Hello Hillsborough

Denis Phillips and Katja are prepared for Hurricane Season

Tampa Bay 28's Chief Meteorologist Denis Phillips and Katja Miller from Hillsborough County's Office of Emergency Management join Grace and Tyler for an in-depth conversation about what to expect this hurricane season, how Hillsborough County prepares year-round, and what residents can do now to stay ready.  Denis shares his expertise on hurricane behavior, how weather patterns can impact our area, and the fun backstory behind his trademark suspenders.  Whether you're a lifelong Floridian or preparing for your first hurricane season, this episode is packed with expert insights and tips to help keep you and your family safe.

Pool Safety with Joe

When the school year wraps up, the summer heat moves in.  Grace and Tyler sit down with Joe from Hillsborough County Code Enforcement and learn all about how to keep our pools and families safe this summer. Joe shares the essential safety checklist every resident should know—from ensuring pool gates self-latch to spotting maintenance issues and potential electrical hazards.  With lots of us headed to the water this summer, it's important to remember how to stay safe while staying cool.

Art in the Community with Caitlyn and Eileen

Grace and Tyler explore how the Arts Council of Hillsborough County helps local artists grow, thrive, and keep the creative community vibrant. They sit down with Eileen Blake from the Arts Council and artist Caitlin Albritton to dive into the impact of arts funding and education across Tampa Bay. Caitlin began her career as a painter before receiving Arts Council's Professional Development for Artists Grant. From that opportunity, she was able to expand her skills, eventually transitioning into fine art jewelry. Today, she combines her painting background with the techniques she learned after receiving the grant to create stunning, wearable works of art. The Arts Council provides access to arts education, offers a variety of grant programs, and keeps the community informed about all things art. For more information visit HCFL.gov/ArtsCouncil [https://hcfl.gov/ArtsCouncil].

Skateboarding with Cian and Micah

Grace and Tyler get the full skate-park scoop from two experts who live and breathe the sport: Cian and Micah from Hillsborough County Parks & Recreation's Providence Skatepark. Are you regular or goofy? Not sure? Then it's time to tune in and get the basics, plus some pro tips and behind-the-scenes insight into the county's thriving skate community. From laid-back daily skate hours to big events like Go Skate Day, fingerboarding sessions and Skate Camp, Hillsborough County skate programs [https://hcfl.gov/residents/parks-and-leisure/recreation/skate-parks] are for all ages and skill levels. Whether you're rolling in for the first time or already working on your next trick, Cian and Micah are stoked to see new faces and help you level up.

Prescribed Burns with Steve and Alison

Grace and Tyler tackle some burning questions with Steve and Alison, two experts from the Conservation & Environmental Lands Management (CELM) department. If terms like burn boss, vegetation response, fire bug, or fuel (meaning dead twigs, trees, and leaves) have you scratching your head, then this episode is for you.   Steve walks us through the ins and outs of performing a prescribed fire and explains why these burns are essential, not just for the land, but for community safety. You might be surprised to learn that good fires prevent bad fires by reducing wildfire risk and promoting healthy ecosystems.