It's no secret, most of us would like to stay in our own home as we age. Yet, sometimes our loved ones just need a little extra help to remain comfortable at home. That's where Always Best Care can help....we are dedicated to exceeding expectations....always.
They say that your golden years are the best years of your life. For most older Americans, that's how it should be - a time to relax, reflect, and live life in a familiar place. After all, senior citizens in the U.S. have worked tirelessly to build a better economy, serve their communities, and raise families.
However, as seniors grow older, completing daily tasks like showering and enjoying activities such as visiting Tampa Bay History Center in Tampa, FL gets harder without someone by their side. Unfortunately, many older Americans aren't able to rely on their adult children for help. The reality in today's world is that family members do not have the skills or time to dedicate to caring for their parents. That's where Always Best Care Senior Services comes in.
Our in-home care services are for people who prefer to stay at home as they grow older but need ongoing care that family or friends cannot provide. More and more older adults prefer to live far away from long-term, institutionalized facilities and closer to the place where they feel most comfortable - their home. Home care in Tampa, FL is a safe, effective way to give your loved ones the care they need when they need it the most.
Home Care Services
Service AreasSince 1996, Always Best Care has provided non-medical in-home care for seniors to help them maintain a healthy lifestyle as they get older. We are proud to have helped more than 25,000 seniors maintain higher levels of dignity and respect. We focus on providing seniors with the highest level of in-home care available so that they may live happily and independently.
Unlike some senior care companies, we genuinely want to be included in our clients' lives. We believe that personalized care is always the better option over a "one size fits all" approach. To make sure our senior clients receive the best care possible, we pair them with compassionate caregivers who understand their unique needs. That way, they may provide care accordingly without compromising their wellbeing.
The Always Best Care difference lies in life's little moments - where compassionate care and trustworthy experience come together to help seniors live a fruitful, healthy life. Whether you are an aging adult that can't quite keep up with life's daily tasks or the child of a senior who needs regular in-home services, Always Best Care is here to help.
“Sherry and her team have been the perfect fit for my folks, who can be…”
“Always Best Care did a tremendous job in taking care of my grandma. She has”
“Literally the best. They helped take the best of care of my grandparents!! Can’t thank”
“Always Best Care has gone above and beyond in helping my grandmother with her health”
“Always Best Care has been such a blessing for our family. Their team has taken”
“Because of Sherry and her staff, I have a new found appreciation for the in”
“Professional care with a personal touch. Some of the nicest people I have ever met”
“I cannot speak highly enough about the exceptional in-home care and professionalism provided by Always”
“Sherry has been absolutely wonderful! She is caring and understanding and very attentive to needs.”
“ABC provides reliable experienced caregivers for my elderly client for over two years now”
“Caring and trustworthy! Elizabeth and Allison always make sure my father’s shifts are covered. They”
“Excellent agency, Great bosses and competitive pay, great service with your caregivers”
“Excellent agency, Great bosses and competitive pay, great service with your caregivers”
“We have used Always Best Senior Care many times. Their service has always exceeded our”
“We have used Always Best Senior Care many times. Their service has always exceeded our”
“Maria has been the best caregiver I had for in home care from Always Best”
“ABC was a life saver for my family and me. The care givers were all”
“ABC was a life saver for my family and me. The care givers were all”
“had very good service with wonderful caring workers for my mom”
“had very good service with wonderful caring workers for my mom”
“Let me start off by saying that Always Best Care is the best home health”
“If you’re looking for care for a loved one, or a job as a caregiver”
“If you’re looking for care for a loved one, or a job as a caregiver”
“Always best care tarpon Springs office has been a life saver with caring for my”
“Cyndi is an extraordinary caregiver and ABC service has been reliable, responsive and outstanding.”
“I'm a HHA for this company and there amazing people to work for!!”
“I'm a former employee of ABC and I had an awesome experience working with them.”
“Cyndi is an extraordinary caregiver and ABC service has been reliable, responsive and outstanding.”
“I have used Always Best Care for two extended periods. All the staff assigned to”
“Raina King is a true angel, a gift from God. Our beloved Grandmother passed away”
“I love working for for ABC. The owner's are very compassionate about their clients and”
“I’ve worked for Always Best Care going on a year. I love Jeri and Keith,”
“Keith and Jeri are angels that walk among us. My in-laws have been receiving care”
“ABC is a well managed and high quality home health care service. All the workers”
“Always Best Care of Tarpon Springs has given me peace of mind knowing that my”
“Sherry and her team have been the perfect fit for my folks, who can be… a handful. The professionalism, understanding, patience, and kindness shown by ABC greatly enhances their quality of life, not to mention the family’s peace of mind.”
“Always Best Care did a tremendous job in taking care of my grandma. She has never been the biggest “people person” and she had no complaints about the level of care she received. It took a lot of trust for me to make this decision to move her, but I fully supported everything Always Best Care stands for and they made the transition so smooth. Absolutely impeccable staff, 11/10 recommend!”
“Literally the best. They helped take the best of care of my grandparents!! Can’t thank them enough!!”
“Always Best Care has gone above and beyond in helping my grandmother with her health needs. Special shout to Arianna Franklin for always reaching out and checking in, she’s one of a kind!”
