If you’re into all-things nautical or beachy and looking for something special for yourself you’ll want to explore The Beach House at 206 Shell Point Road W This newly opened shop is filled with all kinds of unique handcrafted and vintage beach-inspired décor; several styles of handcrafted jewelry hand-cut semiprecious stones and enameled fine silver and sea glass; framed prints and local photography; fused glass art; hand-painted glassware and original watercolors; nautical-themed bottlecap wall art; plants; casual clothing; and lots more More gift ideas by Pamela Ross Glass Reflections are displayed at The Beach House in Ruskin Seen here are but a few of the “finds” The Beach House owner Lori Rowell brings back from her weekly shopping trips with her mentor and associate Shoppers can often find the artists on hand The Beach House is perfect for anyone who loves a treasure hunt “Be sure to take time to look through everything for all its hidden gems,” said silversmith Kate Hamilton longtime Ruskin resident and the shop’s first vendor made of enamels fused on copper and silver Her pieces are very colorful and feature shades of purple “I feel so lucky to have a place to showcase my work,” she added “The shop has such a good vibe and friendly people different and very exciting for our area.” longtime local artist and public school art teacher “I love how we now have something like this in the area to showcase local artists,” she said “I’ve never had a [dedicated space] to display my art work which includes original watercolor paintings custom portraits and prints or acrylic enamel paintings on glass I’m very grateful to be part of this start-up “My paintings and painted glass pieces are inspired by nature,” Redlawsk continued “Many have a Florida or coastal theme and all are very colorful.” Russ Pepper’s unuusual nautical creations include artwork made of bottle caps Joe Morrison’s Rockstone Studio handcrafted gemstone jewelry is available at The Beach House every Friday Saturday and Sunday at 206 Shell Point Road W His Sun City Center fans will be especially happy to hear the news Margit’s Fine Art at The Beach House includes nature-inspired Fairy Hair Godmother Stacey Gardiner will be at The Beach House once a month Her schedule will be posted on the shop’s Facebook page and attracted to anything nautical” she said “I ran the Bahia Del Sol Marina for 15 years.” Since her grandmother and mother both had women’s boutiques in Wisconsin If you love stained glass windows and things that sparkle and shine you’ll want to check out this display of glass reflections and other creations by artist Pamela Ross at The Beach House and owner Lori Rowell invite you to come check out the unique treasures you’ll find at The Beach House in Ruskin The shop features handcrafted work by six local artists and all kinds of nautical and beachy home gifts and decor with Rowell as owner and Mixon as her helper and sidekick The two amigas shop all over the Tampa Bay area for unique gifts and merchandise other than those crafted by the store’s vendors LOIS KINDLE PHOTOSOwner Lori Rowell is seen here in the center showroom of The Beach House an eclectic new gift shop she recently opened at 206 Shell Point Road W “I’m very excited to have opened this shop,” Rowell said I look forward to sharing my dream with everyone Rowell hopes to add upscale clothing and accessories at discounted prices call 813-895-1781 or visit The Beach House Facebook Page claimed a $2 million prize from the $2,000,000 100X Cashword scratch-off game at Lottery Headquarters in Tallahassee Roman decided to receive his winnings as a one-time lump-sum payment of $1,280,000 His winning ticket was purchased from Sunoco Food Mart at 1202 N The retailer received a $4,000 bonus commission for selling the winning ticket and I feel like that's part of where the system failed" Henry Betsey Jr. is facing charges for marrying three Florida women in three different counties at the same time. Now saying the system that handles marriage licenses kept them in the dark Report a typo Get the best experience and stay connected to your community with our Spectrum News app. Learn More — As we approach the six-month mark from when hurricanes Helene and Milton hit Tampa Bay we’re revisiting a Ruskin restaurant that served its community in ways the community came together and helped her reopen Julie Cockerham, who owns The Fish House serving up Ruskin’s’ best fried seafood to all of her favorite customers back in October after back-to-back hurricanes and our tin came off our roof and everything so we turned the front end into a hurricane relief center," Cockerham said It restored my faith in humanity once again." sweat and tears is what she says it took to reopen but just as she came through for her community back then with the impromptu hurricane relief center they drive by and they heard about our situation and they would see me up here and just say I’m an electrician,' or 'I do flooring,' offering their time and their services “It’s exactly the way your mother would have fried fish or seafood for you when you were a kid,” he said adding that’s not entirely what keeps him coming back to the Fish House and the cool thing is that whenever we go through difficult times And while Cockerham is too humble to take credit for the impact she has made in this community she says the storms served as a good reminder for everyone to look out for each other being grateful for everything that we have and just remembering that even though the storm is gone Cockerham's home also flooded during Helene but she says she focused on getting The Fish House back up and running first.    