Mother’s Day is a holiday honoring motherhood that is observed in different forms throughout the world. In the United States, Mother’s Day 2026 falls on Sunday, May 10. The American incarnation of Mother’s Day was created by Anna Jarvis in 1908 and became an official U.S. holiday in 1914. Jarvis would later denounce the holiday’s commercialization and spend the latter part of her life trying to remove it from the calendar. While dates and celebrations vary, Mother’s Day traditionally involves presenting moms with flowers, cards and other gifts. | | Armed Forces Day is a U.S. holiday celebrated on the third Saturday of May to honor Americans currently serving in all branches of the military—Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, Coast Guard, and Space Force. Established in 1949, it replaces individual branch days to promote unity, often marked by parades, air shows, and community engagements. | | Chair Hagan presented the Ellsworth G. Simmons Good Government Award to Sheriff Chad Chronister. | | Commissioner Myers presents a proclamation to Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc. declaring May 6, 2026, as the Twentieth Annual Delta Day. | | |
1) The Board approved a resolution amending the Adopted FY 26 - FY 31 Capital Improvement Program to add the following new CIP projects: Power Outage Emergency Beacons - CDBG-DR, Low Pressure Sewer System - CDBG-DR, and Flood Mitigation - Environmental Land Restoration - CDBG-DR.
2) The Board approved the FY 26 budget amendment resolution to appropriate a total of $208,400,496 within the BOCC - 13580-25 CDBG-DR Grant Fund to provide $185,036,608 for the County's CDBG-DR Single-Family Housing Program direct assistance, $17,302,588 for BDO Government Services, LLC (BDO) for consulting and payment processing services, and $1,316,045 for personnel expenditures related to this program.
3) The Board approved scheduling a Public Hearing for the Hillsborough County Public Utilities, Solid Waste Management Enterprise, for June 3, 2026, to adopt the annual Solid Waste System's assessments, fees, rates, and charges.
4) The Board conducted the first of two required public hearings to consider the adoption of a resolution expanding the geographic area of the County Seat beyond the City of Tampa to include all lands lying within the boundaries of Hillsborough County.
5) Commissioner Myers directed the Health Care Services Department to prepare an amendment to Resolution No. R99-176 in order to rename the Health Care Advisory Board as The John S. Curran, M.D. Health Care Advisory Board.
6) The Board received a report regarding fiscal impact, any potential grant or financing options, and outlined any potential next steps for Board consideration related to the concerns of residents of Sunset Manor in Lutz about significant infrastructure costs within their privately managed water system.
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The County Expands Evacuation Zones for the
2026 Hurricane Season
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It’s Hurricane Preparedness Week. Do you know your Hillsborough County evacuation zone?
The evacuation zones for Hillsborough County have changed for the 2026 hurricane season, and the evacuation zones impact more properties. This is a good time to review your evacuation zone before hurricane season begins June 1.
Visit HCFL.gov/HEAT and type in the address to learn if a property is in Zone A, B, C, D, or E. Zone A is the first to evacuate, along with all manufactured and mobile homes in the county. All manufactured and mobile homes are always included in Zone A even if they are inland.
Visit HCFL.gov/StaySafe to learn more about how to best prepare for hurricane season.
Residents and visitors can also sign up for HCFL Alert at HCFL.gov/Alert to get the latest information on hurricane evacuations, flood warnings, severe weather, major road closures, county events, and more.
View the maps to see the evacuation zone changes.
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County to Host 29th Annual
Memorial Day Observance
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Hillsborough County Veteran Community Services and the Veterans Council of Hillsborough County will host the County's 29th annual Memorial Day Observance on Sunday, May 24, at 10 a.m. at Veterans Memorial Park & Rear Admiral Collins, Jr. Veterans Museum, 3602 N. U.S. Hwy. 301, Tampa, FL 33619.
In addition to the annual “Garden of Gold” flag installation depicting the faces and service branches of local Gold Star Family members, the event will include remembrances of fallen heroes from Operation Epic Fury.