“Always Best Care has been such a blessing for our family. Their team has taken wonderful care of my grandmother with so much kindness, patience, and respect. They’re reliable, responsive, and truly go above and beyond to make sure she’s comfortable and cared for. It’s been such a relief knowing she’s in good hands. I’m so grateful for their compassion and professionalism and we couldn’t ask for better support.”
“Because of Sherry and her staff, I have a new found appreciation for the in home wellness industry. Prior to Always Best Care Senior Services, my mother was not enjoying her life as much as she could have. Once Sherry and her team came aboard, my mother's quality of life improved ten fold. I will never truly be able to express how deeply grateful I am for all your hard work. You have given my mother a new lease on life. I highly recommend Sherry to anyone in search of in home care for your loved one. Thank you.”
“Professional care with a personal touch. Some of the nicest people I have ever met during these trying times.”
“I cannot speak highly enough about the exceptional in-home care and professionalism provided by Always Best Care Senior Services. From the moment we reached out, their team demonstrated genuine compassion, attentiveness, and a deep understanding of the needs of my mother and her family.”
“Sherry has been absolutely wonderful! She is caring and understanding and very attentive to needs. She has great follow up and follow through and you can tell they take pride in what that do! I would highly recommend to anyone with the need for home health assistance for yourself or a loved one????”
“ABC provides reliable experienced caregivers for my elderly client for over two years now”
“Caring and trustworthy! Elizabeth and Allison always make sure my father’s shifts are covered. They are fantastic at always staying in communication and are so wonderful to work with. My father’s aides: Sharon, Lizette and Rose are incredibly kind, respectful, and caring. What they do matters and I feel so Blessed to have these Angels caring for my father. Over and beyond Stellar!!!????????????”
“Excellent agency, Great bosses and competitive pay, great service with your caregivers”
“Excellent agency, Great bosses and competitive pay, great service with your caregivers”
“We have used Always Best Senior Care many times. Their service has always exceeded our expectations. I would not hesitate to recommend them. I can not thank them enough for the care and support over the years!”
“We have used Always Best Senior Care many times. Their service has always exceeded our expectations. I would not hesitate to recommend them. I can not thank them enough for the care and support over the years!”
“Maria has been the best caregiver I had for in home care from Always Best Care in Tarpon Springs for over a year! She helps with the daily task, transportation and food preparation. All around wonderful service and well-trained caregiver. The difference is that she wants to help you, not just there to get paid. Maria is something special and a very good cook. I highly recommend Always Best Care for senior services. (Stephen Loyek)”
“ABC was a life saver for my family and me. The care givers were all fantastic. My step-mom’s final year and days and the quality of her life were certainly enhanced with the help of this awesome company. Everyone at the company, especially Lisa Crase was so helpful and compassionate. They were all here for us at a very difficult time. I would highly recommend this company if you need an easy and flexible care giver situation for a family member. I just really cannot thank ABC for everything they did for us. Nancy Chango, Tampa, FL”
“ABC was a life saver for my family and me. The care givers were all fantastic. My step-mom’s final year and days and the quality of her life were certainly enhanced with the help of this awesome company. Everyone at the company, especially Lisa Crase was so helpful and compassionate. They were all here for us at a very difficult time. I would highly recommend this company if you need an easy and flexible care giver situation for a family member. I just really cannot thank ABC for everything they did for us. Nancy Chango, Tampa, FL”
“had very good service with wonderful caring workers for my mom”
“had very good service with wonderful caring workers for my mom”
“Let me start off by saying that Always Best Care is the best home health company I’ve ever worked for ! The management treats you like family , they are very considerate and understanding & they make sure we are treating our clients like family as well ! They help make sure that we are providing our clients with the best care possible by choosing the best caregiver that fits each client. Also , There is flexible scheduling where you can pick what schedule fits you best. I love this company because they show me every day that I am appreciated it.”
“If you’re looking for care for a loved one, or a job as a caregiver this is the best place. The owners are very hands on, and they service a wide area. I’ve been with the company for years, I’ve seen the work from staff and it’s amazing the way everyone comes together so that every client receives the best possible care.”
“If you’re looking for care for a loved one, or a job as a caregiver this is the best place. The owners are very hands on, and they service a wide area. I’ve been with the company for years, I’ve seen the work from staff and it’s amazing the way everyone comes together so that every client receives the best possible care.”
“Always best care tarpon Springs office has been a life saver with caring for my mother with dementia. Her caregiver Linda is so dedicated to her job, and my mom and me love her to death. She is very communicative, and passionate about what she does. My mom could not live independently if i did not have always best care and linda by her side. Also whenever speaking with scheduling and office staff- they are always helpful and friendly too! Thanks guys! Yall do amazing work!”
“Cyndi is an extraordinary caregiver and ABC service has been reliable, responsive and outstanding.”
“I'm a HHA for this company and there amazing people to work for!!”
“I'm a former employee of ABC and I had an awesome experience working with them. The office staff is very warm and welcoming. The owners, Keith and Jeri are super nice and personable. They recognize their employees every month, they also have different events where we could get together and socialize. I've learned so much more, that wasn't taught at "school". Not a bad company to work for.”
“Cyndi is an extraordinary caregiver and ABC service has been reliable, responsive and outstanding.”
