Blog, News

Tampa Bay Chapter Paddle Event at Weedon Island

On Saturday, June 20, 2020  Team River Runner- Tampa Bay Chapter held our first kayaking event since the recent Phase I opening after the coronavirus pandemic. We paddled through the watery green portal of the magical mangrove tunnels of the Weedon Island Preserve’s kayaking trails. The following folks paddled 2.5 miles of the very popular 4 mile South Trail loop:

  • Kim Siewert
  • Tom Clearwater
  • Howard Toller
  • Lori Kelly
  • Bill Frake
  • Rand Abedrabbo
  • Mark Fratoni

We are looking forward to our next paddling event in the July/August timeframe- based on the impact of the recent coronavirus surge we are experiencing in Florida. We’ll keep you posted on the location/timing and logistics for our next event. Thanks so much for Kim Siewert’s leadership and execution of this very enjoyable TRR- Tampa Bay Chapter event!!

Bill Frake

Rand Abedrabbo

Vanessa Jones

Committe Co-Chair

Vanessa A. Jones is a dynamic force dedicated to fostering
inclusivity, encouraging discussion, and promoting a culture of
belonging in the outdoor sports community. Hailing from
Washington, DC, she brings a wealth of diverse experiences and
perspectives to her endeavors.
As a US Army veteran and ordained Chaplain with a focus on
seniors and caretakers, Vanessa is deeply committed to serving
others. Her work as a patient-caretaker advocate reflects her
passion for supporting vulnerable populations and ensuring their
voices are heard.
Currently, Vanessa is employed by a resettlement agency, where
she confronts challenges head-on with resilience and
compassion. As a single, Black woman veteran, she embraces
the unique hurdles she faces, viewing them as opportunities for
growth and empowerment.
In her downtime, she wears many hats, including that of a
missionary, spreading hope and positivity wherever she goes.
Weekends are spent paddling, immersing herself in West African
dance and finding solace and joy in nature’s embrace.
Vanessa is committed to equitable principles, ensuring that
everyone’s opinions are valued and heard. Through her
unwavering dedication and inclusive leadership, Vanessa is
paving the way for a more equitable and diverse outdoor sports
landscape.