charge. children. The ferry is free for children 4 Residents have embraced the ferry seryears old and younger. vice since its inception. The new landing You can board the Cross Bay Ferry in location at Port St. Pete is in the heart downtown Tampa at the Tampa Conven- of the Innovation District and will offer tion Center, located at 333 S. Franklin ferry riders increased parking and access St. in St. Petersburg. In St. Petersburg, to some of St. Petersburg’s most exciting the ferry has a new dock located at 250 destinations.

8th Ave. SE (just south of Albert Whitted Katie Collins of Valrico said, “I cannot Airport). wait to try the Cross Bay Ferry. I can The Cross Bay Ferry will run Wednes- meet up with friends who live in St. Pete day through Sunday. On Wednesdays and enjoy the Saturday farmers market and Thursdays, you can catch the ferry and all of the great museums and restauin Tampa at 6:15 p.m. and 10:45 p.m.; in rants located along the bay in St. Pete.”

St. Petersburg, the times are 4:45 p.m.

For more information, please visit and 9:30 p.m. On Friday and Saturday, www.thecrossbayferry.com.

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Page 8

Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

ROTARY SPOTLIGHT:

HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS BUS FLEET GETTING

STOP-ARM ENFORCEMENT CAMERAS

By Interim Superintendent Van Ayres Every day, 90,000 Hillper day. This is unacceptsborough County Public able. The issue is that law Schools students rely on our enforcement can’t be evschool buses to get them erywhere, so it can be a safely to and from school. I challenge to catch drivers am proud to announce that illegally passing stopped our school district is partbuses. We intend to change nering with BusPatrol and that by putting cameras the Hillsborough County on every single one of our Sheriff’s Office to establish buses, ensuring that every the first-in-the-state school child, without exception, is bus camera safety program. protected during their daily

Last month kicked off the commute.

installation of this stateThe program will be

of-the-art camera technolpreceded by an extensive 6 !YRE ogy on our 1,100 30-day public school buses. The awareness camcameras will cappaign beginning ture a photo and in January 2024 video of vehicles to ensure that evif drivers illegally eryone is aware of pass school busthe changes in enes when the stop forcement. Beginarm is extended ning in February and lights are 2024, the proflashing. gram will go into Senate Bill 766 effect. The Hills— Enforcement borough County of School Bus Passing Infractions was Sheriff’s Office will certify each violation introduced by Senator Danny Burgess in before sending a citation out. A $200 cithe 2023 legislative session and signed tation would then be sent to whomever into law on May 31. This new law allows the vehicle is registered. school districts to install infraction detecOur focus here is not on ticketing drivtion systems on school buses. The system ers, but it’s to send a message to all drivwill take images of the license plate, doc- ers that when you see a school bus, slow umenting when a vehicle violates the law. down and do not pass when the stop arm The cameras cannot be used for any other is extended and the red lights are flashpurposes. ing.

Recent studies of illegal passing in our We want parents to have peace of mind, state revealed that school buses are il- knowing their children are safe on their legally passed over three times per bus daily drive to and from school on the bus.

Volume 21, Issue 11

ACTIVITIES, MEETINGS & MORE

Staff Report

Brandon Norgard at chad@ The Rotary Club norgardinsgrp.com. of Brandon’s annual Wild Game Dinner Brandon Global will be held on March Eco (Zoom) 1, 2024, at the HillBrandon Global Eco sborough County meets on the second Fairgrounds. The fairand fourth Mondays grounds are located of each month at 6 at 215 Sydney Washp.m. on Zoom. MemSave the date for the 14th annual er Rd. in Dover. Spon- Crawfish & Craft Beer Festival on April bers are from the sorship opportunities immediate area and 13, 2024, at Winthrop Town Centre in Riverview. are available. Please other states. The prireach out to Chuck Burmary focus is environgess at 813-787-2980 mental education and for more information. ecological friendly projects. Brandon Global Eco Brandon ’86 planted 20,000 trees in Join us at the 32nd anPlant City with a statenual Brandon ’86 Rotary wide grant and planted Seafood Festival on Satgreeneries around newly urday, November 4 from built houses for Habitat 11 a.m.-3 p.m. at Rotary’s for Humanity. Visitors Camp Florida, located at around the world are 1915 Camp Florida Rd. in welcome at all meetings.

The Rotary Club of Brandon’s Brandon. Music, games For more information, highly anticipated annual Wild and kid-friendly fun contact Bruno Kazenas at Game Night is set for March 1, await, so don’t miss out. bkazenas@comcast.net.

2024.

Link for tickets: https://checkout. square.site/buy/IVWGBRIVPGT5O7NFishHawk-Riverview 6HEVPDKZJ (capitalization as shown is Save the date for the 14th annual necessary for the link to work).

Crawfish & Craft Beer Festival on April 13, 2024, at Winthrop Town Centre in Interact Club Of Tampa Bay Riverview. Come celebrate with friends All area high schoolers interested in & family while enjoying authentic Cajun service, leadership, food and fun are in- dishes, fresh crawfish from the Bayou, vited to the first meeting of the Interact local craft beer, live music and games Club of Tampa Bay on Monday, November and activities for the kids. This is a 6 from 6-8 p.m. at the Rivard-Simmons dog-friendly event. If you are interested Rotary Event Center, located at 3007 S. in sharing your business or organization Kings Ave. in Brandon. The Interact Club as a sponsor or sharing your goods as is sponsored by the Brandon ’86 Rotary a vendor, please email fishhawkriverClub. For more information, contact Chad viewrotary@gmail.com.

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Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

Volume 21, Issue 11

STUDENT FILMED ‘SHARK ATTACK’ SHOW WALK, BIKE OR ROLL TO SCHOOL IS A PROVIDES PROFESSIONAL COVERAGE OF SUCCESS AT APOLLO BEACH ELEMENTARY

By Kayleigh Jones RIVERVIEW HIGH SCHOOL SPORTS

By Nick Nahas Riverview High pears on the YouTube School student Ben channel, Riverview Tilley wanted to High Shark TV. find a way to fit in “Whenever we go to public school afout to football games, ter going to private the vibe is just exschool for 11 years. traordinary. It’s so He was encouraged exuberant; it’s really by his father to projust fabulous,” Ben vide video coverage said. “You get into the of his high school flow of the game and Photo courtesy of Evelyn Johnson it’s just amazing. It’s a sports teams. The Tilley and Heysteck film the pregame show.

‘Shark Attack’ covgreat environment. Our erage didn’t start out as smoothly as he school is fantastic, the crowd is always large would have liked it to over a year ago at the —and it’s awesome to be out on the field.”

Riverview football game.

The junior credits his TV production “Our first show was against East Bay, ac- teacher, Overstreet, with helping them come tually, at the stadium. We had quite an expe- up with ideas for the show and giving them rience,” said Ben. “We had a rain delay, and inspiration. He was also very complimentary the power went out. It was a pretty eventful of Heystek, his partner and TV production first show. That’s what kind of got me in- classmate who started helping with the terested. I never thought of it as, you know, broadcast this season. this could be really popular. I figured that “I got interested in doing the sports covermaybe the coaching staff will see it, some of age because I was originally more interestthe players will see it and say, ‘Look, a cool ed in movie-style films and Ben asked me to little highlight reel,’ but it’s just turned into help him with the Shark Attack coverage,” so much more, and it’s just been awesome.” said Heystek. “Once I started helping with Ben and his partner, Kenny Heystek, along the coverages, I almost instantly started to with Ben’s dad, Chris Tilley, who has worked like reporting on the games.” in the TV industry for 20-plus years as a The ultimate goal of the three-man team videographer, have a production meeting is to expand coverage of Riverview High on the Friday before the game to discuss School sports. They have covered flag footthe script and their plans. They produce a ball, football, basketball, volleyball and plan pregame video on-site at the sporting event, on covering other sports. Ben wants to conB-roll of the game footage and postgame tinue in his father’s footsteps in the TV field. coverage, including interviews of the players Chris worked for WTSP for several years and coach. The group will then edit the vid- before he became a freelancer. eo until the early hours of Saturday, record “None of this is possible without my dad,” voice-overs, and then post it online for their said Ben. “He’s the greatest father ever, and viewers. The video is posted on their Insta- he’s doing so much for me at the beginning gram page, @RVHSSharkAttack, and ap- of my career.”

The first as it is a terrifWednesday of ic opportunity October marks to encourage the national children to get Walk, Bike and outside, espeRoll to School cially since she Day. This interand members national event of her neighinspires both borhood walk students and to school every parents to spend day, referring to a few minutes themselves as a of their day exwalking school All smiles from Flippy, students and their crossing ercising and bus. guards, Rose and Anne, on their walk to school. connecting with It was excittheir community. On October 4, Apollo ing for Nicosia to see her own daughter Beach Elementary School had its own participate, noting that Apollo Beach Elcelebration shortly before school start- ementary is a recipient of the National ed, beginning at Bimmy Bay and walking, School of Character Award. Schools of biking and rolling together to school.

Character foster in their students a comThe event gathered an incredible mitment to be honest and to volunteer crowd, with 74 walkers and countless cy- their time and talents to the common clists, including children, parents and oth- good. er members of the community. Rose and Through this event, the school was Anne, their charming crossing guards, able to also emphasize the efforts of the and delightful volunteer Jessica as Flip- crossing guards. py the dolphin, the school’s mascot, led “Being greeted every day with a smile them on their route. Jo Dee Nicosia and from our crossing guards really does just her fellow PTA members worked tireless- build that larger sense of community,” ly to organize this event not just to create said Nicosia. healthy habits but also to alleviate traffic Rose and Anne play an important role congestion. in their community as crossing guards by “Here in our south county area, we’ve ensuring the general safety of the chilseen a lot of congestion, and traffic con- dren as well as teaching children how to gestion has been on the minds of all of us be safe and make wise decisions when who have seen our little town explode,” traveling to school. said Nicosia.

For more information concerning this Apollo Beach Elementary stands out event, please contact Nicosia at jodee. from the other schools participating in nicosia@gmail.com or visit the internathis event because it was orchestrated tional event’s website at www.walkbikeby the community and garnered organic toschool.org. Apollo Beach Elementary attention from the community. Nicosia is located at 501 Apollo Beach Blvd. in was delighted to introduce this event, Apollo Beach.

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November 2023

Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

Page 11

LOCAL CHARITY WRAPS UP AMAZING APOLLO BEACH WOMAN’S CLUB HOSTS HOLIDAY BUFFET FUNDRAISER 2023 WITH GALA FROM THE STAGE

By Libby Hopkins

By Brian Bokor

On Saturday, Debackpacks, cember 9, the Apolschool suplo Beach Woman’s plies and Club (ABWC) will clothing. We host a holiday bufalso provide fet at Southshore Publix gift Falls, located at cards to a 5831 Cascade few families Falls Lane in Apolat each school lo Beach, from 5-8 for their holp.m. The ticket cost iday dinners is $35. “This ABWC and we do an dinner is one of Angle Tree the most enjoyable On Saturday, December 9, the Apollo Beach Woman’s for students events of the year,” Club (ABWC) will host a holiday buffet at Southshore so they resaid ABWC board ceive a gift for Falls, located at 5831 Cascade Falls Lane in Apollo Beach, from 5-8 p.m. The ticket cost is $35. Proceeds member, Sheila Christmas. We May. “Along with a from the dinner will be used to fund scholarships for currently have local high school seniors. delicious buffet ca105 members, tered by Carr Custom Catering, the East and I will say that our membership is very Bay High School Choral Groups, led by Bri- generous, and I am appreciative of everyan NeSmith, will give a delightful perfor- one.” mance full of singing and dancing.”

In addition to all the holiday fun at the Proceeds from the dinner will be used ABWC’s holiday buffet, there will be aucto fund scholarships for local high school tion baskets and 50/25/25 tickets. seniors. “The club was established in 1959 Reservations must be made on or before and became a 501(c)(3) on July 25, 2006,” Friday, December 1. “I think the holiday May said. “In the early days of the club, buffet is an opportunity for an evening of there was a Holiday Inn Hotel at the end good food, great entertainment, socializaof Apollo Beach Boulevard. The club held tion and perhaps to be a winner with our their meetings in a firehouse and brought auction baskets and cash raffle,” May said. their own luncheon. They held dances and “We would like everyone that attends to other community events for the time and have a wonderful evening, and of course just grew from there.” we would like to raise as much money as The club’s main mission is to provide possible for our scholarship fund.” scholarships to students in financial need If you would like to learn more about the from East Bay High School and Lennard Apollo Beach Woman’s Club or if you’d like High School. “We give $1,500 to each to join the club, you can visit their webstudent to help start them on their future site at www.apollobeachwomansclub.com. journey,” May said. “So our fundraising is If you’d like to attend their holiday buffet, very important to us. We also donate to contact May at 847-514-1475 or email her four elementary schools in the area with at smay1180@gmail.com.

The Heroes trywide with Journey, a Riverpost-trauview-based 501(c) matic stress (3) organization interventions whose mission is held in the helping veterans lobby for any find their voice and warrior that tell their story, is would like to staging two final tell their stoperformances of the Retired Lt. Col. Scott Mann wrote and stars in Last Out: ry. play Last Out: Elegy “You’re enElegy of a Green Beret. of a Green Beret on Wednesday lightened to the experience and Thursday, December 6-7 of what our men and womat the New Tampa Performing en do in service,” said Gary Arts Center, located at 8550 Sinise, the well-known acHunters Village Rd. in Tampa. tor from far too many films Each performance runs from and shows to list.

7-10 p.m., and tickets are still “This really speaks to available at www.eventbrite. something very profound com. and very special, and very Penned by and starring Rivimportant, and it’s eduerview resident retired Lt. cational for people to see Col. Scott Mann, a former U.S. what our current day warArmy Green Beret who specialriors are going through ized in unconventional, high-impost-service.” pact special operations missions all over the Mann also recently had the opportunity globe in a distinguished 23-year military ca- to share his thoughts with Mike Rowe on reer, the goal of the play, as told by combat Rowe’s popular podcast, The Way I Heard veterans and military family members, is to It, aired appropriately this past 9/11 (epiheal the wounds of war. sode 344). Mann sat down with Rowe and Last Out tells the story of a Green Beret spoke in detail about his past, the play and trapped between his family obligations and what he hopes to accomplish for his fellow his mission in Afghanistan as he struggles warriors going forward, as can be heard in to ascend to the mythical warrior afterlife his It’s a Wonderful Life with Body Armor of Valhalla after being hit with a roadside podcast episode found at https://mikerowe. bomb. It isn’t just a play; it’s a live example com/podcast. of the transformative power of storytelling “Storytelling is how we move from where and how you can tell your story in the ser- we were to where we are now and where vice of others. we’re going. Storytelling is how we heal, From Veterans Day 2018 to January 2020, how we validate, how we inform and how Mann’s team traveled 28,000 miles visiting we reconnect,” said Mann, who hopes that 16 cities and logging over 40 performances by encouraging veterans and families to tell across America, then, when COVID-19 hit their stories, others can have an emotional in 2020, Mann decided to take his cast and connection to the challenges of war. “Yes, crew took to the studio and created Last some of it’s hard, but it’s the stuff we lived, Out: The Film in 2021, currently available on and those experiences need to be shared Amazon Prime and YouTube. with the country so we can learn from them, The tour hit the road again in 2023 to play and hopefully our kids don’t go down the in nine cities, sponsored by the Gary Sinise same path we did.”

Foundation, and is holding the year-end gala Visit www.facebook.com/theheroesjourevent to raise money to help take the play ney.org or https://theheroesjourney.org. For to even more cities in 2024. A deep authen- the Last Out play, visit https://lastoutplay. ticity goes with having an all-veteran and com. Visit www.amazon.com/last-out-scottmilitary family member cast tell the story of mann/dp/b09x94q5cs. To learn more about modern war, now seen in over 30 cities coun- Mann, visit https://scottmann.com.

Page 12

Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

Volume 21, Issue 11

2024 HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY SUMNER’S THEATRE DEPARTMENT WILL PUT ITS SPIN ON A CLASSIC WOMEN’S HALL OF FAME

NOMINATIONS NOW BEING SOUGHT

WHITE CHRISTMAS

Staff Report

By Lily Belcher

The Hillsborough female surgeon in HillCounty Commission on sborough County; Ann the Status of Women Porter, the first director (COSW) is now acceptof Hillsborough County’s ing nominations for Head Start program; the 2024 Hillsborough and Carol D. Morsani, a County Women’s Hall of cherished area philanFame. The hall of fame thropist and community was created in 2011 to leader. honor and celebrate the A complete list can be achievements of Hillsfound online at www. borough County women hcflgov.net/whof. who have made signifThe COSW was creicant contributions in ated to study and make areas such as business, recommendations to the education, philanthropy, Board of County Com2023 inductee Dr. Judy Genshaft, the military and public former University of South Florida missioners on issues president. service to improve the pertaining to the stalives of residents in Hilltus of women, including sborough County. discrimination, employSince its inception, the ment, day care, educaCommission on the Station and health care. tus of Women has recognized and hon- The COSW’s 15 members include those ored notable women through induction appointed by the Board of County Cominto the Women’s Hall of Fame. All Hill- missioners and representatives from sborough County Women’s Hall of Fame the Greater Tampa Chamber of Cominductees are permanently recognized merce, The Helen Gordon Davis Centre with a plaque displayed at the Arthenia for Women, the League of Women VotL. Joyner University Area Community ers of Hillsborough County, The Spring Library. of Tampa Bay, the Hispanic Professional To date, 39 women have been recog- Women’s Association Inc., the National nized for their significant and distin- Council of Negro Women, the University guished accomplishments and contribu- of South Florida and Hillsborough Comtions to our community. Past inductees munity College. include pioneering desegregation-era Nomination forms are available at educator Doretha Edgecomb; civil rights www.hcflgov.net/whof. For any quesactivist Mary Alice Dorsett; Maryann tions, please contact Carmen LoBue at Ferenc, co-proprietor of Mise en Place lobuec@hillsboroughcounty.org or 813and passionate advocate for business in 276-8401. Nominations will be accepted Tampa; Sylvia Campbell, M.D., the first until 5 p.m. on Monday, November 13.

Sumner High also really good School Theatre at adjusting to Department is the sound,” Tallhosting its second ey said. “She just annual Christmas does a really good musical with its job of adjusting to performance of the sound and the a classic holiday quality and style movie and Broadthat’s needed for way show. whatever producSumner’s cast Sumner High School will perform White Christmas tion we’re workand crew of 55 ing on.” with its large cast of students. students will perform White Preparations for the perforChristmas the Musical on mance began over the summer Thursday, November 30 and when Talley hosted tap lessons Friday, December 1 at 7 p.m. for a four-minute tap routine.

Enrique Garnica and Davian This opened the door for new Jiminez will lead the perforstudents to bring their dance mance as Bob Wallace and Phil skills to the cast. Talley said Davis. Alongside them, Paige learning the routine has been Janusek and Lexi Powell will play the one of the most challenging parts of the Haynes sisters. production.

“You definitely have to have crooner “The kids have worked so hard, and it pipes to pull off that number, and we have has been a lot of fun and they’re very exthe perfect young man for that part,” di- cited,” she said. rector Holly Talley said about Garnica.

In addition to expanding her cast, TallPowell, playing Judy Haynes, brought ey, who grew up loving tap, finally had the more personality to the Haynes sister in chance to learn the dance genre. To help the musical adaptation of White Christ- learn the routine, she turned to Carrie mas. Powell’s friendship with Jiminez also Mitchell’s online lessons, The Happy Tapbrought an added level chemistry to their per. The online lessons taught students performance, playing off each other well. the steps and allowed them to create “That’s really probably what makes their own routine. them the most enjoyable is how comfort“They have been real troopers and stuck able … they were from the very beginning with it. So, we’re really excited to let evwith each other and willing to try things eryone see what we have prepared,” Taland laugh through mistakes,” Talley said. ley said.

The sister duo was completed by JaThe musical will be performed at nusek, playing Betty Haynes.

Sumner High School. To purchase tickets, “She has a beautiful voice, but she’s visit https://sumnerhstheatre.ludus.com/.

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Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

Page 13

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Page 14

Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

Volume 21, Issue 11

SGT. WALTER P. RYAN DETACHMENT SOUTH SHORE WOMEN’S FASHION SWAP OF THE MARINE CORPS LEAGUE OF RIVERVIEW SEEKS TO ADD MEMBERS

KEEPS TEXTILES OUT OF LANDFILLS AND BENEFITS THE COMMUNITY

By Libby Hopkins

By Libby Hopkins

The Marine of the active-duty Corps League of and Reserve esRiverview was tablishments of formed in 2006 the U.S. Marine but renamed the Corps.

Sgt. Walter P. The detachment Ryan Detachment meets on the first in 2017 in honor Tuesday of every of Walter P. Ryan, The Marine Corps League of Riverview was formed month at Ameriwho was the serv- in 2006 but renamed the Sgt. Walter P. Ryan De- can ing commandant tachment in 2017 in honor of Walter P. Ryan, who Legion Alafia was the serving commandant at that time and at that time and Post 148, locatdied while in that died while in that office. It is currently looking for ed at 7240 U.S. new members. office. “Our mis301 in Riverview. sion is veterans helping veterans,” said Vice “Meetings start promptly at 7 p.m. and usuCommandant Ron Essick Sr. “If you were ally last about one hour,” Essick said. “Prior a Marine, FMF corpsman or Navy chaplain to the meetings there is a social hour with and miss the fellowship that you enjoyed pizza provided that begins at 6 p.m.” while on active duty, this may be the place The detachment also supports the for you.” It is currently looking for new JROTCs in the area. “We provide scholarmembers. ships grants to qualified applicants who are The Riverview detachment consists of pursuing an undergraduate degree,” Essick more than 100 members. “There are male said “Children and grandchildren of eligible and female members,” Essick said. “There members can receive national, department are officers and enlisted within our ranks. and detachment-level scholarships yearly.”