“I have used Always Best Care for two extended periods. All the staff assigned to take care of my father were excellent and punctual. The office staff are great and have become great friends. I would recommend this company for the care of your family members.”
“Raina King is a true angel, a gift from God. Our beloved Grandmother passed away today and unfortunately we live far away. Raina was in constant communication with us through the entire journey. She gave great comfort to our loved one and we could not have been blessed with a better person to be by Gram’s side. God Bless you and all that you do. ????????❤️ Highly recommend.”
“I love working for for ABC. The owner's are very compassionate about their clients and caregivers. They go above and beyond to help those in need. I have 20+ years in healthcare and I have never worked with such an AMAZING team!”
“I’ve worked for Always Best Care going on a year. I love Jeri and Keith, very understanding. Rebeca, Natalie and Lisa, Also in the office, all listen to our needs and concerns. They are very understanding to all the caregivers, I feel like a big family with our clients. Working for this company is like having a very big extended family and I love it and would not give it up. And yes I would definitely and highly recommend Always Best Care of Tarpon Springs Florida. The extended family that I don’t have, but I do now. Thank you for letting me be a part of Always Best Care of Tarpon Springs Florida.”
“Keith and Jeri are angels that walk among us. My in-laws have been receiving care from Always Best since May 2019. They are in their 90’s and still in their own home. This has been a year of challenges as my mother-in-law has dementia and my father-in-law’s health has gotten more tenuous. Keith has taken my dad to the hospital and urgent care, grocery shopped for them and scrambled to provide aides on short notice after hospitalization. We live out of state and I have had to depend on them so much. Jeri and Keith go above and beyond and I trust them implicitly! I can’t say enough good about them and I know that they will be successful because they are ethical, caring and operate their business with the highest degree of integrity. We consider ourselves extremely fortunate to have been referred to them.”
“ABC is a well managed and high quality home health care service. All the workers have been consistently good and provide excellent care for our father. Rebeca has been awesome to ensure our needs are satisfied and that we always have the round the clock coverage we need.”
“Always Best Care of Tarpon Springs has given me peace of mind knowing that my mom is in good hands. She enjoys their services and I highly recommend them!”
Home is where the heart is. While that saying can sound a tad cliche, it is especially true for many seniors living in America. When given a choice, older adults most often prefer to grow older at home. An AARP study found that three out of four adults over the age of 50 want to stay in their homes and communities as they age.
When you begin to think about why, it makes sense. Home offers a sense of security, comfort, and familiarity.
The truth is, as we age, we begin to rely on others for help. When a family is too busy or lives too far away to fulfill this role, in-home senior care is often the best solution. Home care services allow seniors to enjoy personal independence while also receiving trustworthy assistance from a trained caregiver.
At Always Best Care, we offer a comprehensive range of home care services to help seniors stay healthy while they get the help they need to remain independent. As your senior loved one gets older, giving them the gift of senior care is one of the best ways to show your love, even if you live far away.
To give our senior clients the best care possible, we offer a full spectrum of in-home care services:
If your senior loved one has specific care needs, our personal care services are a great choice to consider. Personal care includes the standard caregiving duties associated with companion care and includes help with tasks such as dressing and grooming. Personal care can also help individuals with chronic conditions like diabetes.
Common personal care services include assistance with:
Sometimes, seniors need helpful reminders to maintain a high quality of life at home. If you or your senior has trouble with everyday tasks like cooking, our home helper services will be very beneficial.
Common home helper care services include assistance with:
Using this kind of care is a fantastic way to make life easier for you or your senior loved one. At Always Best Care, our talented caregivers often fill the role of a companion for seniors. That way, older adults can enjoy their favorite local activities, such as visiting Ballast Point Park in Tampa, FL with friends while also receiving the care they need daily or weekly.
Common companionship services include:
According to AARP, more than 53 million adults living in the U.S. provide care to someone over 50 years old. Unfortunately, these caregivers experience stress, exhaustion, and even depression. Our respite care services help family caregivers address urgent obligations, spend time with their children, and enjoy nearby activities. Perhaps more importantly, respite care gives family members time to recharge and regroup. Taking personal time to de-stress reduces the risk of caregiver burnout. So, if you've always wanted to eat at the local Ocean Prime or visit Tampa Riverwalk, don't feel bad. Doing so is great for both you and your loved one.
At the end of the day, our goal is to become a valuable part of your senior's daily routine. That way, we may help give them the highest quality of life possible. We know that staying at home is important for your loved one, and we are here to help make sure that is possible.
If you have been on the fence about non-medical home care, there has never been a better time than now to give your senior the care, assistance, and companionship they deserve.
Always Best Care in-home services are for older adults who prefer to stay at home but need ongoing care that friends and family cannot provide. In-home care is a safe, effective way for seniors to age gracefully in a familiar place and live independent, non-institutionalized lives. The benefits of non-medical home care are numerous. Here are just a few reasons to consider senior care services from Always Best Care:
According to AARP, 9 out of 10 seniors prefer to age in place within the comfort of their own home. With in-home care, seniors have a way to stay at home, receive the care they need, and maintain a sense of independence, improving overall wellness.
If you or a member of your family have assumed the role of caregiver for your senior loved one, you know how stressful the job can be. Between caregiver burnout and constant worry, being a family caregiver is hard. In-home care relieves your burden and gives you peace of mind knowing that your older family member is in expert hands.
