image of moon mostly covering up the sun

WESLEY CHAPEL, FL. – Astronomers without Borders has partnered with Warby Parker to relaunch their campaign to repurpose eclipse glasses.

AWB has collected and donated used Eclipse glasses for over a decade. Their mission is to provide safe viewing for those who may not have access to these items. The group donated hundreds of thousands of glasses across the world after the 2017 eclipse.

Kelly Pisano, a Tampa resident, said she thinks this benefits little ones.

“Especially for kids to be able to have the ability to see a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity,” said Pisano. “To be able to amplify them by having the glasses that Warby Parker will be donating is really great.”

Glasses can be donated at any Warby Parker location from now until April 30th. Visit WarbyParker.com to get more information on how to donate.

Tampa MMA coach works to grow the sport in the area

MMA is becoming a fast-growing sport.

Hellman’s MMA off of Racetrack Road teaches 36 classes a week. It has grown to be a popular mixed martial arts gym in the Tampa Bay area.

Gary Hellman, owner of Hellman’s MMA, said he helps the growth by teaching all ages.

“We start with our kids program, we bring them up doing Muay Thai, kickboxing, wrestling, and Jiu Jitsu,” said Hellman. “We have our adult program where we teach people how to defend themselves and get in great shape.”

Hellman helps his students win numerous titles.

Blandino “El Jefe” Olivero, an amateur fighter, said he believes MMA is on the rise.

“I think everybody fights in some aspect of their life,” said Olivero. “Whether it’s physical or even an emotional battle. I think everyone can relate to the triumph of winning a fight.”

For more information on the classes Hellman teaches visit Hellmansmma.com.

Credits

Anchors: Dawson Cordova, Sam Allen
Producer: Jimmy Rosilio
Reporters: Victoria Harris, Dawson Cordova
Social Media: Sam Allen
Editor-in-Training: Melissa Baldelomar
Teleprompter:  Josh Skinner
Video Editor: Aviva Kram
Cameras: Victoria Harris
Audio: Ari Angelo
Web Editor: Abby Papasodero
Graduate Assistant: McKenzie Muskett 
Faculty Advisor: Dr. Stephanie Anderson