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Law enforcement, community leaders honored at gala

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Detective Aaron Smith, of the Pasco County Sheriff’s Office, won Deputy of the Year. Photo courtesy of the The Tampa Bay Area Chiefs of Police Foundation

CLEARWATER – The Tampa Bay Area Chiefs of Police Foundation honored exceptional law enforcement officers and community leaders during its 11th Annual Gala on Aug. 29 at Opal Sol Resort in Clearwater.

U.S. Sen. Ashley Moody won the Lifetime Achievement Award. Photo courtesy of The Tampa Bay Area Chiefs of Police Foundation

The evening’s highest honor, the Lifetime Achievement Award, was presented to U.S. Sen. Ashley Moody for her decades of leadership and advocacy on behalf of Florida’s law enforcement officers and the communities they serve.

“I am honored to receive the Lifetime Achievement Award from the Tampa Bay Area Chiefs of Police Foundation,” Moody said. “As a former prosecutor and the wife of a law enforcement officer, I have seen firsthand the sacrifices these men and women and their families make each and every day for our communities. I’ve had the privilege of working alongside them, and I am grateful for the opportunity to continue that work and be their voice in the U.S. Senate.”

The gala also recognized five law enforcement honorees for extraordinary acts of service and business leader Fotini Allteni Kokeri for her longtime partnership with law enforcement.

“It’s about telling the stories of the people behind the badge,” said Greg Mertz, president of the Tampa Bay Area Chiefs of Police Foundation. “These honorees represent the very best of law enforcement and community leadership. The foundation is proud to give officers the tools they need to succeed. When we support our officers, we strengthen the agencies they serve and the communities they protect.”

Honorees were: 

  • Deputy of the Year: Detective Aaron Smith, Pasco County Sheriff’s Office Digital Forensics Unit

His expertise in digital forensics has helped solve complex criminal investigations, identify dozens of child exploitation victims and bring offenders to justice. His work helped the FBI dismantle a multi-state child exploitation case involving a Tampa Bay-area doctor.

  • Task Force of the Year: Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office Strategic Gun Intelligence Unit

The unit combats 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 of the Year: Officer Andrew Billups, Clearwater Police Department

He rescued a missing 8-year-old autistic girl in danger of being swept into the Gulf and weeks later talked a woman in crisis to safety from the Memorial Causeway Bridge.

  • Agent of the Year: Aby George, Florida Department of Law Enforcement

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.

  • Unsung Hero: Master Patrol Officer Chrisie Lopez, St. Petersburg Police Department

Lopez has worked more than a decade of service as a crisis negotiator to resolve high-risk situations. From helping a suicidal teenager to de-escalating an armed man experiencing a mental health crisis, her ability to defuse dangerous situations has saved lives while connecting people in crisis to the help they need.

  • Business Partner of the Year: Fotini Allteni Kokeri, Michael J. Kosloski Foundation

Kokeri has invested in law enforcement training, officer development, specialized equipment and community initiatives. Her partnership with law enforcement agencies, coupled with a dedication to improving health care, education and quality of life, has helped build stronger relationships between law enforcement and the community.

The gala’s presenting sponsor, Pepin Family Foundation, donated $250,000.

Andrew Billups, Clearwater Police Department, won Officer of the Year. Photo courtesy of The Tampa Bay Area Chiefs of Police Foundation

Leaders work toward bringing MLB Rays to Hillsborough County

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TAMPA – Hillsborough County commissioners voted 5-2 on Aug. 28 to move forward with an agreement on the Hillsborough College Dale Mabry Campus Ballpark project.

“Today’s vote marks a monumental step toward securing a forever home for the Tampa Bay Rays, while integrating a new Hillsborough College campus into an $8 billion private-sector investment,” said Ken Hagan, chairman of the board. “This will be the largest, most transformative development in Hillsborough County history and the nation’s first live-work-play-learn district anchored by an MLB ballpark.”

The vote follows several months of negotiations among officials from Hillsborough County, City of Tampa, the Tampa Bay Rays and Tampa Sports Authority. Discussions also took place with Hillsborough College and the state of Florida.