Unlike nursing homes, where the staff and residents rotate frequently, seniors can foster new friendships and build bonds with their caregiver. Seniors who socialize on a regular basis are often happier, which fosters positivity and leads to increased wellbeing.
No two seniors need the same kind of in-home care assistance. That is why each of our Care Plans is tailored to meet our client's individual needs. We offer plans that cover everything from light housekeeping to more involved duties like transportation to doctor's appointments. Our Care Coordinators will work closely with you to develop a personalized plan to ensure your senior's needs are exceeded.
Always Best Care offers a full array of care options for patients at all levels of health. With our trusted elderly care services, your loved one will receive the level of care necessary for them to enjoy the highest possible quality of life.
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While it's true that some seniors have complicated medical needs that prevent them from staying at home, aging in place is often the best arrangement for seniors and their families. With a trusted caregiver, seniors have the opportunity to live with a sense of dignity and do so as they see fit - something that is unavailable to many older people today.
In-home care makes it possible for millions of seniors to age in place every year. Rather than moving to a strange nursing home, seniors have the chance to stay at home where they feel the happiest and most comfortable.
How much does a senior's home truly mean to them?
A study published by the American Society on Aging found that more than half of seniors say their home's emotional value means more than how much their home is worth in monetary value. It stands to reason, then, that a senior's home is where they want to grow old.
With the help of elderly care in Tampa, FL, seniors don't have to age in a sterilized care facility. Instead, they can age gracefully in the place they want to be most: their home. In contrast, seniors who move to a long-term care facility must adapt to new environments, new people, and new systems that the facility implements. At this stage in life, this kind of drastic change can be more harmful than helpful.
Institutional care facilities like nursing homes often put large groups of people together to live in one location. On any given day, dozens of staff members and caregivers run in and out of these facilities. Being around so many new people in a relatively small living environment can be dangerous for a seniors' health and wellbeing. When you consider that thousands of seniors passed away in nursing homes during the COVID-19 pandemic, opting for in-home care is often a safer, healthier choice for seniors.
Aging in place has been shown to improve seniors' quality of life, which helps boost physical health and also helps insulate them from viral and bacterial risks found in elderly living facilities.
For many seniors, the ability to live independently with assistance from a caregiver is a priceless option. With in-home care, seniors experience a higher level of independence and freedom - much more so than in other settings like a nursing home. When a senior has the chance to age in place, they get to live life on their own terms, inside the house that they helped make into a home. More independence means more control over their personal lives, too, which leads to increased levels of fulfillment, happiness, and personal gratification. Over time, these positive feelings can manifest into a healthier, longer life.
More independence, a healthier life, and increased comfort are only a few benefits of aging in place. You have to take into consideration the role of cost and convenience. Simply put, it's usually easier and more affordable to help seniors age in place than it is to move them into an institutional care facility. According to the US Department of Housing and Urban Development, seniors who age in the comfort of their homes can save thousands of dollars per month.
In-home care services from Always Best Care, for instance, are often less expensive than long-term solutions, which can cost upwards of six figures per year. To make matters worse, many residential care facilities are reluctant to accept long-term care insurance and other types of payment assistance.
With Always Best Care's home care services, seniors and their families have a greater level of control over their care plans. In-home care gives seniors the chance to form a bond with a trusted caregiver and also receive unmatched care that is catered to their needs. In long-term care facilities, seniors and their loved ones have much less control over their care plan and have less of a say in who provides their care.
In-home care is a valuable resource that empowers seniors to age in place on their own terms. However, a big concern for many families and their loved ones is how much in-home care costs. If you're worried that in-home care is too expensive, you may be pleasantly surprised to learn that it is one of the most affordable senior care arrangements available.
Typically, hiring an Always Best Care in-home caregiver for a few hours a week is more affordable than sending your loved one to a long-term care facility. This is true even for seniors with more complex care needs.
At Always Best Care, we will work closely with you and your family to develop a Care Plan that not only meets your care needs, but your budget requirements, too. Once we discover the level of care that you or your senior need, we develop an in-home care plan that you can afford.
In addition to our flexible care options, families should also consider the following resources to help offset potential home care costs:
When you or your senior loved one needs assistance managing daily tasks at home, finding a qualified caregiver can be challenging. It takes a special kind of person to provide reliable care for your senior loved one. However, a caregiver's role involves more than meal preparation and medication reminders. Many seniors rely on their caregivers for companionship, too.
Our companion care services give seniors the chance to socialize in a safe environment and engage in activities at home. These important efforts boost morale and provide much-needed relief from repetitive daily routines. A one-on-one, engaging conversation can sharpen seniors' minds and give them something in which to be excited.
At Always Best Care, we only hire care providers that we would trust to care for our own loved ones. Our senior caregivers in Tampa, FL understand how important it is to listen and communicate with their seniors. A seemingly small interaction, like a short hug goodbye, can make a major difference in a senior's day. Instead of battling against feelings of isolation, seniors begin to look forward to seeing their caregiver each week.
Understanding the nuances of senior care is just one of the reasons why our care providers are so great at their job.