There are combat veterans from Korea, It also offers support for the local honVietnam, Desert Storm, Desert Shield and or guard. “The mission of a Marine Corps the current conflicts among us. There are League honor guard is to provide military those who have only served during peace- honors for funerals, memorial services, time, we have members that are still serv- dedication ceremonies and other civic ocing and there is also limited number of casions as may be requested,” Essick said. associate members who live up to our stan- “As a member of the Marine Corps League, dards and adhere to our principles.” you can once again enjoy the camaraderie The Marine Corps League was founded in you had while serving. We have in our ranks 1923 by Maj. Gen./Commandant John Le- members of several generations and theJeune and chartered by an act of Congress atres of operation. We would be honored to in 1937. The league is the only federally have new members to help us continue our chartered, Marine Corps-related veterans missions.” organization in the country. Since its earFor more information, please contact Esliest days, the Marine Corps League has sick at ronessick@aol.com or visit www. enjoyed the support and encouragement mclriverview.org.

Jess Rolewicz and School was a recent her friend Jennifer recipient of donaGlancy co-foundtions from the South ed the South Shore Shore Women’s Women’s Fashion Fashion Swap. “We Swap in 2022. “We were so happy that co-founded this we could donate swap because we to the community felt passionately school at Brandon about its missions High School,” Roleof earth-conscious wicz said. “Their The South Shore Women’s Clothing Swap is an consumerism, doing association of local people who meet several community clothes good in our comcloset was restocked times a year to swap women’s fashion. By munity and meeting swapping instead of shopping, they are keep- because of us, and other lovers of fashknowing this was a ing textiles out of landfills, decluttering their closets and supporting local organizations. ion and frugality,” great feeling.”

Rolewicz said. “Since The next South our first meeting in Shore Women’s Fashion 2022, we have met so Swap will take place many local Floridians on Saturday, November with the same goals.

18 from 10:30 a.m.-1 We now have a board p.m. at Creason Hall of people who work at the United Methodtogether to make each ist Church of Sun City swap a success. We hope that SouthShore Center, located at 1971 Haverford Ave. lovers of women’s fashion will join us be- in Sun City Center. “The cost is $5, cash, cause we feel the more the merrier.” for the cost of overhead,” Rolewicz said.

The South Shore Women’s Clothing “We ask that attendees to please register Swap is an association of local people who and bring at least five articles of women’s meet several times a year to swap women’s clothing and three accessories” fashion. By swapping instead of shopping, Included in the clothes swap are womthey are keeping textiles out of landfills, en’s purses, shoes, accessories and jeweldecluttering their closets and supporting ry. “Everything is for personal use only, no local organizations. “What we like the most resale please. All leftovers items will be about doing these fashion swaps is that we donated to benefit the children’s ministry are helping women build their wardrobe, as of United Methodist Church of Sun City they make swap connection and benefiting Center.” the community,” Rolewicz said. “All of the If you would like to learn more about clothes that are bought are donated to lo- the South Shore Women’s Fashion Swap, cal organizations who help those in need in visit its Facebook page at www.facebook. our community.” com/fashionistafl or contact Rolewicz at The community school at Brandon High sswomensfashionswap@gmail.com.

Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

November 2023

WATERSENSE® EXCELLENCE AWARD A REMINDER OF TAMPA BAY’S COMMITMENT TO WATER CONSERVATION

Staff Report

The U.S. EnvironThe Tampa Bay Wamental Protection ter Wise program proAgency (EPA) honored vides incentives in the Tampa Bay Water form of 20 rebates to Wise, the Tampa Bay homeowners and busiregion’s water consernesses that purchase vation rebate program, or implement new with a 2023 Waterwater-saving devicSense® Excellence es or measures, such Award. As drought as WaterSense-cerconditions continue in tified products. The Tampa Bay, the award rebate program helps is a reminder of the our community save community’s commitwater and money. ment to water conserRebates range from vation. $40-$40,000.

The “This is one of the Tampa Bay Water Wise, the Tampa Bay Southwest Florida driest years on reWater Management region’s water conservation rebate procord for our region,” District — one of five gram, was honored with a 2023 Watersaid Amelia Brown, Sense®Excellence Award for commitment regional water manto conservation. demand management agement districts in program manager for Tampa Bay Water. the state of Florida — co-funds the rebate “Yet we have enough to meet the drinking program. water needs, and that is due, in part, to “This is really an award for our region,” Tampa Bay’s conservation efforts.” said Brown. “I’m so proud of the residents The award was presented at the Wa- and business that have participated in the terSmart Innovations (WSI) Conference program — when we save water, we all in Las Vegas, Nevada, where WaterSense win.” celebrated the Tampa Bay Water Wise reSince launching in 2020, the program bate program for its work promoting Wa- has provided more than 4,500 rebates and terSense and water efficiency. saves more than 220,000 gallons per day.

Conserving water is always a priority for WaterSense, a voluntary partnership Tampa Bay Water and its member coun- program sponsored by EPA, is both a laties and cities. bel for water-efficient products, programs The Tampa Bay Water Wise program and homes as well as a resource for helpwas developed in partnership between ing consumers learn ways to save water.

Tampa Bay Water, the regional wholesale For more information, visit www.epa.gov/ drinking water provider and the utility’s six watersense. member governments: Hillsborough, Pasco For more information about Tampa Bay and Pinellas counties and the cities of New Water Wise, visit https://tampabaywaterPort Richey, St. Petersburg and Tampa. wise.org/.

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HARVEST AWARDS RECOGNIZE HILLSBOROUGH AGRICULTURE GIANTS WITH DEEP ROOTS

By Linda Chion Kenney ‘Rooted in Tradivalues of hard work, tion’ is the theme service and caring this year for the that has been a staHillsborough County ple in Hillsborough Fair, which is an apt County’s agriculturdescriptor as well al community.” for the prestigious Posthumous MeHarvest Awards anmorial Award renounced before the cipients this year annual fair opens. are Timothy Cribbs, This year’s seven On the left are Joseph ‘Joe’ Sumner III, with his a 39-year agriculwife, Nikki, owners of Sumner Land Manhonorees were set ture teacher who agement and Cattle Company, with their to be recognized on children, Kayleigh Sumner and Joe Sumner was department November 2 during IV, and their kids’ maternal grandmother, Eva head at Durant High a 12 Noon luncheon in Plant City, and Listro. With them, on the right, are relatives at the Hillsborough Lance Philmon and his sons, Levi and Luke Clyde Dixon Sr. of Philmon.

County Fairgrounds Plant City, a World in Dover, three hours War II veteran who before the grand openretired from careers in ing of the 11-day counconstruction and crop ty fair. insurance.

Count among them The 2023 Harvest Joseph ‘Joe’ Sumner Award for Outstanding III, a seventh-generWomen in Agriculture ation cattle rancher recognizes Dee Dee whose family settled in Grooms of Plant City, Southern Hillsborough the matriarch of Fancy County in 1909, where Farms, founded in 1974.

Sumner continues to Fred Williams reoperate a cow calf opceives the Outstanding eration with his wife, Public and CommuniMark Proctor, left, with D.A. ‘Doug’ Nikki, and children, ty Service Award, in Holmberg, this year’s Harvest Award Kayleigh Sumner and part for his service on Lifetime Achievement honoree.

Joe Sumner IV. Joseph the Florida FFA Founreceived this year’s Harvest dation Board and his role as Award for Outstanding Farmco-founder of the Greater e r/ Ra n c h e r/ N u r s e r y m a n .

Plant City Chamber of ComHis great-grandfather is the merce Pig Jam — set for its namesake of Jule F. Sumner 20th year on Friday and SatHigh School in the Balm/Rivurday, November 17-18 — at erview area.

1401 Gordon Food Service Dr. Hailing from Lithia is D.A. in Plant City.

‘Doug’ Holmberg, this year’s The annual awards ceremoLifetime Achievement Award ny recognizes Friends of the recipient. Described as an Fair honorees as well. This “educator, agricultural innovator, hor- year’s list of 21 recipients is as follows: ticultural leader and creative thinker,” American Show Camels, ACME BarriHolmberg owns and operates Holmberg cades, Astin Farms, Bill Bartlett, HillsFarms, which produces citrus, tropical borough County Sheriff’s Mounted Posse, fruits and woody ornaments. He is a past Hillsborough County Cattlewomen, Hillpresident of the Hillsborough and state ag sborough County Commissioner Michael teacher associations and the Hillsborough Owen, Central Maintenance and Welding, County Farm Bureau. He taught at Horace iHeartMedia, In The Field magazine, Ed Mann Middle School in Brandon. and Terri Kelly, McCullagh & Scott, OdiDeeply rooted in tradition as well are orne Insurance, Pipe Pros, Stepp’s Towmembers of the Winfred Harrell family, ing, the Tampa Bay Times, TECO Peoples recipients of the 2023 Harvest Award for Gas, Tew Electric, United Rentals and, Farm Family of the Year. The family since posthumously, Robert McElheny.

1960 has owned and operated Harrell’s The Hillsborough County Fair runs Liner Farm in Plant City, while Harrell’s Nov. 2-12 at the Hillsborough County Nursery reportedly has grown to a major Fairgrounds in Dover, at 215 Sydney operation with more than 145 employees. Washer Road. For more information, visAs duly noted in the awards announce- it https://hillsboroughcountyfair.com or ment, “the Harrell family exemplifies the call 813-737-3247.

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Page 16

Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

FOUR WAYS YOU CAN OBSERVE NATIONAL VETERANS AND MILITARY FAMILY MONTH

By StatePoint Media

When was the last You can get intime you thanked a milspired by dedicated itary member or vetvolunteers like Navy eran for their service? servicewoman and November is National Daily Point of Light Veterans and Military Honoree Michaela Family Appreciation White. For the past Month and an excellent two years, she’s adtime to celebrate, supvocated for mental port and honor service health in the military, members. volunteering her time PHOTO SOURCE: (c) monkeybusinessimThat’s why Points of with Patrol Base Abages / iStock via Getty Images Plus Light, a global nonprofit organization ded- bate, a nonprofit that fosters community icated to mobilizing people to take action and purpose among service members and that changes the world, is sharing ways you veterans. can get involved, along with the stories of 3. Donate. Nonprofits and NGOs are deformer military members already doing so. pendent on donations to pay their staff, reFrom volunteering to donating and beyond, cruit volunteers and execute their high-imthese ideas are based on the Points of Light pact work. This year marks Wounded Civic Circle®, a framework that highlights Warrior Project’s 20th anniversary. You can nine pathways to boosting social impact. support its mission of providing career and 1. Listen and learn. Being informed about VA benefits counseling, mental health supan issue can help you think more critically, port, adaptive sports initiatives or making a make better decisions and lend stronger donation for National Veterans and Military support. Check out two podcasts created Family Appreciation Month.

by Military OneSource. Covering topics like 4. Celebrate, thank and honor veterans. deployment, casualty assistance, money Veterans and their family members are evmanagement and parenting, they are de- erywhere — from working alongside you signed to help military members and fam- to doing everyday things like grocery shopilies thrive and can help others understand ping, eating at a restaurant and more. the difficulties of military life.

Retired fireman, Army veteran and Daily 2. Volunteer. Hands-on support is some of Point of Light Honoree Tom Schneider is a the most impactful work you can do in the great example of someone who integrates nonprofit sector. The American Red Cross his work with causes he cares about. Since is currently recruiting caseworkers for 2017, he’s extended a helping hand to those military members, veterans and families. devastated by floods, fires, tornadoes, hurThis volunteer role requires some training ricanes and even plane crashes as an Amerbut can be carried out from anywhere, and ican Red Cross volunteer. shifts are flexible. Whether you’re looking From volunteering your time and talent for remote or in-person volunteer oppor- to contributing your resources, there are tunities, search Points of Light Engage, the many ways to honor former and current world’s most comprehensive database of military members and their families this volunteer opportunities around the globe. month.

ADOGABLE PET SERVICES OFFERS MOBILE AND SALON GROOMING

By Ashley Abene

Pet grooming can sult, Adogable offers be helpful to an anithe PlaqClnz sermal’s overall health. vice where teeth are Adogable Pet Services scaled without aneshas been a grooming thesia. business since 2007, Adogable Pet Serlocally owned and opvices helps its comerated by Laura Rubin munity as well. It in Sun City Center. offers a 15 percent Adogable offers vari- Adogable Pet Services has a mobile salon discount for law enous grooming and saforcement and first for dogs under 35 lbs lon services for cats responders’ pets. and dogs of all breeds.

Rubin mentioned “Not only do regular that Adogable also baths get rid of dirt “partners with Fromm that’s collected in a to distribute food to dog’s coat and make local residents who them smell great, but have guide dogs, and they also keep their I’m proud to do it for skin healthy too,” them.” according to www.

Another feature ofchewy.com. fered in the salon is A unique service Luxury Therma-Wrap that Adogable Pet for dogs. Adogable’s Services offers, in adwebsite states that dition to grooming at this “moisturizing its storefront, is a moTherma-Wrap adds Holistic pet food and other supplies are sold in Adogable Pet Services’ shop. bile grooming unit. The elasticity and remobile grooming van is a great option for stores a damaged coat while soothing dogs who are seniors, owners with multi- and moisturizing the skin. The results are ple pets and pets with anxiety around oth- therapeutic, especially for older dogs with er animals. This service is only available to arthritis, sore muscles and hip dysplasia.” animals under 35 pounds.

Adogable Pet Services is located in Sun Adogable Pets offers a one-on-one ex- City Center in the Kings Crossing Publix perience, a full-service pet spa (for pam- plaza. Its hours of operation are 9 a.m.pering), teeth cleaning and breed-specific 5 p.m., Tuesday through Saturday. It is grooming. It also sells high-quality, holistic closed on Mondays and Sundays. Mobile animal food and pet supplies at its store- grooming is mainly offered to the Sun front location. Rubin trained under Jay City Center, Ruskin, Apollo Beach and Scruggs, a renowned pet groomer and Wimauma areas. More information on salon owner, which adds to her expertise. this pet salon can be found on its website Proper dental care can add as much at www.adogablepets.com or by calling as five years to an animal’s life. As a re- 813-419-4972.

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Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

November 2023

PLENTY OF MAGNET AND SCHOOL CHOICE OPTIONS FOR HILLSBOROUGH STUDENTS

By Brad Stager

Neighborhood programs, families schools and their attenhave opportunities dance zones are conto learn more about siderations for many the educational posfamilies making decisibilities beyond their sions such as where neighborhood. to live, or for students “The most importfiguring out how to ant thing that we want achieve their academic Students at magnet schools learn through our families to know programs ranging from the performing and career goals. Magabout these next few arts to science and technology. net programs and months in the world other school choice of Magnet Schools is options that offer that there are a mulattendance and titude of events on subject matter flexthe district and the ibility are available, and the time to exercise school levels for them to attend should they a choice for the 2024-25 school year is now. want to learn more about our award-winThe application window for magnet and ning programs and how to attend them in school choice options runs from Wednes- 2024-2025,” he wrote in an email. day, November 1 through Friday, December Among the upcoming events are a Mag15. net & CTE Expo at ZooTampa from 3-7 p.m.

Hillsborough County Public Schools of- on Wednesday, November 8, and an openfers magnet programs focusing on subject house type event at Spoto High School in areas ranging from performing arts, such as Riverview on Thursday, November 30 from dance, to a variety of science and technolo- 6-7:30 p.m. There are also online opportunigy fields, such as robotics, as well as general ties to learn about school options on the disacademics. trict’s website at www.hillsboroughschools.

Nonmagnet options include what is re- org. ferred to as ‘school choice,’ which includes Cox added that applications are selected school selection based on location as well via a computerized lottery system so famias student interests and hardship consid- lies and students can take their time in aperations. School choice options include plying before the deadline. learning online via Hillsborough Virtual “In the end, we work hard to make sure School (HVK12). The opportunity to learn that ALL students in Hillsborough County in-demand skills, ranging from agriculture Public Schools and beyond have access and to information technology, through career opportunity to attend one of our nationally and technical education (CTE) programs known Magnet Schools!” he wrote. can also be selected.

Families will be notified in January 2024 According to Robert Cox, the school dis- about a final determination regarding their trict’s supervisor of magnet schools and applications.

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Page 17

STATE LAW REQUIRES NEW VOTE BY MAIL REGISTRATION

By Kathy L. Collins

The presiLatimer dential elecadded, “We tion is in Nohave been vember 2024. working hard The Florida to make sure primary is voters know on March 19, about the 2024. Followchange in ing the 2020 the law by Voting is a right which carries responsibilities. Be an election, the sharing the informed member of the electorate and know your rights. If i n f o r m a t i o n Florida State L e g i s l a t u r e you want to cast a ballot using the Vote By Mail process, you through email, must request this option after every general election made changes mailings, to election laws including ones that re- newsletters, social media and local precently went into effect this year. One that sentations. Please help me spread the will have effect a wide range of Floridians word so that voters who like to vote by deals with the right to cast a ballot by mail will not miss out in 2024.” mail.

The Supervisor of Elections Office has If you wish to vote by mail, the ‘Vote also added a new Vote By Mail notificaBy Mail’ ballot requests now expire after tion system called BallotTrax. The office every general election. If you want to re- uses BallotTrax to send you email noticeive Vote By Mail ballots for the 2024 fications when your requested Vote By elections, you must submit a new request. Mail ballot is mailed out and it receives The quickest way to make that request is your voted ballot back. If you visit the to use the Supervisor of Elections Office’s BallotTrax enrollment website, you can online request form by visiting www. also add text or phone notifications and votehillsborough.gov/votebymail or call specify your preferred language and con813-744-5900. tact hours. If you do not wish to receive You will be asked to provide either your automatic email notifications, it is easy Florida driver’s license, ID number or the to opt out. last four digits of your social security One thing to keep in mind about the number to verify your identity. upcoming elections is dates. You must be Hillsborough County Supervisor of registered to vote in the March primary Elections Craig Latimer said, “If you like by February 20, 2024. And remember, to vote by mail and you have not request- Florida is a closed primary state, which ed your mail ballots for 2024, I urge you means you must be registered with a parto visit votehillsborough.gov and submit ty to vote in the primary. Once registered, your new request right now while you you must request your Vote By Mail balare thinking about it. You can also call lot by 5 p.m. on the 12th day before the my office during business hours and we election. can process your request right over the For more information, please visit votphone. It only takes a few minutes.” er@votehillsborough.gov.

Page 18

Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

Volume 21, Issue 11

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November 2023

Page 19

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Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

Volume 21, Issue 11

Holly Jolly Market

American Pickers, Volunteers, FEMA, Luncheon & More...

Compiled by Jenny Bennett jbennett@ospreyobserver.com

The Holly Jolly Market is a free family event that you do not want to miss. There will be over 100 vendors at this indoor-and-outdoor event, bringing you everything you need for all the upcoming celebrations. It will take place on Saturday, November 18 from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. at the Lake Wimauma Convention Center, 5408 SR 674 in Wimauma. There will also be food trucks, fairy hair and Santa and Mrs. Claus.

The SouthShore Christian Nominations Now Open For 2024 Women’s Connection LunHillsborough County Women’s cheon Hall Of Fame ‘And All That Jazz’ was the theme The Hillsborough County Commission on the Status of Women is now accepting nominations for the 2024 Hillsborough County Women’s Hall of Fame. The hall of fame was created in 2011 to celebrate the achievements Hillsborough County women who have made significant contributions in areas such as business, education, philanthropy, the military and public service to improve the lives of residents in Hillsborough County. Nomination forms are available at www.hcflgov. net/whof. Nominations will be accepted until 5 p.m. on Monday, November 13.

Bonnie Doll, chair of Victim Services of the Campaign Against Human Trafficking-SouthShore (CAHT), delivered clothing and grooming items to Wimauma Academy. Wimauma Academy is a state-funded facility with a wraparound program for at-risk boys. For more information on CAHT visit its website at https://sccblueheart.org/.

for the October luncheon of the SouthShore Christian Women’s Connection. Guests enjoyed a delicious lunch and listened to guest speaker Terri Sevinsky talk about ‘Laughter is Good Medicine’ and then enjoyed a performance by jazz dance group Jazzmatazz. To find out more information about future meetings, please email sscwcflorida@gmail.com.

Book Discussion Group Bloomingdale Regional Library

The Great Books DiscusOur Lady’s Pantry Seeks Volunsion Group of the Bloomingteers

At

and other disaster-related expenses. To apply for FEMA disaster assistance, visit www.disasterassistance.gov, use the FEMA app for smartphones or call 800621-3362. Its phone lines are open from 7 a.m.-11 p.m. daily.

Hillsborough Community College Fall Dance Concert

The Hillsborough Community College (HCC) dance department presents the annual Fall Dance Concert from Thursday through Saturday, November 16-18 at 7:30 p.m. in the Mainstage Theatre at the Ybor City Campus. This year’s concert features the HCC dance ensemble performing works by faculty and guest choreographers.

The box office opens an hour prior to the performance; ticketing information can be found at www.hccfl.edu/dance. The Mainstage Theatre is located in the Ybor City campus’ Performing Arts Building at the corner of E. Palm Ave. and N. 14th St. in Tampa.

Our Lady’s Pantry in Wimauma is des- dale Regional Library will perately seeking help on Tuesday and Fri- celebrate the start of its 14th season on Saturday, day mornings.

