Over 200 volunteers attended the 34th Annual Recognition Luncheon on May 23, 2008, at the Busch Gardens Gwazi Pavilion. The event was hosted by WFLA News Channel 8's Chief Meteorologist, Steve Jerve. Attendees enjoyed an animal encounter with exotic birds and turtles, live music by the Sheik Band, and other entertainment provided by Busch Gardens. This year's theme was "Passport to a Safari Adventure." Pat Bean, County Administrator; Wally Hill, Deputy County Administrator; Manus O'Donnell, Assistant County Administrator; Phyllis Busansky, former Hillsborough County Commissioner, Felicia Southers, Manager, Case Management Services, Edgar Martinez, Manager, Nutrition Services; and Mary Jo McKay, Manager, Senior Centers Services, presented the awards.

Congratulations to this year's award winners:
Mr. Henry Saavedra (Congeniality); Ms. Caroline Milam (Ingenuity); Ms. Marian Brodarick (Dedication); Ms. Dawn Poscich (Leadership); Mr. Walter Turner (Exceptional); WFLA News Channel 8 (Friends of Aging); Mr. Theodore Uhle (Volunteer of the Year- Runner up); Ms. Pheme Torres (Volunteer of the Year); and the late Ms. Florine "Flo" Leben (Centurion).

We want to thank all volunteers that participated in making this event a huge success!