Unlike some senior care companies, our caregivers must undergo extensive training before they work for Always Best Care. In addition, our caregivers receive ongoing training throughout the year. This training ensures that their standard of care matches up to the high standards we've come to expect. During this training, they will brush up on their communication skills, safety awareness, and symptom spotting. That way, your loved one receives the highest level of non-medical home care from day one.
While it's true that many seniors prefer to age at home, sometimes in-home care isn't the best fit. For those seniors and their families, choosing an assisted living facility makes more sense. Unfortunately, finding the optimal care facility is easier said than done in today's day and age. That's when Always Best Care's assisted living referral services begin to make a lot of sense.
Assisted living is a form of housing intended for seniors who require varying degrees of medical and personal attention. Accommodations may include single rooms, apartments, or shared living arrangements. Assisted living communities are typically designed to resemble a home-like environment and are physically constructed to encourage the independence of residents.
At assisted living communities, seniors receive help with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, and eating. They may also benefit from coordination of services with outside healthcare providers, and monitoring of resident activities to ensure their health, safety, and well-being. Caregivers who work at assisted living communities can also provide medication administration and personal care services for older adults.
Other services offered within assisted living communities can include some or all of the following:
At Always Best Care, our representatives can match your senior's emotional, physical, and financial needs with viable assisted living communities nearby. Results are based on comparative data, so you can select the best choice for you or your loved one.
Always Best Care works closely with local senior living communities to gain valuable knowledge that we then use to help seniors and their loved ones make informed decisions. This information can include basic care and rent, resident availability, and services provided. Because Always Best Care is compensated by these communities, we provide senior living referral services at no extra cost to you.
Some of the most popular assisted living communities to consider in our area include the following:
For many seniors, moving into a senior living community revolves around how and when they want to make a transition to more involved care. Some seniors are more proactive about transitioning to independent living. Others choose to remain home until their care needs or other requirements are satisfied. Remember - our staff is here to help. Contact our office today to learn more about assisted living communities and how we can find a facility that exceeds your expectations.
The first step in getting quality in-home care starts with a personal consultation with an experienced Always Best Care Care Coordinator. This initial consultation is crucial for our team to learn more about you or your elderly loved one to discover the level of care required. Topics of this consultation typically include:
A discussion of your needs and how our trained caregivers can offer assistance in the most effective way
A draft of your care plan, which includes highly detailed notes and a framework for the care that you or your senior will receive
Discuss payment options and help coordinate billing with your insurance provider
Our caregivers are trained to spot changes that clients exhibit, like mental and physical decline. As your trusted senior care company, we will constantly assess and update your Care Plan to meet any new emotional, intellectual, physical, and emotional needs.
If you have never considered in-home care before, we understand that you and your family may have concerns about your Care Plan and its Care Coordinator. To help give you peace of mind, know that every team member and caregiver must undergo comprehensive training before being assigned to a Care Plan.
At the end of the day, we only hire the best of the best at Always Best Care. Whether you need home care in Tampa, FL 24-hours a day or only need a respite for a couple of hours, we are here to serve you.
When you're ready, we encourage you to contact your local Always Best Care representative to set up a Care Consultation. Our Care Coordinators would be happy to meet with you in person to get to know you better, discuss your needs, and help put together a personalized Care Plan specific to your needs.
TAMPA, Fla. — The Tampa City Council on Thursday approved the South Howard Flood Project, a multiyear effort aimed at reducing flooding in one of South Tampa’s busiest commercial and residential areas.The vote was 4-3.Tampa officials say the project will create a new stormwater drainage route to move water more quickly out of flood-prone, low-lying streets near South Howard Avenue.The project has drawn strong reactions from residents and business owners, with supporters pointing to recurring flooding concerns...
TAMPA, Fla. — The Tampa City Council on Thursday approved the South Howard Flood Project, a multiyear effort aimed at reducing flooding in one of South Tampa’s busiest commercial and residential areas.
The vote was 4-3.
Tampa officials say the project will create a new stormwater drainage route to move water more quickly out of flood-prone, low-lying streets near South Howard Avenue.
The project has drawn strong reactions from residents and business owners, with supporters pointing to recurring flooding concerns and opponents warning that prolonged construction could hurt local businesses.
The city’s plan would require closing South Howard Avenue between Swann Avenue and Bayshore Boulevard in sections for up to a year.
Dozens of residents who experienced flooding, pitted against many business owners, showed up Thursday to speak out about the controversial project.
The project’s approval came down to one swing vote — from Council Chair Alan Clendenin — who called it one of the most difficult decisions he has had to make.
The Tampa City Council has been nearly evenly divided about the $100 million flood relief project.
The council on Thursday heard about two hours of public comment from concerned residents.
Business owners urged the council to vote the project down, fearing the construction will cause loss of customers and force them to close.
But homeowners who have flooded asked the council to approve the project to bring them some much-needed relief.
Clendenin said the reason he ultimately decided to approve the project is because the most basic function of the government is to protect the people it serves.
“I believe the gravest risk is failing to act,” he said. “To those who have lived with the flooding and the next generation that will benefit from this project, I stand with you. And to those who disagree with my decision, I respect and I heard you, and my questions will not stop tomorrow.”
Council members Bill Carlson, Guido Maniscalco and Naya Young voted no. They cited concerns about the project pulling money away from other stormwater projects in the city and it taking too long to bring relief.