Please enable JS and disable any ad blocker Home » Home » Ruskin Family Drive-In Theater Set to Reopen This Weekend in Florida By  //  March 3 HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY • RUSKIN, FLORIDA – In an era dominated by streaming services and high-tech cinemas, the Ruskin Family Drive-In Theatre stands as a timeless relic of classic Americana Located in Ruskin this beloved drive-in has been a staple of South Hillsborough County since 1952 and movie lovers a chance to experience films under the open sky The Ruskin Family Drive-In Theatre opened its doors with a screening of Singin’ in the Rain a fitting start for a venue that would become a cherished gathering place for the community it has remained a beacon of wholesome entertainment Dubbed “The Last Family Drive-In in the U.S.A.” the theatre prides itself on welcoming everyone—from dating couples to single parents with children from longtime patrons to new visitors looking to experience the magic of a classic drive-in It continues to uphold traditional family values ensuring a safe and enjoyable environment for all Unlike many drive-ins that have faded into history the Ruskin Family Drive-In thrives because it stays true to its roots while adapting to the times the Ruskin Family Drive-In will reopen for business on Friday the theatre will be showing MUFASA: The Lion King and CAPTAIN AMERICA two highly anticipated films that promise to bring excitement and nostalgia to moviegoers of all ages As the world moves faster and entertainment becomes increasingly digital the Ruskin Family Drive-In Theatre remains a cherished escape from the hustle and bustle of modern life and enjoy the magic of cinema in a setting that feels like stepping back in time While many drive-ins have closed their doors the Ruskin Drive-In continues to shine brightly proving that some traditions are too special to fade away Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a longtime fan this historic theatre promises great movies and a night to remember—just as it has for over half a century and settle in for a movie under the stars at one of the last great drive-ins in America Click Here to Sign Up for Text Alerts — Cheers of gratitude and joy erupted in a cozy Airbnb Friday night as the Houston Texans selected Aireontae Ersery with the 48th overall pick in the second round of the 2025 NFL Draft This came after the Texans traded up with the Raiders for this pick "You just got the best tackle in the draft," Ersery said on the phone when he got the call from the Texans the moment marked a significant milestone in the former Golden Gopher’s football career “It’s the best feeling in the world right now,” Charles said As family and friends piled onto the couch Ersery reflected on the surreal experience of being with loved ones during this important event a surreal moment to be around the fam and be around on this special day,” he said The path to this moment hasn't always been easy Ersery and his family experienced homelessness briefly during his elementary school years his mother noted that he displayed leadership qualities that kept everyone grounded Charles recalled how her son’s determination and positivity made a difference during challenging times tension gripped the room as anxious faces waited to hear Ersery's name called The draft was about more than just one night for Ersery “It’s deeper than football to me,” he explained “It’s my livelihood; it’s what I love to do noting the sleepless night she experienced before the draft “I kept waking up in the middle of the night the day before,” she said “Everything’s been a dream ever since he got the phone call from Minnesota,” she added Charles says prayer has been the cornerstone of her life and that faith in God has been crucial in her family Jesus," Charles said as she celebrated the news in real time Ersery continued his journey by attending the University of Minnesota where he honed his skills and prepared for the next level While Ersery is starting his professional career with the Texans even if that means facing his hometown team “I’ll see them in the playoffs,” he declared Ersery is grateful for the unwavering support from his family and friends demonstrating the solidarity that has been a cornerstone of Ersery’s drive to succeed "I can't forget about my folks," Ersery said the atmosphere was filled with hope and excitement for what lies ahead for Aireontae Ersery in the NFL "I feel like I'm only scratching the surface," Ersery said KSHB 41 reporter Rachel Henderson covers neighborhoods in Wyandotte and Leavenworth counties. Share your story idea with Rachel — It's not easy being a drive-in movie owner in Florida especially when a nasty storm like Hurricane Milton blows through An outdoor theater like the Ruskin Family Drive-In Theater has no place to hide "He didn't take pity on us," said owner Karen Freiwald Built in 1952 and lovingly maintained by local legends Karen and husband Ted the Ruskin landmark suffered severe storm damage "I figured if Milton came the way they said nothing in Ruskin would be standing," said Karen This slice of movie-going history already had business challenges being an old-school thrill in a modern world as soon as word got out that the drive-in theater was in jeopardy Local tree services, owned by men and women who grew