November 18 from 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. with a discussion of Nobel Prize winner Toni Morrison’s powerful novel, The Bluest Eye. The meeting location for this free event will be room 211 “We especially need men who can lift of the library, which is located at 1906 these heavy boxes of food,” said director Bloomingdale Ave. in Valrico. First-timTom Bullaro. ers and visitors are welcome. For more “While our trucks are on the road information, please contact the mod- American Pickers TV Show Repicking up food almost every day of the week, our biggest collections are on erator/facilitator, Patrick DeMarco, at turns To Florida The American Pickers are excited to Tuesday and Friday,” he said. “It takes 813-672-9052 or pdemarco@tampabay. return to Florida with plans to film epirr.com. many hands to unload the trucks and sodes of the History Channel’s hit televisort through everything we receive. Once sion series in January 2024. everything is sorted, we need to store it Residents Impacted By HurriAmerican Pickers is a safely in our cooler, freezer or shelves cane Idalia Can Apply For Federdocumentary series that until Saturday when we share the food al Assistance explores the fascinating with our neighbors.”

Hillsborough County residential prop- world of antique ‘picking.’

The Pantry is locaterty owners and renters whose The show follows skilled ed 16650 U.S. 301 S. in homes sustained damage and loss- pickers in the business Wimauma, across U.S. es from Hurricane Idalia can apply while they hunt for Amer301 from Aldi. To learn for the Federal Emergency Manage- ica’s most valuable anmore about Our Lady’s ment Agency’s (FEMA) Individual tiques.

Pantry, please visit its Assistance programs. The assistance They are always excited website at www.ourlacould include financial help for tem- to find historically sigdyspantry.com. porary lodging, basic home repairs nificant or rare items, in

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Campaign Against Human Trafficking Highlights Selah Freedom’s Survivor Services

The Campaign Against Human Trafficking-SouthShore (CAHT) will feature professionals from Selah Freedom at its next meeting on Tuesday, November 21.

They will describe supporting a victim of human trafficking through the process of becoming a successful survivor, as well as information about Selah Freedom’s training programs. The meeting will take place at United Methodist Church of Sun City Center, room 30, located at 1971 Haverford Ave. in Sun City Center, at 6:30 p.m. For more information on CAHT, visit its website at https://sccblueheart. org/.

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November 2023

Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

Page 21

BECKY MCDANIELS CELEBRATES KEY VOLUNTEERS KEEP OPERATIONS RUNNING AT OUR LADY’S PANTRY HER MATHNASIUM TEAM AND Staff Report NEW RIVERVIEW CENTER Our Lady’s Pana smaller scale, by

By Lily Belcher

Mathnasium’s 10-year have to be scary. At celebration was a speMathnasium, we make cial one for owner Becky it fun to learn math in a McDaniels, as the local safe and welcoming entutoring center is preparvironment.” ing to open its Riverview The grand opening location. was on November 6, but “I feel so honored and McDaniels plans to host blessed to have been a larger celebration afgiven the opportunity ter the holidays. to change lives through “We look forward to math each day and to be welcoming all in to see surrounded by an incredwhat Mathnasium is all ible team and supporting about and to visit our husband of 31 years. My brand-new facility,” Mcheart is full,” McDaniels Daniels said.

Lance and Becky McDaniels have said.

The journey to openMcDaniels and her made Mathnasium possible for the ing the Riverview localast 10 years. team hosted a red-carpet tion is three years in the celebration on October making.

Mathnasium 22 for neighbors, friends was waiting for the new and community memplaza to be completed bers to commemorate a before it received its decade of serving math certificate of occupanstudents. The celebration cy and opened its doors was complete with math to Riverview students. games, cake and awards The center currently has for longtime employees. four instructors and is The Mathnasium administration One of these longtime hiring more to serve loteam strives to help local math stuemployees is Baylor Kull, dents at the Brandon and Riverview cal math students from who will serve as the K4 through K12. locations. center director at the Riverview location.

“Our passion is for our students to grow Kull was the first hired instructor and has in confidence and smiling when they have worked alongside McDaniels to support their ‘aha’ moments,” McDaniels said. “The Mathnasium since the center opened its kids walking into the center is my favorite doors on October 28, 2013. part of the day.”

McDaniels said the decision to open a The Riverview Mathnasium center is loRiverview location came in response to an cated at 13388 S. U.S. 301 off Big Bend influx of students to the area.

Road. For more information on the new “My heart is to reach as many students center, call 813-565-1102 or visit www. as we can,” McDaniels said. “Math doesn’t mathnasium.com/riverview/about.

try is a small food category, so we pantry in Wimaucan record prema with a big cisely how many heart and hunpounds of meat, dreds of clients. bread or produce Volunteers diswe receive from tributed a stuneach vendor. We ning 1,800,000 log these weights pounds of food into the computthis past year. er so stores can “We are espeget tax credit for cially indebted the donations.” to our drivers, as Karen and Kim well as a number Kim (left) and Karen manage all of the nonperish- are vigilant about able foods at Our Lady’s Pantry in Wimauma. of key volunteers, food safety as who manage the well. The U.S. Deperishable and partment of Agnonperishable riculture (USDA) foods once our directs Kim to trucks return date every USDA from all over the county,” said Tom Bulla- carton as it rolls off the truck. Each one ro, who is co-director of Our Lady’s Pantry must be used within 60 days. with his wife, Anita.

Karen manages all non-USDA foods “Karen and Kim, for example, organize and goes by the dates provided by Feedthe sorting of the nonperishable food ing Tampa Bay for food safety. Specific along with a dozen or more volunteers rules detail how long food is safe beyond when food comes in,” Bullaro explained. the “best used by” date. Karen and helpers “This is more complicated than one would check every donation received to ensure imagine.” that each item given to the clients is safe.

“Feeding Tampa Bay gives us rules for “Karen and Kim are busy almost every accepting store donations, all of which day of the week with some task or anothmust be weighed. We get donations from er,” said Bullaro. “Kim schedules our drivCostco, Sam’s, Publix, Aldi’s, Sprouts, Big ers and manages pickups at different marLots and Dollar General. We either weigh kets, and Karen trains our new volunteers the food on our pallet or on a smaller box and orders our food from Feeding Tampa scale,” explained Karen.

Bay. And they both manage the distribu“But we can’t simply log the weight,” tion of foods on Saturday mornings.” said Kim. “We need to record donations Volunteers are the key to the success of by category. So, after we have the overall the pantry, and there is always a need for weight from a given vendor, we must di- more assistance. To learn more about Our vide the boxes into three categories: meat, Lady’s Pantry, visit www.ourladyspantry. bread or produce. We place these boxes on com.

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Plans are insured through UnitedHealthcare Insurance Company or one of its affiliated companies, a Medicare Advantage organization with a Medicare contract. Enrollment in the plan depends on the plan’s contract renewal with Medicare. AARP isn’t an insurer, doesn’t recommend products, and encourages you to evaluate your needs. AARP does not employ or endorse agents, producers or brokers. ©2020 United HealthCare Services, Inc. All rights reserved.

Page 22

Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

Volume 21, Issue 11

FREEDOM TO WALK FOUNDATION 59TH HILLSBOROUGH VETERANS CELEBRATES CHARITY BALL AND DAY TRIBUTE SET AT VETERANS JASMIN’S CONTINUED RECOVERY MEMORIAL PARK Staff Report

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In a salute to County; during all branches and World War II, eras of military most B-26 crew service, Hillsmembers operborough Counating in Europe ty Consumer were trained and Veterans at MacDill Air Services in conForce Base. By junction with the war’s end, The 59th annual Veterans Day Tribute will be at the Veterans the model, once Veterans Memorial Park on Saturday, November 11.

Council of Hillsnicknamed borough County will host the ‘widow maker,’ had earned 59th annual Veterans Day the best safety record among Tribute on Saturday, Novemall American bombers. ber 11 at 10 a.m. at Veterans The outdoor Veterans Day Memorial Park & Rear AdmiTribute is free and open to ral LeRoy Collins, Jr. Veterans the public. Improvements to Museum, located at 3602 U.S. 301 N. in the park’s amphitheater space include Tampa. The one-hour outdoor ceremo- the replacement of aluminum benches ny will commence at the amphitheater, with new stadium seating and recently showcasing the facility’s new stadi- added sunshades for comfort. um-style seating.

For the seventh consecutive year, the The Veterans Day Tribute program in- national Veterans Day National Commitcludes: tee of the U.S. Department of Veterans • Keynote speaker Col. Adam D. Bing- Affairs has named Hillsborough County’s ham, commander of the 6th Air Refuel- Veterans Memorial Park & Rear Admiing Wing at MacDill Air Force Base. ral LeRoy Collins, Jr. Veterans Museum • JROTC color guard and tributes from to its list of official Regional Veterans local high schools.

Day Sites, a recognition of excellence • Veterans Council awards. for patriotism and honor to our nation’s • Cornhole games, music and refresh- military. The park is free and open daily ments. from 7 a.m.-5 p.m., and the community • Resources for veterans and military is encouraged to tour its many monufamilies. ments. The Veterans Resource Center is In a special Veterans Day tribute to also located on the grounds of the park service members of the Greatest Gen- in building 3610 and offers services for eration, guests will see a static scaled veterans. replica of a U.S. Army Air Force B-26 For more information about the 59th Marauder bomber recently added at annual Veterans Day Tribute or Veterans Veterans Memorial Park. The model is Memorial Park, visit www.hcflgov.net or historically significant to Hillsborough call 813-635-8316.

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Charity Ball at Club Reand adults experiencing naissance in Sun City foot drop to walk safely Center, 13-year-old Jaswith their own devices min Cervantes-Garcia and live fulfilling lives. was walking and dancThe Bioness L300 ing with her Bioness Go and the WalkAide® L300 Go device, which are FDA-approved, but the Freedom to Walk most insurance compaFoundation gifted her in nies deny coverage for May at its Designer Bag the devices. With an Jukebox Bingo Fundraisout-of-pocket cost of er. $5,000-plus, the cost Jasmin was the only is prohibitive for many survivor of a deadly who see these devices crash in Leon, Mexico as an invaluable opporon June 23, 2022. She is tunity to improve their experiencing foot drop quality of life. due to her traumatic Daisy Vega, founder brain injury and still has of the Freedom to Walk a long road to recovery.

Foundation, said, “We Jasmin and her brothlook forward to enrichJasmin Cervantes-Garcia dancing er, Cruz Cervantes, still ing the lives of more with her brother, Cruz Cervantes. go to Johns Hopkins All Jasmin is able to dance and walk with children and adults Children’s Hospital in the Bioness L300 Go device thanks to with foot drop by makthe Freedom to Walk Foundation.

St. Petersburg for foling them aware of this low-ups and therapy three times a week. life-changing device.”

Cruz was inspiring and emotional as the To learn about the Freedom to Walk testimonial speaker at the event.

Foundation, visit https://freedomtowalkPresenting sponsor Christopher Ligori & foundation.org/ or contact Vega at 813Associates, area businesses and the com- 546-2329 or daisy.vega@freedomtowalkmunity made the event a success. foundation.org.

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November 2023

Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

Page 23

Page 24

Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

Volume 21, Issue 11

November 2023

Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

SECTION Page 25 TWO

SENIOR CITIZEN SCAMS — BEWARE, DON’T BECOME A VICTIM

By Kelly Wise Valdes Each year, millions of elderly Americans fall victim to financial fraud, which may include such things as tech support schemes, romance conspiracies, fake lottery winnings, sweepstakes scams and more. These scams are estimated to have caused a loss of $3 billion per year for the elderly population.

Criminals prey on the trust of the elderly and communicate with them directly online, over the phone and by mail. Seniors tend to be easy targets from scammers because they may understand less about technology than the younger generation.

According to the FBI website, “Seniors may be less inclined to report fraud because they don’t know how, or they may be too ashamed at having been scammed.

They might also be concerned that their relatives will lose confidence in their abilities to manage their own financial affairs.”

Below are two similar stories from local victims on recent fraud via tech support schemes. Only first names will be used to protect the victims and their families.

In August, 86-year-old Mary was on her iPad looking through emails when a message popped up on her screen saying that her computer was compromised and she needed to call the toll-free number displayed. When her daughter, Sue, called her that afternoon, Sue learned that her mom had gone to the bank to take an $1,300 advance on her credit card.

“I found out that my mom had called the number and was told that she needed to pay $2,000 to unlock the computer,” said Sue. “My mom told him that she didn’t have that kind of money and he told her to go to her bank and get a cash advance from her credit card.”

Mary drove herself to the bank and asked to take out a cash advance. The teller asked her many questions, but Mary

According to the FBI website, senior citizen scams are an estimated $3 billion yearly industry.

finally told the teller that her son was in jail and she needed the cash for bail. She asked for all $100 bills and brought the cash home with her to await further instructions.

“I happened to have called her right after she returned home and asked where she was because I tried to call her,” said Sue. “That’s when she told me about the pop-up message earlier in the day while she was on the internet. I knew it was a scam and frantically asked her where the money was.”

Sue told her mom to not answer the phone until she arrived at the apartment.

“I immediately took possession of the cash and called the police who said there was no crime since the money had not been given to the scammer.”

The police advised Mary and Sue to block all calls and to not answer any unfamiliar calls. Mary was frantic, saying that the U.S. government had called her multiple times and she was scared that the government was coming after her. Sue had to continually reassure her mother that it was a scam and that the U.S. government would not ask her to take a cash advance from a credit card to unlock her computer.

In September, 76-year-old Mark had a similar situation. Mark was contacted by a convincing scammer who claimed to be a ‘Microsoft employee’ and explained to him that hackers had gotten access to his computer and had accessed several illegal sites, prompting an FBI investigation.

Shortly after that call, the ‘FBI’ contacted Mark and told him he would be arrested if he didn’t pay a fine of $6,000.

According to Mark’s daughter, Jen, her dad was very shaken by the event.

“They catch elderly victims off guard, and they panic, so logic goes out the window. He withdrew cash and was driving around per their instructions to a bitcoin machine to send it via a QR code,” she ex-

plained.

Luckily, Mark had inadvertently turned off the cell access on his phone in his panicked state, and that is likely what kept him from losing his money. Mark thought the FBI had ‘locked’ his phone and was coming to arrest him, until Jen got there the next day after being unable to reach him and realized what happened.

Both Sue and Jen said that education is the key to ending scams like this.

“Tell your parents never to be embarrassed to ask for help if they think they are in trouble,” said Jen. “Tell them about scams. Tell them that if someone threatens them, don’t engage, just hang up and call a trusted friend or family member.”

Seniors should be taught how to block a number and to not give out their number to people online and to never click a link that may come through via text. Also, seniors should be shown the FBI website, where there is a section that addresses these types of scams.

Another solution is to add another name of a trusted family member to the bank account and credit card of a senior so someone else is able to be messaged of possible fraud regarding the accounts.

If you or someone you know may have been a victim of elder fraud, contact your local FBI field office or submit a tip online at www.fbi.gov.

Page 26

Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

Volume 21, Issue 11

FIRST CLUBHOUSE FOR RESIDENTS SCHOOL BOARD APPROVES TEMPORARY STADIUM PARTNERSHIP WITH NEW WITH MENTAL ILLNESS IS NOW WOMEN’S PRO SOCCER TEAM OPEN IN HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY Staff Report

By Kathy L. Collins

For residents of to help members find Hillsborough County employment through who need help with job training as well mental illness, addicas learning life skills. tion and trauma, they ACTS has been will now have anothserving the Florier option. The Agenda community since cy for Community 1978 by providing Treatment Services individualized behav(ACTS), assisted with ioral health services The public gathered for a ribbon-cutting significant funding of the new Agency for Community Treat- in substance abuse from Hillsborough ment Services Clubhouse, which provides and mental health.

County, has creatACTS provides and help to area residents 18 years or older ed the county’s first who need help with mental illness, addic- manages a broad tion or trauma. clubhouse to help array of behavioral people with mental illness reclaim their health services, including prevention, lives. acute care and stabilization, treatment The ACTS Clubhouse, located at 201 and support services in the areas of subE. Yukon St. in Tampa, is housed in a stance abuse, co-occurring substance 10,000-square-foot building that was abuse and mental illness, child proteccompletely gutted and renovated. The tion, delinquency, criminal justice, housrenovated building includes employ- ing, economic self-sufficiency, health ment and technology training areas and and wellness. a kitchen for members. The renovations ACTS Board President Patrick Mazza and furnishing of the building cost an es- said, “The journey of bringing a clubtimated $2.5 million. Hillsborough Coun- house to Hillsborough County has been a ty Affordable Housing Services provided long and difficult one. A clubhouse allows $1.1 million in Community Development those diagnosed with mental health disBlock Grants. orders to transition from consumers of A ribbon-cutting ceremony to cele- mental health services to active, healthy brate completion of the work was held members of society.” on October 12.

The programs and services funded by Any resident 18 years or older who has Hillsborough County focus on creating a mental illness is eligible to become a new affordable housing opportunities, member of the clubhouse. Members are training for residents to further their given support in acquiring and keeping careers and afford home ownership and affordable housing and accessing men- infrastructure improvements that ental health services, government disabili- hance the communities around them. ty benefits and other services they may For more information, please visit need. The membership model is designed www.actsfl.org or call 813-246-4899.

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The Hillsborough County School Board approved a landmark partnership in October with Tampa Bay’s new top-tier women’s pro soccer team. Under the agreement, Super League Tampa Bay (SLTB) will pay the full cost to upgrade and expand the waterfront stadium adjacent to Blake High School in downtown Tampa. Starting in August 2024, the stadium will serve as the temporary home for the team, hosting its games for its first several seasons until it moves to its permanent home.

The team expects to invest more than $4 million in stadium enhancements, with the exact amount determined by the final design. These will be permanent upgrades, at no cost to taxpayers. Discussions are also underway for the team to create new opportunities for Blake students in music, performing arts, TV production as well as math and engineering.

“This is a unique public-private partnership that creates fantastic opportunities for our students and our entire community,” said Van Ayres, interim superintendent for Hillsborough County Public Schools.

“On the field, our athletes will have access to excellent new high-end facilities.

Off the field, we’ll have new opportunities for hands-on learning for all the students at the school,” Ayres said. “Plus, our whole community will see the benefits of investing in our schools to create a stronger future for all of us.”

Transformational enhancements paid for by the team will include expanding the stadium’s capacity from 1,800 to around 5,000, installing new FIFA-approved turf, upgrading locker room facilities, beautification projects on the adjacent Blake campus and more.

“As a fan, this location unlocks an entire evening of fun with so many hubs of activity around Downtown Tampa. You can have dinner with friends, then hop on a water taxi or stroll to the Riverwalk and ‘march to the match’ to cheer for your team,” SLTB President Christina Unkel said.

Along with the potential for an energized atmosphere before, during and after the club’s Saturday night home games, SLTB also looked to the stadium along the Hillsborough River to have a positive impact on children through this partnership, have the field ready for kickoff in August 2024 and allow excellent access for fans.

The team will hold its daily training at its Ybor City Training Facility and collaborate with school administrators to minimize any impact on the neighboring school. A soccer-specific stadium in a yet-to-be-determined location is being planned to serve as the team’s permanent home.

Deposits for season tickets, $24 each for the club’s August 2024 debut, are available now. Visit https://shop.superleaguetampabay.com/products/season-ticket-deposit to sign up.

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Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

November 2023

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Page 27

Page 28

Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

HELP RIVERVIEW WOMAN’S

CLUB SUPPORT LOCAL STUDENTS THROUGH A NIGHT OF COMEDY

By Makenzie Atkins Noel

perks. At the $500 sponsorship level, guests will receive four tickets, reserved seating with table signage, drink tickets and sponsorship listed on print material and social media. At the $1,000 level, the sponsor rCurrent sponsors include Grease Monkey, Myers Law P.A. Riverview Woman’s Club members meets up all throughout and Southshore Insurance Professionals. the year not only to connect with each other but also to The funds raised from this event work toward support of local students. play an important role in the The Riverview Woman’s Club Riverview Woman’s Club’s is gearing up for a spectacular commitment to providing night that promises laughter, scholarships to local high community spirit and philanthroschoolers. Last year, the Rivpy. erview Woman’s Club raised Attend this organization’s an impressive $9,000 for stufirst Holiday Comedy Night on dents in the community. The Wednesday, December 6 at The Headliner Helen Riverview Woman’s Club supRegent in Riverview and enjoy Keaney, known for her ports local students through dinner and a show for just $65. time on Comedy CenVolunteer Opportunity Fairs, Doors will open at 6 p.m., with tral and Lifetime. scholarships and more. By the show starting at 7 p.m., and helping students, the club is able to ensure guests can expect an evening filled with the success of our future. side-splitting humor courtesy of talented co“As a local business owner, I like networkmedians Helen Keaney and Michael Murillo ing with like-minded women as well as the while enjoying a delicious meal and welcome most important factor, giving back to my drink, all included in the ticket price. Guests community,” said Melissa Canfield, owner of are also able to participate in a silent auction Grease Monkey, “and in my industry we find and purchase drinks from the cash bar. it very important to not only support stuKeaney is a hilarious comedian known for dents looking for a traditional college path her time on HSN, Comedy Central, Lifetime and her feature in the hit movie The Tooth but encourage those who are more interestFairy 2 in 2012. Local comedian Murillo has ed in something like a trade school as well.”

The Riverview Woman’s Club is known for opened for big-time stars like Amy Schumits regular activities, like monthly luncheons, er, Tig Notaro, Judy Gold and Greg Fitzsimcoffee club meetings, and networking mons. events, and it offers a diverse and inclusive The Riverview Woman’s Club is actively community for members. Visit www.riverseeking sponsorships to support the Holviewwomansclub.org or contact Canfield at iday Comedy Night. This event has two melissa@greasemonkey.com. large sponsorship levels, each with different

Volume 21, Issue 11

BRANDON BALLET CELEBRATES 30TH ANNIVERSARY WITH MEMORABLE PERFORMANCE OF THE NUTCRACKER

By Kathy L. Collins

The Brandon BalBrentwood J. let will celebrate Townend, artistic their 30th anniverdirector of Brandon sary with a special Ballet, is excited for performance of The this milestone event.