In addition to Clendenin, council members Lynn Hurtak, Charlie Miranda and Luis Veira voted yes.
The city says it will take about four years to complete.
The contractor is scheduled to begin this November and wrap up by September 2030.
Officials earlier said a newly released simulation shows the proposed project would reduce flooding in Parkland Estates and Palma Ceia Pines.
TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) — Officials with Hillsborough County and the City of Tampa are asking residents to make a habit of checking around their homes for standing water to combat the spread of dengue fever.“It takes everyone to help this problem,” said Paolo Pecora, a senior environmental scientist with Hillsborough County.Pecora has been on the front lines of the county’s battle against the mosquitoes carrying dengue fever. He said that oftentimes, residents don’t realize just how little water it take...
TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) — Officials with Hillsborough County and the City of Tampa are asking residents to make a habit of checking around their homes for standing water to combat the spread of dengue fever.
“It takes everyone to help this problem,” said Paolo Pecora, a senior environmental scientist with Hillsborough County.
Pecora has been on the front lines of the county’s battle against the mosquitoes carrying dengue fever. He said that oftentimes, residents don’t realize just how little water it takes to create a suitable habitat for mosquitoes, and it could be anything in your yard causing it.
“It’s right there behind your backdoor,” he said. “It’s right there at the corner of your house; it’s behind your shed; it’s behind the brush in the shade after you washed the dog, or it’s an old dog bowl or cat bowl.”
The City of Tampa’s code enforcement has been making its rounds, informing business owners and residents of standing water on their property and dumping that water out for them.
“What goes into an inspection we want to make sure that the tires are not just sitting out in the elements; they are covered like we see here,” said Wayne Morrison, a code enforcement officer for the City of Tampa.
County leaders said their efforts to spray seem to be working, as they are finding fewer mosquitoes carrying the virus. Pecora said those efforts face the threat of being undone by human hosts, as the county nears 100 locally acquired human cases of dengue fever.
“Don’t be a host reservoir for the virus,” said Pecora. “Stay at home, get medical professionals, and contact us. We can do a domestic investigation and treat your yard for free.”
He said people who’ve been infected help spread the virus among mosquitoes by getting bitten again. Then those newly infected mosquitoes find a small amount of leftover rainwater, and the cycle continues.
Leaders with Tampa’s Code Enforcement said dumping standing water has become their top priority.
So much is happening at WMNF!Sept. 19 — Grant Peeples & Sara Stovall House Concert Sept. 20 — Dolly Parton Tribute Sept. 28 — Drag Bingo Oct. 3 — Tom Petty Birthday Tribute Oct. 16 — WMNF Halloween Ball Dec. 12 — Sonora Tukukuy + McKinley JamesLooking for more? Explore our Events Calendar.Friday, September 18Friday night is packed wit...
So much is happening at WMNF!
Sept. 19 — Grant Peeples & Sara Stovall House Concert Sept. 20 — Dolly Parton Tribute Sept. 28 — Drag Bingo Oct. 3 — Tom Petty Birthday Tribute Oct. 16 — WMNF Halloween Ball Dec. 12 — Sonora Tukukuy + McKinley James
Looking for more? Explore our Events Calendar.
Friday night is packed with live music, professional baseball, dance competitions, and plenty of opportunities to explore everything happening around Tampa Bay. Whether you’re planning a concert with friends, cheering on the hometown Rays, or watching some of the nation’s most talented dancers compete, there’s something for every kind of weekend adventurer.
Country music favorites Zac Brown Band bring their signature blend of country, Southern rock, folk, and feel-good anthems to Benchmark International Arena. Known for hits including Chicken Fried, Colder Weather, Knee Deep, and Homegrown, the Grammy Award-winning group delivers an energetic concert filled with exceptional musicianship and crowd favorites. Fans can expect an evening of singalongs, heartfelt ballads, and the band’s unmistakable live energy.
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All Weekend | September 18–20 | Various Times
The Tampa Bay Rays continue their final home series of the regular season as they welcome the Boston Red Sox to Tropicana Field. With playoff implications and one of baseball’s most recognizable rivalries taking center stage, every game promises excitement for fans of all ages. Grab your favorite ballpark snacks, wear your Rays gear, and enjoy a great weekend of Major League Baseball.
Friday & Saturday | Various Times
Some of the country’s most talented freestyle dancers head to Tampa for the Red Bull Dance Your Style National Final USA. Competitors battle one-on-one in spontaneous dance rounds while the audience decides who advances and ultimately earns the chance to represent the United States at the World Final in Zurich. Expect incredible athleticism, creativity, and nonstop entertainment as dancers showcase styles ranging from hip-hop and popping to house, locking, and more.
Saturday offers one of the busiest days of the weekend with concerts spanning nearly every genre, college football, championship-caliber soccer, community events, jazz, comedy, and WMNF special presentations. Whether you’re spending the afternoon with family or staying out well into the night, Tampa Bay has plenty of ways to make your Saturday unforgettable.
The Tampa Bay Rowdies celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month as they host Birmingham Legion FC at Al Lang Stadium. In addition to exciting USL Championship action, fans can stick around after the final whistle for a spectacular fireworks show over downtown St. Petersburg. It’s the perfect combination of soccer, community celebration, and a beautiful waterfront evening.
