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Tampa Bay Area Chiefs of Police Foundation to honor heroes

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Detective Aaron Smith, of the Pasco County Sheriff’s Office, will be recognized for his digital forensics work. Photo courtesy of Pasco County Sheriff’s Office

 

TAMPA – The Tampa Bay Area Chiefs of Police Foundation will recognize exceptional law enforcement officers Aug. 29 during its 11th annual gala. 

The event is open to the public for the first time, giving the community an opportunity to join law enforcement officials, business leaders and supporters in celebrating those who have made Tampa Bay safer.

Several officers will be honored: 

  • Detective Aaron Smith, of the Pasco County Sheriff’s Office Digital Forensics Unit, will be recognized as Deputy of the Year. His expertise in digital forensics has helped solve complex criminal investigations, identify dozens of child exploitation victims and bring offenders to justice. His work was instrumental in helping the FBI dismantle a multi-state child exploitation case involving a Tampa Bay-area doctor.
  • The Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office Strategic Gun Intelligence Unit will be recognized for making some big busts. Photo courtesy of HCSO

    The Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office Strategic Gun Intelligence Unit won Task Force of the Year for its efforts to combat gun violence through intelligence-driven investigations and proactive enforcement. Since launching in 2025, the unit has arrested more than 100 violent offenders, seized 132 illegal firearms, recovered more than $100,000 in criminal proceeds and helped reduce gun violence across Hillsborough County.

  • Officer Andrew Billups, of the Clearwater Police Department, won Officer of the Year. In separate incidents, Billups rescued a missing 8-year-old autistic girl in danger of being swept into the Gulf. Weeks later, he talked a woman in crisis to safety from the Memorial Causeway Bridge.
  • Aby George, of the Florida Department of Law Enforcement, earned Agent of the Year honors. George led an investigation that dismantled a major international child pornography ring operating across multiple countries. His work resulted in numerous arrests, the seizure of a website distributing child sexual abuse material including more than one million explicit videos and the identification of about 50 child victims.
  • Master Patrol Officer Chrisie Lopez, of the St. Petersburg Police Department, will be highlighted as Unsung Hero. From helping a suicidal teenager to de-escalating an armed man experiencing a mental health crisis, her ability to calmly defuse dangerous situations has saved lives while connecting people in crisis to the help they need.

The gala, which includes a cocktail reception and dinner, takes place Aug. 29 at Opal Sol Resort, 400 Coronado Drive, Clearwater. Visit ChiefsFoundation.org/AnnualGala to buy tickets or donate to the gala auction.

The gala supports the foundation’s mission of strengthening partnerships between law enforcement and the community. Since 2020, the foundation has invested more than $750,000 in officers’ advanced training as well as educational and police academy scholarships. 

 

Hillsborough to mail out Notice of Proposed Property Taxes

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TAMPA – The Hillsborough County Property Appraiser’s Office will begin mailing Truth in Millage Notices to property owners on Aug. 13.

The TRIM Notice is not a tax bill. It is a Notice of Proposed Property Taxes containing information about a property’s market value, assessed value, exemptions and proposed property taxes.

Property owners are encouraged to carefully review their TRIM Notices upon receipt. The notice reflects proposed tax rates and budgets established by the various taxing authorities. The reverse side includes the dates, times and locations of public budget hearings at which comments regarding proposed tax rates and budgets may be presented directly to the appropriate taxing authorities.

Questions concerning a property’s market value, assessed value, exemptions or classification should be directed to the Hillsborough County Property Appraiser’s Office. If any information appears incorrect or requires clarification, property owners are encouraged to contact the office promptly to request a review.

“Property values and tax information can raise questions, and our goal is to ensure property owners have accurate information and access to a team ready to assist them,” Property Appraiser Bob Henriquez said.  “If you have questions or believe information needs clarification, we encourage you to contact our office so we can review the details and help provide answers.”

Reviewing the TRIM Notice upon receipt provides an opportunity to address questions or concerns before property tax bills are issued in November.

Property owners may contact the Hillsborough County Property Appraiser’s Office at 813-272-6100 or visit any of its four locations in Downtown Tampa, Brandon, Plant City or Ruskin, Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. During the week of Aug. 17, the Downtown Tampa office will offer extended office hours from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.