Nutcracker this DeTownend said, “It cember. This year’s is an honor and a performance will privilege to welcome feature a heartback the talented warming reunion artists who laid the as original cast foundation for our The Brandon Ballet will celebrate its 30th members from the anniversary with a memorable performance of Nutcracker tradition. company’s very first The Nutcracker on Saturday, December 2 and This 30th anniverNutcracker perfor- Sunday, December 3 at Riverview High School. sary production is mance. so much more than just a show. It is a celeThe Nutcracker will be held at Riverview bration of the remarkable effect of Brandon High School, located at 11311 Boyette Rd. Ballet’s artistic contributions to this commuin Riverview. Performances will be held on nity.”

Saturday, December 2 at 7:30 p.m. and on Townend added, “We look forward to Sunday, December 3 at 2:30 and 5:30 p.m. sharing this performance, and 30 more Tickets are between $25.65 and $36.65. years of success, with audiences old and Price for tickets increase by $5 if purchased new.” at the door. Homeschool students should The original cast members will unite email the Brandon Ballet at dance@bran- with a talented new generation of dancers donballet.org to get a special discount code. to create a memorable experience like no You can get tickets by visiting https://bran- other. This nostalgic reunion promises to donballet.org/. evoke cherished memories for the dancers The much-anticipated 30th anniversary themselves as well as for Brandon Ballet’s production of The Nutcracker promises to dedicated audiences as they embark on an be an enchanting journey down memory unforgettable journey through the Land of lane. Brandon Ballet has assembled an ex- Sweets. ceptional lineup featuring Melanie BrockBrandon Ballet, founded in 1993, is a nonmeier-Jordy and Lucille Hanson, two of the profit dance company based in Brandon. It dancers who helped bring the timeless hol- is known for its commitment to artistic exiday classic to life three decades ago. This cellence and its contribution to the local arts extraordinary reunion is a testament to the community. The company has a rich history enduring legacy of Brandon Ballet and the of producing classical ballet performances, profound impact The Nutcracker has had on including the annual holiday classic The Nutits performers and audiences alike. cracker.

The Nutcracker is the perfect way to ring For more information, please visit https:// in the holidays with friends and family. brandonballet.org/.

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Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

November 2023

LIGHTNING ANNOUNCE NEW PODCASTS AS PART OF THE ‘LIGHTNING AUDIO NETWORK’ The Tampa Bay Lightning today announced new podcasts set to kick off for the 2023-24 season as part of the Lightning Audio Network.

New shows include Into the Blue, hosted by reporters Gabby Shirley and Chris Krenn; Martini Mondays with Phil Esposito and Bobby ‘The Chief’ Taylor; the Daily Strike and more. They will join hit series The Block Party, presented by Jai Alai; Power Lunch; and other on-demand content as part of the network. All shows are available anywhere fans get their podcasts, including Apple Podcasts, Spotify as well as the new Tampa Bay Lightning app, at www.tampabaylightning.com and on The Strike 102.5 HD-2 on the radio dial.

Into the Blue posts every Tuesday morning. Gabby and Chris will take Bolts fans through the news and notes of the week and go through their own personal “pluses and minuses.” They will take fan questions via both social media and voicemail while also posing a question of the week that will be answered by the players themselves. Those who answer correctly will be eligible to win a special prize.

Martini Mondays with Phil Esposito and Bobby ‘The Chief’ Taylor will give fans the chance to hear from two Stanley Cup champions and Lightning elder statesmen. They will talk hockey, current

Page 29

AUTHOR STEVE ALTIER WILL SIGN NEW BOOK RELEASE AT BARNES & NOBLE IN DECEMBER

Staff Report

By Kathy L. Collins

events, pop culture and life from the perspective of two former hockey players.

The Daily Strike will post every morning throughout the season. Hosted by Steve Versnick, Bolts Nation can get caught up on all the latest Lightning news they need for the day while having their coffee or during their commute. Roster moves, injury updates and more will be covered, including “This Day in Lightning History.” Every day is hockey day on the Daily Strike.

Also part of the audio network is Brooks and Beckles, hosted by Tampa Bay sports legends Derrick Brooks and Ian Beckles.

The two will talk about all things sports and lifestyle in the Bay Area.

All these new shows join the Lightning’s hit podcast, The Block Party, presented by Jai Alai, which features hosts Greg Wolf and Braydon Coburn conducting fun, lighthearted interviews with Lightning players, personalities and others from around the hockey world. Power Lunch, airing 12 Noon-1 p.m. from Monday through Friday, streaming on Lightning Radio 24/7 and The Strike 102.5 HD-2, features Dave Mishkin and Greg Linnelli talking Bolts hockey and is available on demand as a podcast as well.

For more information on all the shows and the Lightning Audio Network, fans should visit www.tampabaylightning. com/lightningaudionetwork.

Local resident and my books is a dream author Steve Altier come true. I have has published a new been waiting for this book in his Gabby and for the last 12 years.”

Maddox Adventure Altier explained series called Over the how he came to Falls with Gabby and work with 4 HorseMaddox. It is an exmen Publications: “I citing time for Altier, love telling this story. as he recently signed Another author told a 10-book, five-year them about me. They deal with 4 Horsemen offered me a table at Publications. a show in Orlando.

Altier said of the On the show’s second new book, “Gabby day, I was invited out and Maddox visit the for dinner by the COO historic Niagara Falls and the senior editor. and make new friends I heard their sales traveling from Canapitch and loved evda. They learn about Steve Altier has written another great book erything they offered. the rich history of the Obviously, I was set in the Gabby and Maddox Adventures series called Over the Falls with Gabby area and the people up, and I am so glad who have tried to con- and Maddox. You can meet the author on I was.” quer the mighty falls. Saturday, December 2 at the new Barnes For new writers, and Noble in Regency Square from 12 Seeking adventure Altier offered the folNoon-2 p.m. themselves, the kids lowing advice, “The brave the Cave of Winds and explore the minute you put pen to paper, you are a Hurricane Deck at the base of the Ameri- writer. So, how do you get your work can Falls. They take a ride on the Maid of published? That is the trick, and it can the Mist boat tour to the bottom of the be difficult. Beware, there are many vanHorseshoe Falls. Of course, a trip to Ni- ity presses. They want you to pay them agara would not be complete without an money to publish your work. So, do your exciting helicopter ride.” homework to find the best way to get Altier said, “A recent trip to Niaga- your work published.” ra Falls inspired this story. My daughter Altier will be at the new Barnes & Nowanted to see this place, so we decided to ble in Regency Square, located at 2428 vacation in the northeast. I would love to W. Brandon Blvd. in Brandon, on Saturgo back for a more extended stay.” day, December 2 from 12 Noon until 2 Of the new publisher, Altier said, “It has p.m. You can also visit www.stevealtier. taken a lot of hard work to get here. Hav- com for more information or to sign up ing a publisher wanting to help me publish for Altier’s newsletter.

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Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

Volume 21, Issue 11

HCPS OFFERS TRANSFORMATION NETWORK KC CHIC DESIGNS COMBINES SLEEK FOR UNDERPERFORMING SCHOOLS DESIGNS WITH PASSION FOR COMMUNITY

By Kathy L. Collins

By Madeline Gardner

The Hilland adminsborough istrators has C o u n t y continued School Disto raise the trict offers bar for our the Hillshighest-need b o r o u g h Hillsborough County Public Schools started the Transforma- schools. We County Pub- tion Network in 2020 to help the district’s most vulnerable and continue to chronically underperforming schools. lic Schools do whatever (HCPS) Transformation Network. This is necessary to ensure a world-class eduis a collection of about 45 schools that cation for every child in our community.” receive focused resources and support McRae added, “We are incredibly based on their performance data. The proud of our teachers, administrators, Transformation Network is focused on frontline staff and Transformation team closing opportunity gaps and levelling for their tireless efforts to accelerate the playing field for students by creating student achievement dramatically. Over equitable systems of support resulting in the last two years, the Transformation rapid, sustainable improvement for stu- Network of Hillsborough County Public dent outcomes.

Schools (HCPS) has increased school In Eastern Hillsborough County, Bur- grades at 38 of 45 schools. The network nett Middle School, Dover Elementary has reduced D and F schools in HillsborSchool, Mango Elementary School and ough County by 82 percent and seen McLane Middle School are a part of the six schools grow by at least two letter Transformation Network. In Southern grades in two years. We are inspired by Hillsborough County, the schools include what these improvements mean to enGibsonton Elementary School, Ippolito sure educational equity for our commuElementary School and Shields Middle nity’s children. And make no mistake, the School. gains we have achieved in our most vulThe Transformation Network was nerable schools over the last two years launched in 2020 as a part of Hillsbor- are unprecedented and rival the success ough County’s Comprehensive School of any school turnaround effort in state Turnaround Initiative. This was focused history.” on serving the academic, cultural and soThe vision for the Transformation Netcial needs of students and staff at some work is to ensure that every child has unof the district’s most vulnerable and wavering access to five strategic focus chronically underperforming school. areas, including rigorous, high-quality inShaylia McRae, deputy superintendent struction; expert, collaborative teachers; of academics and transformation for engaging families and communities; safe Hillsborough County Public Schools, said, and supportive environments; and trans“Over the last few years of the Transfor- formation and effective leaders. mation Network’s existence, our team For more information, please visit of dedicated teachers, staff, coaches www.hillsboroughschools.org.

Curating a classic the company’s excluyet timeless jewelry sive manufacturer. design is no challenge Additionally, all piecfor Klarisa Crespo, es are designed to CEO of KC Chic Debe water-resistant, signs. From assemtarnish-proof and bling a close-knit free from nickel, lead team to providing cusand brass to improve tomers with unique product quality and styles and meaningful longevity. connections, KC Chic “Klarisa definitely Designs attributes its stays on top of all the success to a constant trends, and she has engagement with the a very keen eye for KC Chic Designs is a family effort, as surrounding commu- Klarisa and Antonio Crespo run the busi- fashion, so having that ness with help from their two sons. nity and its own humis just like a bonus for ble beginnings. curating the perfect jewelry pieces,” said While the company was officially Abbie DeWeese, KC Chic Designs chief PR founded in 2016, Crespo first entertained officer. the idea of designing pieces upon receivMost popular now are the company’s ing a birthday party invite. Unable to find Moissanite GRA-certified and Personaljewelry that matched the style she had ized Collections. Moissanite offers cusin mind, Crespo embarked on a trip to tomers designs that test like and imitate Michael’s to craft her own piece for the the look of a diamond for greater affordevent. Her jewelry was received as an in- ability. The Personalized Collection allows stant success at the party, garnering in- customers to play a greater role in the terest from friends and the community. design process.

Crespo quickly began operating out of Having recently packed and shipped its her home with help from her husband, 100,000th order, Crespo remains thankAntonio, and family to meet the grow- ful for how the community has helped KC ing product demand. While Crespo had Chic Designs grow. been teaching at a center for students “We make really meaningful relationwith exceptionalities at the time, she of- ships with our customers, so our return ficially took a leave of absence in 2019 so rate is pretty high,” said Crespo. “Our custhat both she and Antonio could dedicate tomers want to support us and do supthemselves to this project full time. port us, and I think that’s what made the Developing a unique product line first biggest difference.” begins after a thorough analysis of curFor more information on KC Chic Derent trends as well as sifting through ar- signs, please visit www.kcchicdesigns. chives to derive inspiration. As the com- com or call 813-924-7680. Open Monday pany is now comprised of a team of 12, through Friday from 9 a.m.-5 p.m., KC meetings are hosted to share sketches Chic Designs is located at 4343 Lynx Paw before selected drawings are sent off to Trail in Valrico.

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November 2023

Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

Page 31

THE 33RD ANNUAL RUSKIN SEAFOOD FESTIVAL IS BACK

MENTORS NEEDED FOR TAKE STOCK IN CHILDREN RECIPIENTS

By Libby Hopkins

By Ashley Abene

The Ruskin complace on Saturday munity is thrilled and Sunday, Decemto have its annual ber 2-3 at E.G. SimRuskin Seafood Festimons Park. It’s a val back. “The Ruskin great two-day, famSeafood Festival ily-friendly event. started in 1987,” said “This year, we have Melanie Davis, execmade our children’s utive director of the play area more SouthShore Chamber hands-on,” Davis of Commerce. “The said. “In years past, festival is in its 33rd we had carnival-style year and we havrides that cost famien’t held the festival lies extra money, so since COVID, so we this year we have are thrilled to have it more interactive fun back.” activities for The Ruskin the children.”

Seafood Festival If you ask is the largest Davis what her event in Southfavorite part of ern Hillsborough the Ruskin SeaCounty.

“This food Festival is, year, we wantshe will tell you ed to focus the it’s the people The 33rd annual Ruskin Seafood Festival takes place festival more lowho attend the on Saturday and Sunday, December 2-3 at cally,” Davis said. festival.

“It’s E.G. Simmons Park in Ruskin.

“In years past, great to see we had some big-name entertainers, but families having a great time and familiar this year we have local musicians, high faces from our community,” Davis said. “I school bands and a local barbershop love seeing guests who attended the fesquartet.” tival with their parents when they were Davis and her team are thrilled that little, and now they have grown up and so many local vendors have joined this are coming to the festival with their chilyear’s festival. “We are almost full for dren. The Ruskin Seafood Festival is truly vendors, but there is still room for a few a local community event.” more,” Davis said. “With the festival takIf you would like to learn more about ing place at the beginning of December, the Ruskin Seafood Festival, you can it’s the perfect time for our guests to get visit its website at www.ruskinseafooda jump on their Christmas shopping. We fest.org. E.G. Simmons Park is located at have a large variety of craft vendors in 2401 19th Ave. NW in Ruskin. The festiaddition to our food vendors.” val’s hours of operation are Saturday, 10 The Ruskin Seafood Festival takes a.m.-5 p.m., and Sunday, 11 a.m.-5 p.m.

Since its formaSince migrant stution in 1995, the dents often travel nonprofit organithroughout the zation Take Stock year, many will in Children (TSIC) be utilizing this has been helping virtual option to children excel acaparticipate in the demically throughprogram. out high school and “Mentorship can beyond. With the be a game changer Take Stock in Children students on a college motto of “Change for most of these tour. a child’s life today, students.

With and break the 325 students curcycle of poverty rently enrolled in through educathe TSIC program tion,” TSIC menfrom middle and tors children from low socioeconomic high school, we need mentors,” stated backgrounds to academic excellence. Anna Corman, interim CEO of the HillsStudies have shown that when a child borough Education Foundation. has a mentor throughout their educaCurrently, in the program, there are 16 tion, they have a better outlook at school students who are without a volunteer and are more likely to enroll in college or mentor. a trade school. TSIC aims to help chilCorman mentioned, “Many people are dren through mentorship to achieve suc- worried that they can’t be a mentor, but cess in a postsecondary education and it’s all about sharing experiences and ultimately in a future career. serving as a role model to students.”

Take Stock in Children is run through Volunteers who wish to mentor will the Hillsborough Education Foundation have to complete training, pass a crimi(HEF) and is one of the Tampa Bay area’s nal background check, be 18 years of age largest mentoring programs. Students or older and have a high school diploma. enrolled in this program have access Volunteers also must be available to to a volunteer mentor throughout their meet with a student 30 minutes a week education and a college success coach. and make a commitment to mentor for Every student in TSIC also has an oppor- a year. tunity to earn a Florida Prepaid ScholTo apply to be a mentor, visit https:// arship if program requirements are met. educationfoundation.com/programs/ Recently, 30 migrant students were mentor-a-student/ or call 813-574-0260. accepted into the TSIC program in Hill- HEF appreciates donations as well. Since sborough County. Mentors are encour- 93 cents of every dollar donated goes aged to meet in person, but TSIC also back into its programs, financial support has a monitored application where stu- is vital to provide Florida Prepaid Scholdents and mentors can meet virtually. arships for TSIC recipients.

Page 32

Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

Volume 21, Issue 11

IMPACT HOSTS KATE SPADE PURSE BINGO TO SUPPORT CHILDREN AND PARENTS

By Makenzie Atkins Noel Grab your girls and tion items and raffle join us in Riverview tickets will directly for a night of friends benefit the Impact and fun while also Program. This nonsupporting a great profit youth develcause. opment program has Join the Impact been dedicated to Program Inc. on educating, equipping Thursday, November Not only do you have a chance to support and empowering stu30 at The Regent in the Impact Program, but guests will also dents on how to make Riverview from 6-9 positive life choices have a chance to win great prizes. p.m. for an exciting and avoid high-risk evening of Designer behaviors for over 23 Purse Bingo. Not only years. With classroom do you have a chance education, the Impact to win a Kate Spade deProgram reaches out to signer purse and many teens, parents, teachers other great prizes, but and youth leaders, preyou can also support a senting the importance noble cause. of healthy lifestyles and Tickets are $50 and relationships. include 10 rounds of The funds raised at bingo and a variety of Designer Purse Bingo food and beverages will support Impact’s (this is an alcohol-free ongoing programs that This year, all of the designer purses event). If you’re feeling will be Kate Spade, and guests have at serve students and parlucky, you will also be ents in Hillsborough least 10 chances to win. able to purchase additional game packs, County. These resources will enable Imwhich are sold in sets of three. Doors open pact to continue classroom and parent at 6 p.m. and bingo kicks off at 7 p.m. This presentations, encouraging positive, holiday night of fun will also include raf- healthy lifestyle choices. fles and a silent auction.

Impact’s Designer Purse Bingo offers a “Impact has been serving the communi- delightful evening of fun, but most importy for the past 23 years and is supported tantly it allows the opportunity to make by businesses, individuals, civic and other a meaningful contribution to the Impact organizations,” said Angie Kagey, Impact Program’s mission of fostering healthier executive director. “The overwhelming lifestyles and relationships among youth. support of the community allows our The Regent is located at 6347 Watson staff and volunteers to continue to make Rd. in Riverview, near Winthrop. For more an ‘Impact’ in the lives of students and information, please contact Kagey at akparents.” agey@whatisimpact.com or visit www.

All proceeds from ticket sales, auc- whatisimpact.com.

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November 2023

Page 33

TAMPA METRO YMCA OFFERS A SAFE PLACE FOR LOCAL VETERANS

By Libby Hopkins

The Fire Watch including Hillsis Florida’s fight borough. “They to end veteran train civilians to suicide. In 2021, recognize the The Fire Watch signs of a veteran created the Vetin crisis and reeran Safe Place sources available (VSP) program to veterans,” Kita for businesses said. “Currently, and organizathere are 5,133 tions to show Recently, the Tampa Metro YMCA part- civilians trained its support and as Watch Standnered with James A. Haley Veterans’ help eliminate Hospital and Tampa General Hospital’s ers.”

Home Base program to offer a Veteran Safe Place veteran suicide Companies can for local veterans who suffer with mental issues. throughout Floribecome a Veterda. The VSP program is designed specif- an Safe Place by training their employically for organizations to educate, train ees as Watch Standers. To date, Tampa and empower their employees to be able Y has 65 Watch Standers, a number that to identify and support a veteran in cri- is growing as more staff participate. sis.

“The more opportunities our community Recently, the Tampa Metro YMCA can provide to steer a veteran off a path partnered with James A. Haley Veterans’ toward suicide, the lower we can drive Hospital and Tampa General Hospital’s the rate of veteran suicide in our com(TGH) Home Base program to offer a VSP munity,” Kita said. “Their objective is to for local veterans. “The Tampa YMCA is reduce veteran suicides in our targeted committed to the health of our commu- geographic areas by 25 percent over the nity, including mental health,” said Dawn next three years when compared against Kita, Tampa Metro Area YMCA’s opera- 2019 baseline data.” tions director of Community Health. “We “We are building a lifesaving network chose this program particularly because of community members and organizaMacDill Air Force Base is nearby, in- tions trained to identify the warning creasing the number of veterans in our signs of veterans in crisis and to direct area, as well as because we have veter- those veterans to the help they need,” an partnerships with the James A. Haley Kita said.

VA and TGH’s Home Base program, ofIf you’d like to learn more about the fering memberships to veterans through The Fire Watch program, you can visit these programs. In order to best serve its website at www.thefirewatch.org. our veterans, we want to give our staff The Tampa Metro YMCA is located at the tools to help veterans or anyone who 110 E. Oak Ave. in Tampa, with branchmay be in a mental health crisis.” es throughout Hillsborough County. For The Fire Watch Veteran Safe Place more information about its Veteran Safe program began in North Florida and has Place, you can contact the YMCA at 813recently expanded to several counties, 224-9622.

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER Thursday, November 16 17 4:00 10:00PM PM 4:00PM PM-–10:00 Bands theChoir Big Tent PM) ChorusUnder and Show Night(6:30 (6:15PM) FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 18 Friday, November 17 4:00 PM – MIDNIGHT 4:00 PM - Midnight Soul Circus Cowboys (8:00 PM) Classix (8:00 PM) SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 19 Saturday, November 18 11:00 AM – MIDNIGHT 11:00 AM - Midnight Classix (8:00 PM) Live Music (8:00 PM)

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Page 34

Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

TRY SOME TRULY LEMONICIOUS DRINKS

By Libby Hopkins Lemonicious Drink you’re giving them naCo. is locally owned ture’s best.” and operated by The Knights reCurtis and Nadine cently switched to Knight. “I’m the a bottle/co-packer Chief Operations Ofto improve Lemonificer of Lemonicious cious’ production.