The 29th annual Memorial Day Observance will feature:
- Special guests including Maj. Gen. John Gronski, U.S. Army (Retired), and Command Chief Master Sgt. Christopher Ottenwess for the 6th Air Refueling Wing, MacDill Air Force Base, and American Gold Star Mothers
- Junior Reserve Officers' Training Corps (JROTC), rifle salute, and taps
- On-site resources for Veterans and military families
- Refreshments and fellowship following the outdoor amphitheater ceremony
Event attendees are encouraged to visit the monuments and Garden of Gold flag display.
For military families, Memorial Day is more than just the unofficial start of summer. Recent and ongoing operations overseas make the upcoming holiday a sensitive time for the military community, especially for Gold Star Families whose loved ones made the ultimate sacrifice. They ask that Americans reflect on the true meaning of Memorial Day: honoring those who gave their lives in service to our nation.
Hillsborough County’s Veterans Memorial Park is open daily from 7 a.m.-5 p.m., with free admission and parking. For more information, contact Hillsborough County Veteran Community Services at (813) 635-8316.
| | Ruby Jackson and Connie Hicks, Lead Coordinators for the Tampa Bay Black Heritage Festival | | On Saturday and Sunday, April 25-26, 2026, the Tampa Bay Black Heritage Festival was held in Tampa. I was delighted to attend with my family and enjoy the festivities with friends. The festival was a showcase of talent and creativity, featuring a diverse lineup of musical performances that resonated with attendees of all ages. From soulful melodies to energetic rhythms, the festival brought together local artists and national acts, creating an atmosphere that was both uplifting and unifying. In addition to the music, the festival provided a platform for local artisans and entrepreneurs to showcase their work. It was inspiring to see so many talented individuals sharing their crafts, from handmade jewelry to delicious culinary offerings. Supporting our local businesses is crucial, and events like this are a fantastic opportunity to foster economic growth within our community. | | |
Cora Dunkley, Founder of Cuddle Up and Read
along with Board Members and Student
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On Saturday, April 25, 2026, I gave greetings at the "Cuddle Up and Read" event, an extraordinary initiative hosted by the Children’s Board of Hillsborough County. This event brought together families, children, and community members for a day filled with stories, laughter, and a shared love of reading.
Cuddle Up and Read deserves commendation for organizing this remarkable event. Their commitment to promoting literacy and early childhood education is crucial for the development of our community. By creating opportunities for families to bond over books, we are laying the foundation for a brighter future for our children.
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Youth Entrepreneur
Innovative Academy Workshop
| | Idris Muhammad, Richard Muhammad, and Students | | On Saturday, April 25, 2026, I attended the Masjid an Nasr Entrepreneur Innovative Academy workshop in Tampa. The workshop brought together aspiring entrepreneurs, seasoned business owners, and industry experts, all eager to share knowledge and foster innovation. The agenda was thoughtfully curated, featuring interactive sessions on critical topics such as business strategy, funding opportunities, and the latest trends in technology and marketing. Each presentation was designed to equip participants with practical tools and insights that can be immediately applied to their ventures. | | Annual Derrick Brooks Charities Golf Weekend | | |
Karl Davis, Philanthropist; Melissa Moore, Ret. Colonel,
and Kawanna Brown, Major, HCSO
| | On Sunday, April 26, 2026, I had the pleasure of attending the Annual Derrick Brooks Charities Golf Weekend VIP Pairing Party hosted at the Hard Rock Event Center. This event not only celebrates the spirit of philanthropy but also brings together our community, local leaders, and sports legends for a noble cause. It was enlightening engaging with various local businesses and organizations that support the Derrick Brooks Charities' mission. Their commitment to giving back is commendable and reflects the values we hold dear in Hillsborough County. I encourage all residents to consider how they can contribute to initiatives that uplift our community. | | E.J. Salcines' Park Dedication | | Commissioner Harry Cohen and the Honorable E.J. Salcines and Spouse | | |
On Tuesday, April 28, 2026, I had the distinct honor of attending the dedication ceremony for EJ Salcines Park, hosted by the City of Tampa. The event was a celebration of community, resilience, and the profound impact that parks have on our neighborhoods.