PHSC’s FBLA chapter closes out a record year 

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NEW PORT RICHEY – ​​Pasco-Hernando State College’s Future Business Leaders of America chapter has been building a high profile on the state and national scene through its performances at leadership conferences this year. 

At the Florida FBLA State Leadership Conference, PHSC’s program was named Florida Chapter of the Year. 

Two students were also honored for their service as outgoing state officers: Krista Knowles, former vice president of membership, and Emmalise Feliciano, former vice president of finance. 

Two members were also offered state officer positions for the coming year: Krista Knowles as state president and Teanna Hill as vice president of membership.

Megan Flavin was named Christopher Heider Scholar Honoree.

Several PHSC students performed well at state competition: 

  • First place: State of Chapter – Emmalise Feliciano and Krista Knowles
  • First place: Future Business Leader Executive – Krista Knowles
  • First place: Public Speaking – Kyla Flood
  • First place: Digital Design & Communications Case Competition – Kaylee Smith
  • First place: Marketing & Sales Case Competition – Bryce Widman, David Hennes and John Lias
  • Second place: Customer Service – Josbel Marcano-Reyes
  • Fourth place: Hospitality Management Case Competition – Elizabeth Capitoni & Michael Widman
  • Fourth place: Foundations of Computer Science – Amanda Campos
  • Fourth place: Parliamentary Procedures – Krista Knowles
  • Fourth place: Business Presentation – Emmalise Feliciano
  • Fourth place: Business Communications – Kyla Flood
  • Fourth place: State of Chapter – Teanna Hill

Competitive wins weren’t the only measure of the chapter’s year. FBLA members organized a donation drive for the Bobcat Food Pantry, an on-campus resource that provides food and essential items to students in need.

PHSC’s FBLA students carried the momentum onto the national stage, placing among the best chapters in the country, including a third-place finish for Largest State Chapter in Florida.

Students placed in several other categories: 

  • Second place: Digital Design and Communications Case Competition – Kaylee Smith
  • Second place: Stock Market Game – John Lias, Elizabeth Capitoni, Mark Calderon, Tyrese Brown and Jacob Majorana
  • Fifth place: Outstanding Chapter Award – North Campus
  • Sixth place: State of Chapter – Emmalise Feliciano & Krista Knowles
  • Ninth place: Foundations of Computer Science – Amanda Campos
  • Ninth place: Future Business Leader Executive – Krista Knowles
  • Top 12: State of Chapter, Pasco County – Teanna Hill

PHSC members also swept a full slate of Excellence Award distinctions, recognizing outstanding competitive individual testing performance:

  • Gold Distinction – Emmalise Feliciano and Krista Knowles
  • Silver Distinction – Kyla Flood
  • Bronze Distinction – Josbel Marcano-Reyes

 

Cronin wins Economic Development Professional of the Year

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Bill Cronin’s contributions to economic development in Pasco County and Florida have culminated with earning the Eunice Sullivan Economic Development Professional of the Year award. Photo courtesy of Pasco EDC

PASCO COUNTY – The Florida Economic Development Council has awarded Bill Cronin the Eunice Sullivan Economic Development Professional of the Year award for his work over the past 30 years. 

Cronin, president and CEO of the Pasco Economic Development Council, described the award as an incredible honor. 

“While this award may have my name on it, I see it as a reflection of the extraordinary team we have at the Pasco Economic Development Council,” Cronin said. “Their talent, commitment and passion for making a difference in our community are behind everything we accomplish.”

Cronin has a long career in economic development spanning over 30 years in Florida, Georgia and the Carolinas. 

He worked 10 years with Enterprise Florida, now FloridaCommerce, specializing in international trade and business development.

Since he began leading the Pasco EDC in 2016, the organization has assisted companies through business expansions and relocations resulting in more than $1.8 billion in capital investment and 11,600 new jobs.

Under Cronin’s leadership, the Pasco EDC has been recognized as one of 92 economic development organizations accredited by the International Economic Development Council.

Beth Cicchetti, executive director of the Florida Economic Development Council, said the award recognizes people whose careers have shaped Florida’s economic future through leadership, innovation and service – qualities Cronin embodies. 