up here, offered help. Neighbors contributed to a GoFundMe page. such as 84 Lumber (donating plywood to rebuild the screen) and TECO Energy (donating steel poles and manpower to support the screen) Karen and Ted haven't had time to feel sad The Ruskin Family Drive-In Theater plans on reopening this Thanksgiving For more on the drive-in, including ways to help, go here. Latest Hillsborough County News from ABC Action News — Hurricane Helene and Milton flooded a Ruskin restaurant but the owner found a new purpose to help others Julie Cockerham has owned the Fish House since 2008 "We like to consider ourselves like an old Florida style We fry almost all our food because that's how we like it," said Cockerham Cockerham said Hurricane Helene flooded the patio-style restaurant Hurricane Milton added additional damage to the exterior building She temporarily closed the restaurant on West Shell Point Road She turned the patio area into a distribution site Cockerham and volunteers are collecting donations and then helping those impacted by the hurricanes "There have been thousands of people that we've helped since the first storm and this immediate community a lot of people hadn't even recovered from the first storm," she said She updates the Fish House Facebook page with information on how the community may help or get help "We had a family that had six children in their household in a two bedroom home and they had nothing...to help those people with anything with food It was just awesome to help even one person," said Cockerham Brittny Bishop started volunteering after Hurricane Helene I just kept coming back because it's very rewarding It's been nice to have the hands around here to help people," she said Cockerham said she hopes to make repairs and reopen the Fish House sometime in the future. To help with the cost of repairs, a GoFundMe page has been created She said she is focused on helping the community It's probably going to be a slow process and I've kind of put that on the back burner for right now because we've been so blessed to help so many people." including non-perishable food items and canned foods For more information, follow the Fish House on Facebook — The Moffit Cancer Center held a grand opening for its brand-new state-of-the-art facility at SouthShore in Ruskin on Friday More than 200 team members had the opportunity to tour the 75,000-square-foot facility for the first time Many of them said they can’t wait to start welcoming patients in on Jan President and CEO of Moffitt Cancer Center held the scissors for the official ribbon cutting "It’s very important because we are trying to bring the medicines closer to the patients so when they are not feeling so good—they may need to get radiation every day for a number of weeks they might feel nauseated—they are not going to have to drive so far,” said Hwu You could see the excitement on the faces of team members as they peeked inside exam rooms learned about the latest in technology and tried out new equipment and it was very beautiful,” said one team member It’s going to be a really great place for our patients a very comforting place,” said another team member I’m happy to be working with everyone and get closer to the community,” said a third team member The facility will also offer access to groundbreaking clinical trials “Patients who may not have come to Moffit to get the best outcomes they are going to start coming here now,” said Hwu The man who started this mission 40 years ago was also on hand for photos and inspiration Florida has the second highest incidence of cancer of any state in the nation so we are meeting the need and serving a lot of people that need our care,” said Moffitt The Moffit Cancer Center at SouthShore estimates that they will treat 9,000 patients within the first five years — South Hillsborough County was one of the communities hit hard by Hurricane Helene Residents in Ruskin along Shell Point Road saw a couple of feet of water in their homes and businesses The flooding did so much damage to The Fish House restaurant that the owner says she won’t be able to open back up for a while The Fish House has become a hub of supplies says she’s been overwhelmed by the response from the community Julie Cockerham describes The Fish House in Ruskin as an Old Florida-style outdoor eatery it’s become so much more to all of its neighbors and I’ve been so blessed to meet everybody in the community and make wonderful connections and that’s actually what’s helping me here today,” said Cockerham From food to cleaning supplies and toiletries it’s the go to spot for all of Cockerham’s neighbors in need It’s all been donated by people who’ve seen her Facebook posts I don’t think people understand when we say nothing their entire lives are out in their front yard Nearly every resident in the surrounding streets has belongings all ruined by floodwater out on the street Cockerham herself had three feet of water in her home “I never anticipated my fridges and freezers would flip in my back room because they became buoyant from so much water fixing The Fish House up isn’t her main concern — helping her friends She says the way everyone has come together is a true work of God “It’s a shame that it takes this to make the community come back together I feel like we’ve been so divided with all the political stuff going on lately Cockerham says they desperately need more water Anyone who would like to donate items can drop them off any time at The Fish