BY LEON B. CREWS
Sentinel Staff Writer

When Ms. Evangeline Best took over as chair of the East Tampa Community Revitalization Partnership, her mission was to make East Tampa a community everyone would be proud of, and improve the quality of life for the residents.

Last month, the City of Tampa hosted a Citizen Recognition Award Program. During the program, it was announced that Ms. Best had been selected to be named “Citizen Of The Year.”

Ms. Best said she is appreciative and humbled by the recognition.[private]

“I want to say thanks to everyone, especially the city employees at the District III Tampa Police Headquarters for voting for me and the approval of all top officials.

“A lot of East Tampa residents have worked hard and have been cooperative with me and the ETCRP. No one accomplishes these awards alone. There are always many people working on committees and behind the scenes to make things happen.”

Ms. Best said behind the scenes, a lot of work is done by people who never get any recognition. She also said her family has always believed in giving back to the community.

“There are 24 hours in each day; 8 for sleeping. After I retired from the county in 2003, the usual 8 hours for other activities was added to me making more contacts in the East Tampa community.

“My hope is that my efforts in the past eight years have shown that we can work together in harmony. I believe the seeds of hope and determination planted will ensure a good life for us all very soon.”

Tampa Police Chief, Jane Castor, said Ms. Best’s motto of “together we can do much,” fits right in with TPD’s mission.

“Her partnership with the Tampa Police Department and her leadership in the community has been an integral part in the city’s 61% reduction in crime.”[/private]