“His ability to build partnerships, inspire collaboration and deliver transformative results has strengthened not only Pasco County but the entire economic development profession in Florida,” Cicchetti said. “Bill’s leadership has left an enduring legacy, and we are proud to honor him as the 2026 recipient of this distinguished award.”

 

Recent winners

The award was first given in 1985 and was renamed in 1991 to honor Eunice Sullivan for her dedication and commitment to the economic development profession and the Florida Economic Development Council. 

Cronin joins other economic development leaders who have also received the award, including:

  • 2025 Keith Norden, Team Volusia
  • 2024 Jeff Hendry, North Florida Economic Development Partnership
  • 2023 Suzanne Christman, CEcD, MEDP, Pinellas County Economic Development
  • 2022 Kelly Smallridge, BDB of Palm Beach County
  • 2021 Marc Hoenstine, CEcD, Duke Energy
  • 2019 Crystal Stiles, Florida Power & Light
  • 2018 Cathy Chambers, JAXUSA Partnership
  • 2017 Crystal Sircy, Orlando Economic Partnership
  • 2016 Bob Swindell, Greater Fort Lauderdale Alliance
  • 2015 Allen Cherry, Madison County Economic Development

“I am also deeply humbled to join the distinguished list of past Eunice Sullivan Award recipients – economic development professionals whom I have respected and admired throughout my career,” Cronin said. “To now have my name among theirs is truly one of the great honors of my professional journey.”

 

PulteGroup opens dog park to honor Wesley Chapel family

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The memory of beloved pets Fudge and Rusty will be preserved at a dog park in the Vida’s Way community. A ribbon cutting was held Aug. 1 to celebrate the opening. Photo courtesy of PulteGroup
Photo courtesy of PulteGroup

WESLEY CHAPEL – PulteGroup’s Vida’s Way community held a ribbon-cutting ceremony Aug. 1 to celebrate the grand opening of Fudge & Rusty’s Dog Park. 

The park is named for beloved pets of the DePue family, whose ranch once occupied the land. The community itself honors Vida Barnes DePue, who ran the ranch solo for over 50 years after her husband’s death in 1954. 

The DePue family transferred 350 acres of the ranch to Pulte Homes, which developed Vida’s Way with a deliberate focus on preserving that history.

From the dog park’s name to the community’s street names and overall design, Pulte built the neighborhood to reflect the land’s ranching roots with an emphasis on nature, gathering spaces and outdoor life. 

DePue Ranch remains an active cattle operation today, and residents turned out for the celebration, which marked the start of many years of dog park visits and community gatherings to come.

Learn more about Vida’s Way at pulte.com/homes/florida/tampa/wesley-chapel/vidas-way-211210.

Photo courtesy of PulteGroup

 

 

What’s Happening (Aug. 12-18)

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Aug. 12

Handwork Circle

People bring in sewing and crocheting projects to work on during Handwork Circle at Land O’ Lakes Library. All Makerspace programs require closed-toe shoes and a completed waiver. 813-929-1214

10 a.m.-12:30 p.m.; 2818 Collier Pkwy., Land O’ Lakes

 

Baby Storytime

Land O’ Lakes Library offers a Baby Storytime, a lap-sit program suitable for babies up to age 1 and their caregivers. 813-929-1214

10:15-10:35 or 11:15-11:35 a.m.; 2818 Collier Pkwy., Land O’ Lakes

 

Baby Storytime

Wesley Chapel Library hosts Baby Storytime, a lap-sit program for babies up to age 1 and a caregiver. 352-518-5064

10:30-11 a.m.; 27531 Mystic Oak Blvd., Wesley Chapel

 

Chair Yoga

Zephyrhills Public Library offers a chair yoga class. Call 813-780-0064 to register.

