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Pinellas Park honors long-serving staff, donates $6,000 to NAMI Pinellas and promotes July events
Summary
At the June 27 meeting the council presented $6,000 to NAMI Pinellas, recognized employees for 10, 25 and 30 years of service, and heard announcements about July 4 and July 6 community events including the Police and Kids Foundation Freedom Festival.
The Pinellas Park City Council on June 27 recognized local nonprofit and city staff contributions and shared a series of community event announcements.
A city representative presented a $6,000 check to NAMI Pinellas to make up a recent fundraising shortfall. The organization’s presenter, identified in the meeting as Bridges Madas, thanked the council and staff for support and said the group’s programs—education, support groups and outreach—serve thousands in Pinellas County each year. "We surpassed our goal with your support and had one of our most impactful walks yet," Bridges Madas said.
Volunteer Phyllis Beatty, who said she has been involved with NAMI programming since 2012 and later became a trainer, described teaching the Family-to-Family class and running monthly support groups. "I was so eager to learn and get educated on mental illness," Beatty said, describing how NAMI helped her family cope with a loved one’s illness.
The council also presented service awards to city employees: an IT staff member recognized for 30 years of service, Keith Tickner for 10 years in recreation, and a senior recreation assistant honored for 25 years. Each honoree received council remarks and a plaque recognizing continuous service to the city.
During the public-comment period Tracy Scofield invited residents to the Police and Kids Foundation Freedom Festival on July 6 (noon–4 p.m. at OCCU Roadhouse) and outlined activities including K-9 demonstrations, an honor guard presentation and family-friendly entertainment. Staff interns Olivia Perham and Shaylyn Yuan summarized summer events and reminded residents that city buildings and the brush site would be closed July 4.
Assistant State Attorney Kate Spurlock introduced herself to the council and announced she is running for circuit court judge in the Sixth Judicial Circuit; she asked that Pasco and Pinellas residents consider her campaign on Aug. 20.
The meeting closed with council reminders about heat safety, pet safety during July 4 celebrations, and encouragements to check on neighbors and first responders.