Drink Co. I co-found“This move will allow ed this venture with us to increase our my wife, Nadine, Lemonicious is locally owned and operat- production capacity, the CEO,” Curtis said. ed by Curtis and Nadine Knight. They are ensuring that more “We’re both passion- both passionate about creating all-natural people can enjoy Lelemonades and teas that taste fantastic ate about creating monicious beveragall-natural lemonades and reflect its commitment to using fresh, es,” Curtis said. “We locally sourced ingredients. and teas that taste are currently utilizing fantastic and reflect our commitment to their high-pressure pasteurization (HPP) using fresh, locally sourced ingredients.” technology, which helps extend our prodThe couple started Lemonicious out of uct’s shelf life to 90 days while maintainthe need to have better drink options for ing freshness in each bottle. This enables their children. “As parents, every choice us to reach a wider audience and brings us we make for our children comes from a closer to our vision of offering high-quality, place of love and care,” Curtis said. “Walk- all-natural beverages on a broader scale.” ing through the beverage aisles of grocery The couple likes giving back to their stores, we found most of the beverage op- community as well. Lemonicious recently tions contained high-fructose corn syrup partnered with the local nonprofit, Seeds and a cocktail of artificial flavors, preser- of Hope. “On October 12 of this year, we vatives and chemicals that sounded more had the privilege of partnering with Seeds like a science experiment than something of Hope at the food bank at the Presbyteyou would actually drink. We wanted rian Church of Bloomingdale,” Curtis said. something simple and natural, a drink “We wanted to support this local nonmade from real ingredients that we could profit to give back to our community. The give to our children without a second event allowed us to provide our beverages thought. Out of this desire, Lemonicious to the volunteers and participants while was born.” contributing to the local cause. Local to Lemonicious isn’t just a beverage. It’s the FishHawk area, it’s paramount for us the couple’s promise to families every- be active especially in our own commuwhere. “An all-natural, delectably refresh- nity, and partnering with local nonprofits ing alternative made from real, fresh fruit,” aligns with our core values and mission.”

Curtis said. “A drink that not only pleases If you’d like to learn more about Lemthe taste buds but also upholds the trust onicious or want to see where you can find you place in us as caregivers. A drink you their delicious products, you can visit their can enjoy with your entire family, knowing website at https://lemonicious.net/.

Volume 21, Issue 11

COUNTDOWN TO THE NINTH ANNUAL TAMPA YMCA TURKEY GOBBLE PRESENTED BY ADVENTHEALTH IS ON Staff Report The Tampa Metropart is, on a day that politan Area YMCA we are giving thanks, invites you to the we are also giving to ninth annual Tampa a compelling cause: YMCA Turkey Gobble helping cancer suron Thursday, Novemvivors regain their ber 23 at 7 a.m. in strength. This race is downtown Tampa at our only funding for the AMALIE Arena. the LIVESTRONG® One of the Tampa YMat the YMCA cancer CA’s signature events, survivor program the 1-mile and 5K race where cancer surviis a fundraiser for vors meet in small the LIVESTRONG® at groups together for the YMCA program, workouts led by cerwhich helps cancer tified trainers. They patients and survivors gain physical strength Don’t miss the chance to wobble before across Tampa. With while getting the you gobble at the ninth annual Tampa over 1,000 particiemotional support of YMCA Turkey Gobble presented by AdventHealth. pants and 80 teams a group,” said Kita. already registered, grab a spot soon beAlso on the program: the fall LIVESfore they are gone. Last year’s sold-out TRONG® graduation will be held on the event saw over 3,500 participants. An plaza at AMALIE Arena at 6:40 a.m., folestimated 4,500 registrants are expected lowed by the 5K run/walk at 7 a.m. and this year. the 1-mile fun run at 7:10 a.m.

New this year on the agenda are inBring the whole family and come in cosdividual and team fundraising opportu- tume to have more fun. You can register nities, a costume contest and top three for the costume contest at packet pickup. male/female awards in each age group.

Even if you can’t come on Thanksgiving, “Attend an amazing event to start or you can still support the race and cancer continue a Thanksgiving Day tradition. survivors by volunteering at packet pickIt’s a beautiful way to start your day from up or by donating.

AMALIE Arena, over the Platt Street The team at the Tampa YMCA is lookBridge and on Bayshore Boulevard at sun- ing forward to hosting the community for rise,” encouraged Dawn Kita, Tampa Y’s this incredible cause-driven event. operations director of Community Health, AMALIE Arena is located at 401 Chanwho is overseeing the race. nelside Dr. in Tampa. Visit www.tam“You get to wobble before you gobble. paymca.org/events/turkey-gobble for You will get home early enough to cook sponsorship, volunteer and registration the turkey after the race. And the best information.

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November 2023

Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

Page 35

LITHIA AUTHOR KALIYM ISLAM NEW HORIZONS GROUP HOME HOSTS PUBLISHES BOOK ON LEADERSHIP 28TH ANNUAL BARBECUE AND SILENT AUCTION FUNDRAISER AND PICKLEBALL

By Libby Hopkins

By Jane Owen

Sports has a Board Room, was way of teaching published in Auunexpected lesgust. On Septemsons. Dr. Kaliym ber 23, Islam held Islam, a Lithia a book signing resident and loat Chill Cawfee cal author, found in Valrico. Islam a new perspecspoke and shared tive on leadership lessons he learned when he took up on the pickleball the sport of Pickcourt. In his book, leball a couple he parallels the years ago. lessons with reJust a few al-life stories from weeks after learnhis friends in the ing to play the FishHawk pickleDr. Kaliym Islam at his Pickleball Leadership game, Islam had ball club, many of book signing at Chill Cawfee. what he calls a which were able to “lightbulb moment” after a conversation attend his signing. with another player.

With all the practical life skills Islam “We were playing a game of mixed has gained from the sport, surprisingly doubles. My friend, Amber, was just he will tell you that the best part of how hitting the ball right in my chest. I said, pickleball transformed his life is with re‘Amber, I thought we were friends.’ She lationships. said, ‘Well, we are friends. But if you “The thing that I enjoy most about don’t want the ball hit at you like that, pickleball is the people that I have met. don’t put it where you put it.’ That was They have been strangers who have bea lightbulb moment for me. ‘Wait a min- come friends. They’ve become like famiute, I control this.’ I didn’t start thinking ly,” Islam said. of it from the perspective of pickleball. I Individuals who want to improve restarted thinking about it from the per- lationships and professionals wanting to spective of leaders. For leaders, a lot of hone their business skills will both find times things happen largely because of useful tools in the book Pickleball Leadwhat leaders do or don’t do,” Islam said. ership.

Islam realized the fast pace of pickIslam is an accomplished author and leball and the strategies in the game leadership development professional. mirror the everyday challenges leaders His five books can be found on Amaencounter. zon. To learn more about Kaliym and his His book about this, Pickleball Lead- books, visit https://thetrainingproacadership: Lessons from the Court to the emy.com/.

In 1992, several Sponsorships are parents, teachers and still being accepted for friends of members of the upcoming barbethe Special Ministries cue. “We are still lookDepartment at First ing for sponsors, with Baptist Church of Bransix levels going from don identified a need $250 to $10,000,” for long-term living fa- On Saturday, November 18, it will be host- Watkins said. “We cilities for developmen- ing its 28th annual Barbecue and Silent would appreciate any tally disabled men and Auction Fundraiser. The barbecue will be amount that someone women. A committee held at Central Baptist Church and Chris- would like to donate. tian School, located at 402 E. Windhorst was formed to investiEach sponsorship will Rd. in Brandon, from 11:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. gate the requirements be acknowledged to undertake this task. Out of this group, at the event on a list at the barbecue and New Horizons Group Homes Inc. was born. also on the bid sheets, as well as in the next The mission of New Horizons Group Homes newsletter.”

Inc. is to provide a family-oriented Christian Watkins and the staff at New Horizons group home living environment supporting Group Home hope that the community will adults with disabilities to achieve their high- come out and show their support for this est potential for independence through a year’s barbecue. “I love seeing the residents variety of services emphasizing faith, family, interact with everyone at the event,” Watchoice, independence, dignity and respect. kins said. “Our residents are capable of so On Saturday, November 18, it will be much and have a great sense of indepenhosting its 28th annual Barbecue and Silent dence while having 24/7 supervision. Some Auction Fundraiser. The barbecue will be of them work out in the community, while held at Central Baptist Church and Christian others go to day programs. They are proSchool, located at 402 E. Windhorst Rd. in ductive members of our community and are Brandon, from 11:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. Tickets encouraged to reach their full potential and to the barbecue cost $20 and can be pur- become all that God created them to be. chased at the New Horizons Group Home’s Because we are a faith-based nonprofit, we office. “This is our major fundraiser of the always appreciate any help that we receive year, and we always look forward to getting from the community. I’d especially like to together with friends that we don’t see of- thank all of the businesses who donate items ten enough,” said Brenda Watkins of New for our silent auction. We are blessed to live Horizons Group Home. “The event will be in such a supportive community.” catered by BubbaQue’s. Entertainment will If you would like to learn more about New be provided by Dennis Lee and his band and Horizons Group Home or be a part of its upStephanie Ann playing her amazing strad- coming fundraiser, you can visit its website a-fiddle. We have been hoping to realize at at www.newhorizonshomes.org or call 813least $20,000 to be used for much-needed 571-2690. New Horizons Group Home is lorepairs and upgrades.” cated at 109 E. Clay Ave. in Brandon.

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Page 36

Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

Volume 21, Issue 11

THE STRAZ CENTER FOR THE

PERFORMING ARTS PRESENTS THE CHOIR OF MAN

By Kathy L. Collins

The Choir of Man, hair-raising harmonow showing in the nies, foot-stomping Jaeb Theater at sing-alongs, worldthe Straz Center class tap dancing for the Performing and poetic meditaArts in Tampa, is a tions on the power wildly entertaining of community in experience that is this riotously ennot typical of what joyable homage you get when you to that gathering go to the theater. place we all love The Choir of Man so much: your local is now showing on pub. different days and The Choir of Man times through Sunis a one-of-a-kind day, December 10. musical filled with The Jaeb Theater 90 minutes of upwill be transformed lifting, joyous fun. into an authentic The Choir of Man is a different kind of theatrical Set in a typical Irish Pub. The aupub, nine men have experience that will be in Tampa at the Straz Center for the Performing Arts now through thentic part comes a foot stomping from the fact that Sunday, December 10. You will not want to miss good time as they there is a real your chance to be a part of this exciting, immer- jam through popusive and creative musical. working bar onlar songs by artists stage complete with free beer courtesy such as Katie Perry, Sia and Guns N’ Rosof Coppertail Brewing Co. So, if you go, es, just to name a few. be ready to drink in the action and have Tickets for The Choir of Man start at fun. $74.75 and may be purchased online at Known across the globe as the ultimate www.strazcenter.org, in person at the feel-good show, The Choir of Man offers Straz Center for the Performing Arts up 90 minutes of indisputable joy. What Ticket Sales Office or by calling 813-229is it? It is a party. It is a concert. It is the STAR (7827). Tickets are on sale now. best pub lock-in you have ever been to. Handling fees will apply.

The show features an array of songs, inThe Straz Center for the Performing cluding pop, classic rock, folk, Broadway, Arts is located at 1010 N. Macinnes Place pub tunes and more. The Choir of Man in downtown Tampa. has something for everyone.

For more information about The Choir of Man has a multitalented the Straz Center for the Performing Arts cast of nine talented blokes from a pub and its upcoming events, visit www. called The Jungle. The show combines strazcenter.org.

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November 2023

Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

Page 37

‘PHOENIX RISING’ SET TO SOAR ABOVE 52ND ANNUAL NOVEMBERFEST AT THE SERENGETI PLAIN AT BUSCH NATIVITY CATHOLIC WILL FEATURE GARDENS TAMPA BAY IN SPRING 2024 RIDES, FOOD, GAMES AND TRIVIA

By Lily Belcher

Staff Report

Expect a blaze of dinary journey excitement in Tamfor our seasoned pa Bay this coming coaster enthusiSpring, as Busch asts and younger Gardens brings to thrill-seekers alike,” life a legend with said Stewart Clark, its newest roller president of Buscoaster ‘Phoenix ch Gardens Tampa Rising,’ the park’s Set to open in 2024, Phoenix Rising will be- Bay. “Joining a comtenth coaster, and come the largest family-friendly addition to prehensive coaster the largest fami- the Pantopia area of the park and will be the collection, this new first coaster to feature onboard audio. ly-friendly addition attraction reinforcto the Pantopia area of the park. es our commitment to provide guests With a minimum height requirement with new, immersive and one-of-a-kind of only 42 inches, this exhilarating new experiences.” experience will have family members Annual pass members get early ride soaring above the Serengeti Plain before access on Phoenix Rising prior to its going on an exploratory journey over the public debut in spring 2024. In addition Pantopia region with its vibrant colors, to exclusive perks and monthly rewards, thrilling attractions and more. Riders pass members can enjoy a vibrant array will feel the rush of the wind and thrill of seasonal events throughout the year of the flight in this suspended roller for as low as $14 per month. coaster that enables ride cars and riders Busch Gardens® Tampa Bay is the ulto swing side to side as the train races timate family adventure, offering 300 along the track high above the Serenge- acres of fascinating attractions based ti Plain. Phoenix Rising will be the first on exotic explorations around the world. coaster to feature onboard audio, en- Busch Gardens is a unique blend of thrillhancing the ride experience with a one- ing rides, an AZA-accredited zoo with of-a-kind soundtrack integrated into an thousands of animals representing more exhilarating array of twists, turns and than 200 species and exciting seasonal surprises for families riding together. events all year providing unrivaled expeManufactured by Bolliger & Mabill- riences for guests of every age. ard, Phoenix Rising is a family-friendly Guests can learn more about all the suspended roller coaster, traveling at events, future announcements and the speeds up to 44 miles per hour through- unbeatable benefits of being an annual out the 1,831-feet journey. With a min- pass member by visiting https://busimum height requirement of 42 inches, chgardenstampa.com/. To be the first Phoenix Rising will be the perfect at- to know about construction updates, traction for thrill-seeking families to guests can follow Busch Gardens Tampa embark on and have fun together.

Bay on Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), “Phoenix Rising will be an extraor- Instagram and TikTok.

Nativity Catholic Church will host its 52nd annual Novemberfest from Thursday through Sunday, November 16 through 19, featuring a selection of food, rides and games for families.

“It’s family. It’s food. It’s fun rides.

It’s seeing people from the community, people you went to high school with, people you go to church with, people you work with.

It’s Brandon,” said Abby Watts, entertainment co-chair. “On one hand, there’s nothing new. But people are always changing, and new people are coming in, and that’s kind of the beauty of it.”

This year’s entertainment lineup will feature Nativity alums, community performances and professional-level trivia for the first time under the big tent.

Aside from a field filled with rides and games for carnival lovers, the big tent will feature live music every night, broadcast sports and craft beers.

Jesuit High School student and Nativity graduate Carlos Lamoutte and his band will perform Sunday night to close out the weekend of entertainment.

Novemberfest is made possible each year with the help of a dedicated and hardworking volunteer staff. It takes around 9,000 volunteer hours to organize and manage Novemberfest every year.

“It’s a big undertaking, but I think

everybody pulls together because it’s important to the school, it’s important to the church and I think it’s important for any community,” Watts said.

Tickets are available online, but Watts said, “The best way to purchase tickets is through one of the students at the school because they have class competitions, and they can earn wristbands for themselves and things like that. It’s just a great way to support the kids as well as support the event.” Single-day ride armbands will cost $19 if purchased in advance or $25 at the event. Guests can purchase $10 worth of food tickets for just $9 ahead of the event. Armband and ticket presales can be purchased now through Sunday, November 12.

“To me, this is how you give back. This is how you are part of the greater community. … For 52 years, it’s been this hometown event. I think … Brandon’s such a special community, and Novemberfest is just a tiny snapshot of what makes Brandon so great,” Watts said.

Novemberfest will be hosted at 705 E Brandon Blvd., on the corner of Bryan Road and U.S. Highway 60, on the Nativity Catholic School and Church campus. www.nativitycatholicchurch.org/novemberfest or email nfestentertainment@ gmail.com.

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Page 38

Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

ROTARY SAVES LIVES AND TRANSFORMS COMMUNITIES

Staff Report

FishHawk-Riverview early 2024.

Rotarians save lives “I was there to and transform commuwitness the transnities. They’ve been doformation,” Rotarian ing so in Honduras for Ed Odom explained, more than seven years. “when, in three days, In 2016, members we built a home for a of the Rotary Club of family of five that had FishHawk-Riverview FishHawk-Riverview Rotarians celebrate been living under a with a Honduran family after finishing sought partners to suptarp held up by sticks construction of a new home in La Paz, port clean water initiaand branches. When Honduras. tives. They raised monwe handed keys to the ey and worked with El mother, with tears in Ayudante Mission in her eyes, she stated, Comayagua, Honduras ‘Now when it rains, my to provide over 100 clothes won’t get wet. biosand water filters to And when the wind some of the most imblows, I won’t lose my poverished families in things.’ By the time she Central America. Each was through, we all FishHawk-Riverview Rotarians mix concrete filter requires minihad tears in our eyes.” with members of a family in Honduras. mal maintenance and With the help of orprovides a family of 10 or more with clean ganizations like Rotary, Honduras Compasdrinking water for up to 10 years. With the sion Partners assists families work toward success of this program, FishHawk-River- self-sufficiency. view Rotarians returned two years later “One of the most rewarding moments,” with a $38,000 Global Grant to provide 115 Odom continued, “was last year, when the engineered latrines (bathrooms) for families owner of the first home we built [a year in the same communities. Latrines remove earlier] met us in front of the home we were waste from groundwater, improve overall about to build. She was well dressed and on health and hygiene and provide dignity to her way home from work. She thanked us those in need. for helping her family and expressed her In recent years, the FishHawk-River- happiness that her friend was about to view Rotary Club has worked closely with receive the same safety and security that Honduras Compassion Partners, a not-for- comes with homeownership.” profit in La Paz, Honduras that provides a Mission trips are being planned for the variety of services to needy families. Proj- spring of 2024. Visit www.fishhawkriverects include water filters, latrines, educa- viewrotary.org or www.hondurascompastion, housing and more. The club has built sion.org, or contact Odom at fishhawkrivertwo small homes in La Paz and has recent- viewrotary@gmail.com. Follow the Rotary ly raised money for two more, which are Club at www.facebook.com/fishhawkriverscheduled to be constructed by Rotarians in viewrotary/.

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES AVAILABLE

Volume 21, Issue 11

HOW TO TALK TO YOUR AGING PARENTS ABOUT FINANCES

By Laurie E. Ohall, Florida Board-certified Elder Law Attorney Conversations with aging parents about finances can be challenging.

Over half of adults would rather talk to their children about sex than their parents about aging, according to PBS NewsHour. Although difficult, talking with aging parents about their finances is an act of love and can facilitate better plans for the future while helping aging parents maintain their independence.

A recent survey by GOBankingRates found that 73 percent of Americans haven’t had in-depth financial planning conversations with their aging parents. Many people were hesitant to approach their parents about finances for the following reasons: · They didn’t know how to start the conversation. · They were afraid their parents would think they were being nosy. · They were afraid their parents would think they were motivated by money.

Financial planning discussions should not focus on how much money is at stake.

Instead, conversations should focus on plans for the future and whether aging parents will need help financially or otherwise. Your goal should be to focus on your concern for your parents rather than on how much money there is. Demonstrating your willingness to support your parents’ plans for their future can help the tone of the conversation remain loving and collaborative.

Understandably, some people are concerned that they are being nosy by asking their parents questions about their

finances. However, children should be involved in planning for their parents’ future because many adult children need to provide financial support to aging parents. An AARP survey found that 32 percent of midlife adults, ages 40-64, provided regular financial support to their parents in the past year, You can encourage your parents to create a plan for making financial and health decisions for their lifetimes and to decide how they want their assets distributed after their deaths. A Tampa estate attorney can help by creating the following documents: · Will and/or trust. A will governs the distribution of your parents’ assets after they die but does not avoid probate, whereas a trust could be established for managing assets during your parents’ lives and transferring those assets after your parents’ deaths. Trusts can also be written for specific needs. · Power of attorney. This document grants the temporary or permanent authority for someone else to act on your parents’ behalf in specific circumstances. · Health care directive. This document spells out your parents’ health care wishes and appoints someone who can communicate with doctors in the event of the parents’ incapacity.

If parents feel nervous about signing over any of this authority, they can maintain control by working with an attorney to draft a document that meets their specifications. An elder law attorney can assist with planning for your parents’ future.

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Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

November 2023

BRANDON LIONS CLUB SELLS LUMINARIA KITS TO SUPPORT LOCAL CHARITIES

Staff Report

Brandon area residents have the opportunity to help others and spread light next month thanks to the Brandon Lions Club and its annual luminaria project and fundraiser.

Until Friday, November 10, residents throughout the Brandon area can purchase a Luminaria Kit to raise funds for local charities supported by the Lions.

“Our Luminaria Kits are constructed with white paper bags weighted down with sand and illuminated from within by a candle,” said Brandon Lions Club treasurer Joe Kuebler. “They are traditionally displayed on Christmas Eve.” According to Kuebler, each kit contains 15 long-burning votive candles, 15 candle holders, 15 white bags and a plastic bag of sand (to use in the base of each bag).

Kits are $8, and orders of 15 kits or more will be delivered locally. No payment is required with your order. All orders are COD (cash on delivery) and

can be picked up at the Brandon Lions Club, located at 610 Limona Rd. in Brandon, or will be delivered (orders of 15-plus kits) on Saturday, December 16.

According to Kuebler, the fundraiser has been taking place annually since 2002.

