An unthinkable arson killed three cats early Saturday, April 19, at the offices of the Animal Coalition of Tampa, forcing the nonprofit facility, which provides the community affordable veterinary care, to close temporarily. The community has rallied support and ACT has pushed on with limited resources in its old location on Lemon Street. Donate to this great organization so they can rebuild, and give them a pat on the back for persevering — just so our pets can get the care they need. The temporary ACT clinic is at 1719 W. Lemon St. Tampa, 813-250-3900, open Mon.-Sat. 8 a.m.-6 p.m., shot clinic 9:30 a.m.-3 p.m. animalcoalitionoftampa.org.
People & Politics
Don Zimmer was one of the few Yankee or Red Sox players that Rays fans adored, and that’s because the effervescent, super-cuddly “Zim Bear” spent 10 years on our side as a coach and advisor. Zim — who died in June at the age of 83 — got a touching tribute when Rays broadcaster Todd Kalas announced his death during a game against the Miami Marlins. “I felt like I was getting a gift every time we talked,” Kalas said as he choked back tears. “Really sad news.” Deadspin ran this video clip of his remarks.
“This court concludes that a citizen’s right to marry is a fundamental right that belongs to the individual.” Those were the words of Judge Luis Garcia of the Monroe County Circuit Court, whose July ruling was the first in a slew of similar decisions by “activist judges” that may eventually wind up toppling the state’s anti-gay marriage amendment. Fun fact to rub in the face of John Stemberger Republicans: Garcia was appointed by Republican Governor Jeb Bush.
Runners-up: Water Works Park, more breweries
Runners-up: Vinoy Park (St. Petersburg), Crescent Lake Park (St. Petersburg)