House in Ruskin Connect with our staff on topics that matter to you via email or request a reprint Place classified and announcement notices or grow your business with advertising and marketing solutions Fla — A Sheriff's office helicopter helped capture three teens who were allegedly burglarizing cars in Ruskin “In light of the recent challenges our community faced with flooding and wind damage caused by hurricanes Helene and Milton the Greater SouthShore Chamber of Commerce is proud to announce this year’s Ruskin Seafood and Arts Festival will be held with free admission this year,” said Melanie Davis “After what we’ve all experienced lately it’s important for everyone to be able to come out; relax; and enjoy a weekend of celebration LOIS KINDLE FILE PHOTOThe annual Ruskin Seafood Festival is always a laid-back “This year’s festival will be a special celebration of the strength and resilience of our South Shore communities,” Davis added “Whether you’ve been directly affected by the storms or have been out helping your neighbors recover this festival is a moment for you to pause Let’s come together to uplift one another with a fun-filled event.” the festival will feature mouth-watering seafood; plenty of options for those who prefer something else; and ice-cold beer LOIS KINDLE FILE PHOTOKids will find plenty to do at the 34th Annual Ruskin Seafood Festival Lil Guppies area – live animals COURTESY PHOTOThe I-Ruption Reggae band will perform Saturday afternoon at this year’s Ruskin Seafood Festival joining a weekend line-up that includes J Lowery on steel drums guitarist and southern rock singer Joshua Bidwell and the Randy McNeely Rock Band Saturday with a special opening ceremony honoring area Veterans on the Bobby Howard Memorial Stage The weekend’s entertainment will include live music all day on both days featuring J Lowery on steel drums at 10:30 a.m. local country singer Emma Christine at 1:30 p.m followed by guitarist and southern rock singer Joshua Bidwell at 1 p.m LOIS KINDLE FILE PHOTOThe 34th Annual Ruskin Seafood Festival is Nov the Greater SouthShore Chamber of Commerce has waived the normal admission fee so everyone can attend SmileLYNN Pediatric Dentistry is sponsoring the kids’ area which will include hands-on arts and crafts (flying fish made with paper plates thanks to the Firehouse Cultural Center; the Music Creativity Lab performing excerpts of a A Florida Christmas and featuring roaming characters; Kids R Kids games; live animals There will also be lots of commercial arts and craft vendors and two free car shows – one by The Angry Motor Society on Saturday and the other by The Roamin’ Oldies on Sunday Students from Jubilee Gymnastics will perform at 11:30 a.m “This event is dedicated to our resilient and generous community,” Davis said “Whether you’re rebuilding after loss or have spent the last few weeks lending a hand to those in need it’s time to take a moment for yourself and enjoy all the festival has to offer Let’s celebrate the incredible spirit of South Shore.” OBSERVER NEWS FILE PHOTOMouthwatering fruits of the sea star at the annual Ruskin Seafood Festival but there are plenty of options for folks who prefer something else Pictured is a serving of seafood boil sold at last year’s event by the Ruskin Seafood Co The festival’s presenting sponsors are Elite Marine Dock & Seawall and Christopher Ligori & Associates Other sponsors include Hillsborough County and Sunstate Medical Doctors; Circles Waterfront T-Mobile and Suncoast Credit Union; SouthShore Signs Firehouse Cultural Center and The Teal Turtle Fla — A dump truck driver died in a fiery crash involving a train Hillsborough County Fire (HCFR) said multiple people called 911 around 12:20 p.m to report heavy smoke near the train tracks at Old Highway 41 in Ruskin they saw a dump truck and multiple train cars engulfed in flames The fire crews were able to get the fire under control in about 30 minutes The dump truck driver died as a result of the crash HCFR said the cause of the incident is currently under investigation — A Ruskin coffee shop owner now has a brick-and-mortar location up and running thanks in part to a grant from Enterprising Latinas It’s a dream come true for Jennifer Mantilla who has been operating a food truck since 2022 She started her business in memory of her father “We’re actually busier here than in the trailer,” she said When Spectrum News last spoke with Mantilla she was devastated after losing nearly all her equipment for the business I don’t have to worry about towing my trailer out in time or it flooding,” said Mantilla of course there’s a chance of it flooding anywhere in Florida She was one of 25 businesses who were awarded a hurricane grant from Enterprising Latinas The educational organization says those grants ranged from $500 to $2,500 “They dreamed of that source of income for their family,” said loan manager Ludovina Moronta “It stopped when the hurricane came but being this change that we can make in the community by providing access to capital That help was Mantilla’s driving force to keep her business going “A lot of them are even coming from Apollo Beach Louie Beans is open Tuesdays through Saturdays at 1406 Blossom Bayou Circle in Ruskin The restaurant had remained closed for four months after hurricanes ravaged the building Back-to-back storms destroyed essential kitchen equipment the staff transformed their restaurant into a community aid center Regular customers missed their go-to dining spot