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Editorial: Strengthening the ties that bind in Seminole Heights following 4 killings

 
Published Nov. 24, 2017

During this weekend of giving thanks, let's recognize the Seminole Heights community for remaining united and committed to their neighborhood as residents cope with the stress and fear following a series of murders. Their response as police continue to flow into Southeast Seminole Heights and search for the killer reflects a reassuring sense of resilience and common purpose. That sends a strong message to all of Tampa Bay about standing with friends, family and neighbors even in the most difficult situations.

There have been a number of examples of these strong community ties, from the large gatherings at public meetings where police shared information and asked for help to the work of the churches and neighborhood associations. This is a community that has made tremendous strides in recent years, has a ways to go in some areas — and is determined not to fall backward because of four recent killings that police believe are connected.

One snapshot: A dinner of baked chicken ziti Monday at United Methodist Church organized as a thank you to the police officers who have put in long hours searching for the killer. Volunteers from four neighborhoods served the food. The father of a woman who was killed drove from South Carolina to attend and provide encouragement to the officers.

Another snapshot: Families who refuse to be scared away from their neighborhood and made it a point to celebrate Thanksgiving in their homes as usual. For example, Bob and Vivian Fiallo expected to spend Thanksgiving in North Carolina but recommitted to having the family holiday dinner at their home in Southeast Seminole Heights as they always have done.

A string of unsolved killings would test the ties that bind any neighborhood together. Those ties are being strengthened in Seminole Heights, and that reflects the commitment to the community and to make it even stronger after the killer is found.