EJ Salcines Park, named in tribute to a remarkable individual who dedicated his life to public service and community engagement, embodies the spirit of inclusivity and environmental stewardship. As I stood among fellow commissioners, community leaders, and residents, I was reminded of the importance of green spaces in fostering connections among our diverse populations. Parks serve not only as recreational hubs but also as vital platforms for community gatherings, cultural events, and educational programs.
| | Just Elementary School and Stewart Middle Magnet School Groundbreaking | | |
Henry "Shake" Washington, Board Member, Hillsborough County Public Schools
(HCPS); Commissioner Harry Cohen; Nadia Combs, Board Member, HCPS,
and Vany Ayres, Superintendent, HCPS
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On Tuesday, April 28, 2026, HCPS marked a historic milestone with the groundbreaking ceremony for the reconstruction of Stewart Middle Magnet School and Just Elementary School. District leadership, community leaders, stakeholders, and alumni of the beloved Howard W. Blake High School gathered to celebrate the moment, a testament to the deep roots and bright future of the West Tampa Community.
The attendees heard remarks from Superintendent Van Ayres, School Board Member Shake Washington, NAACP Hillsborough Chapter President Yvette Lewis, Dr. Lewis Brinson, Dr. Carolyn Collins and Deputy Superintendent of Operations, Christopher Farkas.
The $77 million project will deliver a brand-new 135,000 square-foot shared campus, with Stewart Middle accommodating more than 1,000 student stations and Just Elementary serving over 530 students.
| | Jose Garcia, CEO, Rebuilding Together Greater Florida | | On Tuesday, April 28, 2026, I gave remarks at the ribbon-cutting ceremony for the Rebuilding Together Greater Florida (RTGF) project on Seventh Avenue in Tampa. This event was not just a celebration of physical structures, but a testament to the resilience and unity of our community. RTGF is dedicated to assisting families in need by providing critical home repairs and renovations to ensure safe and healthy living conditions. This initiative directly impacts the lives of our neighbors, allowing them to thrive in their homes rather than facing the challenges of disrepair and neglect. | | Mental Health Stabilization Program | | |
Suzy Lopez, State Attorney; Commissioner Harry Cohen;
Chad Chronister, Sheriff; Commissioner Christine Miller;
Lisa McLean, Public Defender, and Commissioner Chris Boles
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On Wednesday, April 29, 2026, I attended the ribbon cutting ceremony for the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office Mental Health Stabilization Program, held today at the Falkenburg Road Jail in Tampa. This event marks a pivotal step forward in our ongoing commitment to addressing mental health issues within our criminal justice system.
The Mental Health Stabilization Program is designed to provide immediate intervention and stabilization for individuals experiencing mental health crises. By establishing a dedicated space within the jail, we are not only enhancing the safety and well-being of those in crisis but also reducing the strain on our emergency services and hospital systems. This initiative aligns with our broader aim of creating a more compassionate and effective approach to mental health care in our community.
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Tammie Pickett McFarland, Chapter President, Jack and Jill, Tamara Estrill-Lett and students | | |
On Sunday, May 3, 2026, I attended the Jack and Jill of America Greater Tampa Chapter’s 2026 Black Family Day, a remarkable celebration under the inspiring theme, “Legacy en Full Bloom: Elevate. Excel. Exceed.” This event not only highlighted the rich cultural heritage of our community but also emphasized the importance of family, education, and the pursuit of excellence.
The theme, “Elevate. Excel. Exceed,” emphasizes the mission we must all embrace: to elevate our standards, excel in our endeavors, and exceed expectations. I am dedicated to fostering an environment where every family has the resources and opportunities to thrive. Together, we can nurture a community that values education, supports local businesses, and champions the arts. The mothers of the chapter selected the Tampa Bay African American Arts & Cultural Center as 1 of 3 organizations to receive support and a check was presented.