The new Rays stadium complex will be located at the corner of Dale Mabry Highway and West Tampa Bay Boulevard near Raymond James Stadium and Tampa International Airport.

Negotiations are anticipated to continue as additional agreements are pending consideration by the board, including a Ballpark License & Use Agreement, Community Benefits Agreement and Construction Funds Trust Agreement.

The Rays anticipate opening the ballpark in April 2029. 

Suncoast Credit Union merging with Launch Credit Union

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TAMPA – Launch Credit Union members have approved the proposed merger with Suncoast Credit Union following a 45-day voting period conducted earlier this summer, the credit unions announced Aug. 26. 

With approval from Launch members, both boards of directors and the National Credit Union Administration, the merger will take effect Sept. 1, with the combined organization operating under the Suncoast Credit Union name.

Launch Credit Union serves more than 86,000 members across Florida’s Space Coast and operates 17 branches in Brevard and Volusia counties. The combined credit union will serve more than 1.5 million members and manage over $22 billion in assets.

“Today marks an exciting new chapter as Launch Credit Union members become part of Suncoast Credit Union,” said Kevin Johnson, president and CEO of Suncoast Credit Union. “Together, we’ll continue investing in innovative products, enhanced services and meaningful community impact while remaining focused on our mission of helping our members achieve financial success.”

Johnson will lead the combined organization. Joe Mirachi, CEO of Launch Credit Union, is retiring.

“Our members’ approval reflects confidence in a partnership that positions us to deliver even greater value while preserving the member-first philosophy that has guided Launch Credit Union for more than 60 years,” Mirachi said. “We’re grateful for the trust our members have placed in us and look forward to the opportunities this new partnership creates.”

The integration process will continue over the coming months, and members will not experience immediate changes to their accounts or day-to-day services. Operational Day One, when members and employees are fully operating under the Suncoast umbrella, is expected in summer 2027.

Launch Credit Union will operate as Launch, a Branch of Suncoast Credit Union, during the transition period while both organizations work to integrate operations. Members will be notified in advance of any changes.

During the transition period, Launch and Suncoast will continue operating on separate systems. Members should continue conducting transactions through their existing credit union’s branches, digital banking platforms and service channels. 

No branches will close. The credit union said the merger will not result in job losses and will create new opportunities for employees to grow.

The merger will create opportunities to expand products and services, enhance technology, increase access to financial resources and provide additional value and convenience for members.  

A special dividend of up to $15 million will be paid to qualified Launch accounts before the effective date of the merger. The credit union announced that $5 million will be invested in nonprofits and school districts throughout Florida’s Space Coast.

Pasco County Fire Rescue celebrates new station

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Station 2 expands Pasco County Fire Rescue’s ability to respond to emergencies in a rapidly growing community. Photo courtesy of Pasco County

 

Neighbors toured the new station, met the firefighters and learned how Station 2 strengthens Pasco County Fire Rescue’s emergency coverage. Photo courtesy of Pasco County

PASCO COUNTY – Pasco County Fire Rescue celebrated the grand opening of Station 2 on Aug. 14.

Officials said the station expands Pasco County Fire Rescue’s ability to respond quickly and effectively to emergencies as the community continues to grow.

“Wesley Chapel deserves a fire station that matches its momentum, and Station 2 does exactly that,” Pasco Fire Chief Ryan Guynn said. “It positions our team to meet the community’s needs today while preparing us for the challenges of tomorrow.”

Located on Wesley Chapel Boulevard, the state-of-the-art station houses one engine, one rescue, one truck company and a fire investigator.  

The station also features an innovative hot, warm and cold zone layout designed to reduce firefighter exposure to carcinogens and improve long-term health outcomes.

 

The community joined Pasco County Fire Rescue leadership and the Station 2 crew for a grand opening celebration and ribbon-cutting. Photo courtesy of Pasco County

Police seek details about Zephyrhills man missing since 2007

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Carlton McCarthy Ireland (Photo courtesy of Zephyrhills Police Department)

ZEPHYRHILLS – The Zephyrhills Police Department is renewing its appeal for information concerning the disappearance of Carlton McCarthy Ireland, who has been missing since spring 2007.

