Riverview/ Apollo Beach
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June 2025 Volume 23, Issue 6
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CELEBRATING 23 YE ARS OF PUBLISHING POSITIVE COMMUNITY NEWS
$99,000 REASONS TO CELEBRATE: PUBLIC INVITED TO HELP SHAPE THE FUTURE OF VALRICO AND RIVERVIEW FREEDOM PLAZA AWARDS 33 By Brian Bokor SCHOLARSHIPS TO EMPLOYEES Staff Report
A map showing the proposed boundaries of the Riverview (left) and Valrico (right) Community Plan areas, including major roads.
without the encouragement and support I’ve received here at Freedom Plaza.” To qualify, employees must work at least 200 hours a year, maintain a C average, obtain a supervisor recommendation and submit a personal essay that outlines career and life goals. Freedom Plaza remains a leading example in the senior living industry — showing how intergenerational partnerships between residents and staff can foster a culture of community, education and long-term success. About Freedom Plaza Freedom Plaza is a vibrant Life Care community in Sun City Center set on 140 acres of landscaped grounds. It features a private lake, walking trails and an 18-hole executive golf course and putting green. Just minutes from both Tampa and Sarasota, residents enjoy a maintenance-free retirement lifestyle with resort-inspired services and amenities. Freedom Plaza’s pet-friendly community features over 400 independent living residences ranging from studio to one and two-bedroom apartment residences. It also offers assisted living residences; skilled nursing, including private rehabilitation suites; and memory care.
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Freedom Plaza proudly awarded $3,000 scholarships to 33 employees, totaling $99,000 in aid, on May 15. The scholarships were made possible through a resident-supported golf tournament and the incredible generosity of the Freedom Plaza community, via the Freedom Plaza Scholarship Fund Inc. The event, held in Freedom Plaza’s auditorium, was filled to near capacity with residents, staff, families and friends — all gathered to celebrate the commitment of these young professionals and the supportive environment that defines the Freedom Plaza community. “These scholarships are more than just financial assistance,” said Dave Lowe, president of the Freedom Plaza Scholarship Fund Inc. “They provide mentorship, hope and the tools to build a successful future.” Among the highlights of the event was featured speaker Melissa S., now in her fifth year as a scholarship recipient. She shared her moving journey toward earning a master’s degree in speech therapy, made possible through ongoing support from the Freedom Plaza community. “This program has changed my life,” said Melissa. “I wouldn’t be on this path
Residents of Valrico and Riverview have an important opportunity to shape the future of their communities. The Planning Commission is working with local residents on two major efforts: the Valrico Community Plan and the Riverview Community Plan Update. The new Valrico Community Plan is moving forward to the board of county commissioners for public hearings in August and November. This proposed plan outlines a vision, four goals and 17 strategies focused on infrastructure, development, mobility and the environment and recreation. “The creation of the Valrico Community Plan has been a long-term collaborative effort between Planning Commission staff and the Valrico residents,” said Andrea Papandrew, AICP, Planning Commission senior planner. “Community plans are shaped by public input and we appreciate the time and considerable effort of the Valrico residents.” The first public hearing, known as the Transmittal Hearing, will take place on Thursday, August 14, at 6 p.m. on the second floor of the Frederick B. Karl County Center, located at 601 E. Kennedy Blvd. in Tampa. The second hearing, the Adoption Hearing, is scheduled for Thursday, November 13, at 6 p.m., also on the second floor. Residents are encouraged to attend both hearings and take part in the process. Anyone interested in speaking should visit www.hcfl.gov/government/meeting-information/sign-up-to-speak-at-a-meeting and, under “Information Pages,” select the fourth option, which relates to Comprehensive Plan Amendment (CPA) public hearings. The pro-
posed Valrico Plan travels through the hearing process/schedule as a CPA. Visit the Valrico Community Plan page at https://planhillsborough.org/planvalrico/ for meeting information. Meanwhile, the Riverview Community Plan Update is also underway. The board of county commissioners has asked Planning Commission staff to update the original 2005 Riverview Community Plan in conjunction with the Tampa Hillsborough Expressway Authority (THEA), which is conducting a separate study to extend the Lee Roy Selmon Expressway south through Riverview. This process gives residents a chance to identify the challenges and opportunities facing their community and to work together to create a new, shared vision for the future. The first round of community meetings took place in late March and early April. For those who were unable to attend, there are still opportunities to participate. Two surveys are currently open and accepting input, including one that focuses specifically on the U.S. 301 district. Future community meetings will provide the results of these surveys and offer additional opportunities for public input. In addition, staff are available to give presentations at HOA or community group meetings. “Community plans are citizen input driven, whether it’s transportation, land use, environment or economic development, your voice matters,” said Papandrew. To get involved or learn more, visit the Riverview Community Plan Update page at https://planhillsborough.org/planriverview/.
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The Hillsborough County Veterans Memorial Park and Rear Admiral LeRoy Collins, Jr. Veterans Museum stands as a meaningful commemoration of the dedication of U.S. military personnel. This expansive park provides an area for contemplation, learning and communal events, paying tribute to the sacrifices of veterans. See page 14 for the full article.
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