F o r the last several years, the h o m e owners association in Parkside Village in Lithia has purchased enough Luminaria kits to light a path through the community on Christmas Eve. “This has become a favorite community tradition,” said homeowners association board member Marie Gilmore.

The proceeds will benefit Brandon Lions Charities, a not-for-profit 501(c) (3) organization that has been supporting the club’s eyesight and hearing programs, Southeastern Guide Dogs, Greater Tampa Lions Sight Fund, ECHO, Family Promise, The Outreach Clinic, Brandon High School Don Bishop Track Meet and other local area needs since 1954.

Contact Kuebler at 813-263-2522 to place an order, or email brandonlionsclub@gmail.com.

Page 39

39TH ANNUAL ALAFIA LIGHTED BOAT PARADE

PRESENTED BY THE FISHHAWK-RIVERVIEW ROTARY RETURNS ON DECEMBER 2

Staff Report

The FishHawk-Riverwhich gets maximum view Rotary is pleased recognition and expoto announce the 39th sure for your business annual Alafia Lighted or organization.

Boat Parade, presented Since its inception,

by Christopher Ligori & FishHawk-Riverview Associates, will be held Rotary members on Saturday, December have separately given 2 from 5-7 p.m. The celthrough dues and doebration will take place nations over $160,000 at the Riverview Civic to PolioPlus and The Center, with announceRotary Foundation for ments of the chili cookglobal projects in sevoff winners at the end The Rotary Club of FishHawk-Riverview en areas of focus. The of the boat parade and will hold the 39th annual Alafia Lighted club also volunteers in the winners of the best Boat Parade and chili cook-off event on Honduras each year Saturday, December 2. decorated boats at Rivwith Honduras Comer’s Edge Bar and Grill after the parade. passion Partners by installing water filtraFor the young and young at heart, Santa tion systems, latrines, water storage and will arrive by boat and be available for pho- building homes for families. What’s more, tos after disembarking at the Riverview Civ- the FishHawk-Riverview Rotary Club Founic Center. Children can make holiday crafts dation has funded scholarships to college or while onlookers enjoy Christmas music and accredited trade schools, which are awardthe bright holiday lights of the boats in the ed to graduating high school seniors demonparade. Last year, over 30 decorated and strating a commitment to service, Rotary’s lighted boats participated in the annual Camp Florida (camp for special needs chilevent. dren), rising high school junior delegates to In addition to the free viewing of the dec- S4TL (Seminar for Tomorrow’s Leaders) orated boats, stop inside the Riverview Civic and many local organizations. See www.

Center for the highly competitive chili cook- fishhawkriverviewrotary.org for a complete off. Tantalize your taste buds, sample the list of this year’s recipients. variety of chilis and vote for your favorite Rotary International is an organization of for a donation of $5. Hamburgers, hot dogs, leaders worldwide united through service drinks and popcorn will be available for pur- to provide humanitarian relief, encourage chase as well. All proceeds from the event high ethical standards in all vocations and will fund charitable activities of the Fish- help build goodwill and peace in the world.

Hawk-Riverview Rotary Club Foundation In more than 165 countries worldwide, apand Friends of the County Parks. proximately 1.4 million Rotarians belong to To sponsor the event, visit FishHawk-Riv- over 33,000 Rotary clubs. erview Rotary Events on Facebook or the For more information, email event club’s website to sign up. Sponsor opportu- chair Kim Tyson at hummingbird133@ nities start from $100 and go up to $2,500, verizon.net.

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(SaintAnneRuskin.org) Facebook page. p.m.

Wednesday............................7 p.m.and Jueves.........................7 Reconciliation Tue. at 8:30am, Thurs. at 6pm, Sat. at 3:15pm The Masses will be streamed uploaded to the St. Anne website and Byand Appointment.

(SaintAnneRuskin.org) and Facebook page.

For morewill information, please check thebetween St. Anne The church be open weekdays for private prayer 7 a.m. website. and 3 p.m.

Registration is now open for at the6 2021-2022 Faith Formation Reconciliation Tues. at 8:30 a.m., Thur. p.m., Sat. at 3:15 p.m. andyear. by appointment.

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Page 40

Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

Volume 21, Issue 11

USF STAVROS CENTER RECEIVES A

The Doors of The Church Are Open

$20,000 STATE FARM GRANT TO SUPPORT FINANCIAL LITERACY PROGRAMS

Church Services 10am Sunday Youth & Teens Church School 9:00 a.m.

Staff Report The Gus A. Stavros sibility analyst. “State Center for Free EnFarm is proud of the terprise and EconomUSF Stavros Center ic Education received dedicated work in fia $20,000 gift from nancially educating State Farm in support and empowering stuof the center’s prodents and educators gramming to educate in our community.” students in economics The USF Stavros Center recently received a The Stavros Center $20,000 grant from State Farm to support at the USF College and financial literacy.

For more than four economic and financial programming for of Education is the college students. decades, the Stavros premier center for Center, located in the College of Educa- economic education in the state of Flortion at the University of South Florida’s ida. The center collaborates with educa(USF) Tampa campus, has been recog- tors and school district leaders to provide nized for excellence in economic educa- teacher training programs, curricula detion at the local, state and national levels. velopment efforts and other strategies The gift provided by State Farm will allow that infuse free enterprise and consumer the Stavros Center to grow its program- economics concepts into the classroom. ming to provide financial literacy training “The Gus A. Stavros Center is instruto college-age students across the Tampa mental in offering financial literacy and Bay region. economic education opportunities that “Many college-age students have never promote sound financial decision making taken a personal financial literacy course. in youth,” said R. Anthony Rolle, PhD, dean The support from State Farm will allow of the USF College of Education. “Colthe center to grow our offerings and al- lege-age students are making decisions low us to focus on an especially important that will impact their financial health for group of students, those that are in col- years to come, and it is vital to give this lege,” said Peter Trakas, Ed.D., director of age group the tools to manage and underthe Stavros Center. stand their finances. We are grateful to State Farm began its partnership with State Farm for their longstanding partthe Stavros Center in 2010 to promote nership with the Stavros Center and their financial literacy education within K-12 role in advancing the Stavros Center’s schools. To date, the insurance company mission. We look forward to seeing the has provided more than $250,000 in fi- impact of this support with our students nancial support to the Stavros Center. and community.”

“State Farm believes that financial literTo learn more about the work of the acy education is critical to building stron- Gus A. Stavros Center for Free Enterprise ger and more resilient communities,” said and Economic Education, visit www.usf.

Jose Soto, State Farm corporate respon- edu/stavros.

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November 2023

Page 41

ICE THE DICE CASINO ANNUAL HARVEST QUEEN PAGEANT SUPPORTS COMFORT FOR A CAUSE NIGHT WILL BENEFIT

By Lily Belcher HIGH 5 INC. PROGRAMS The 22nd annuThis year, the

By Lily Belcher

High 5 Inc. is needs education hosting its highly and athletic finananticipated annual cial assistance,” Ice the Dice CasiSpano said. no Night on Friday, All adults in the November 17 at community are The Regent, locatinvited to Casino ed at 6437 Watson Night. Tickets are Rd. in Riverview, $75 per person and to raise money include entry, pokfor programs and er ‘money,’ food, Ice the Dice Casino Night will feature food, scholarships ofentertainment and drinks and entertainment for guests. fered through the an open bar. Regnonprofit organization. istration for the online auction is free, so This year’s event, which runs from 7-11 the only additional charges will be item p.m., will feature an even wider variety of purchases or donations. casino games, vendors and auction prizes “All proceeds benefit underprivileged to raise money for its cause while giving families in our community by providing guests the opportunity to give back to the them with scholarship funding for various community. programs,” Spano said.

“Casino Night is always a night to reTRIDENT and Blue Wave families and member. Not only do we have a huge leaders will volunteer to set up, break variety of casino games, but there will down and run the event, but High 5 is albe an open bar and food from incredible ways looking for more volunteers to aid vendors,” family experience director Jada the production.

Spano said. “Enjoy music, raffles, silent “There is year-round work that goes auction, entertainment, community and into planning this event. So that final hour so many other fun activities.” of the night as people are having such a Auction prizes will include sports mem- great time and coming together to do orabilia, designer bags, vacation trips and incredible things, that is my favorite and more. In addition to bigger and better most memorable moment,” Spano said. prizes in the silent auction, guests do not To purchase tickets, register for the have to be present to bid on or win items, event or register for or view silent aucas there will be an online option for bid- tion items, which will continue to be loadding. ed to the site up to the day of the event, “Our goal is to raise $100,000 this year visit https://high5.home.qtego.us/. For so that we can better serve and benefit more information or to donate an auction so many children and families who other- item, contact Spano at 813 689-0908 or wise could not afford things such as swim jspano@high5inc.org. High 5 is located at lessons, quality after-school care, special 405 Beverly Rd. in Brandon.

al Harvest Queen pageant hosted 35 Pageant collected contestants who funds and blankets helped raise funds to support Comfort for fleece blankets for a Cause in its for Florida Cancer largest pageant and Center chemothercrowned the Senior apy patients. At and Junior Harvest the pageant, over Queens in October.

100 fleece blankets Newsome High Lylah Linares, Claire Thomas, Cameron Ipock and were collected in School senior Cam- Jillian Towe were grateful for the opportunity to exchange for free support Comfort for a Cause through the 22nnd eron Ipock was admission to the annual Harvest Queen Pageant. crowned Senior Hillsborough CounHarvest Queen. Ipty Fair. ock is vice president The Harvest of the Splash Club Queen Pageant has and involved in her partnered with Comschool’s FFA chapfort for a Cause since ter and track team.

2018 to honor for“Sadly, I have had mer Junior Harvest several members Queen Taryn Storter of my family pass Couch’s father. away from cancer, Claire Thomas and Cameron Ipock were crowned First maids Jillian most recently my the Junior and Senior Harvest Queens in the Hills- Towe and Lylah Ligrandmother. My borough County Fair’s Harvest Queen Pageant. nares said Comfort hope is that our blanket outreach, Comfort for a Cause is a way for them to give back to for a Cause, will provide a small amount of the community and see the impact the dojoy and warmth on what may be a very diffi- nations and volunteer work has on the lives cult treatment day,” Ipock said. of patients.

Seffner Christian Academy freshman The nonprofit contest also raised money Claire Thomas was crowned Junior Harvest to support the program and offer scholarQueen. She is involved in competitive dance, ships to the queens. Ipock earned a $1,500 volleyball and the National Junior Beta Club scholarship and Thomas earned a $750 at Seffner Christian. scholarship after being crowned at the pag“Everyone has a story, and Comfort for a eant. The funds for the scholarships and Cause allows people to share in that story. Comfort for a Cause were raised through … It’s not only about donating blankets; it’s ticket prices and sponsors. about getting to have conversations with For more information about the Harvest the people that we meet and building rela- Queen Pageant and its partnership with tionships with them. I love that I get to have Comfort for a Cause, visit https://hillsbora small part on a page in their story,” Thom- oughcountyfair.com/pageant/ or call 813as said.

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Page 42

Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

TAMPA ELECTRIC’S MANATEE VIEWING CENTER IS NOW OPEN FOR THE WINTER SEASON

Staff Report

Tampa Electric’s ture of Tampa Bay is award-winning Mana68 degrees or colder, tee Viewing Center remanatees gather in opened on November 1 the clean, warm wafor the season. ter discharge canal of This year, the ManaTampa Electric’s Big tee Viewing Center will Bend Power Station, include a new viewing sometimes by the platform to allow visihundreds. tors to get even closer Visitors also can ento the manatees. The joy meeting the rays, new platform opens on critical animals that Wednesday, November The TECO Manatee Viewing Center was rely on a healthy Tamrecently selected as one of the USA TODAY 15. TECO has revamped pa Bay ecosystem — 10Best Readers’ Choice travel awards for the Education Center and even touch them best free attractions for 2023. and also has added two gently as they glide new electric golf carts to help transport past in the touch tank. Guests can hike the guests from the remote parking lot. nature trail and take in the vistas from the “We’re pleased we can offer our guests 50-foot observation tower. additional elbow room – and the opportuniEach season, the center draws nearly ty to see the manatees from an even closer 400,000 visitors — for a total of more vantage point,” said Stan Kroh, manager of than 7 million. Admission and parking at Land and Stewardship Programs for Tam- the Apollo Beach facility are free, and the pa Electric. “The Manatee Viewing Center boardwalks are compliant with the Ameris the showcase for Tampa Electric’s com- icans with Disabilities Act for its guests’ mitment to environmental stewardship.” convenience. Contributions are welcomed The Manatee Viewing Center is the an- and will directly support protecting manachor attraction for the Florida Conserva- tees, preserving their habitats and educattion and Technology Center (FCTC), which ing the public. is a public-private partnership to feature The Manatee Viewing Center’s reguboth nature and technology. Tampa Electric lar hours are 10 a.m.-5 p.m. every day provides the campus to its environmental from now through April 15, 2024, except partners for their important research and Thanksgiving, Christmas and Easter, when educational outreach. In addition to Tam- it is closed. (The facility closes at 3 p.m. on pa Electric, the partners include The Flori- Christmas Eve.) Comfortable shoes and da Aquarium, the Florida Fish and Wildlife clothing are recommended. Please note Conservation Commission (FWC) and the that no pets are allowed, only trained serUniversity of Florida. vice animals.

The manatees have gathered in the caVisit the center online at www.tampanal to find refuge from the cold since the electric.com/manatee or call 813-228early 1970s. When the water tempera- 4289 for more information.

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Volume 21, Issue 11

IT’S TIME FOR THE VOTE HILLSBOROUGH ANNUAL ART CONTEST AND REGISTRATION DRIVE FOR STUDENTS

Staff Report

The Hillsborough Artwork subCounty supervisor of missions must be elections is challengtwo-dimensional, 6 ing students once in. by 6 in. and round. again to design a new Keep in mind that ‘I Voted’ sticker for the winning artwork Hillsborough County must remain clear voters. and impactful when Finalists will be reduced to a 2 in. by recognized at a 2 in. size for stickschool board meeter printing. The art ing and receive prizmust be nonpartisan es from the contest and may not promote sponsors: the Tampa any party, candidate Bay Lightning, Tampa or issue. Do not use Supervisor of Elections Craig Latimer and Bay Buccaneers and only red or only blue his office are seeking submissions for the Busch Gardens. The annual student ‘I Voted’ sticker contest for in the design. All artart will also be feaworks must be origHillsborough County voters. tured on social media inal and not contain channels, in displays any copyrighted imat offices and in other ages. Hard copy or outreach efforts conhigh-resolution PDFs ducted by the Hillsborare accepted. ough County Supervisor Visit www.voteof Elections Office. hillsborough.gov/vhcontests to read all “Our voters LOVE getting their ‘I Vot- of the details as well as download and ed’ sticker and I know they’ll be espe- complete the required entry packet. The cially excited to get a unique sticker de- contest deadline is March 8, 2024. Subsigned by one of our talented high school missions can be mailed, emailed or destudents,” said Supervisor of Elections livered in person to any of the five elecCraig Latimer. tions offices.

The first-place winning design will be Also of note, during the fall and spring reproduced as 2 in. by 2 in. round stick- semesters, the Hillsborough County Suers and given to voters who vote early or pervisor of Elections Office will conduct drop off their mail ballot during the two voter registration drives in high schools weeks leading up to Election Day for the across the county. The three schools 2024 primary and general elections. with the most successful voter registraThree finalists will be selected, and tion drives (based on the percentage of one will be named the grand prize win- senior class) will receive a plaque and be ner. All of the finalists will be recognized recognized in front of the school board. at a school board meeting and receive Winners of both contests will be anprizes from the contest sponsors. nounced in mid-April 2024.

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Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

November 2023

2023 GASPARILLA BOWL RETURNS TO RAYMOND JAMES STADIUM

By Libby Hopkins Entering its 15th This year’s game year, the Union Home will be the only game Mortgage Gasparilto play on December la Bowl has become 22, so all eyes will be a December holiday on Tampa Bay. “We’re tradition for both hoping to match or local families and exceed last year’s out-of-town visitors. viewership of more “Each year, a week than 3 million which jam-packed with famwas the number one ily fun and community rated pre-Christmas events culminates in bowl in the country,” a premier postseaCrawford said. son matchup on the The game was the gridiron,” said Toiaya top program during Crawford of Crackerits telecast window The Union Home Mortgage Gasparilla jack Media. “It is the and ranked in the Bowl will be played at Raymond James official kickoff for Gastop five in viewership Stadium on Friday, December 22. parilla season.” among all non-New The Union Home Mortgage Gasparilla Year’s six bowls. A highlight for both visBowl will be played at Raymond James iting teams and college football fans, the Stadium on Friday, December 22 at 2023 edition of the bowl will once again 6:30 p.m. Owned and operated by ESPN feature a coveted time slot and will be the Events, the game will air on ESPN and only game played that night. welcome two teams from among the With the game occurring during Southeastern Conference (SEC), Atlan- Christmas week, local businesses and tic Coast Conference (ACC), American fan groups have a unique opportunity to Athletic Conference (AAC), Big 12, Con- host holiday parties or family gatherings, ference USA, Mid-American Conference including pregame tailgates and stadium (MAC), Mountain West, Pacific 12 Confer- seating options. “Our hopes for this year ence (Pac-12) and independent programs, is to field two great college programs that Brigham Young University and Army. bring their competitive edge to Raymond “We’re thrilled to announce the return of James Stadium for the fans,” Crawford the Gasparilla Bowl, which has become said. a beloved tradition for football fans here Tickets will go on sale to the general in Tampa,” said executive director Scott public in December. “We encourage evGlaser. “We’re looking forward to another eryone to join the invasion and secure exfantastic year of thrilling competition and clusive first access to the best seats by exciting moments on and off the field for signing up for the bowl’s presale at www. the student athletes, coaches and fans.” gasparillabowl.com,” Crawford said.

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Page 43

ZOOTAMPA AT LOWRY PARK ANNOUNCES RECORD ATTENDANCE AND NEW ADVENTURES FOR 2024

Staff Report

ZooTampa at ically endangered Lowry Park conred wolf pups, a tinues to solidify nyala, bay duiker, its position as and lorikeets.

Florida’s most atThe zoo is billing tended cultural 2024 as the ‘Year attraction by once of More’ with new again breaking its additions and upown record of wel- Among the planned additions and updates for 2024 dates. is the all-new interactive Stingray Shores habitat. coming 1,171,319 The new interguests in fiscal year 2023 (which ended on active habitat Stingray Shores opens this September 30). The zoo also amplified its winter with the opportunity for guests to leadership in wildlife preservation by send- touch and feed stingrays. Guests will also ing staff to various countries to participate have the unique opportunity to get into in field conservation and education projects. the water and be immersed in the aquatic “We are proud of our role as the destina- world of stingrays during an unforgettable tion for families to come together, be en- Signature Encounter experience. tertained and connect with each other and Australia, the completely reimagined wildlife,” stated ZooTampa CEO and Presi- family area, includes a new ride, Aussie Trek dent Joe Couceiro. “We also celebrate our presented by Outback, which will feature continued commitment to the conservation opportunities for parents and kids to go and preservation of wildlife not only in our on a safari and learn about the land down backyards but also around the world.” under’s unique wildlife. The area, which will There were several notable conservation open in spring 2024, will have an expanded accomplishments during the 2023 fiscal splash pad and dry play area and the addiyear. tion of a wallaby Signature Encounter.

ZooTampa assisted FWC with 54 manAt Prehistoric Predators, a limited-time atee rescues, transports and verifications. special event taking place from January The David A. Straz, Jr. Manatee Critical through April, guests will come face-to-face Care Center took in 34 manatees and re- with giant animatronic ferocious predators leased 14 back into Florida waters. of the past.

Animal care, education and conservation Animals not seen for centuries like the team members participated in field projects dire wolf from the Ice Age or the allosaurus providing expertise and supporting con- from the Mesozoic Era come to life only at servation programs with Elephant-Human ZooTampa.

Relations Aid in Namibia (Africa), Macaw The zoo is located at 1101 W. Sligh Ave. Recovery Network (Costa Rica) and South in Tampa and is open seven days a week African Foundation for the Conservation of (except Thanksgiving and Christmas) from Coastal Birds (Africa).

9:30 a.m.-5 p.m., with extended hours for New members of the zoo family include select events. For more information, visit six endangered Komodo dragons, two crit- www.zootampa.org.

Page 44

Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

Volume 21, Issue 11

Thanksgiving reminds us to be grateful for all we have -- and to help those less fortunate.

Here are some worthy organizations that welcome your donations here in our community!

Feeding Tampa Bay, serving needs countywide: 813-254-1190 or FeedingTampaBay.org Seeds of Hope, featuring the Nov. 23 FishHawk Turkey Trot: 813-489-4599 or SoHopeFL.org Greater Brandon Meals on Wheels, 17 area churches: BrandonMealsOnWheels.com ECHO (Emergency Care Help Organization), Brandon: 813-685-0935 Redlands Christian Migrant Association, Wimauma: 813-671-5264

Over $20 million in sales in 2022 RE/MAX Hall of Fame, Top 1% among all agents across Tampa Bay Certified Luxury Home Specialist Newsome High, Riverview High parent “I live here.

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And I sell here like no one else!”

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

East of FishHawk near Alderman’s Ford, the wait is over for this custom-built, 4,000-SF pool/spa home that blends country farmhouse roots with breathtaking design & amenities on 5 acres in a gated, exclusive, equestrian enclave!

You'll love the lifestyle in this 1-of-a-kind property surrounded by other executive manors! With 5 bedrooms & 4.5 baths (including 3 en suite), plus a front office or den & a 3-car garage, it can handle almost any size family plus guest or multigenerational options. Quality finishes from quartz counters & soft-close wood cabinets to 8-foot doors, 8-inch baseboard & wood-look tile floors. Gas heat for the pool/spa & tankless water heater. New to market at $1,369,000.