10:30-11:30 or 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.; 5347 8th St., Zephyrhills

 

Chess Club

New River Library hosts Chess Master-rated coach Rick McKnight for lessons and play. There are two sections for grades 4-12: Intermediate/Advanced (3:30-4:30 p.m.) and Beginners (4:30-5:30 p.m.). Registration required. 813-788-6375

3:30-5:30 p.m.; 34043 State Road 54, Wesley Chapel

 

Mat Yoga

Zephyrhills Public Library invites adults to join instructor Michelle Mack for a mat yoga session. Bring a mat. 813-780-0064

4-5 p.m.; 5347 8th St., Zephyrhills

 

Conversation Corner

Trained tutors help adults improve English reading, writing and speaking skills at Wesley Chapel Library. Designed for ESL learners and those wanting to build literacy skills. 352-518-5064

6-7:30 p.m.; 27531 Mystic Oak Blvd., Wesley Chapel

 

Conversation Corner

Improve reading, writing and speaking English with tutor support at Land O’ Lakes Library. 813-929-1214

6-7:30 p.m.; 2818 Collier Pkwy., Land O’ Lakes

 

Aug. 13

Woodworking

Land O’ Lakes Library invites adults (or youth 9+ with guardian) to use Makerspace tools for approved projects. Bring your own plans and materials. Closed-toe shoes and completed Foundry Waiver & Safety Playbook forms required. Registration required. 813-929-1214

9-10:30 a.m., 10:30 a.m.-noon, noon-1:30 p.m.; 2818 Collier Pkwy., Land O’ Lakes

 

Tech Help

Hugh Embry Library staff are available for help with computer or mobile device basics. Bring your own device or use a public computer. Registration required. 352-567-3576

10-11 a.m. or 11 a.m.-noon; 14215 Fourth St., Dade City

 

813 Day

The Tampa Museum of Art offers $8.13 off admission for 813 Day. tampamuseum.org

10 a.m.-4 p.m.; 120 W. Gasparilla Plaza, Tampa

 

Storytime Fun!

Zephyrhills Public Library invites toddlers and preschoolers for an interactive storytime filled with reading, singing and dancing. 813-780-0064

10-10:20 a.m. or 10:30-10:50 a.m.; 5347 8th St., Zephyrhills

 

Preschool Storytime

Children ages 3-5 listen to stories and songs during Preschool Storytime at Starkey Ranch Theatre Library Cultural Center. 727-815-7126

10:15-11 a.m.; 12118 Lake Blanche Drive, Odessa

 

Preschool Storytime

Land O’ Lakes Library invites ages 3-5 and their caregivers for stories and songs. 813-929-1214

10:15-10:45 a.m. or 11:15-11:45 a.m.; 2818 Collier Pkwy., Land O’ Lakes

 

Mat Yoga

Zephyrhills Public Library invites adults to join instructor Michelle Mack for a mat yoga session. Bring a mat. 813-780-0064

4-5 p.m.; 5347 8th St., Zephyrhills

 

Art on the House

The Tampa Museum of Art hosts Art on the House on Thursdays. Admission is pay-as-you-will. tampamuseum.org

4-8 p.m.; 120 W. Gasparilla Plaza, Tampa

 

Yarn for a Cause

New River Library invites yarn enthusiasts to a weekly gathering to share projects, tips and conversation. 813-788-6375

6-7 p.m.; 34043 State Road 54, Wesley Chapel

 

Republican Club

Pasco County Property Appraiser Mike Wells Jr. speaks at the next Wesley Chapel Republican Club meeting at Myrtle Lake Baptist Church. All are welcome. Coffee and dessert will be available.

6:30 p.m.; 2017 Reigler Road, Land O’Lakes

 

Aug. 14

Toddler Storytime

Land O’ Lakes Library presents stories and songs for toddlers ages 1-2 and caregivers. 813-929-1214

9:45-10:05 a.m., 10:15-10:35 a.m. and 11:15-11:35 a.m.; 2818 Collier Pkwy., Land O’ Lakes

 

Sensory Event

Zephyrhills Public Library hosts Rocking in Our School Shoes, a sensory program with crafts. 813-780-0064

10-11 a.m.; 5347 8th St., Zephyrhills

 

Conversation Corner

Hugh Embry Library hosts trained tutors to help adults improve English reading, writing and speaking skills. Designed for ESL learners and English speakers wanting to strengthen literacy skills. 352-567-3576

10-11:30 a.m.; 14215 Fourth St., Dade City

 

Toddler Storytime

Children and their caregivers listen to stories during Toddler Storytime at Wesley Chapel Library. 352-518-5064

10:30-11 or 11:15-11:45 a.m.; 27531 Mystic Oak Blvd., Wesley Chapel

 

Bingo

Zephyrhills Public Library invites the community to play free bingo games and win prizes. Space is limited; reservations recommended. Call 813-780-0064 to register. 

