Hometown Hernando for May 9

High fives

PHSC staff honored: Pasco-Hernando State College recently announced its recipients of the annual National Institute of Staff and Organizational Development Excellence Awards.

The 2014 honorees include Rene Brioso, assistant professor, information technology programs, East Campus in Dade City; Shirley Cherry, associate professor, mathematics, East Campus; Patricia Garcia, assistant professor of nursing, North Campus in Brooksville, and Burt Harres , vice president of instruction/provost, West Campus in New Port Richey.

Clubs and organizations

The Retired Senior Volunteer Program had its annual recognition luncheon at Silverthorn Country Club on March 19. RSVP project coordinator Abby Evert made the presentations.

Viola Sellon received her 10-year recognition pin. She volunteers at the Family Visitation Center in Brooksville.

Judith Boucher also received her 10-year recognition pin. She volunteers at DayStar Life Center and the Brooksville Garden Club.

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Brooksville Elks Lodge 2582 recently presented annual awards. Exalted ruler Michael Minotti made the presentations during the group's monthly meeting in March.

Shelly Wareham received the Elks of the Year award; Darleen Keck received the Officer of the Year award, and Kathy Minotti received the Volunteer of the Year award.

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The Rotary Club of Spring Hill Central recently welcomed new member Marv Murphy, a retired special education teacher with the Hernando County School District with more than 33 years of service.

Murphy is a model train and gardening enthusiast, and volunteers with People Helping People and the Nature Coast Botanical Gardens. He is also a member of the American Legion.

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The Hernando County Democratic Club recently held elections to fill vacancies on the board. Those elected include: Joe Lemieux, vice president; Natalie Russo, secretary, and Jerry Lonergan, board member.

The terms run through February. For information, visit democraticclub.org.

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The Kiwanis Club of Spring Hill recently hosted its fourth annual Barney's Kids Charity Ball at Glen Lakes Country Club.

Barney Mancuso dedicated more than 50 years to Kiwanis and children. At the ball each year, the club recognizes an individual who works professionally or personally for the benefit of Hernando County children and presents her or him with the Barney Mancuso Award.

The 2014 recipient was Shanika Figueroa Rodriguez, the Hernando County School District's liaison for homeless students. Rodriguez coordinates and collaborates with community organizations to assist students in meeting their immediate needs and fosters an environment that supports and encourages the students to meet the challenges for a successful life.

Proceeds from the event are used to maintain and expand the Barney's Kids program, which advocates for Hernando County children.