Tampa Police to Honor Icons in African-American Community

From the Tampa Police Department:

What: Chief Jane Castor along with the Tampa Police Department's Black History Committee will recognize this year's Unsung Community Heroes' for their commitment to supporting police and uniting residents in the fight against crime.

When: Thursday, February 23rd, 2012 at 6 p.m.

Where: Ragan Park Community Center, 1200 East Lake Ave., Tampa

Details: In honor of Black History Month, the Tampa Police Department will recognize influential individuals and organizations that have helped the police department further its relationship with the African-American community. This year's theme: "The Front Porch-Where Neighbors Become Family" focuses on the importance of community outreach and working together to bring about positive change.

During the event, Chief Jane Castor will present the department's annual Unsung Community Hero award to: Mrs. Queen Miller, community activist and former educator; Sisters Network, Breast Cancer support group; the Florida Sentinel Bulletin, leading newspaper in the city's African-American community.

The Chief will also honor Sgt. Kenny Norris, a 23-year veteran with the department, for the countless hours he spends outside of work mentoring underprivileged youth.

Two months ago, the department partnered with community leaders in the East Tampa area in hopes of preventing unwanted guns from ending up in criminal hands. Police officers and residents marched together through the Rainbow Heights neighborhood to get the word out about the program and rally against violent crimes.  One of this year's Unsung Community Heroes, The Florida Sentinel Bulletin, provided free advertisement space for the program. The combined efforts to promote the gun buy back resulted in over 1,000 guns being safely removed out of the city.