My Witness. As Dog Is
A Gathering Space Created For Conversation, Connection and Community Change. words by Anna Cooke ~ Photograph by Jacqui Silla
THE PORTICO CAFÉ in downtown Tampa is a coffee shop with a mission: to help homeless citizens rebuild their lives. Some of the Café’s employees have or are transi- tioning out of not-for-profits, off the streets and into some kind of affordable housing. “We pay them a livable wage and provide healthcare,” said its director, Reverend Justin LaRosa. The property on which The Portico Cafe sits was the site of Tampa’s first church, First United Methodist Church of Tampa, built in 1846. In 1890, the bell tower was built, making it the highest point in Tampa. Famed pilot Tony Jannus used the tower as a marker. An extension of the Hyde Park
United Methodist Church, The Portico is becoming a vibrant gathering place for the downtown community. “I like calling it Tampa’s front porch. We’re envisioning fes- tivals, concerts, social and interest group gatherings as well as community service projects,” said LaRosa. The Portico is com- mitted to enhancing the social, artistic and
52 THE NEW BARKER
spiritual fabric of Tampa through the Café, and also through Homeless Initiatives, Art and Silent Meditation. By the way, it’s also a great place to enjoy a specialty coffee or tea beverage. If you’re hungry, stop by for breakfast, lunch or something sweet. Your mind and soul will also be nourished by the art, architecture and friendliness of the Café’s staff. The covered outdoor seating area is perfect for people dining with their dogs.
Rev. LaRosa loves dogs. He has lived
with two Beagles and always wanted a yel- low Labrador Retriever he could name Karl, after the character played by Billy Bob Thornton in the movie Sling Blade. “I have a habit of affectionately calling
everyone Karl,” said LaRosa. “So, I wanted a dog I could call Karl.” Working with Florida All Retriever Rescue, the LaRosa family found the dog they wanted to adopt. Or, as Divine Intervention would have it, perhaps the dog found them. In any event, the Australian Shepherd/Labrador mix was
dubbed Karl. “In the dictionary, under the definition of ‘laid back,’ you’ll find a picture of Karl,” laughed LaRosa. “Seriously though, he is a really great dog. He’s helped me a lot. He loves my kids, Bella and Russell, and they love him. When I bring him to work, he greets everyone, then heads to my office. We hit Dog Gold when we adopted him,” said the Reverend.
U
The Portico Cafe Breakfast served all day. Hours: Monday - Thursday, 7a-7p; Friday, 7a-9p; Saturday, 8a-9p. Closed on Sunday. 1001 North Florida Avenue, Tampa.
813.222.CAFE (2233)
ThePortico.org
Florida All Retriever Rescue (FARR) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit, all volunteer rescue organization dedicated to saving the lives of unwanted and neglected Retrievers throughout Florida. Email:
AdoptFromFarr@Yahoo.com
www.TheNewBarker.com
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