Ireland was 54 years old when he disappeared from Zephyrhills. His last known account activity was a water bill payment on April 18, 2007. Five days later, he was documented pawning a ring in Tampa. His red 1997 Toyota Tercel also disappeared and has never been recovered.

Ireland was born in Jamaica and had acquaintances there. He was also known to frequent Tampa and Dade City. as well as attend dog track races, according to police. 

Nearly two decades have passed, but Ireland’s family continues to search for answers.

“Carlton Ireland has a family that has lived with unanswered questions for far too long,” Zephyrhills Police Chief Derek Brewer said. “As time passes, people’s circumstances and relationships change. Someone who may not have felt comfortable speaking in 2007 may be ready to come forward today. Even a seemingly minor memory could help provide Carlton’s family with the answers they have been waiting for.”

The Zephyrhills Police Department asks anyone who knew Ireland, encountered him around the time of his disappearance, saw his vehicle or has heard information about what may have happened to him to contact investigators.

Information may come from Zephyrhills, Tampa, Dade City, Jamaica, dog tracks or any other location where Ireland had personal, employment or social connections. Police said no detail is too small.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the Zephyrhills Police Department tipline at 813-819-8847. Information may also be provided anonymously through Crime Stoppers of Tampa Bay at 1-800-873-8477.

AdventHealth adds to therapy dog pack

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Boots, Skye and Pilot are joining in the footsteps of Wilbur (far right), chief barking officer. Photo courtesy of AdventHealth
  • 1: Skye serves alongside AdventHealth’s AirStar 1 helicopter crews. Photo courtesy of AdventHealth
  • 2: The six-month-old pups were given a special community welcome recently during a Puppy Pawty at AdventHealth Dade City, complete with pup-friendly ice cream and hugs. Photo courtesy of AdventHealth
  • 3: Wilbur has worked with AdventHealth team members and first responders in Pasco County for more than five years. Photo courtesy of AdventHealth

 

 

Skye serves alongside AdventHealth’s AirStar 1 helicopter crews. Photo courtesy of AdventHealth

DADE CITY – AdventHealth has welcomed three new members to the hospital system’s therapy dog team.

Pilot and Skye are joining their dad, Wilbur, in bringing comfort and emotional support to patients, families and caregivers in AdventHealth hospitals across the Tampa Bay area. A third puppy from Wilbur’s litter, Boots, has joined AdventHealth EMS partner Pasco County Fire Rescue.

The 6-month-old pups were given a special community welcome recently during a Puppy Pawty at AdventHealth Dade City. Patients, visitors and AdventHealth team members got to meet the new therapy dogs and hear more about the work they will be doing alongside their handlers.

Wilbur, chief barking officer for AdventHealth Wesley Chapel, has worked with AdventHealth staff and first responders in Pasco County for more than five years. Wilbur provides encouragement and companionship.

Skye serves alongside AdventHealth’s AirStar 1 helicopter crews. Boots works with Pasco County Fire Rescue. All of the dogs will provide comfort and support during stressful situations and challenging moments.

Brendon Sanders, chief flight nurse for the AdventHealth AirStar 1 helicopter program, said they are very grateful to have Skye as part of their team and part of his family.

“She brings a lot of comfort to people, especially in times of stress. She kind of lightens the mood and is there to bring peace to otherwise stressful situations,” Sanders said.

Skye is living with Sanders full-time.

The six-month-old pups were given a special community welcome recently during a Puppy Pawty at AdventHealth Dade City, complete with pup-friendly ice cream and hugs. Photo courtesy of AdventHealth

“She’s very affectionate and she’s naturally well-disciplined,” Sanders said. “It’s been really amazing.”

He said it has been great to have her with him every day at work as they go about their duties.

“If we are in the office, she’ll run around and go into everybody’s individual office and visits with them,” Sanders said. “Then we will go to visit AdventHealth hospitals in different parts of the Tampa area. We will walk through the ER, she greets patients and families, then we’ll go to other floors and visit the ICU or go over to labor and delivery and visit with team members at hospital. She just lightens everyone’s mood and brings some joy into their day.”