Hardcore favorites Turnstile bring their explosive live show to England Brothers Park as part of The Never Enough Tour Part 2. Known for pushing the boundaries of punk and hardcore with infectious melodies and high-energy performances, the band has become one of the most exciting live acts in modern rock. Expect an unforgettable evening filled with nonstop energy and passionate fans.
Rock legends John Fogerty and Steve Winwood share the stage for an unforgettable night celebrating decades of classic rock history. From Creedence Clearwater Revival favorites to Traffic and solo hits, audiences can expect timeless songs performed by two of the most influential musicians of their generation.
Spend Saturday night at one of Tampa’s most beloved music venues as The Black Honkeys join the Geoff Abraham Band for an evening of blues, rock, soul, and funk. Skipper’s relaxed outdoor atmosphere makes it the perfect setting to enjoy outstanding live music with friends.
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Enjoy an intimate musical experience as acclaimed Florida singer-songwriter Grant Peeples performs during this special WMNF House Concert. Known for thoughtful songwriting, witty storytelling, and Americana-inspired performances, Peeples offers audiences a unique opportunity to experience his music in an up-close setting.
Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month through the power of storytelling and live performance. Living Mirror Playback Theatre transforms personal stories shared by audience members into improvised theatrical performances that highlight community, culture, and human connection. This interactive event offers a meaningful and engaging afternoon for participants of all ages.
Cheer on the USF Bulls as they return to Raymond James Stadium to face Delaware State. College football season is in full swing, bringing school spirit, marching bands, tailgating, and exciting action to one of Tampa’s premier sports venues.
Electronic metalcore band The Browning delivers a high-powered performance blending crushing metal riffs with electronic production. Fans of heavy music can expect an intense live experience featuring relentless energy and crowd-moving performances.
Colombian reggaeton sensation Ryan Castro brings his chart-topping Latin hits to Tampa for an evening of nonstop dancing and infectious rhythms. Expect a high-energy performance filled with fan favorites and one of the hottest Latin music shows of the weekend.
Jazz lovers won’t want to miss this tribute to John Coltrane’s legendary album Blue Train. The Paul Gavin Sextet performs timeless jazz classics while celebrating one of the most influential recordings in jazz history. It’s a wonderful evening for longtime jazz enthusiasts and newcomers alike.
Alternative rock fans can catch Plush live at the Brass Mug for an evening showcasing powerful vocals, impressive musicianship, and modern hard rock. The band’s energetic performances continue to earn praise from fans across the country.
Dance the night away as Starjunk95 brings an energetic electronic music performance to The Ritz Ybor. Expect an exciting atmosphere, vibrant visuals, and a crowd ready to keep the party going late into the evening.
Wrap up the weekend with an exciting mix of live music, major league sports, family-friendly entertainment, and community events happening throughout Tampa Bay. Whether you’re cheering on your favorite team, enjoying an afternoon concert, or discovering a new artist, Sunday offers plenty of ways to make the most of the weekend before the new week begins.
Celebrate one of country music’s most beloved icons during WMNF’s Dolly Parton Tribute at Skipper’s Smokehouse. Featuring talented local and regional musicians performing Dolly’s timeless catalog, this special event honors the legendary singer-songwriter whose influence stretches across country, bluegrass, pop, and Americana. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or simply appreciate great live music, this tribute promises an afternoon and evening filled with unforgettable performances in one of Tampa’s favorite outdoor venues.
Football returns to Raymond James Stadium as the Tampa Bay Buccaneers host the Cleveland Browns in their home opener. With both teams looking to earn their first victory of the season, fans can expect an energetic atmosphere, passionate crowds, and plenty of excitement throughout the afternoon. From tailgating before kickoff to cheering alongside thousands of fellow fans, this is one of the biggest sporting events of the weekend.
Internationally acclaimed guitarist Benise celebrates 25 Years of Passion with a spectacular production that combines Spanish guitar, flamenco, Latin rhythms, and breathtaking choreography. Blending music, dance, and theatrical storytelling, the performance takes audiences on a musical journey around the world while showcasing Benise’s signature style and extraordinary musicianship.
Legendary Polish death metal band Vader brings decades of extreme metal excellence to The Orpheum. Renowned for blistering guitar work, thunderous drumming, and relentless live performances, the band remains one of the most influential names in death metal. Fans of heavy music can expect an intense, high-energy concert that delivers from the first note to the final encore.
Country star Russell Dickerson closes out the weekend with an energetic late-night performance at the Seminole Hard Rock Event Center. Known for chart-topping hits including “Yours,” “Blue Tacoma,” “Love You Like I Used To,” and “God Gave Me a Girl,” Dickerson has become one of country music’s most entertaining live performers. Expect a high-energy show filled with singalong favorites, heartfelt ballads, and an unforgettable atmosphere.
From world-class concerts and community celebrations to professional sports, family-friendly performances, and unique cultural experiences, Tampa Bay offers something for everyone this weekend. Whether you’re discovering a new favorite band, supporting local artists, or spending time with family and friends, we hope this guide helps you make the most of everything happening around the region. Have a fantastic weekend, and we’ll see you next week with another roundup of events happening across Tampa Bay!