No wait at all for this similarly sized pool/ spa home in FishHawk’s Oaks neighborhood! It won a contract before I even brought it to public market, & closing is scheduled this month. Five years ago these sellers bought it as the Gasparilla model from Homes by West Bay, & it’s still dazzling today. The 20-foot ceiling at the heart of this 4,150-SF 4/4/3 accommodates an impressive foyer flanked by formal rooms, then a grand gathering room open to the gourmet kitchen, the master suite entry, spectacular pool/spa lanai, & a dramatic double staircase that leads to additional beds & baths, bonus room, theater/media room & more. It’s all on a lushly landscaped corner off Watercolor Drive. $1,200,000

Get 5 bedrooms, 4 garage bays, 3 bathrooms, plus a 2-story outbuilding with loft & workshop on 1 acre at this customized home in Riverview’s Shadow Run! Low HOA fees & few deed restrictions make it a great place for RVs, ATVs, boats or more without rural inconveniences! $600,000 With a pond view in back & a park view in front, this maintenance-free villa gives you a standout spot along its singlestreet enclave in Rivercrest! An open design & screened lanai help the 3/2/2 live larger than its listed 1,521 SF. New carpet, also new fridge among stainless-steel appliances. $329,900

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

Beyond upgrades from roof to floors, you’ll find a backyard haven here exceeding expectations: an extended, screened & roof-sheltered pool lanai with a stamped concrete deck, open patio, shed, vinyl privacy fence & more! The home is a 2,245-SF 4/2/2 in no-fee Boyette Springs. $469,900 Customized upgrades for the original owners give this pondview townhome added value now that they're selling after only 2 years! You’ll find it in Brandon’s Timbers at Williams Landing. 3 beds & 2 baths upstairs plus a half-bath down, 1-car garage, screened lanai overlooking the water. $304,900

Get a 4/3/2 pool home with 4 straight years of expensive updates!

Plumbing was repiped in 2020, AC replaced in 2021, ductwork redone in 2022, & a brand-new roof is just days ahead in 2023! The screened & stone-pavered pool lanai is on a fenced 1/4 acre in no-fee Boyette Springs. $460,000 Yet another improved from roof to floors, this villa with no rear neighbor in sight is move-inready in Sun City Center! A 240-SF Florida room helps it live larger than its listed 2-bed, 2bath, 1,714 SF. Enjoy low-maintenance life in a cul-de-sac where $100 monthly covers yard & water. $299,900

Riverview/Apollo Beach

November 2023, Vol. 21, Iss. 11

READ ABOUT THE EVENT ON PAGE 28

AgeRejuvenation And New Vitality Announce Partnership

AgeRejuvenation and New Vitality are excited to announce a new partnership, as both clinics offer the most experience in the antiaging market and share the same core patient treatment beliefs. Some of the key decisions for this partnership include the multiple locations offered by AgeRejuvenation, such as Brandon, Wesley Chapel, South Tampa, Winter Park and Winter Garden. In addition, AgeRejuvenation has over 1,000 five-star Google reviews, and it services its patients with 13 medical providers, all credentialed in antiaging and regenerative medicine. AgeRejuvenation specializes in both male and female services, including hormone therapy, testosterone replacement therapy, peptide therapy, medical weight loss, stem cell therapy for orthopedic, sexual health treatment for females, erectile dysfunction treatment for males, diets, nutrition, food allergy/sensitivity and gut health.

New Vitality’s medical director, Dr. Trim, is working together with AgeRejuvenation’s chief medical officer, Dr. Ericsson, to ensure the continuity of personal treatment plans and pricing. For more information, visit https://agerejuvenation.com/ or feel free to call AgeRejuvenation directly at 813-6805498.

Adult Day Program At Tessera

best wings in Riverview” by customers. Owner Christopher Murphy comes from Buffalo and uses the Anchor Bar recipe. You won’t be disappointed by anything you order; portions are huge, and everything is cooked to order. Selfie Subs is open Monday through Saturday, 7 a.m.-9 p.m. To find out more and to view the menu visit its website at www. selfiesubs.com.

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must be completed and a reservation must be made before bringing a loved one to its day care. Tessera is located at 1320 Oakfield Dr. in Brandon. For more information, visit its website at www.tesserabrandon.com or call 813-607-6880.

Tessera of Brandon, an assisted living fa- SCORE Tampa Seeking Volunteer cility, is now offering an adult day care proMentors gram. Sessions are 9:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. or SCORE Tampa-Hillsborough County offers 1:30-5:30 p.m.; you can, of course, book the free small business mentoring by experts in whole day. Each session will include one marketing, finance, CPAs and more. Face-tomeal, snacks and personal care. Paperwork

face or online, SCORE mentors are able and willing to aid in the success of small businesses, but they can’t do it without volunteers.

SCORE-Tampa-Hillsborough County is actively seeking volunteer business mentors. To find out how you can become a mentor with just a few hours a week of commitment, visit www.score.org/volunteer/become-mentor.

PrimeHealth Urgent Care recently opened a FishHawk Ranch location in the Publix plaza at 5660 Fishhawk Crossing Blvd. in Lithia.

PrimeHealth Urgent Care provides medical care for urgent needs, such as acute sickness; stitches; sports, work or auto injuries; school and sports participation physicals; X-rays; EKGs; and so much more, to quickly address any medical need. Your health is its priority.

PrimeHealth Urgent Care is open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m.-5 p.m. and on Saturday from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. For more information, visit its website at www.primehealthuc.com or call 813-725-5088.

Taste The Best Wings In Riverview

Selfie Subs at 8001 U.S. 301 in Riverview does not just offer subs and sandwiches, although it does have a wide selection including Cubans, Philly cheese steaks, burgers etc.

It also has what have been described as “the

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Page 46

Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

Volume 21, Issue 11

RIVERVIEW & WIMAUMA PROJECTS WIN BIG AT 2023 COUNTY PLANNING COMMISSION DESIGN AWARDS

By Brian Boker The Hillsborough County Environmental & EnterCity-County Planning Commission tainment category for recently announced the winners of prioritizing the need for its 41st annual Planning & Design wetlands to serve the Awards presented by TECO with community and protecting two local projects honored by the imperiled habitats amidst panel of judges. Created to inspire development in the area and promote good practices that as well as acknowledging turn challenges which come with Laying the foundation of a revitalized Wimauma. the local history of the site growth into opportunities for the as depicted through art Cities of Tampa, Temple Terrace, expression.

Plant City and unincorporated HillsAt only 27 acres, the naborough County, the Planning Comture-based conservation mission’s event, held on October 18 park formerly owned by at the Shanna & Bryan Glazer Jewthe Mosaic Company borish Community Center, was a celeders the Alafia River and bration dedicated to excellence in offers accessible walking planning and design. trails, shelters, restrooms The Wimauma Downtown Revitalization Action Plan is the 2023 award and a river overlook. These The panel of judges included Silwinner of the Outstanding Contribution to the Community category. via Vargas, Jennifer Codo-Salisbury amenities result in opporand Dennis Smith, all highly distinwith the Hillsborough County Public School tunities for the public to Pebble Park, 2023 award winner of the Environmental & Entertainment category. guished AICP-certified planners District constructing new schools. A county view wildlife, gather socially and connect from outside of Hillsborough County. with residents and community partners park with community center and regional with nature. Pebble Park’s success has You can find the full press release, including to create the initial Wimauma Community library will also be included. shown that small parcels of land should not the list of winners, photos and more infor- Plan. The plan then went through an exten“The action plan is a well-designed, easy- be overlooked as opportunities for passive mation on each of the judges, by visiting sive update process a decade later due to to-read guide that addresses a growing recreation and environmental conservation. https://planhillsborough.org/pda. rapidly changing demographics with resi- community while respecting the area’s hisA sculpture named ‘Sovereign’ welcomes Praised by judges for the strategic focus dents and stakeholders providing further tory and existing businesses and residents,” visitors at the trail entrance paying tribute and applauded for recognition of the need input. In 2020, the updated plan became said Codo-Salisbury. “The plan strategically to the Seminoles’ national independence. to revisit the plan often to ensure implemen- a cornerstone vision codified within the focuses on priorities of safety, traditional Sovereign reflects a Seminole woman in tation continues, The Wimauma Downtown Comprehensive Plan’s Livable Communities small-town character, clustered housing, traditional, though modernized, Native Revitalization Action Plan won the Award Element in the county’s Land Development preservation of native habitats, recreational American dress. of Outstanding Contribution to the Commu- Code. opportunities and developing commercial The on-leash dog-friendly park features nity in the Planning category.

In 2022, the Downtown Revitalization Ac- opportunities. A key aspect of these suc- a quarter-mile paved loop-walking trail Wimauma, founded in 1902 along a rail- tion Plan implemented the Community Plan cessful planning and implementation efforts wandering through a sandhill community road route, still has agriculture representing and strategically laid out the foundational included meaningful public engagement in addition to a half-mile natural surface the main source of income. Family-owned sequence of specific steps with timelines at- throughout the process.” hiking trail. It also includes three large pataquerias and small businesses line the tainable to complete. Sparked by the action Please visit https://planhillsborough.org/ vilions with picnic tables and two native main road through this diverse community. plan, the county commission allocated more wimauma-village-plan for more informa- planted areas with a pollinator garden proExperiencing significant change over recent than $100 million towards capital projects. tion. viding ecosystem services such as aquifer years, its current population of 16,000 is ex- The Florida Department of Transportation Opened in November 2022, Pebble Park, recharge, flood protection and air quality pected to double over the next two decades. (FDOT) will be utilizing a Complete Streets located at 9955 Riverview Dr. in River- enhancements.

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Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

November 2023

Page 47

COMEDIAN JO KOY ADDS

RP FUNDING CENTER TO HIS JO KOY WORLD TOURStaff Report

Comedian Jo Koy stand-up special, Live will return to the stage From the Los Angewith his Jo Koy World les Forum, premiered Tour at the RP Funding globally on SeptemCenter on January 19, ber 13. The special is a 2024. follow-up to his 2019 As one of today’s Netflix special, Jo Koy: premiere stand-up Comin’ in Hot. Koy has comedians, Koy has already had four highcome a long way from ly rated and successhis modest beginnings ful stand-up specials performing in a Las on Comedy Central Vegas coffee house. and Netflix. In June Koy’s uniquely relat2020, the comedian able comedy pulls released his first vainspiration from his riety special, Jo Koy: colorful family that In His Elements, on Comedian Jo Koy is coming to the RP has reached all kinds Netflix, in which Koy Funding Center on January 19, 2024. of people and has brings the laughs and Tickets now on sale. translated into sold-out arenas around the beats to Manila, spotlighting local culture world. in a one-of-a-kind show featuring FilipiKoy started 2022 with a bang, sell- no-American comedians, DJs and B-boys. ing out the Climate Pledge Arena (over Koy recently starred in the Universal 14,000 tickets) in his hometown of Se- Picture film Easter Sunday. Set around a attle. Today, he continues breaking sales family gathering to celebrate Easter Sunrecords at some of the most prestigious day, the comedy is based on Koy’s life exvenues around the world, including the periences and stand-up comedy. The film Mall of Asia Arena (Manila, Philippines), is currently available on-demand, Blu-ray The Forum (Los Angeles), Coca-Cola Arena and DVD. (Dubai, United Arab Emirates), ICC Theatre For more information on his comedy, (Sydney, Australia) and Madison Square book and tour dates, please visit www.

Garden (New York City), to name a few. In jokoy.com.

2017, Koy broke a record for the most tickTicket prices with range from $63.50ets sold by a single artist at 23,000 tickets $276 and are available by visiting the RP and 11 sold-out shows at The Neal S. Blais- Funding Center Box Office on Monday and dell Concert Hall in Honolulu. In response, Thursday from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. For more inthe mayor’s office in Honolulu proclaimed formation, call the box office at 863-834November 24th as “Jo Koy Day.” The Jo 8111 or visit www.rpfundingcenter.com.

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Page 48

Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

ROOTED IN TRADITION:

THE HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY FAIR RETURNS TO DELIGHT AND THRILL NOVEMBER 2-12 Staff Report The Hillsborough County Fair returns to the Hillsborough County Fairgrounds in Dover this November for 11 days of youth competitions, thrilling rides, captivating entertainment, mouthwatering food and an array of family-friendly activities for everyone to enjoy.

The Hillsborough County Fair will take place from Thursday, November 2 through Sunday, November 12 at the scenic Hillsborough County Fairgrounds located just east of Brandon at the intersection of State Road 60 and Sydney Washer Road. Visitors from all over the region are invited to join in the festivities and create lasting memories.

Since its inception, the Hillsborough County Fair has been a cherished tradition that celebrates the spirit of community, showcasing the rich cultural heritage and agricultural legacy of our region. This year’s theme, ‘Rooted in Tradition,’ reflects that history and plans are underway to build upon that legacy with new attractions and features that are sure to delight fairgoers of all ages.

The midway will be hopping with rides and amusements for all ages. Look for the adrenaline-pumping rides and attractions that cater to thrill-seekers and families alike. Live entertainment is always happening at the Hillsborough County Fair. Prepare to be dazzled by an impressive lineup of live performances featuring local talent, musicians, dancers and much more.

A fair isn’t a fair without food. Savor the flavors of the fair with a diverse selection of delectable treats, ranging from classic carnival fare to unique and indulgent culinary delights.

The agriculture and livestock exhibits are a big part of the fair’s history. Immerse yourself in the agricultural traditions of Hillsborough County as local farmers and exhibitors showcase their finest crops, livestock and crafts. As in years past, Hillsborough County youth, including members of the Future Farmers of America and the 4-H Club, will compete and display their dairy and beef cattle, swine, sheep, goats, rabbits, poultry and turkeys. Afterward, buyers can show their support and purchase livestock for the market.

Not to be missed are the annual arena events: the rodeo, truck and tractor pull and demolition derby.

Among the annual traditions and highlights, new this year are the sensory-friendly hours that have been designed for individuals with disabilities who would benefit from a calmer sensory experience, which will be on Friday, November 10 from 11 a.m.-1 p.m.

The Hillsborough County Fair offers a variety of family-friendly activities, including educational exhibits, arts and crafts, interactive games and so much more.

For more information, visit https://hillsboroughcountyfair.com/2023-fair/. The Hillsborough County Fairgrounds are located at 215 Sydney Washer Rd. in Dover.

Volume 21, Issue 11

THE FLORIDA ORCHESTRA NAMES

CHELSEA GALLO AS RESIDENT CONDUCTOR Staff Report

The Florida Orchestra conductor of the Louisiana (TFO) and music director Philharmonic, conducting Michael Francis recently fellow with the Dallas Opannounced the promotion era and conducting staff of Chelsea Gallo to resident for the Detroit Symphony conductor. The new title Orchestra. recognizes Gallo’s excepAs a guest conductor, tional work since joining Gallo has conducted the TFO as assistant conductor symphonies of North Carone year ago, as well as her olina, Sarasota, Missouri, expanded role for the upBridgeport, Jackson, Lancoming 2023-24 season. caster, Youngstown, ToleGallo began her new podo, the Hartford Opera, and The Florida Orchestra has sition with TFO’s first con- promoted Chelsea Gallo to the Slovak Sinfonietta, among position of resident conductor. cert of the season the Muothers. sic of James Taylor, Neil Diamond and Paul Gallo brings a unique interest in combinSimon, Starring Michael Cavanaugh. This ing her two loves: music and science. She season, Gallo will conduct her first concert has been part of recording and performing in TFO’s premier Hough Family Foundation projects for NASA, Lockheed Martin, the Masterworks series, Saint-Saens’ Organ National Institute of Aerospace and the Symphony; lead two Raymond James Pops European Space Agency. Recently, she was concerts, Women Rock and Twist & Shout: invited on behalf of the Nuclear Engineering The Music of the Beatles; conduct Waltz into Department at the University of Michigan Spring in the Morning Matinees series; and to partner on a project that encourages crelead two chamber concerts. She will contin- ativity within the hard sciences by drawing ue to conduct TFO’s youth, family and com- parallels between running a nuclear reactor munity concerts, including one of TFO’s big- and leading a symphony orchestra. gest concerts of the year, Raymond James Gallo has described her conducting purPops in the Park in Tampa’s River Tower suits as “a devotion to sharing the relevancy Park on Sunday, November 5. and humanity within classical music.” She “Chelsea Gallo has been a fantastic addi- studied conducting in Vienna in Austria, tion to TFO and the Tampa Bay communi- Prague in Czech Republic and Banska ty. Her poise on the podium and engaging Stiavnica in central Slovakia with the late rapport with audiences perfectly align with Maksimilijan Cencic and Leos Svarovsky.

TFO’s passion for giving our community a Gallo holds a Doctor of Musical Arts from deeper connection to the music. We look the University of Michigan, where she was forward to her expanded role with TFO this awarded the Helen Wu Graduate Fellowship season, and we’re thrilled to reward her with in Conducting. this promotion,” Francis said.

Outside the concert hall, she enjoys readGallo’s position with TFO is generously ing, running and studying languages. She underwritten by Suzette and Monroe Berk- played professional fast-pitch for the Vienman. na Wanderers. Tickets to all concerts are on Gallo’s previous positions include assistant sale now at https://floridaorchestra.org/.

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Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

November 2023

15TH ANNUAL FISHHAWK

Page 49

UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH FLORIDA SEEKS

TURKEY TROT TO SUPPORT SEEDS OF HOPE FOOD BANK

By Linda Chion

PARTICIPANTS TO CONTINUE LANDMARK DEMENTIA PREVENTION RESEARCH

Thousands of realize exists, people are exin the capacity pected to start that it does.”

Th a n k s g i v i n g Seeds of Day at the FishHope distribHawk Turkey utes 300 boxTrot, held anes of food evnually to assist ery Thursday Seeds of Hope on-site at the and its nonPresbyteriThe turkey mascot, pictured in a previous race, is a staple profit mission an Church of attraction at the annual FishHawk Turkey Trot benefiting to nourish hope BloomingdaSeeds of Hope. through food le, located at distributions and community 710 E. Bloomingdale Ave. service. This year marks the Through its Backpack of 15th annual FishHawk Turkey Hope program, operating Trot. this year out of Barrington Seeds of Hope traces its Middle School, Seeds of roots to Leda Eaton and her Hope distributes about 150 kids, who as Newsome High bags of food weekly to enSchool runners earned comsure students in need and munity service hours by staging a Thanks- their families have enough food to eat over giving Day race. The event has grown to the weekend. Moreover, Seeds of Hope attract more than 2,000 people who com- employs a mobile pantry when specific mit to race, walk and volunteer in support needs arise. of Seeds of Hope, which students help run Supporting it all is the annual FishHawk under the mentorship of adult leaders.

Turkey Trot, for which registration and One such leader is Bronwyn Fowler, who sponsorship inquiries now are being acfor three years served as a volunteer in cepted. The deadline for early-bird pricing support of her children and their mission to of the 5K and 10K timed races, the 5K unearn community service through Seeds of timed race, the 1-mile fun run and the 250Hope. Fowler has since taken over admin- yard mini run (for kids, and kids at heart) is istrative duties for Seeds of Hope, founded Friday, November 17. Race day registration, in 2009. at a higher cost, is set to begin at 6:30 a.m.

Working with students from area Thursday, November 23, in the Publix parkschools, “I like that from the kids’ perspec- ing lot at 5642 FishHawk Crossing Blvd. tive, Seeds of Hope empowers kids to get To register, and for more on race parinvolved, gives them leadership roles and ticulars, sponsorships, Seeds of Hope and shows them a real need that’s happening in collection, food drive and volunteer opportheir own community,” Fowler said. “We’re tunities, visit www.sohopefl.org/2023-turmeeting a need that sometimes we don’t key-trot-run.

Researchparticipating ers at the in this study, University of volunteers will South Floricontribute to da St. Petersour work on burg campus how to possibly have received prevent demena grant from The University of South Florida has received additional tia and have the funding from the National Institutes of Health that will the National allow it to continue its Active Mind study. The university potential to posInstitutes of is seeking participants for its Active Mind study, which itively impact Health’s (NIH) our lives and the aims to reduce dementia risk through brain training.

National Inlives of future stitute on Aging generations.” which will allow The Active Mind them to continue study examines their groundbreakwhether computering work in deized brain training mentia prevention. can reduce the risk Their clinical research study is called of dementia. Dementia prevention reActive Mind. search takes on increased urgency, as no If you are 65 years or older or if you proven treatments exist to cure Alzheihave mild cognitive impairment, you mer’s disease, the most common form of may join them in the fight in dementia dementia, which affects more than 5 milprevention. People who do not have de- lion Americans. mentia, such as Alzheimer’s disease, and The Active Mind study builds on rehave not had a stroke or serious brain search by the study scientists showing injury but do have some problems with that certain computerized brain training memory may qualify. Participants who may reduce risk of dementia by 29-48 are African American or Hispanic Amer- percent across 10 years. ican are especially needed as particiActive Mind participants will be asked pants. African Americans and Hispanic to complete the in-person study visits Americans are at an increased risk for across two years and complete at least 40 dementia, including Alzheimer’s disease. hours of computerized exercises. Enrolled Community participation is critical to study participants will receive a free the success of this study. According to iPad®. If you are interested in the Active Dr. Jennifer O’Brien, associate professor Mind study, you may participate at either of psychology and investigator of the St. the University of South Florida St. PetersPetersburg campus, “Research suggests burg or Tampa campuses. that delaying the onset of dementia by For more information, visit https:// a single year would result in millions of activemindstudy.com/ or call 727-873fewer cases over the next 30 years. By 4090.