AdventHealth has used a pet therapy program for decades with dogs supporting patients, caregivers and first responders in a variety of roles, from cheerleaders to entertainers and even physical therapy assistants.

 

Paralyzed veteran receives mortgage-free smart home

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• The homecoming ceremony took place Aug. 19 in Pinellas Park. It featured local officials, first responders, donors and supporters who helped make the home possible. Photo courtesy of Tunnel to Towers Foundation

 

Michael DeLancey enlisted in the Marine Corps in January 2004 after graduating from high school. He had been deployed to Afghanistan and Iraq before he was shot by a sniper in September 2006. He was just 21. Photo courtesy of Tunnel to Towers Foundation

PINELLAS PARK – The Tunnel to Towers Foundation delivered physical and financial independence to Marine veteran Michael DeLancey on Aug. 19 with a mortgage-free home in Pinellas County.

The foundation’s Smart Home Program builds or modifies homes to make them accessible for injured veterans and first responders. Each home is designed to address the individual’s specific needs.

A sniper attack in September 2006 in Haditha, Iraq, left DeLancey paralyzed from the chest down. 

The lance corporal sustained a gunshot wound that entered through his left shoulder, shattered his seventh vertebra and fragmented into his right shoulder. He was airlifted from Iraq to Germany before being transferred to Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, where he spent more than 50 days hospitalized.   

DeLancey returned home to Tampa and dedicated himself to rehabilitation while discovering adaptive sports and outdoor recreation. He began mentoring newly injured service members at Walter Reed.  

DeLancey started Wounded Warriors Abilities Ranch in 2015. The nonprofit helps veterans stay active through sports and activities in the Tampa Bay area. 

Some of the features of his new home include automated exterior doors; wider halls and doorways; automatic door locks; adjustable cabinets, counters and stovetops; wheelchair-accessible showers; smart controls for lighting, temperature, security and sound; and backup generators.
“To me, this house represents the foundation of the strong community bond that I have been lucky enough to have since coming home,” said the Pinellas Park native.

 

Want to help?

Visit T2T.org to support Tunnel to Towers’ mission and help deliver life-changing mortgage-free smart homes.

 

Saint Leo University focused on the future of work 

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Saint Leo University prepares its residential campus for the start of the 2026-27 academic year. Photo courtesy of Saint Leo University

ST. LEO – Saint Leo University is entering the 2026-27 academic year with expanded academic programs, new student resources and a continued focus on becoming the region’s most workforce-oriented university.

“After almost one year serving this community, I am encouraged by the progress we are making and the momentum building across Saint Leo University,” said Jim Burkee, university president. “As we begin a new academic year, our focus is clear: We are preparing students not just for their first job, but for the future of work. We are developing the next generation of leaders, who bring our core values and ethics to every challenge.”

Nearly 850 new students will begin the fall semester at Saint Leo’s residential campus. Classes begin Aug. 24.

 

Academic innovation

For the 2026-27 academic year, Saint Leo University is introducing new undergraduate and graduate programs in health care, technology, business, criminal justice, education and ministry. 

The new offerings, along with revamped experiential learning opportunities, are designed to prepare students for high-demand careers and meet the changing needs of employers.

The university recently received $1.8 million in state funding to expand its cybersecurity and nursing programs. Dewey and Becky Mitchell donated $1 million to launch the Derek J. Mitchell Collegiate Recovery Program, which is currently accepting applicants with the first cohort expected to begin in spring 2027. 

Arnie and Lauren Bellini donated $2 million to develop an accelerated graduate program designed to prepare executives for leadership roles in cybersecurity, also planned for spring 2027.

“At the heart of everything we do is a commitment to helping students thrive in a work environment that looks nothing like it did even five years ago,” said Bryan DePoy, provost and vice president of academic affairs. “We’re strengthening the programs our students already count on while introducing new ones, bringing emerging technologies into the classroom and reimagining what experiential learning looks like from day one of a student’s time at Saint Leo University.”

