Citizens in our community, our country and throughout the world have been coping with the psychological, physical and economic effects of COVID-19 for the past two months or more. For veterans and first responders suffering from post-traumatic stress, the struggle is even greater. Two local non-profit organizations have stepped up to the challenge to assist veterans in overcoming the additional stresses of COVID-19.
Veterans HEAT Factory Holds Discussion on PTSD
by SARAH NACHIN
On Friday, Nov. 22, 2019 the Veterans HEAT Factory sponsored a free “Lunch and Learn” at the Joni Industries Building. It was open to veterans, first responders and anyone else interested in learning more about PTSD and what many of these public servants go through, as well as how to help them with these issues.
The Siloam Lodge #399 of Freemasons hosted the 2nd Annual Veterans’ Appreciation March on Veterans’ Day, Monday, November 11, 2019. Together with members of the Family Readiness Group and 185th Helicopter Battalion, the group began at Veteran’s Memorial Park in Spring Hill and walked 2.5 miles to their destination at Rookie’s Sports Bar and Grill to enjoy an evening of food, drinks and music.
The group hosted a raffle and games to encourage the community to join in, and the proceeds directly benefit the efforts of the groups to assist Veterans and their families.
Local Hernando County Marine Veteran and retired Hernando County Teacher has been selected as one of thirty finalists in the Florida Museum of Photographic Arts competition. David Harris is a member of the Timber Pines Community veterans group of Spring Hill and Life member of The Spring Hill Marine Corps League Detachment #708. Mr. Harris’ photo was chosen as one of thirty finalists from hundreds of submissions. Photos may be viewed on display at the Museum’s LED screen at the museum in Tampa for ninety days.
On Friday, April 26 the Veterans HEAT Factory is holding a free Lunch and Learn from 11:00 a.m. to 1 p.m. The program will take place at the Joni Industries Building - 16230 Aviation Loop Drive. Chick-fil-A will provide a free lunch.
Weeki Wachee Weekend Warrior Challenge
A worthy cause and challenging event took to the streets of Spring Hill on Saturday, May 2nd. Rucksack toting runners took off from their starting line on Mariner Boulevard on a 22 mile urban course for the first “Remembering 22 Rucking Event”. At each mile mark, 22 reps of 22 different exercises were completed by each of the athletes. The event captured the curiosity of onlookers and prompted questions, which was exactly the objective of the run.
