Letter from the Editor and Vice President

Reflections Our journalists shine light in dark corners. And it makes a difference for our community.

Mark Katches

EDITOR/ VICE PRESIDENT As you flip through this report, consider the impact our reporting had in 2021, including how the Times exposed dangerous conditions at a Tampa lead smelter, prompting more than $800,000 in fines from federal and county regulators.

Providing distinctive journalism is our hallmark. Times’ reporters have covered every aspect of the pandemic, from our physical health to the health of our economy, our schools; our cultural institutions; and our professional sports franchises that have experienced a phenomenal wave of success.

We’ve also alerted you about the persistent failures of the state’s unemployment reimbursement system and the environmental catastrophe at Piney Point. We do this important work because our community counts on us, needs us.

In June, a Times investigation about a controversial Pasco County police initiative won the Pulitzer Prize, our 13th as a news organization. Reporters Kathleen McGrory and Neil Bedi exposed how the Sheriff’s Office profiled and harassed residents. Their series, Targeted, sparked multiple investigations, legal challenges and — ultimately — reforms. With our latest Pulitzer, the Times became the only news organization to have won journalism’s most prestigious prize three times in the Local Reporting category.

This says so much about who we are: A locally owned news organization determined to tell the story of Tampa Bay. And we’ve done it like no one else can.

From all of us at the Times, we want to express our deep gratitude for your support. As our industry continues to change, grants and donations have helped us diversify our revenue sources with the goal to serve you better — and for generations to come.

You’ve been there for us. And we are here for you. Thank you!

Mark Katches Editor and Vice President