New academic programs for 2026-27 include:

College of Arts, Sciences, and Allied Services

  • The college is introducing a new Bachelor of Arts in Medical Humanities with a Pre-DPT concentration and a new Master of Education in Exceptional Student Education: Autism Spectrum Disorder Practices and Intervention.
  • Saint Leo also is expanding its forensic science education through a forensics specialization within the Bachelor of Arts in Criminology and a new Doctor of Criminal Justice in Forensic Science.
  • A new online Graduate Certificate in Pneumatology and Renewal Leadership provides additional opportunities for graduate-level study in ministry and theology.

College of Health Sciences

  • The new Direct Entry Master of Science in Nursing offers a hybrid format for career changers holding a non-nursing bachelor’s degree.
  • New degree programs include a Bachelor of Science in Exercise and Sport Science and an asynchronous online Master of Social Work.
  • A Doctor of Social Work is planned for spring 2027, pending approval by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Tapia College of Business and Technology

  • The newly merged Tapia College of Business and Technology is expanding its offerings with a new Bachelor of Science in Business Analytics, a Bachelor of Science in Finance and a minor in artificial intelligence.
  • Other new programs include advanced MBA Advantage tracks in finance and economics and a Master of Science in Applied Business and Leadership that can be applied toward Saint Leo’s existing Doctor of Business Administration.
  • A new Cybersecurity Executive Track is planned to launch in spring 2027.

Visit saintleo.edu/academics/academic-affairs/catalogs to view the 2026-27 Academic Catalog. 

 

Connecting classroom learning to careers

As employers increasingly seek AI and digital skills, Saint Leo is putting its university-wide AI training initiative into practice this fall in partnership with IBM. AI and digital fluency training through IBM SkillsBuild is being embedded in every academic program. Saint Leo aims to become the first university in the nation to fully integrate the SkillsBuild platform across all areas of study.

The university also is expanding experiential learning through internships, externships, clinical experiences and employer partnerships, giving students opportunities to apply classroom learning in professional settings.

“We’re also rethinking how we support students beyond the classroom,” DePoy said. “Plans are underway to bring career services, workforce engagement and academic advising together into one integrated model, so students get consistent guidance connecting what they’re learning to where they’re headed.”

The university continues to invest in campus spaces, resources and programs that support students.

LEO 360, a centralized hub for student-facing services, brings together academic advising, accessibility services, career and workforce engagement, the registrar and student financial services in one convenient location. 

Other improvements for 2026-27 include new gathering spaces, a new campus store and enhanced dining options.

 

By the Numbers

  • Nearly 850 new students at University Campus
  • 10+ new academic programs
  • $4.8 million in recent state and donor investments
  • 100% of students to receive AI training

 

Cinnaholic bakery pops up in Wesley Chapel 

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The Mendes family believed the community was a strong fit for Cinnaholic and chose the Hub at Lexington, which is surrounded by family-oriented neighborhoods. Photo courtesy of Cinnaholic
Cinnaholic has surpassed 90 locations nationwide. Thiago and Juliana Mendes have opened a location in Wesley Chapel. Photo courtesy of Cinnaholic

WESLEY CHAPEL – After opening their first Cinnaholic location in South Tampa, Thiago and Juliana Mendes took their time finding the right opportunity for their second bakery. They chose the Hub at Lexington.

“This location puts us in the middle of a growing area with so much energy and activity,” Thiago said. “We’re excited to bring Cinnaholic to even more customers throughout Wesley Chapel and the surrounding communities.”

Originally from Brazil, the Mendes family dreamed of living in the United States and building a business together. With backgrounds in business and complementary strengths, they found a natural fit in Cinnaholic. 

Thiago, who has a passion for baking and cooking, takes a hands-on approach to the bakery’s operations. Juliana brings her background in human resources and love of customer service to the front of the house. 

The couple liked Cinnaholic’s approach to plant-based desserts and saw an opportunity to build a business they could truly be a part of. 

“We fell in love with Cinnaholic the first time we tried it,” Juliana said. “Everything is completely plant-based, but you don’t have to be vegan or vegetarian to love it. We’ve loved being hands-on owners at our South Tampa location, and we’re excited to bring that same experience to our new bakery in Wesley Chapel.”