3-4 p.m.; 5347 8th St., Zephyrhills

 

Stage Reading

Powerstories Theatre presents a reading of “Conscience” at Stageworks Theatre. Tickets cost $37 for adults, $32 for seniors and $22 for students. powerstories.com

7:30 p.m.; 1120 E. Kennedy Blvd., Tampa

 

Theater

The Village Players present “The Not So True Story of Cinderella Part 2” at James McCabe Theatre. General admission costs $23 with discounts for seniors, students and military. The show continues through Aug. 22. thevillageplayersvalrico.com

8 p.m.; 506 N. 5th St., Valrico

 

Aug. 15

Lit Club

The Lit Club discusses “And Then There Were None” by Agatha Christie at Starkey Ranch Theatre Library Cultural Center. 727-815-7126

10:30-11:30 a.m.; 12118 Lake Blanche Drive, Odessa

 

Read to Rover

Hugh Embry Library invites young readers and their families to read with therapy dogs from the Alliance of Therapy Dogs. 352-567-3576

10:30-11:30 a.m.; 14215 Fourth St., Dade City

 

Stage Reading

Powerstories Theatre presents a reading of “Conscience” at Stageworks Theatre. Tickets cost $37 for adults, $32 for seniors and $22 for students. powerstories.com

1 p.m.; 1120 E. Kennedy Blvd., Tampa

 

Theater

The Village Players present “The Not So True Story of Cinderella Part 2” at James McCabe Theatre. General admission costs $23 with discounts for seniors, students and military. The show continues through Aug. 22. thevillageplayersvalrico.com

8 p.m.; 506 N. 5th St., Valrico

 

Aug. 16

Stage Reading

Powerstories Theatre presents a reading of “Conscience” at Stageworks Theatre. Tickets cost $37 for adults, $32 for seniors and $22 for students. powerstories.com

3 p.m.; 1120 E. Kennedy Blvd., Tampa

 

Theater

The Village Players present “The Not So True Story of Cinderella Part 2” at James McCabe Theatre. General admission costs $23 with discounts for seniors, students and military. The show continues through Aug. 22. thevillageplayersvalrico.com

3 p.m.; 506 N. 5th St., Valrico

 

Aug. 17

Democratic Club

The East Pasco Democratic Club meets at the Genesis Center and on Zoom. They’ll discuss the midterm elections. Contact for details. All friends of the Democratic Party are welcome. Refreshments are provided. Come early to socialize. 

6:30 p.m.; 38112 15th Ave., Zephyrhills

 

Aug. 18

Medicare/Medicaid

Adults get help applying for the QMB state buy-in program to help pay for Medicare Part B premium at Zephyrhills Public Library. Help is also available for applying for Medicaid and food stamps. Call José Rodríguez at 813-420-3013 for details. 

9 a.m.-3 p.m.; 5347 8th St., Zephyrhills

 

PulseFactor Cardio

Zephyrhills Public Library hosts PulseFactor Cardio, a program to improve heart health. Register in advance. 813-780-0064

9:30-10:30 a.m.; 5347 8th St., Zephyrhills

 

Toddler Storytime

Children ages 1-3 listen to stories and songs during Toddler Storytime at Starkey Ranch Theatre Library Cultural Center. Get a ticket at the service desk. 727-815-7126

10:10-10:40 or 10:50-11:20 a.m.; 12118 Lake Blanche Drive, Odessa

 

Preschool Storytime

Children ages 3-5 listen to stories during Preschool Storytime at Wesley Chapel Library. 352-518-5064

10:30-11 or 11:15-11:45 a.m.; 27531 Mystic Oak Blvd., Wesley Chapel

 

Arts & Crafts

Zephyrhills Public Library hosts Arts & Crafts with Denise & Optum Clinic. The program is for older adults. Call 813-780-0064 to register. 

