By OLIVIA GIFFORD and DENISE WATSON BATTS
Published May 7, 2004
HISTORIC HYDE PARK - The developer of a proposed Bayshore Boulevard high-rise hasn't given up.
Citivest Corp. filed an appeal with the City Council last week after the city's Architectural Review Commission ruled against its site plans.
It contends the ARC's decision violates the developer's right to procedural due process and was not based on competent and substantial evidence. Citivest is asking for a June 3 hearing.
Citivest wants to build a 24-story condominium project on the corner of Bayshore Boulevard and DeSoto Avenue. The ARC and neighbors said the proposed building was too large for the lot.
The developer also returned to the ARC's meeting Monday night to present different drawings of the building. If the developer could show a "substantial" difference from the previous request, the board could grant Citivest public hearings on the new design. But the board ruled that the revised version did not meet the bar.
Daughters of American Revolution host welcome
SOUTH TAMPA - The Tampa chapter of the National Society of the Daughters of the American Revolution will have a new members tea at 2 p.m. May 15 at the South Tampa home of Gail Crosby. The event is free but reservations are required.
DAR is open to any woman older than 18 who can prove lineal descent from a patriot of the American Revolution. Members volunteer in patriotic, educational and historical events. Call Crosby for information and directions at 386-8997.
Weekend of Indian food, dance, music and art
DOWNTOWN - Enjoy a weekend of fun at the Lotus Room Gallery, 1101 W Kennedy Blvd. A meet and greet with artist Shyama Rangwala will be from 7 to 10 tonight. Doug Werner will play sitar music and a sampling of Indian food and refreshments will be served. On Saturday, participate in a day of Indian culture from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. with music and dance performances, henna tattoos, jewelry and clothing sales, and food by Ganesh Market. Free. Call 254-6777.
Seniors: Learn drug options at conference
BEACH PARK - Did you know that Florida offers a free prescription drug program for seniors? Want to know what funding is available in the Tampa area? These questions and others will be answered at the We Care Services' first health care conference from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. Thursday at the Centre Club, 123 S West Shore Blvd.
The free event coincides with National Cover the Uninsured Week. Dr. Bonita Sorensen, deputy secretary of the Florida Department of Health, will be the featured speaker.
We Care Services is a nonprofit, community service agency that provides free and low-cost house cleaning, yard pickup and other assistance to elderly, disabled and homebound clients. Call 268-4040.
Host foreign exchange guests for one week in fall
PALM HARBOR - The Friendship Force of the Florida Suncoast is planning cultural exchanges with fellow clubs in Ghana in September and Costa Rica in October. During the exchanges, visiting club members stay in the homes of local families for a week. The club arranges for activities such as a welcoming banquet, picnics, visits to historical sites and Busch Gardens. The club is looking for hosts for about 15 visiting ambassadors for each exchange. Friendship Force has more than 350 clubs worldwide with more than 40,000 members. For information, call Dave Grimm at (727) 785-2342.