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Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

Volume 21, Issue 11

EVERY KID OUTDOORS PROGRAM PROVIDES FOURTH GRADERS FREE ACCESS TO NATIONAL PARKS

By Jane Owen Do you have a fourth grader this school year or know someone who does? If so, this year is the perfect time for a trip to visit a national park. As part of the government’s Every Kid Outdoors program, fourth graders and their families can get free access to hundreds of parks for an entire year.

Park entry is free with a pass from the program. The pass is valid for the duration of the fourth grade school year through the following summer (September through August) and it is available for all U.S. fourth graders, including homeschooled and free choice learners. The pass grants access to up to three adults and all kids traveling with the fourth grader.

To get the pass, either a parent or a teacher needs to help the fourth grader navigate the https://everykidoutdoors. gov/ website. There the student will fill in a short fill-in-the-blank story and enter their zip code, after which they will be given a pass that can be printed and used for entry. Note, the pass must be printed out for access.

Fourth grade teachers can ensure their

students get passes. The website contains an educator area where fourth grade educators can download an activity and print paper passes for each student.

Debi Dowd, a fourth grade teacher at Cimino Elementary in Valrico, loves the Every Kid Outdoors program and the ease of using its website.

“It’s super easy and engaging to use. I’ve already printed off passes for each kid in my class and the lessons that are offered in a variety of topics, such as Exploring Federal Lands and Waters, Environmental Stewardship, Our Nations Native Peoples and Citizen Science. I love that there is information for both parents and educators,” Dowd said.

Every Kid Outdoors was created so fourth graders and their families could discover the wildlife, resources and history of the United States for free. The program was first launched as Every Kid in a Park in 2015 and has been authorized by Congress through 2026. Detailed information about the passes and an area for exploring parks and sites to visit is available on the Every Kid Outdoors website at https://everykidoutdoors.gov/.

FEATURING: K.C. Coastal Arena Events: Rodeo, Truck & Tractor Pull, Demo-Derby Carnival Rides & Games by Dreamland Amusements Livestock Show & Auction, Crafting & Arts Exhibition Food, Fair Treats & More

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For Hours, Schedules and Advance Tickets, Visit: HillsboroughCountyFair.com 215 Sydney Washer Rd., Dover

Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

November 2023

Page 51

SCHOLARSHIP OPENS NEW DOORS FOR JOB SEEKERS

TAMPA MUSEUM OF ART WELCOMES FRONTIERS OF IMPRESSIONISM

By Brad Stager

The Tampa The exhibiMuseum of Art tion not only will host a new traces the exhibit called roots of ImFrontiers of Impressionism pressionism: in 19th-cenPaintings from tury France the Worcester but also its Art Museum. expansion The exhibit is to Europe, on view now the United through JanStates and uary 7, 2024. beyond.

The Tampa Museum of Art welcomes a new exhibition The exhibition, Visitors can which paints a featuring Impressionists works of art from the Worcester Art i m m e r s e Museum’s collection. This marks the exhibit’s Southern debut in vivid picture of themselves the first leg of an international tour. the global exin the pansion and influence of Impressionism, groundbreaking artistic techniques, includshowcases 53 works by renowned artists, ing the penchant for ‘en plein air’ (outdoor) including Claude Monet, Pierre-Auguste painting and the distinct brushwork that Renoir, Camille Pissarro, Mary Cassatt and characterized the movement. more.

A section of the exhibition takes a speA unique aspect of the Tampa Museum cial look at the unique American rendition of Art’s showing is that many of these of Impressionism, from its manifestation pieces will be displayed for the first time in landscapes of the American West to its outside of the Worcester Art Museum in presence in New England. Frontiers of ImMassachusetts. This offers visitors a fresh pressionism offers a panoramic view of a look at historic works. movement that forever changed the world Michael Tomor, the Penny and Jeff Vinik of art. executive director of the Tampa Museum For a deeper look into the works of art of Art, said, “Presenting these Impression- that make up the exhibit, the Tampa Museist masterpieces is a testament to art’s um of Art will offer related programming, enduring ability to challenge and redefine including docent-led tours and special conventions. Their significance transcends events throughout the duration of the exaesthetic appeal, offering Tampa Bay au- hibition. diences a crucial education on how art The Tampa Museum of Art is located at breaks from tradition.”

120 W. Gasparilla Plaza in downtown TamTomor added, “Thanks to our recent gal- pa. The museum is open Monday through lery renovations, we are positioned better Sunday from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. and on Thursthan ever to introduce larger-scale exhibi- days from 10 a.m.-8 p.m. tions, such as Frontiers of Impressionism, For a full list of events and additional which enrich educational experiences for details, please visit https://tampamuseum. our community.” org/.

Learning a new skill ed by an Open Door that is in demand by Scholarship is the employers is one way instruction received to get ahead, and it as a clinical medical is made easier by a assistant student.

Florida Department of The scholarship has Education scholarship a value of $3,299 and program that is availtrains students to able at Hillsborough Hillsborough Community College’s Bran- perform basic mediCommunity College. don campus offers a variety of educational cal practice functions Students who comsuch as preparing opportunities. plete a course of inpatients to be examstruction through the ined or receive treatOpen Door Scholarments. ship Program can gain Instruction is procertification of their vided by the Institute skills in fields such as information tech- for Corporate and Continuing Education, nology and health care. The scholarships which works with local industry and edare funded through the Department of ucation leaders to develop programs to Education and are intended to enable train a workforce that can support the students to complete short courses that Tampa Bay area’s growing economy and lead to obtaining credentials required for population. some jobs. The goal is to develop skills in The institute is celebrating its 25th workers that can provide a prosperous year of providing workforce training, and future for them while fulfilling the needs its director, Ryan Buckthorpe, said the of businesses for trained employees. challenges of creating training programs The scholarships cover 100 percent that meet the needs of businesses and of costs associated with credentialing workers are exciting. courses, with the objective being to ulti“When local businesses have told us mately find employment in a related job. about a talent gap or a need, we have Scholarships can be used to pay for tui- worked with them to develop a new protion, fees, exams, books and related ma- gram and located interested students. terials. Vouchers required to take indus- When we recognized our students were try certification exams are also included. facing financial difficulties with achieving Health care courses included in the pro- their dreams, we collaborated with our gram provide training as a clinical medi- local community to locate tuition fundcal assistant or licensed massage thera- ing.” pist. Students can train for information You can find out more about the Open technology jobs such as certified cloud or Door Scholarship Program by visiting CompTIA A+ professionals. www.tampatraining.com or calling 813One example of the benefits provid- 259-6010.

By Kathy L. Collins

FINANCIAL FOCUS

DON’T LEAVE YOUR IRA TO THE IRS

$1

WINGnSly Dine in O

If you’ve invested in an IRA for many decades, it may well turn into a key source of income for your retirement. Still, you might not deplete your IRA in your lifetime, especially if you also have a pension or a 401(k) and other investment income. So, if your IRA still has sizable assets after your passing, it would likely end up in your estate plan. If you leave your IRA to grown children or other family members, could they be hit with a big tax bill?

Here’s a little background: Up until the Secure Act of 2019, those who inherited traditional IRAs could extend their required withdrawals over their lifetimes, which stretched out the annual taxes due on these withdrawals. But the Secure Act changed the provisions for non-spouse beneficiaries who inherited an IRA after 2019, meaning that beneficiaries of inherited IRAs had only 10 years (beginning the year after death) to withdraw the entire balance. For some beneficiaries, this could potentially create a tax burden. (Inheritors of Roth IRAs are also required to follow the 10-year distribution rule but are not subject to income taxes on account earnings if the Roth IRA’s five-year holding period has been met).

However, not all beneficiaries were affected by the new rules. Spouses can stretch their inherited IRA distributions over their lifetimes and exceptions exist for certain non-spouse beneficiaries. Minor children of the IRA owner (until the age of majority), chronically ill or disabled individuals, and beneficiaries who are no more than 10 years younger than the IRA owner may opt to stretch their distributions.

The new 10-year requirement applies to IRAs inherited on or after Jan. 1, 2020. But due to confusion over changes to required minimum distribution (RMD) rules for some beneficiaries of inherited IRAs, the IRS waived

penalties for individuals who failed to take RMDs in 2021 and 2022 and extended the RMD penalty waiver for 2023.

Although these rulings give beneficiaries — those not eligible for the exemptions listed above — more time to plan, they will eventually need to start taking RMDs, which could affect their tax situations. To help protect your heirs, consider these suggestions: • Using permanent life insurance. A properly structured permanent life insurance policy could help you replace the assets your family might lose to the taxes resulting from an inherited IRA. You might even consider naming a charity as the beneficiary of an IRA, rather than your family members. The charity would receive the IRA proceeds tax free, and the life insurance could then provide tax-free benefits to your heirs.

• Leaving taxable investment accounts to your heirs.

Apart from your tax-deferred IRA, you may own other, fully taxable accounts containing investments such as stocks or bonds. Typically, these investments receive what’s known as a “step-up” in their cost basis once they are inherited. This means your heirs will essentially inherit all the gains your investments earned by the time of your passing — but they won’t be taxed on these gains if they sell the assets immediately. This type of sale could help offset the taxes your heirs will incur from the inherited IRA. The tax and investment issues surrounding inherited IRAs can be complex, so consult with your tax and financial advisors before making any moves. And, as with many areas relating to inheritances, the sooner you start planning, the better.

This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor.

Article 6 – Oct. 23, 2023

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Page 52

Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

Volume 21, Issue 11

BAY AREA LEGAL SERVICES HARVEST OF HOPE COLLECTION OFFERS LAWYERS HELPING KIDS PROGRAMBy Kathy L. Collins

Bay Area Legal ing issues (inServices is a lecluding evictions gal aid program and Section 8), that provides public benefits free legal help and employto low-income ment. residents in the Boles said, Tampa Bay area.

“Lawyers HelpBay Area Legal ing Kids was Services was founded to profounded in 1967. Since 1967, Bay Area Legal Services has been offering vide critically As part of its mis- free legal help for civil cases to residents of the Tampa needed civil lesion to provide Bay Area. Since 2013, Bay Area Legal Services has had gal services to free civil legal the Lawyers Helping Kids program to specifically help low-income famfamilies with young children. services to disilies of Hillsboradvantaged resiough County.” dents, Bay Area Legal There are approxiServices offers a promately 10 attorneys gram known as Lawwho work in the proyers Helping Kids. gram. In any given Lawyers Helping year, Bay Area Legal Kids was started in 2013. Joan Boles, depu- Services will assist 270 families through ty director of Bay Area Legal Services, has this program. been involved with the Lawyers Helping Bay Area Legal Services provides free leKids program since its inception. Boles has gal help to residents in five area counties. been with Bay Area Legal Services for 35 In our area, they have two offices. One is years. located in Plant City and the other is located Boles said, “Lawyers Helping Kids pro- in Ruskin. vides free high-quality civil legal services to The Lawyers Helping Kids program reeligible Hillsborough County families. Bay ceives funding from the Children’s Board Area Legal Services also provides free in- of Hillsborough County, the Legal Services terpreters for those who need it.”

Corporation and the Florida Bar Foundation.

To be eligible for the program, families Boles said, “Lawyers Helping Kids is must pass the low income threshold. Fam- grateful for the support and funding by the ilies who are helped would include someone Children’s Board of Hillsborough County.” who is pregnant or at least one child through If you or someone you know needs help the fifth grade. The types of cases that Bay with a civil law issue, you can apply online Area Legal Services assists with through at https://bals.org/ or call 800-625-2256. this program include family law cases with If you would like to help, please make a or without domestic violence, kinship, hous- donation at https://bals.org/support.

HOPE FOR HER DONATIONS NEEDED FOR HARVEST OF HOPE FOOD BOXES

Staff Report Harvest of Hope is an annual event during the month of November that provides Thanksgiving food boxes to families in the Eastern Hillsborough County community.

Our generous community looks forward to the fall season as a reminder to appreciate all that is good in life.

However, many neighbors struggle this time of year. It is a reminder that many families, friends and neighbors are facing challenges and lack the resources needed to overcome these obstacles. It is difficult to have gratitude when life is tough financially, emotionally and relationally.

The community can help by partnering with Hope for Her in the month of October and providing needed nonperishable food for the Harvest of Hope event.

“This event has become a tradition that we look forward to participating in each year,” said community coordinator Kellie Swezey. “It’s an easy way for businesses in our community to offer care, options and assistance for families who are struggling to purchase basic needs.”

Hope for Her will be collecting donations in the month of October to be distributed to families in the month of November. It is through the generosity of many in the community that we will care for fellow neighbors.

Hope for Her is a safe place where women experiencing crisis and trauma find the strength, skills and support they

need to rebuild their best lives. It is made possible from the support of private donations of corporations, businesses and concerned individuals of the Brandon market and its surrounding communities.

Below please find a list of the needs as well as the drop-off locations. Prayerfully consider donating to Harvest of Hope.

Needs: Canned fruit, canned vegetables, canned meat, pasta, pasta sauces, peanut butter, jelly, ravioli, mac and cheese and $10 gift cards for turkey.

Drop-off Locations: Hope for Her, 140 Yarbrough Rd. in Brandon — Monday through Thursday, 9 a.m.-4 p.m.

Osprey Observer, 2109 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. in Valrico — Monday through Friday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.

Bay Life Church, 1017 Kingsway Rd. in Brandon — Monday through Thursday, 9 a.m.-4 p.m., and Sunday, 9 a.m.-12 Noon.

New Hope Church, 213 N. Knights Ave. in Brandon — Monday through Thursday, 9 a.m.-4 p.m., and Sunday, 9 a.m.-12 Noon.

Runnels Insurance Agency, 3220 Bell Shoals Rd. in Brandon — Monday through Friday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.

Vine Vegan, 2080 Badlands Dr. in Brandon — Sunday, 11 a.m.-4 p.m.; Monday, 11 a.m.-6 p.m.; and Tuesday through Saturday, 10 a.m.-8 p.m.

Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

November 2023

Page 53

YOU MATTER TO ME & LOCAL NEIGHBORS HELP MIGRANT FAMILIES THROUGH COMMUNITY DONATIONS, GARAGE SALES & PROGRAMS

Staff Report

Delma White, You Matter to Me advocate, takes care of the migrant students at Pinecrest Elementary School and recently delivered a washing machine to a family in need.

Bevis 4th grade student Rhett Gilmore collected toys and book donations from the recent community garage sale in FishHawk to help stuff the bus for RCMA via Linda Bird.

Claudio Aguilera and Linda Bird next to the school bus that was recently filled with donations for the children in need at the RCMA Mulberry Community Academy.

A mom and her young family (standing by fields where she works) were recently gifted a table with some toys thanks to You Matter to Me.

A mother and her children arrive to register for support services in a community where she will be working in the strawberry fields. Imagine their joy when they are invited to pick out toys and clothes and other necessities to get established in their new community.

Farm workers and their families have a hard life, planting and picking food destined for our tables. Long working days, challenging living conditions and traveling to pick the next field all contribute to a transient life with disruptions in education and other obstacles preventing them from escaping poverty. FishHawk and its compassionate neighbors have enabled many families to receive gently used donations of furniture, appliances, clean clothing and shoes, children’s books, bicycles, toys and so much more to help meet basic needs and bring joy to their lives. Two FishHawk residents

leading this effort are Linda Bird and Barbara Howard, and they are helping two vulnerable groups in different but extremely meaningful ways.

Howard began volunteering with Hillsborough County Public Schools’ Migrant Education Program in March 2021. By April 2022, with overwhelming community support, she started the Facebook page You Matter to Me - Lithia, FL. It is an all-ages, all-volunteer group supporting students and their families who qualify for the federal Title I Migrant Education Program for ages 3-21. You Matter to Me helps provide basic needs identified by staff (beds, clothing, etc.) while also reaching out directly to students in the program with projects designed for each grade level. Last year, projects touched over 2,400 migrant students in our school district with two in-person events.

Bird, a volunteer child advocate from Fort Lauderdale, moved to FishHawk three years ago and learned from Howard where some of the need is in the community. Bird has teamed up with RCMA, a nonprofit organization operating to help families from crib to high school with 66 child care centers, 19 family child care homes and three charter schools in 21 Florida counties.

Weekly donations are delivered from FishHawk to the child care centers, where families in need can ‘shop’ for free for necessities. Large donated items have been picked up directly by the staff and families.

Both efforts operate solely on donations and volunteers, and they would like to thank the FishHawk community and beyond for embracing the migrant community with donations and countless hours of service.

Thank you to Carousel Kids Consignment and the Newsome Chorus for their gen-

erous donations to RCMA, and thank you to FishHawk-Riverview Rotary, FishHawk Storage, U-Haul corporate, The Junior League of Tampa, I Support the Girls - Tampa Bay, Girl Scout and Boy Scout troops, church groups and school clubs for their support of the Hillsborough County Public Schools’ Migrant Education Program and You Matter to Me. In a joint statement, both Bird and Howard explained, “We want workers and their families to know that we see them and appreciate the grueling work they do. We want to provide them with a little bit of encouragement and support while they are in our area and know that there are people out there who care.”

For more information, please visit You Matter to Me - Lithia, FL on Facebook to connect with Howard or email birdrealty@ aol.com to connect with Bird.

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Page 54

Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

Volume 21, Issue 11

TAMPA BAY HEAT ARCHERY PROGRAM OFFERS AREAS LARGEST NATIONAL TEAM

By Lily Belcher The Tampa Bay Home Academic Archer badge.

Education Activities The badge was earned Teams (HEAT) Archery by demonstrating acprogram will offer comademic success in the petitive team archery at program and on the arelementary, middle and chery range. This award high school levels for is used to recognize and the first time this school promote success in the year. classroom while particTampa Bay HEAT Aripating in the program. chery is a homeschool Jillian Rambis and Nathan Cook were “David Dlugo is the awarded scholarships after becoming archery program and head coach and a giant the top shooters in the high school diviis the largest National reason for the program’s sion of a state championship.

Archery in the Schools success. He encouragProgram (NASP) team es the kids to compete in Florida. Through HEAT but never at the expense Archery, Bay-area homeof being unethical. He is schooled students have always positive and excitaccess to athletic and acaed and creates a culture demic support as they purwithin the program that is sue success in competitive unmatched,” Ledford said. archery.

The nine volunteer staff “HEAT Archery provides members for Tampa Bay Landon Ledford was awarded lifelong lessons in sportsHEAT Archery are NASP manship, teamwork, per- first in the middle school division Basic Archery Instructor of a state championship. severance, goal-setting (BAI) certified. and self-discipline. HEAT Archery strongly To further support their athletes, the believes we conduct ourselves as a positive coaches turned toward a collection of parreflection of our faith, and this is built into ent-run committees, something implementour mission statement,” marketing commit- ed this year to keep up with the program’s tee member Tonya Ledford said. growth.

Tampa Bay HEAT Archery won a state The success in 2023 prompted a huge inchampionship in February for the first time crease in the program’s enrollment. Now, the in the program’s history. Junior Jillian Ram- program has around 120 students to fill all bis and senior Nathan Cook won the female three competitive levels. With the growth of and male top archer awards and $5,000 the teams, HEAT Archery plans to enter 3D scholarships with their overall score of 289 shooting divisions. However, the program each. Eighth grader Landon Ledford earned needs to purchase 3D targets for its archers the top spot in the middle school division to practice on in the program. with a score of 280.

For more information and sponsorship All three top archers were awarded an info, visit www.tampabayheat.org/sports.

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Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

November 2023

THE CHILDREN’S BOARD OF

HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY SELECTS NEW EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

By Kathy L. Collins The Children’s Board of velopment. Bacon joined Hillsborough County has the Children’s Board 16 selected a new executive years ago as the managdirector. Rebecca Bacon er of the Administrative will replace Kelley Parris, Services Organization who served as the ex(ASO) and was later ecutive director for the promoted to director of Children’s Board for 10 the Administrative Seryears. Bacon assumed vices Organization. In the post of executive dithis role, she managed rector as of October 1. and developed a full-serThe Children’s Board vice fiscal intermediary of Hillsborough County that funds individualized was established in 1988 services for children and after the Juvenile Wel- Rebecca Bacon, who has more than their families.

30 years of experience in children’s fare Services Act was “I am honored and services, is now the new executive passed by the Florida director for the Children’s Board of humbled for the opporLegislature and signed tunity to serve as the exHillsborough County. by the governor in 1986 ecutive director with the pursuant to Florida Statute 125.901. This Children’s Board of Hillsborough County,” enabling legislation provided that any said Bacon. “I look forward to working county in Florida, whose voters agreed collaboratively with our team and comthrough referendum, could create a spe- munity partners to ensure every child has cial taxing district for children’s services access to the resources and opportunities with a governing board and the authority they need to thrive.” to levy ad valorem taxes.

Bacon added, “The Children’s Board is The mission of the Children’s Board of a true gem with the incredible mission Hillsborough County is to invest in qual- of investing in partnerships and qualiity programs to support the success of ty programs to support the success of all children and families in Hillsborough all children and families in Hillsborough County. The board invests in programs and County. As the newly appointed executive services that ensure children are healthy director, I am honored to work with our and safe, developmentally on track, have talented staff and community partners family support and are ready to learn and to improve child and family outcomes in succeed. In 2022, the Children’s Board in- the areas of health and safety, child develvested $50 million in grants to over 66 opment, early school success and family nonprofits and 110 different programs support.” that help children and families.

For more information on the Children’s Bacon has more than 30 years of ex- Board of Hillsborough County, please visit perience in children’s services with an www.childrensboard.org or call 813-229emphasis on program and resource de- 2884.

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Page 56

Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

Volume 21, Issue 11

Stay Healthy This Fall IT’S THAT TIME OF YEAR AGAIN! We can all enjoy hiking, playing golf and a game of tennis or pickleball. It is also the time of year when injuries and accidents can occur.

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