Noon-2 p.m.; 5347 8th St., Zephyrhills

 

Yarn for More

Hugh Embry Library hosts a weekly gathering of yarn enthusiasts to share projects, tips and conversation. 352-567-3576

12:15-1:45 p.m.; 14215 Fourth St., Dade City

 

Dungeons & Dragons

Teens and tweens play Dungeons & Dragons at Starkey Ranch Theatre Library Cultural Center. 727-815-7126

3-5 p.m.; 12118 Lake Blanche Drive, Odessa

 

D&D Club

Teens and adults play Dungeons & Dragons at Zephyrhills Public Library. Call 813-780-0064 to register. 

3-5 p.m.; 5347 8th St., Zephyrhills

 

Hurricane Preparedness

Adults learn how to prepare for hurricanes at New River Library. 813-788-6375

6-7 p.m.; 34043 State Road 54, Wesley Chapel

Starkey appointed to national committees

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Pasco County Commissioner Kathryn Starkey (File)

PASCO COUNTY – Pasco County Commissioner Kathryn Starkey has been selected to serve on three committees at the National Association of Counties.

The appointments include:

  • Chair of the Community, Economic and Workforce Development Policy Steering Committee
  • Vice chair of the Large Urban County Caucus
  • Member of the International Economic Development Innovation Council

“I’m thrilled to be appointed to these important committees, which will help find solutions for issues that affect the citizens of Pasco County,” Starkey said. “I’m committed to representing Pasco on a national level and using examples from our community to help other counties around Florida and the country.”

NACo’s mission is to strengthen America’s counties and create healthy, safe and vibrant counties across the country. It serves nearly 40,000 county elected officials and 3.6 million county employees.

“You were chosen because of your unwavering commitment and exemplary dedication to NACo,” NACo President George Dunlap said in a letter to Starkey. “Our greatest strength lies in the engagement of our members, and your active participation and leadership are vital to ensuring that we remain the united voice of America’s counties.”

PHSC’s Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society earns Hallmark Awards

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NEW PORT RICHEY – Pasco-Hernando State College’s Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society chapter has earned not one, but two Hallmark Awards at the international level. 

Hallmark Awards are among the most prestigious honors in Phi Theta Kappa. Pasco-Hernando State College stood out among chapters from across the globe.

The Distinguished Chapter Hallmark Award recognizes the Pasco-Hernando State College chapter as one of the top Phi Theta Kappa chapters in the world. The honor was built through vision, determination and a resurgence led by the former chapter president Kaylee Smith.

Under Smith’s leadership, the chapter was reinvigorated from the ground up. She set a new standard for what membership in PHSC’s Phi Theta Kappa could mean, inspiring students to engage more deeply with its mission.

“What truly shaped my direction at PHSC was Phi Theta Kappa,” Smith said. “As the former college-wide president, I had the privilege of rebuilding and strengthening a once abandoned society, turning it back into a space where leadership, scholarship, service and fellowship were not just hallmarks, but lived experiences. The hallmarks of Phi Theta Kappa are not just words I leave behind today. They are values I carry forward into every space I enter.”

Adding to that momentum was Jessica “Kirby” Boatman, a transfer student who arrived with fresh energy and a drive to build on everything Smith had set in motion. 

“Being a part of Phi Theta Kappa is an opportunity and a responsibility that I hold close to my heart,” said Boatman, current president. “My involvement in PTK has taught me that what we can carry out alone is minimal compared to the things we can conduct together, and I am looking forward to this upcoming school year.” 

Pasco-Hernando State College won a second Hallmark Award, the Distinguished College Project, which recognizes initiatives that made a meaningful, lasting impact on the college community.

The college won specifically for Bobcat Banter, a student-driven video podcast born from the vision of former Phi Theta Kappa member Emmalise Feliciano. The series features conversations that connect students, faculty and the broader community. With professional studio recordings and real on-camera interviews, Bobcat Banter gave Pasco-Hernando State College a new kind of voice, built by students, for students.

Feliciano led the vision alongside former team members Tyson Branstetter and Eli Ferreira, with guidance from instructor Jon Tietz.

“It is a platform that celebrates the voices, achievements and experiences of our college community,” Feliciano said. 