Having recently moved to Wesley Chapel, the couple is looking forward to growing their business in the community. They celebrated the shop’s opening on Aug. 21. 

The gourmet vegan bakery is known for its customizable cinnamon rolls and plant-based treats. Customers can customize their cinnamon rolls with more than 20 frosting flavors and 20 topping choices.

In addition to cinnamon rolls, Cinnaholic offers baby buns, cookies, brownies, soft serve and cinnamon roll cakes.

 

Want to go?

Cinnaholic Wesley Chapel is located at 27145 Halter Loop, Wesley Chapel. Cinnaholic also offers catering for events, such as weddings, conferences and conventions.

On the web: cinnaholic.com 

News Briefs: Pasco Extension hosting 4-H open house

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Pasco Extension hosting 4-H open house

DADE CITY – UF/IFAS Pasco County Cooperative Extension Service will host a 4-H open house to highlight 4-H clubs, projects, camps, workshops and community service opportunities.

Families can drop in during the event from 5:30 to 7 p.m. Aug. 27 at the Pasco County Extension Office, 36702 County Road 52.

Children ages 5 to 18 can participate in 4-H community clubs with adult volunteers. Project areas include animal science, environmental science, food and nutrition, leadership, citizenship, gardening and shooting sports.

Members can also participate in events at the county, district, state, regional and national levels.

Email for more information.

 

Pasco seeks input on West Port channel marker

NEW PORT RICHEY – Pasco County Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources will hold a community meeting to discuss the installation of a slow-speed channel marker in the West Port Channel.

The meeting begins at 6 p.m. Aug. 31 at the West Pasco Government Center, 8731 Citizens Drive.

The meeting will give community members and stakeholders an opportunity to provide input on the proposed channel marker. Representatives from other government agencies have also been invited.

On the web: MyPasco.net

 

Water district seeks input on water priorities

BROOKSVILLE – The Southwest Florida Water Management District seeks public input on priorities for establishing minimum flows and levels for lakes, wetlands, rivers, streams and aquifers.

The district will hold a virtual workshop at noon Aug. 27 through Microsoft Teams.

The district plans to publish its draft 2026 priority list after the Governing Board’s Aug. 25 meeting. The board will consider approval in October.

Written comments may be submitted to by Sept. 7. 

On the web: watermatters.org

 

Hillsborough to mail out notices of proposed property taxes 

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

The notice is not a tax bill. It contains information about a property’s market value, assessed value, exemptions and proposed property taxes.

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. 

Reviewing the notice provides an opportunity to address questions or concerns before property tax bills are issued in November.

 

Hillsborough seeks applications for Neighborhood Awards

TAMPA – Applications are open for the 2026 Hillsborough County Neighborhood Awards.

The awards recognize projects, programs and events held in unincorporated Hillsborough County between July 2025 and June 2026.

Neighborhoods may apply in three categories: promoting conservation, environmental stewardship or healthy living; enhancing safety or boosting disaster preparedness; or building community spirit through volunteerism or communication. 

Each neighborhood may submit one application and compete in multiple categories.

Applications are due by 5 p.m. Sept. 11. One category winner will be named the 2026 Neighborhood of the Year and receive $500.

Visit HCFL.gov/NeighborhoodAwards for details.

 

HART offers discounted fares for young riders

TAMPA – Hillsborough Transit Authority has brought back its HART Youth Pass for the new school year.

The pass gives riders ages 6 to 18 a 50% discount on regular HART fares. A one-way ride costs $1, a one-day pass costs $2 and a monthly pass costs $32.50. Children ages 5 and younger ride free with a parent or guardian.

Eligible riders must register with a valid form of identification at the Marion Transit Center or University Area Transit Center.

The Youth Pass is available through Flamingo Fares, HART’s mobile app and smart card payment system.

On the web: goHART.org 

 

Quick Hits

  • Pasco County Fire Rescue celebrated the grand opening of Station 2 at 32134 Wesley Chapel Blvd., Wesley Chapel.
  • The Wesley Chapel Rotary Club will celebrate its 21st anniversary during the week of Aug. 19.