Owner Julie Cockerham gathered employees and volunteers to distribute supplies and non-perishable food to locals who had lost everything Their efforts extended beyond the restaurant as teams helped repair storm-damaged areas "We immediately tried to get some volunteers together because we knew that I was not the only one suffering. " Julie Cockerham to abcactionnews.com. Workers spent weeks fixing walls before installing new ovens and refrigerators Health inspectors just gave their final approval last week Local businesses pitched in during the crisis Vendors offered discounts on replacement equipment Donations poured in online to rebuild the place The money helped buy new kitchen equipment and repair structural damage "There's no way I could have done any of this alone. The support has been truly overwhelming,” said owner Julie Cockerman to The Observer News Twenty-five employees have now returned to work. The kitchen staff just completed training on new equipment and updated safety protocols.City records show The Fish House served roughly 300 customers daily before the hurricanes They're now prepared to handle that volume again starting opening day — For some homeowners and business owners in the Tampa Bay area the past two hurricane seasons have left them rebuilding because of multiple flooding events My Warrior’s Place was hit hard by Hurricane Idalia in 2023 they are cleaning up and rebuilding again because of flooding from Hurricane Helene Kelly Kowall is the founder of My Warrior’s Place in Ruskin It’s a quiet retreat on the Little Manatee River for veterans “I try to walk around with blinders like this because if I looked at the whole picture I would just be too overwhelmed,” said Kelly Kowall The power of water is evident at this peaceful retreat Cottages that once provided a place to relax and recharge are now gutted “It feels like it’s a never-ending – never ending of things that have to be tossed out,” said Kowall “You suffered severe damage from [Hurricane] Idalia and you were just about done renovations,” said ABC Action News anchor Lauren St You get knocked down and finally get back on your feet only to be knocked out,” said Kowall ABC Action News was at My Warrior’s Place less than a year ago Germain the progress they were making on rebuilding from Idalia I was supposed to be going in and decorating and putting furniture in place in the last two units that we had completed,” said Kowall The property manager and maintenance manager stayed as long as they could to protect what they had “They tried to get things up but that wasn’t high enough Kowall says the water reached higher than her waist “What was your first thought when you came and saw everything?” asked St I just – it’s just one of those things where the tunnel is so dark You don’t see any light at all and I just kept telling myself if I could get through the death of my son I can get through this because this is nothing compared to that,” said Kowall “There are too many people that need this place if this was just my place for my enjoyment While she knows there is a long road ahead of repairing and replacing she’s focused on rebuilding for the people who need My Warrior’s Place the most Too many people have been saved by this place Too many people have come here and gotten their lives back because of this place so I can’t give up,” said Kowall My Warrior’s Place is holding a hurricane relief “American Hero Fundraiser” to help them repair the damage It’s at the Elks Lodge 2672 in Ruskin on October 19th from 5pm to 10pm Kowall says all proceeds will go to assist with hurricane damage For more information about My Warrior’s Place click here — People living in the Tampa Bay area are being urged to evacuate as Hurricane Milton makes its way to the West Coast making it possibly the second major hurricane to impact the area in just over one week WPTV’s Joel Lopez is south of Tampa in Ruskin with a firsthand look at how people are preparing for impacts from the hurricane about 45 minutes from where Milton is expected to make landfall based on current models people are very anxious as the last hurricane left quite a bit of damage Hillsborough County's Emergency Management called Hurricane Milton the worst storm they've seen in 100 years it's not like any other one so we grabbed as much as we can We're going to leave but we don't know what we're going to come back to," said Alejandro Vallejo Vallejo said his neighborhood got about four feet of storm surge He felt that was a warning of the damage a hurricane can cause and has decided to board up his house and evacuate his family "They can't fend for themselves so we have to pack up as much as we can and go," said Vallejo and we met her as neighbors were helping board up her windows She works at a nursing home and plans to stay there through the storm She says she's lived in her house for over 20 years and it's the first time she's ever boarded up as she prepares both physically and emotionally to leave her house "How much does this home mean to you?" asked Lopez Thank god for my neighbors that they're able to help me out I am scared what I'm going to find when I come back," she said Tampa Electric announced that they've mobilized 4,500 utility crews to Tampa the largest deployment of utility workers in the area to help with restoration in the aftermath of the storm The biggest issue we've seen here is out-of-service gas pumps We drove around to at least three or four other stations One gas station worker