 

Crisis Center of Tampa Bay earns accreditation

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Crisis Center of Tampa Bay team members show off their Inform USA accreditation plaque. The nonprofit met national standards and best practices set by Inform USA. Photo courtesy of Crisis Center of Tampa Bay

TAMPA – The Crisis Center of Tampa Bay announced Aug. 11 that it has been reaccredited by Inform USA for a period of five years. 

The organization underwent a process that took 12 months and involved five phases: 

  • A consultant’s report that assessed the agency’s compliance with national standards; 
  • A detailed review of the resource database; 
  • A secret shopper component; 
  • A survey of the organizations that are listed on their resource database; and
  • A virtual site visit.

The Crisis Center of Tampa Bay uses best practices to help people get connected to the right resources to meet their needs, such as food, utility assistance or mental health services. 

The nonprofit offers a range of evidence-based programs designed to meet community needs:

  • Gateway Contact Center (988 & 211): suicide prevention, crisis counseling and information and referral services);
  • Corbett Trauma Center (trauma counseling and sexual assault survivor services);
  • Success 4 Kids & Families (support for families coping with behavioral health challenges, recovery navigation); 
  • TransCare (911 emergency life support ambulance services, behavioral health transports, basic and advanced life support interfacility transportation, community paramedicine).

People can access these services by calling 211. 

The organization has achieved this honor four times. 

“The Crisis Center of Tampa Bay is the community’s gateway to connect to resources when they are facing life’s challenges,” said Clara Reynolds, president and CEO of the center. “Achieving the Inform USA accreditation confirms that we are maintaining best practices in providing information and referral services to our community.”

Learn more about Inform USA at informusa.org/accreditation.

On the web: crisiscenter.com.

 

ZooTampa integrates acupuncture into veterinary care 

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Acupuncture has helped Sloth the manatee experience increased movement around a nostril and eye affected by nerve injury. Photo courtesy of ZooTampa at Lowry Park

TAMPA – ZooTampa at Lowry Park has incorporated veterinary acupuncture into treatment plans for animals with complex medical conditions, including a manatee, a black-bellied whistling duck and a roseate spoonbill chick.

The initiative is led by Dr. Alex Mason, a staff veterinarian certified in veterinary acupuncture. Traditionally associated with human and domestic animal medicine, acupuncture is now being applied to various species at the zoo to enhance recovery and well-being.

“At ZooTampa, each animal receives individualized care, and acupuncture gives us another way to support patients when traditional treatment options may be limited or when we are working to improve comfort, mobility and healing,” Mason said. “It is used alongside our traditional veterinary care and allows us to take a more comprehensive approach to supporting the animals’ well-being.”

Acupuncture can help stimulate nerves, enhance blood flow and encourage the body’s natural pain management and healing responses. At ZooTampa, it is used as a complementary therapy, meaning it may be incorporated alongside traditional veterinary medicine, physical therapy and other treatments when appropriate.

Earl Grey is sure to whistle a more upbeat tune after acupuncture helped with improved movement and posture. Photo courtesy of ZooTampa at Lowry Park

Earl Grey, a 14-year-old black-bellied whistling duck, experienced sudden weakness in his right leg. After performing a physical examination and taking x-rays, the veterinary team initiated supportive care, including fluids, vitamins, pain management and electroacupuncture. Following the first treatment, Earl Grey showed improved movement and posture. After two additional sessions, further enhancements in coordination, strength and walking ability were observed.

“For acute conditions, three initial treatments can provide a strong foundation and help us evaluate how a patient responds,” Mason said. “Earl Grey’s progress has been encouraging, and we will continue to adjust his treatment plan based on his mobility and overall recovery.”

A roseate spoonbill chick hospitalized for a leg injury received electroacupuncture alongside traditional veterinary medicine, including pain medications and physical therapy. The chick has since regained normal function in the limb.

Sloth, a manatee under ZooTampa’s care, arrived with a chronic condition causing significant nerve injury to one side of his face, affecting his ability to open one nostril and blink one eye. While chronic nerve injuries can be especially difficult to treat, acupuncture has provided ZooTampa’s veterinary team with another option after traditional approaches were limited. The team has observed mild improvements, including increased movement around the affected nostril and eye.