Issue #165: Raw Milk Trend, Enhanced Mental Health Crisis Response, and Black Swan Murder Trial Jury News

07/24/2024

Author

Ted Grellner
24 Jul

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GOOD MORNING

Dr Ted
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In this issue of

NewTampa | WesleyChapel Local Pulse

Local News

— Raw Milk Sales Surge in Tampa Bay Amid Bird Flu Concerns

— TPD Partners with Crisis Center to Enhance Mental Health Crisis Response

Crime

— Jury Seated for 'Black Swan Murder Trial' in Florida

Sports

— Deion Sanders to Lead Buccaneers as New Head Coach?? (What if?)

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Raw Milk Sales Surge in Tampa Bay Amid Bird Flu Concerns

Demand for raw milk is growing in Tampa Bay, even as health officials warn about the spread of bird flu in dairy cattle. For many, like 25-year-old Barbagelata of Clearwater’s Lakeview Farm Store, raw milk is a lifestyle. His store now sells around 300 gallons weekly, up from 20 gallons three years ago.

Despite warnings from health authorities about the H5N1 virus, local producers like Vicky Webster of Happy Tails Farm remain skeptical.

Health officials stress that unpasteurized milk can harbor harmful bacteria, leading to symptoms like diarrhea, stomach cramps, and vomiting.

Florida prohibits the sale of raw milk for human consumption, but it is available labeled for pet use. Influencers like Paul Saladino have driven interest, especially among young, health-conscious individuals. As demand continues to rise, local farms struggle to keep up with the growing market, reflecting a deep distrust of commercial food systems.

TPD Partners with Crisis Center to Enhance Mental Health Crisis Response

The Tampa Police Department (TPD) has introduced the Crisis Intervention Dispatch Service Program, aimed at improving responses to mental health crises. This initiative connects 911 callers experiencing a mental or behavioral health crisis with trained specialists from the Crisis Center of Tampa Bay, reducing the need for police involvement.

These specialists work to deescalate situations and link individuals to appropriate community resources. Clara Reynolds, president and CEO of the Crisis Center, praised the TPD for prioritizing behavioral health, emphasizing the importance of timely support for those in crisis.

TPD Chief Lee Bercaw highlighted the program's positive impact, noting that additional resources in the dispatch center are already benefiting those in need.

For mental health crises or suicidal thoughts, individuals can call the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline or 211 for community resource information.

For immediate police, fire, or ambulance assistance, 911 remains available.

Jury Seated for 'Black Swan Murder Trial' in Florida

The trial of Ashley Benefield, a former ballerina accused of killing her estranged husband, began Monday. Benefield claims self-defense in the 2020 shooting of Douglas Benefield. A jury was selected, with opening statements set for Tuesday. Key witnesses, including the victim's cousin and daughter, are expected to testify.

Benefield, charged with second-degree murder, seeks to invoke Florida's Stand Your Ground law. Supporters have been demonstrating outside the courthouse, chanting "We stand with Ashley." Her six-year-old daughter, Emerson, has also joined the protests.

Judge Matt Whyte denied motions for expert testimony on battered spouse syndrome and previously rejected a motion to dismiss based on Stand Your Ground immunity. If convicted, Benefield faces 25 years to life in prison.

The case has garnered national attention and was featured on "48 Hours."

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Deion Sanders to Lead Buccaneers as New Head Coach?? (What if?)

Imagine:

Deion "Coach Prime" Sanders is set to become the next head coach of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, aiming to bring back the excitement and success reminiscent of Jon Gruden's era.

Gruden transformed Tampa Bay into a football hub, leading the team to three NFC South titles and a Super Bowl win. Sanders, born in Florida and a former Florida State player, has recently demonstrated his coaching prowess at Colorado, turning the program into a major attraction.

The Buccaneers, with talents like Mike Evans, Antoine Winfield Jr., Lavonte David, Vita Vea, Calijah Cancey, and Baker Mayfield, are poised for success and need Sanders' leadership to return to Super Bowl contention. His dynamic personality and leadership could make Tampa Bay a prime destination for free agents and bring a vibrant, event-like atmosphere to Raymond James Stadium.

With Sanders at the helm, the Buccaneers could experience a resurgence, turning game days into major events and revitalizing the team's winning culture.

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