| | Meeting with USF President | | Dr. Moez Limayem, President, University of South Florida (USF) | | On Monday, May 4, 2026, I met with the President of USF, Dr. Moez Limayem at the Patel Center for Global Solutions on the USF Campus in Tampa to tour recent campus updates, share community issues and concerns, and discuss the future of USF. Dr. Limayem is a Tunisian–American academic administrator, scientist and scholar He assumed the role of the ninth president of USF in early 2026. Prior to this role, he served as the seventh president of the University of North Florida from 2022 to 2025. | | Mayor's State of the City | | Jane Castor, Mayor, City of Tampa | | On Tuesday, May 5, 2026, I had the privilege of attending Mayor Jane Castor’s 2026 State of the City address held at the Fair Oaks Recreation Complex in Tampa. One of the key themes of the address was the commitment to enhancing public safety. The Mayor emphasized the importance of collaboration between law enforcement and community organizations to foster trust and transparency. She also discussed new infrastructure projects particularly installing new pipes throughout the city of Tampa and the newly built Fair Oaks Recreation Complex. | | Dianne Hart-Lowman, FL State Representative | | On Tuesday, May 5, 2026, Tampa General Hospital (TGH) held its third annual State of the Union at Armature Works, 1910 North Ola Ave. in Tampa. The event was designed to showcase the hospital’s accomplishments over the past year and provide insights into enterprise priorities and forward-looking advancements in healthcare, featuring discussions with hospital leadership, partners, and subject matter experts. The State of the Union served as a platform for TGH to communicate its vision and strategic initiatives to the community, stakeholders, and healthcare partners. It emphasized the hospital’s commitment to world-class academic medicine and its ongoing efforts to meet the growing healthcare needs of the Tampa Bay region. The event also highlighted the transformative partnership between Tampa General and USF Health, which strengthens academic medicine and patient care in the area. | | |
Kathy Castor, US Congresswoman
and Dianne Hart-Lowman, FL State Representative
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On Wednesday, May 6, 2026, the Tampa Police Department commemorated the sacrifices of its fallen members during the annual Tampa Police Memorial Ceremony. Mayor Jane Castor and Chief Lee Bercaw, in partnership with the Tampa Police Memorial Committee, led a tribute to the thirty-two officers of the Tampa Police Department who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our community, as well as all law enforcement officers across the nation who laid down their lives in the line of duty.
The memorial took place in front of the Monument to Fallen Officers in front of Tampa Police Headquarters, located at 411 N. Franklin St. The ceremony featured the Tampa Police Honor Guard, a traditional 21-Gun Salute, the symbolism of a Riderless Horse, the St. Andrew's Pipes & Drums of Tampa Bay, and a flyover by the Tampa Police Aviation Unit.
| | Diana Lee, Air Division Director, EPC; Elaine DeLeeuw, Administrative Director, EPC; Commissioner Harry Cohen, and Janet Lorton, Executive Director, EPC | | |
On Thursday, May 7, 2026, I gave welcome remarks at the annual Hillsborough County Environmental Protection Commission’s Clean Air Fair, held at the vibrant Poe Plaza on Jackson Street. This event showcased our community’s commitment to environmental stewardship and served as a vital platform for education and engagement regarding air quality and sustainability. In addition to educational opportunities, the Clean Air Fair emphasized the importance of community involvement. I had the pleasure of meeting with numerous local organizations dedicated to environmental advocacy, and I was truly inspired by their passion and dedication. From tree planting initiatives to clean-up campaigns, it is clear that our community is committed to making a positive impact on our environment.
I would like to extend my gratitude to the Environmental Protection Commission staff and all the volunteers who worked tirelessly to make this event a success. Your efforts in organizing such a comprehensive and engaging fair demonstrate the power of community collaboration in addressing environmental concerns.
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Free, Fun and Full of Discovery:
County Libraries Roll Out May Programs
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Join the Hillsborough County Public Library Cooperative for engaging, entertaining, and informative free programs for the entire family in May. The events listed below are only a sampling of the many scheduled. Find more listings under the "Events & Classes" tab at HCPLC.org.
The views expressed in these programs are those of the presenters and do not necessarily reflect the official policies, positions, or opinions of Hillsborough County, Tampa-Hillsborough County Public Libraries, or the Friends of the Library of Tampa-Hillsborough County, Inc., which do not endorse the presenters. For more information about these and the many other programs at your library, call (813) 273-3652 or visit HCPLC.org.
Be social! Like the Tampa-Hillsborough County Public Library System on Facebook and follow @TampaHillsLib on Instagram, X, and YouTube.
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