told me they ran out but they weren't refilling as they planned to board up their business and prepare it for Hurricane Milton I actually ran into a man from Delray Beach who said he was dropping off a friend here after their trip in Orlando WATCH: Delray Beach resident can't find gas I didn't even know about being here and that there's no gas," said Jose Philibert how is it with fuel right now?" asked Lopez Hillsborough County officials said that there are 1.2 million gallons of fuel on the way to the county and haven't had much time to clean up from Hurricane Helene just over a week ago you can see busy roads and even side streets here in Ruskin with piles and piles of debris The county says that they've already removed over 21,000 yards of debris But as you can see there's still a lot left to clean WATCH: A look at the piles of debris in Ruskin That’s leaving big concerns as Hurricane Milton could have winds over 125 mph “The big concern is with the amount of wind we're getting and the mile per hour,” said Marie Deering “All that wind is going to be all over the roadway it's a projectile up into the homes that are still standing and possibly go into the Shell Cove community Residents do say that the county has come through and cleared out the debris but more keeps piling up as people continue to clean up from the storms TRACKING THE TROPICS: Hurricane Center | Hurricane Guide TROPICAL STORM WATCH: An announcement that tropical storm conditions (sustained winds of 39 to 73 mph) are possible within the specified coastal area within 48 hours TROPICAL STORM WARNING: An announcement that tropical storm conditions (sustained winds of 39 to 73 mph) are expected within the specified coastal area within 36 hours HURRICANE WATCH: An announcement that hurricane conditions (sustained winds of 74 mph or higher) are possible somewhere within the specified coastal area A hurricane watch is issued 48 hours in advance of the anticipated onset of tropical-storm-force winds HURRICANE WARNING: An announcement that hurricane conditions (sustained winds of 74 mph or higher) are expected somewhere within the specified coastal area A hurricane warning is issued 36 hours in advance of the anticipated onset of tropical-storm-force winds RUSKIN, Fla. — The Pita Kebab in Ruskin Chef Khalid Abouelhouda offers a recipe to his Mixed Kebab recipe Ingredients for 1.5 pounds of each protein Wooden or metal skewers (If using wooden skewers soak them in water for 30 minutes before using to prevent burning.) Executive Circle Awards Tully as an Associate in the firm’s Trusts & Estates Department community notes and leaders in your organization to the Long Island Business News audience Click here to make a Movers & Shakers submission and to find out more. Sign up for your daily digest of Long Island Business News Listen to this article Long Island Business News has announced that it has chosen this year’s winn[...] The financial landscape of Long Island continues to evolve through the leadership of the remarkable [...] Long Island’s business landscape contains a remarkable tapestry of organizations that have stood t[...] Celebrate International Women’s Day and Women’s History Month by showcasing the extraordinary wo[...] Listen to this article Lorraine Gregory Communications will be holding a blood drive at its Edgewood[...] Long Island lost 3,100 construction jobs year-over-year in March ending a 12-month streak of gains,[...] Kids Empire and My Gym are opening at Mayfair Shopping Center in Commack Chick-fil-A opens its 12th Long Island location in East Meadow creating 80 jobs and supporting loca[...] Realty Three plans $120M South Village at Station Crossings with 273 rentals Amazon plans to purchase 26.7 acres of Massapequa’s Sunrise Mall site to build a new South Shore d[...] Our mission at Long Island Business News is to be the vital business news and advertising source to Long Island’s most influential readers Get our free LIBN e-alerts & breaking news notifications Subscribe for access to the latest digital and special editions The GFWC Ruskin Woman’s Club historic clubhouse will be awash in red and pink Feb 8 for its 5th Annual Sweetheart Tea fundraiser “The theme this year is Heart & Roses,” said Kat Sherwood tea co-chair with fellow club member Kathleen Atkins noting it’s her favorite event of the year “We get to see ladies put on their Sunday best and thoroughly enjoy themselves It’s a great opportunity for them to socialize and spend quality time with their friends or family members “We love the tradition of the tea and going all out by using our fine china and decorating the clubhouse in Valentine’s Day colors.” co-chairwomen of the 5th annual GFWC Ruskin Woman’s Club Sweetheart Tea The cost per person for the high tea is $45 so be sure to RSVP quickly if you plan to go Tables for up to eight are available for family and friends who wish to sit together but that must be arranged when reservations are made The tea includes a meal of English Orange Scones and clotted cream truffles and Regalitea tea; a party favor in an organza bag for each guest; lovely background music; eight to 10 raffle baskets Raffle tickets are $5 for 10 and $15 for 25 which include table tents and program credits will welcome guests at this year’s annual Sweetheart Tea is seen here with two of the baskets she won in the raffle drawing at the Ruskin Woman’s Club’s Sweetheart Tea in 2024 “I enjoy being involved in the Sweetheart Tea each year because it represents what