As preparation intensifies for the upcoming Operation Elevate expedition season, Matt and teammate Gary are pushing hard to build the strength and endurance required for high-altitude climbing. Their training regimen combines long uphill treadmill sessions, outdoor weighted hikes, and runs to simulate sustained mountain ascents with targeted leg and core
“Everest doesn’t care who you are.It only responds to preparation, teamwork, and resolve.” Mount EverestSummit: 29,032 feet — the highest point on EarthThe Death Zone: Above 26,000 feet — the human body begins to shut downDuration: 60+ days operating above 17,000 feetPreparation: Multi-year physical conditioning and disciplined trainingLogistics: Permits, weather
S SouthState Bank has become the first Summit Tier sponsor of Operation Elevate, marking a significant milestone for the veteran-led initiative. On February 4, 2026, Angel Gonzalez, Division President, Central Florida, presented a $30,000 donation, the highest pledge to date, in support of the mission. SouthState Bank has further demonstrated
A Dentist Who Treats Every Patient Like Family Dr. Alexander Marrero-Plasencia believes dentistry is about more than teeth—it’s about people. With a philosophy rooted in compassion and comprehensive care, he is committed to helping every patient feel valued, comfortable, and confident in their smile. Dr. Plasencia earned his Bachelor of
Dan Hughes grew up in Atlanta, GA, and entered adulthood with a commitment to service. In 2007, he enlisted in the United States Marine Corps, where he served four years in motor transportation, including combat deployments to Al-Fallujah, Iraq, and Sangin, Afghanistan. After completing his military service, Dan earned a
Meet Bo Hartley, Florida Mortgage Firm, Veteran-owned and family-operated. When Bo was 13 years old, goofing off during the National Anthem, his dad said, “When the National Anthem is playing, you stand at attention” — Sonny Hartley, 1977. Those words suck with Bo, beginning a day that would lead to
Meet Kip Sharpley, Executive Office Manager for the Bright Now! Dental & Orthodontics locations in the Greater Tampa communities of Palm Harbor and Holiday. With over 33 years of experience in the dental industry, Kip’s leadership and commitment to patient care have been instrumental in creating a culture of excellence
Dr. Andres Sasson has dedicated over two decades to the field of emergency medicine, building a career grounded in service, leadership, and innovation. Originally from Venezuela, Dr. Sasson pursued his undergraduate degree in Theater at Tufts University before following his passion for medicine. He earned his medical degree from The
Hefring Marine: Interview with Michael Given Hefring Marine is an Icelandic marine software company founded in 2018. They serve to empower vessel operators and fleet managers by enhancing safety, efficiency, and sustainability through data-driven marine intelligence and intuitive decision support. Their flagship product, IMAS, is an AI-driven vessel navigation aid
Veteran Coffee Socials for Suicide Prevention in Hillsborough and Pinellas Counties, Florida Joe Bohn, PhD, MBA, University of South Florida, College of Public Health Tommy Childers, PhD, US Navy Veteran, Submarine Service After COVID-19 lockdowns in 2021, many felt a need to strengthen connections. The importance of human connectedness after
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