TAMPA, Fla. — It’s not just about Hispanic heritage.
It’s bigger than that.
The stories of Monica Rodriguez and Romulo “Romy” Camargo are about people who have gone through a lot in life but still dedicated themselves to lives of service.
The Tampa Hispanic Heritage, Inc. is honoring Rodriguez and Camargo as 2021 Hispanic Woman and Man of the Year for their outstanding contributions to the Tampa Bay area.
Spectrum Bay News 9's Rick Elmhorst and Roy DeJesus celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month with the Tampa Hispanic Persons of the Year, Rodriguez and Camargo.
Rodriguez, chair of the Latino Coalition of Tampa Bay, is a recognized leader in the Tampa community. Her time with the Latino Coalition of Tampa Bay dates back to 2010.
“We all have a responsibility with our communities,” Rodriguez said. “We want to make sure everyone has the same opportunities and can grow up in a healthy environment. I believe it’s a matter of being a humanitarian.”
Camargo, an Army Special Forces veteran, was paralyzed when ambushed while serving a third tour in Afghanistan in September 2008. While recovering, Camargo decided to turn his adversity into an opportunity. Along with his wife Gabriella, Camargo started Stay in Step brain and spinal cord injury recovery center in Tampa.
For Camargo, service has become an integral part of his life.
“Get involved,” he said. “It’s just good to be able to help and work around your community and get to know people.”
ABOUT THE SHOW
Spectrum Bay News 9 Anchor Rick Elmhorst sits down with the people that represent you, the people fighting for change and the people with fascinating stories to ask the hard questions.
To The Point Already will cover people, politics and issues from a Tampa Bay perspective every Wednesday.