the club is all about,” said Atkins who has worked in the kitchen preparing plates and desserts for every high tea since the event began “Every one of them is special,” she continued “We have ladies who’ve come here year after year with their daughters and granddaughters They get all dressed up in their tea party hats and dresses All proceeds benefit the Ruskin Woman’s Club Scholarship Fund which provides first-year scholarships for graduating high school seniors attending college or technical school and funds to help cover maintenance of the club’s 110-year-old RUSKIN WOMAN’S CLUB PHOTOSThe GFWC Ruskin Woman’s Club will be decked out in shades of red and pink for its 5th annual Sweetheart Tea The high tea is a chance to dress in your Sunday best and spend quality time with friends or loved ones The Sweetheart Tea was once known as the Ruskin Woman’s Club’s annual Christmas Tea the December event was canceled due to the pandemic and then re-scheduled the following February as the inaugural Sweetheart Tea we all know about the devastating effects hurricanes Helene and Milton wrought on the lives of South Shore residents But not everyone is aware of the damages four of our most iconic nonprofit organizations and one longtime business suffered during the storms and they will need financial help to physically recover and restore the services they provide the community Right now there are so many residents who need some form of help But if you have the means to make a donation in any amount to whichever South Shore-based organization speaks most to you and yours it will go a long way towards making it whole KELLY KOWALL PHOTOMy Warrior’s Place recently suffered severe hurricane damage to six of its seven retreat cottages where American heroes and their families stay The nonprofit organization will need at least $100,000 donated materials and lots of volunteer labor to make itself whole again founder/president of My Warrior’s Place in Ruskin was heartbroken to find she’d lost six of the seven cottages used by American heroes and their families as a place of respite sub-flooring and flooring; lower cabinetry; vanities; appliances and furniture She estimates damages at more than $100,000 gazebos and fencing replaced; lawn equipment I was absolutely overwhelmed,” Kowall said and I’m currently going around to suppliers begging them to provide materials for us to rebuild equipment or item donation is huge for our recovery,” she continued To support My Warrior’s Place, visit www.mywarriorsplace.org/ email info@mywarriorsplace.org or call 813-321-0880 LOIS KINDLE PHOTOThe interior of the Firehouse Cultural Center’s main building has been gutted Everything inside that was not structural must be replaced by the nonprofit itself The center is basically starting to renovate from scratch LOIS KINDLE PHOTOThe Firehouse Cultural Center’s main building and studio across the street were flooded during hurricanes Helene and Milton causing major damage to drywall in both structures Losses for the studio alone are estimated at $115,000 Everything inside both buildings has to be replaced they found the main building and studio across the street had been severely flooded “Both buildings had been inundated with more than three feet of water,” Bredbenner said “They had to be gutted and completely sanitized due to salt water and blackwater contamination “We spent $17,000 to tear out four feet of the walls and dry out the studio which we own and are responsible for,” he added “Eight feet of its metal roof over shingles rolled up like a sardine can.” “Flood insurance for the studio was astronomical and unaffordable for us “Our hurricane insurance has a 3% deductible chairs and our kilns had water in them,” she said Bredbenner estimates losses for the studio are $115,000 The main building is owned by Hillsborough County so structural repairs will be covered by its funding; however anything moveable that was damaged indoors is the responsibility of the cultural center office and cleaning supplies; cabinetry and maintenance tools; and more Two hundred of the center’s nice high-back auditorium chairs had to be thrown away “We are essentially starting over and are looking forward to the day when we’re back in operation and offering all our classes comedy shows and original programming again,” Stein said To make a donation, visit www.firehouseculturalcenter.org or call 813-645-7651 Volunteers will be needed later on when cabinetry and supplies can be replaced all of the duct work and two air handlers under the house during Helene,” said Sharon Davis and we had to hire a guy to suck out 1,600 gallons of sewage before the a/c repairmen would do their jobs SHARON DAVIS PHOTOThe GFWC Ruskin Woman’s Club lost its three air conditioners ductwork and two air handlers due to flooding caused by Hurricane Helene and the club had to hire someone to clear 1,600 gallons of sewage before the a/c repairmen would do their jobs a tree from next door fell on power lines going to the house The cost to take it down and have it removed was $3,500 The expenses the club incurred were paid for from its checking account flood insurance was explored and found to be completely unaffordable Ruskin Woman’s Club members are doing everything they can to continue their community service projects and host fundraisers but additional support is needed from the community “We need crucial repairs to our building,” Davis said mold and damage to the cornerstone of the building,” Davis said