Health NewsLocal dengue cases are being reported in Hillsborough County, raising questions about how the virus reached Tampa Bay and how it is spreading.Three USF Health experts discuss what residents should know about dengue, including its symptoms, how to protect against mosquitoes, what research is underway in Florida and what lessons can be learned from outbreaks in Latin America and the Caribbean.Kristi Miley, PhD, a researcher at the USF College of Public Health’s Center for Global Health and Infectious Dis...
Local dengue cases are being reported in Hillsborough County, raising questions about how the virus reached Tampa Bay and how it is spreading.
Three USF Health experts discuss what residents should know about dengue, including its symptoms, how to protect against mosquitoes, what research is underway in Florida and what lessons can be learned from outbreaks in Latin America and the Caribbean.
Kristi Miley, PhD, a researcher at the USF College of Public Health’s Center for Global Health and Infectious Disease Research, studies mosquito-borne diseases in Florida.
Sten H. Vermund, MD, PhD, dean of the USF Health College of Public Health and chief medical officer of the Global Virus Network, whose international headquarters are based at USF, is an infectious disease epidemiologist.
Juan David Ramírez-González, PhD, professor of Global, Environmental and Genomic Health Sciences, studies tropical and vector-borne diseases in Florida and Latin America.
Miley: Dengue is a viral illness that spreads through the bite of infected Aedes Aegypti or Aedes Albopictus mosquitoes. Both are already established here in Florida.
Local transmission occurs when someone gets dengue while traveling, then returns to Florida, and is bitten by a mosquito here that picks up the virus and later passes it on to another person.
Why are we seeing dengue in Tampa?
Miley: The mosquitoes that can spread dengue are already here. We are seeing warmer temperatures and lots of rain. This gives these mosquitoes plenty of places to breed. They don't need a puddle or a pond. All they need is water sitting in a flowerpot, bucket, tire, or other small container to breed.
Aedes mosquitoes also live very close to people in and around homes.
Vermund: Some people with dengue never feel sick but can still pass the virus to mosquitoes. But many people have a fever and headache. Pain behind the eyes is common, along with muscle and joint aches. Some people have nausea or develop a rash. While most people recover without serious problems, it can be life-threatening in a small number of people.
People should seek medical attention if they are experiencing severe stomach pain, persistent vomiting, bleeding, marked weakness or trouble breathing. If dengue is circulating locally, your healthcare provider can send special blood tests for diagnosis.
Also watch the timing. Sometimes your fever goes away in a few days, but that's when a small proportion of people start to get much sicker. If other symptoms worsen as the fever comes down, seek medical care.
Vermund: Call your healthcare provider and make sure you're staying hydrated. Don't take aspirin or drugs like ibuprofen if you suspect dengue, as they can raise the risk of bleeding. Acetaminophen is recommended for fever and pain. Stay in touch with your provider, especially if you start feeling worse.
There's no antiviral treatment for dengue. While you're sick, try to avoid mosquito bites, too. People with dengue can pass the virus to mosquitoes during roughly the first week of illness. A mosquito can then pass the virus to a neighbor, co-worker or family member.
Miley: Emptying standing water around your home is extremely effective. Check places like flowerpots, children’s toys, buckets, gutters, and old tires. Mosquitoes don't need much water to lay their eggs.
If you find standing water, dump it. Don't think of mosquito protection as something you only need in the evening. Aedes aegypti also bites during the day, so use repellent when you're outside during daylight hours too. I also suggest checking the screens on your windows and doors for holes that could let mosquitoes inside.
Miley: Once you've had one dengue serotype, you generally have long-lasting immunity to that particular one. There are four dengue serotypes, and we've seen evidence of all four in Florida. A second infection with a different serotype can sometimes lead to more severe disease, which is why we pay attention to which serotypes are circulating in Florida.
We've been looking back at what was happening when these cases showed up and asking questions like: Was it especially hot? How much rain had we had? What were mosquito numbers like? We're trying to see whether those pieces tell us anything about when we're most likely to see dengue cases increase.
Ramírez-González: The tropical regions of countries in Latin America and the Caribbean face dengue year after year, giving their scientists and public health teams extensive experience responding to it.
We can learn from how other countries track cases, control mosquitoes, diagnose infections and respond when cases rise. Florida is closely connected to the region through travel, so sharing what we're seeing and learning from colleagues who've dealt with dengue for years benefits everyone.
Miley: Last year, I presented our Florida dengue research at a Global Virus Network Regional Meeting for the Caribbean and Latin America in Jamaica. Dengue and other mosquito-borne diseases were a big part of the discussion.
During that meeting, I spoke directly with researchers who see much more dengue in their countries than we typically see in Florida. These relationships and connections help us reach out and exchange information quickly when cases rise.
Ramírez-González: Looking at what's happening across the region can also give us an idea of what we might see in Florida. Which serotypes are circulating? Are outbreaks changing? What are scientists seeing in mosquito populations? When we compare that with our own data, we can start to spot changes that might otherwise be missed.
Miley: Start with your own yard. After it rains, look for anything holding water and dump it. Clear gutters where standing water might harbor mosquito larvae. For containers too large to dump, “Mosquito Dunks” can kill mosquito larvae without harming animals or humans.
Use mosquito repellent during the day and evening. Remember that the mosquitoes that spread dengue bite during the day, too.
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