estimating those repairs will cost at least $40,000 a hive of dislocated bees has set up camp outside the building and needs to be relocated elsewhere “We’re looking for donations and need the community’s help to get this proud landmark where it needs to be,” Davis said To pitch in, visit www.gfwcruskinwomansclub.org/ or call 813-296-3900 SUZI BREDBENNER PHOTOHere’s another view of land that was washed out by recent hurricane-related flooding at Ruskin Memorial Park Cemetery near SUZI BREDBENNER PHOTOThe Ruskin Memorial Park Cemetery needs $60,000 to $80,000 to remediate land on its property near the Little Manatee River washed out by recent hurricane-related flooding Even our 121-year-old local cemetery didn’t escape the wrath of Helene and Milton there were two areas near the Little Manatee River where water from the river washed away property “In order to protect the cemetery and provide safety to gravesites and visitors land remediation is expected to cost between $60,000 and $80,000,” Bredbenner said “Existing funds in our account can only cover normal upkeep.” which will be replaced if enough funds are raised While the cemetery board is looking at possible grants it also needs donations from the community mail a tax-deductible check to Ruskin Memorial Park Association Inc. Credit card donations can be made by calling 813-434-3461 The park has scheduled a clean-up event from 8 a.m Your participation will be greatly appreciated KAREN FREIWALD PHOTOIn addition to losing its giant screen the Ruskin Family Drive-in lost 60 trees and much of its fencing Although water flooded the front area of the drive-in its on-site trailer suffered no water or wind damage KAREN FREIWALD PHOTOWhat’s left of the Ruskin Family Drive-in’s huge screen is seen here after Hurricane Milton’s winds ravaged it The owners estimate at least $100,000 in damages the 72-year-old business is already being restored the Ruskin Family Drive-in is certainly an iconic local business a local landmark that’s provided outdoor entertainment to area residents for the past 72 years Owned and operated by Karen Freiwald and her husband the theatre’s giant screen was torn apart by hurricane winds 60 trees were knocked down and its fencing destroyed and we lost 3/4 of our oaks and pines,” Freiwald said Although water flooded the area in front area of the drive-in the on-site trailer suffered no water or wind damage Freiwald estimated damages will cost them $100,000 Because no insurance company will cover drive-in screens or wind damage the couple has to foot the bill themselves has rallied local businesses and volunteers to restore the drive-in and improve the drive-in He arranged for TECO to donate steel poles and place them in the ground owner of All Steel Buildings and Components Inc in Gibsonton is building a metal frame to replace the wooden one that was destroyed and 84 Lumber delivered 56 pieces of half-inch plywood for the face of the screen things should start moving quickly,” Freiwald said “Donny is going to put up fencing to keep out neighboring lights and we have plenty of labor committed to help us finish.” Freiwald has set up a GoFundMe page, https://www.gofundme.com/f/help-restore-ruskin-family-drivein-theater/ donors have contributed more than $23,000 toward the $50,000 goal we’re going to come back better than ever,” she said “We are so eternally grateful for the help and support we’ve received.” will host its annual “Trunk and Treat” on Sunday and plans are for it to be back in business by Thanksgiving It’s one of only four remaining drive-ins in the state The latter escaped any damages from either hurricane The Greater SouthShore Chamber of Commerce has assumed the reins of planning and organizing the annual Ruskin Veterans Day Parade “This cherished community event has been a staple of Ruskin’s rich history and we are excited to continue this longstanding tradition of honoring our veterans,” said Melanie Davis LOIS KINDLE FILE PHOTOMembers of Ye Notorious Krewe of the Peg Leg Pirate will once again march alongside their float handing out brightly colored beads to children watching the Ruskin Veterans Day Parade “This is an excellent opportunity to be part of a significant community event that pays tribute to those who have served our country,” she said friends and residents lining the streets to enjoy the parade and honor our veterans This parade is a deeply valued part of our community’s history LOIS KINDLE FILE PHOTOParticipants in the Ruskin Veterans Day Parade will include veterans and military organizations Ruskin honorary mayor Amanda Marrero will join the procession who was severely injured after being shot three times while serving on the front lines in Afghanistan in 2007 and went through a long and brutal road to recovery is this year’s Ruskin Veterans Day Parade grand marshal participants will include veterans and military organizations LOIS KINDLE FILE PHOTOMembers of the Greater Ruskin Chamber of Commerce will be on hand for the upcoming Ruskin Veterans Day Parade Nov The chamber has assumed responsibility for planning and organizing the event which was formerly handled by Ruskin Memorial VFW Post 6287 Ruskin VFW Post 6287 will host the awards presentations at 5120 U.S It’s also hosting a spaghetti dinner fundraiser from 4 to 7 p.m. The cost for dinners is $10 for anyone age 5 and older and $5 for children under 5 call the Greater SouthShore Chamber of Commerce at 813-645-1366 or email melanie@southshorechamberofcommerce.org/